Absorber for solar power.

PubMed

Powell, W R

1974-10-01

A simple, economical absorber utilizing a new principle of operation to achieve very low reradiation losses while generating temperatures limited by material properties of quartz is described. Its performance is analyzed and indicates approximately 90% thermal efficiency and 73% conversion efficiency for an earth based unit with moderately concentrated (~tenfold) sunlight incident. It is consequently compatible with the most economic of concentrator mirrors (stamped) or mirrors deployable in space. Space applications are particularly attractive, as temperatures significantly below 300 K are possible and permit even higher conversion efficiency.

Second-harmonic generation at angular incidence in a negative-positive index photonic band-gap structure.

PubMed

D'Aguanno, Giuseppe; Mattiucci, Nadia; Scalora, Michael; Bloemer, Mark J

2006-08-01

In the spectral region where the refractive index of the negative index material is approximately zero, at oblique incidence, the linear transmission of a finite structure composed of alternating layers of negative and positive index materials manifests the formation of a new type of band gap with exceptionally narrow band-edge resonances. In particular, for TM-polarized (transverse magnetic) incident waves, field values that can be achieved at the band edge may be much higher compared to field values achievable in standard photonic band-gap structures. We exploit the unique properties of these band-edge resonances for applications to nonlinear frequency conversion, second-harmonic generation, in particular. The simultaneous availability of high field localization and phase matching conditions may be exploited to achieve second-harmonic conversion efficiencies far better than those achievable in conventional photonic band-gap structures. Moreover, we study the role played by absorption within the negative index material, and find that the process remains efficient even for relatively high values of the absorption coefficient.

High-performance flat-panel solar thermoelectric generators with high thermal concentration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kraemer, Daniel; Poudel, Bed; Feng, Hsien-Ping; Caylor, J. Christopher; Yu, Bo; Yan, Xiao; Ma, Yi; Wang, Xiaowei; Wang, Dezhi; Muto, Andrew; McEnaney, Kenneth; Chiesa, Matteo; Ren, Zhifeng; Chen, Gang

2011-07-01

The conversion of sunlight into electricity has been dominated by photovoltaic and solar thermal power generation. Photovoltaic cells are deployed widely, mostly as flat panels, whereas solar thermal electricity generation relying on optical concentrators and mechanical heat engines is only seen in large-scale power plants. Here we demonstrate a promising flat-panel solar thermal to electric power conversion technology based on the Seebeck effect and high thermal concentration, thus enabling wider applications. The developed solar thermoelectric generators (STEGs) achieved a peak efficiency of 4.6% under AM1.5G (1 kW m-2) conditions. The efficiency is 7-8 times higher than the previously reported best value for a flat-panel STEG, and is enabled by the use of high-performance nanostructured thermoelectric materials and spectrally-selective solar absorbers in an innovative design that exploits high thermal concentration in an evacuated environment. Our work opens up a promising new approach which has the potential to achieve cost-effective conversion of solar energy into electricity.

Communication—Electrolysis at High Efficiency with Remarkable Hydrogen Production Rates

DOE PAGES

Wood, Anthony; He, Hongpeng; Joia, Tahir; ...

2016-01-20

Solid Oxide Electrolysis (SOE) can be used to produce hydrogen with very high efficiencies at remarkable hydrogen production rates. Through microstructural and compositional modification, conventional low cost Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) materials have been used to create a Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cell (SOEC) that can achieve remarkable current density at cell voltages allowing higher conversion efficiency than current commercial electrolysers. Current densities in excess of 6 A/cm2 have been achieved at 800°C with a cell voltage of < 1.67 V. This cell shows a more than 3-fold increase in hydrogen production rate at higher efficiency than established commercial electrolysers.

Comparative performance of precommercial cellulases hydrolyzing pretreated corn stover

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Cellulases and related hydrolytic enzymes represent a key cost factor for biochemical conversion of cellulosic biomass feedstocks to sugars for biofuels and chemicals production. The US Department of Energy (DOE) is cost sharing projects to decrease the cost of enzymes for biomass saccharification. The performance of benchmark cellulase preparations produced by Danisco, DSM, Novozymes and Verenium to convert pretreated corn stover (PCS) cellulose to glucose was evaluated under common experimental conditions and is reported here in a non-attributed manner. Results Two hydrolysis modes were examined, enzymatic hydrolysis (EH) of PCS whole slurry or washed PCS solids at pH 5 and 50°C, and simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) of washed PCS solids at pH 5 and 38°C. Enzymes were dosed on a total protein mass basis, with protein quantified using both the bicinchoninic acid (BCA) assay and the Bradford assay. Substantial differences were observed in absolute cellulose to glucose conversion performance levels under the conditions tested. Higher cellulose conversion yields were obtained using washed solids compared to whole slurry, and estimated enzyme protein dosages required to achieve a particular cellulose conversion to glucose yield were extremely dependent on the protein assay used. All four enzyme systems achieved glucose yields of 90% of theoretical or higher in SSF mode. Glucose yields were reduced in EH mode, with all enzymes achieving glucose yields of at least 85% of theoretical on washed PCS solids and 75% in PCS whole slurry. One of the enzyme systems ('enzyme B') exhibited the best overall performance. However in attaining high conversion yields at lower total enzyme protein loadings, the relative and rank ordered performance of the enzyme systems varied significantly depending upon which hydrolysis mode and protein assay were used as the basis for comparison. Conclusions This study provides extensive information about the performance of four precommercial cellulase preparations. Though test conditions were not necessarily optimal for some of the enzymes, all were able to effectively saccharify PCS cellulose. Large differences in the estimated enzyme dosage requirements depending on the assay used to measure protein concentration highlight the need for better consensus methods to quantify enzyme protein. PMID:21899748

Atmospheric Pressure Non-Thermal Plasma Activation of CO2 in a Packed-Bed Dielectric Barrier Discharge Reactor.

PubMed

Mei, Danhua; Tu, Xin

2017-11-17

Direct conversion of CO 2 into CO and O 2 is performed in a packed-bed dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) non-thermal plasma reactor at low temperatures and atmospheric pressure. The maximum CO 2 conversion of 22.6 % is achieved when BaTiO 3 pellets are fully packed into the discharge gap. The introduction of γ-Al 2 O 3 or 10 wt % Ni/γ-Al 2 O 3 catalyst into the BaTiO 3 packed DBD reactor increases both CO 2 conversion and energy efficiency of the plasma process. Packing γ-Al 2 O 3 or 10 wt % Ni/γ-Al 2 O 3 upstream of the BaTiO 3 bed shows higher CO 2 conversion and energy efficiency compared with that of mid- or downstream packing modes because the reverse reaction of CO 2 conversion-the recombination of CO and O to form CO 2 -is more likely to occur in mid- and downstream modes. Compared with the γ-Al 2 O 3 support, the coupling of the DBD with the Ni catalyst shows a higher CO 2 conversion, which can be attributed to the presence of Ni active species on the catalyst surface. The argon plasma treatment of the reacted Ni catalyst provides extra evidence to confirm the role of Ni active species in the conversion of CO 2 . © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Peracetic acid-ionic liquid pretreatment to enhance enzymatic saccharification of lignocellulosic biomass.

PubMed

Uju; Abe, Kojiro; Uemura, Nobuyuki; Oshima, Toyoji; Goto, Masahiro; Kamiya, Noriho

2013-06-01

To enhance enzymatic saccharification of pine biomass, the pretreatment reagents peracetic acid (PAA) and ionic liquid (IL) were validated in single reagent pretreatments or combination pretreatments with different sequences. In a 1h saccharification, 5-25% cellulose conversion was obtained from the single pretreatment of PAA or IL. In contrast, a marked enhancement in conversion rates was achieved by PAA-IL combination pretreatments (45-70%). The PAA followed by IL (PAA+IL) pretreatment sequence was the most effective for preparing an enzymatic digestible regenerated biomass with 250-fold higher glucose formation rates than untreated biomass and 2- to 12-fold higher than single pretreatments with PAA or IL alone. Structural analysis confirmed that this pretreatment resulted in biomass with highly porous structural fibers associated with the reduction of lignin content and acetyl groups. Using the PAA+IL sequence, biomass loading in the pretreatment step can be increased from 5% to 15% without significant decrease in cellulose conversion. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Conversion of municipal solid wastes to carboxylic acids by thermophilic fermentation.

PubMed

Chan, Wen Ning; Holtzapple, Mark T

2003-11-01

The purpose of this research is to generate carboxylic acids from the biodegradable fraction of municipal solid wastes (MSW) and municipal sewage sludge (MSS) by using a thermophilic (55 degrees C), anaerobic, high-solid fermentation. With terrestrial inocula, the highest total carboxylic acid concentration achieved was 20.5 g/L, the highest conversion obtained was 69%, and the highest acetic acid selectivity was 86.4%. Marine inocula were also used to compare against terrestrial sources. Continuum particle distribution modeling (CPDM) was used to predict the final acid product concentrations and substrate conversions at a wide range of liquid residence times (LRT) and volatile solid loading rates (VSLR). "Maps" showing the product concentration and conversion for various LRT and VSLR were generated from CPDM. The predictions were compared to the experimental results. On average, the difference between the predicted and experimental values were 13% for acid concentration and 10% for conversion. CPDM "maps" show that marine inocula produce higher concentrations than terrestrial inocula.

High-performance flat-panel solar thermoelectric generators with high thermal concentration.

PubMed

Kraemer, Daniel; Poudel, Bed; Feng, Hsien-Ping; Caylor, J Christopher; Yu, Bo; Yan, Xiao; Ma, Yi; Wang, Xiaowei; Wang, Dezhi; Muto, Andrew; McEnaney, Kenneth; Chiesa, Matteo; Ren, Zhifeng; Chen, Gang

2011-05-01

The conversion of sunlight into electricity has been dominated by photovoltaic and solar thermal power generation. Photovoltaic cells are deployed widely, mostly as flat panels, whereas solar thermal electricity generation relying on optical concentrators and mechanical heat engines is only seen in large-scale power plants. Here we demonstrate a promising flat-panel solar thermal to electric power conversion technology based on the Seebeck effect and high thermal concentration, thus enabling wider applications. The developed solar thermoelectric generators (STEGs) achieved a peak efficiency of 4.6% under AM1.5G (1 kW m(-2)) conditions. The efficiency is 7-8 times higher than the previously reported best value for a flat-panel STEG, and is enabled by the use of high-performance nanostructured thermoelectric materials and spectrally-selective solar absorbers in an innovative design that exploits high thermal concentration in an evacuated environment. Our work opens up a promising new approach which has the potential to achieve cost-effective conversion of solar energy into electricity. © 2011 Macmillan Publishers Limited. All rights reserved

Effects of Lowering Dialysate Calcium Concentration on Mineral and Bone Disorders in Chronic Hemodialysis Patients: Conversion from 3.0 mEq/L to 2.75 mEq/L.

PubMed

Yamada, Shunsuke; Ueki, Kenji; Tokumoto, Masanori; Suehiro, Takaichi; Kimura, Hiroshi; Taniguchi, Masatomo; Fujimi, Satoru; Kitazono, Takanari; Tsuruya, Kazuhiko

2016-02-01

Selection of a lower dialysate calcium concentration (DCa) can reduce calcium burden and prevent vascular calcification in hemodialysis patients. However, decreased DCa can worsen mineral and bone disorders. This 1-year retrospective observational study evaluated 121 hemodialysis patients at Fukuoka Renal Clinic who underwent conversion of DCa from 3.0 mEq/L to 2.75 mEq/L. The primary outcomes were changes in serum levels of calcium, phosphate, and parathyroid hormone (PTH). The effects of baseline serum calcium and PTH levels on changes in biochemical parameters were also determined. One year after DCa conversion, mean serum calcium level decreased, while serum phosphate, alkaline phosphatase, and PTH concentrations increased. The rate of achievement of target PTH was higher in patients with lower serum PTH level at baseline, while patients with higher baseline serum PTH level tended to exceed the upper limit of the PTH target range. Patients with higher baseline serum calcium concentration showed a greater decrease in serum calcium level and a greater increase in serum PTH level at 1 year. Patients with a lower baseline serum PTH level can benefit from optimal PTH control following conversion of DCa from 3.0 mEq/L to 2.75 mEq/L. However, secondary hyperparathyroidism may be exacerbated in some patients with higher baseline serum calcium (Ca) and PTH levels. These results indicate that an individualized approach can maximize the benefits of Ca unloading after conversion to lower DCa. © 2015 International Society for Apheresis, Japanese Society for Apheresis, and Japanese Society for Dialysis Therapy.

Fundamental-mode MMF transmission enabled by mode conversion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Zhongying; Li, Juhao; Tian, Yu; Ge, Dawei; Zhu, Jinglong; Ren, Fang; Mo, Qi; Yu, Jinyi; Li, Zhengbin; Chen, Zhangyuan; He, Yongqi

2018-03-01

Modal dispersion in conventional multi-mode fiber (MMF) will cause serious signal degradation and an effective solution is to restrict the signal transmission in the fundamental mode of MMF. In this paper, unlike previous methods by filtering out higher-order modes, we propose to adopt low-modal-crosstalk mode converters to realize fundamental-mode MMF transmission. We design and fabricate all-fiber mode-selective couplers (MSC), which perform mode conversion between the fundamental mode in single-mode fiber (SMF) and fundamental mode in MMF. The proposed scheme is experimentally compared with center launching method under different MMF links and then its wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) transmission performance is investigated. Experimental results indicate that the proposed mode conversion scheme could achieve better transmission performance and works well for the whole C-band.

Gender Differences in Academic Achievement: Is Writing an Exception to the Gender Similarities Hypothesis?

PubMed

Reynolds, Matthew R; Scheiber, Caroline; Hajovsky, Daniel B; Schwartz, Bryanna; Kaufman, Alan S

2015-01-01

The gender similarities hypothesis by J. S. Hyde ( 2005 ), based on large-scale reviews of studies, concludes that boys and girls are more alike than different on most psychological variables, including academic skills such as reading and math (J. S. Hyde, 2005 ). Writing is an academic skill that may be an exception. The authors investigated gender differences in academic achievement using a large, nationally stratified sample of children and adolescents ranging from ages 7-19 years (N = 2,027). Achievement data were from the conormed sample for the Kaufman intelligence and achievement tests. Multiple-indicator, multiple-cause, and multigroup mean and covariance structure models were used to test for mean differences. Girls had higher latent reading ability and higher scores on a test of math computation, but the effect sizes were consistent with the gender similarities hypothesis. Conversely, girls scored higher on spelling and written expression, with effect sizes inconsistent with the gender similarities hypothesis. The findings remained the same after controlling for cognitive ability. Girls outperform boys on tasks of writing.

The Kirkendall effect towards oxynitride nanotubes with improved visible light driven conversion of CO2 into CH4.

PubMed

Zhou, P; Gao, H L; Yan, S C; Zou, Z G

2016-02-28

Functional hollow nanomaterials are of great interest due to their unique physical-chemical properties. Oxynitride photocatalysts are a kind of promising material for solar energy conversion. However, nanoscale design of hollow oxynitrides was difficult to achieve due to the thermal instability of oxide precursors at high temperature. Here, single crystal zinc gallium oxynitride nanotubes were successfully synthesized via the Kirkendall effect with ZnO nanorods and Ga2O3 nanosheets as precursors, which can be attributed to the high diffusion rate of ZnO and the high melting point of oxynitride. Enhanced photocatalytic performance in CO2 reduction was achieved over the as-prepared ZnGaNO nanotubes, due to their higher specific surface area and less recombination of the photogenerated carriers. These results are expected to provide new guidance in the design and preparation of highly efficient nano-scaled oxynitride photocatalysts.

Combining Video, Audio and Lexical Indicators of Affect in Spontaneous Conversation via Particle Filtering

PubMed Central

Savran, Arman; Cao, Houwei; Shah, Miraj; Nenkova, Ani; Verma, Ragini

2013-01-01

We present experiments on fusing facial video, audio and lexical indicators for affect estimation during dyadic conversations. We use temporal statistics of texture descriptors extracted from facial video, a combination of various acoustic features, and lexical features to create regression based affect estimators for each modality. The single modality regressors are then combined using particle filtering, by treating these independent regression outputs as measurements of the affect states in a Bayesian filtering framework, where previous observations provide prediction about the current state by means of learned affect dynamics. Tested on the Audio-visual Emotion Recognition Challenge dataset, our single modality estimators achieve substantially higher scores than the official baseline method for every dimension of affect. Our filtering-based multi-modality fusion achieves correlation performance of 0.344 (baseline: 0.136) and 0.280 (baseline: 0.096) for the fully continuous and word level sub challenges, respectively. PMID:25300451

Combining Video, Audio and Lexical Indicators of Affect in Spontaneous Conversation via Particle Filtering.

PubMed

Savran, Arman; Cao, Houwei; Shah, Miraj; Nenkova, Ani; Verma, Ragini

2012-01-01

We present experiments on fusing facial video, audio and lexical indicators for affect estimation during dyadic conversations. We use temporal statistics of texture descriptors extracted from facial video, a combination of various acoustic features, and lexical features to create regression based affect estimators for each modality. The single modality regressors are then combined using particle filtering, by treating these independent regression outputs as measurements of the affect states in a Bayesian filtering framework, where previous observations provide prediction about the current state by means of learned affect dynamics. Tested on the Audio-visual Emotion Recognition Challenge dataset, our single modality estimators achieve substantially higher scores than the official baseline method for every dimension of affect. Our filtering-based multi-modality fusion achieves correlation performance of 0.344 (baseline: 0.136) and 0.280 (baseline: 0.096) for the fully continuous and word level sub challenges, respectively.

Third harmonic frequency generation by type-I critically phase-matched LiB3O5 crystal by means of optically active quartz crystal.

PubMed

Gapontsev, Valentin P; Tyrtyshnyy, Valentin A; Vershinin, Oleg I; Davydov, Boris L; Oulianov, Dmitri A

2013-02-11

We present a method of third harmonic generation at 355 nm by frequency mixing of fundamental and second harmonic radiation of an ytterbium nanosecond pulsed all-fiber laser in a type-I phase-matched LiB(3)O(5) (LBO) crystal where originally orthogonal polarization planes of the fundamental and second harmonic beams are aligned by an optically active quartz crystal. 8 W of ultraviolet light at 355 nm were achieved with 40% conversion efficiency from 1064 nm radiation. The conversion efficiency obtained in a type-I phase-matched LBO THG crystal was 1.6 times higher than the one achieved in a type-II LBO crystal at similar experimental conditions. In comparison to half-wave plates traditionally used for polarization alignment the optically active quartz crystal has much lower temperature dependence and requires simpler optical alignment.

Degree of conversion of two lingual retainer adhesives cured with different light sources.

PubMed

Usümez, Serdar; Büyükyilmaz, Tamer; Karaman, Ali Ihya; Gündüz, Beniz

2005-04-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the degree of conversion (DC) of two lingual retainer adhesives, Transbond Lingual Retainer (TLR) and Light Cure Retainer (LCR), cured with a fast halogen light, a plasma arc light and a light-emitting diode (LED) at various curing times. A conventional halogen light served as the control. One hundred adhesive samples (five per group) were cured for 5, 10 or 15 seconds with an Optilux 501 (fast halogen light), for 3, 6 or 9 seconds with a Power Pac (plasma arc light), or for 10, 20 or 40 seconds with an Elipar Freelight (LED). Samples cured for 40 seconds with the conventional halogen lamp were used as the controls. Absorbance peaks were recorded using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. DC values were calculated. Data were analysed using Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U-tests. For the TLR, the highest DC values were achieved in 6 and 9 seconds with the plasma arc light. Curing with the fast halogen light for 15 seconds and with the LED for 40 seconds produced statistically similar DC values, but these were lower than those with the plasma arc light. All of these light exposures yielded a statistically significantly higher DC than 40 seconds of conventional halogen light curing. The highest DC value for the LCR was achieved in 15 seconds with the fast halogen light, then the plasma arc light curing for 6 seconds. These two combinations produced a statistically significantly higher DC when compared with the 40 seconds of conventional halogen light curing. The lowest DC for the LCR was achieved with 10 seconds of LED curing. The overall DC of the LCR was significantly higher than that of the TLR. The results suggest that a similar or higher DC than the control values could be achieved in 6-9 seconds by plasma arc curing, in 10-15 seconds by fast halogen curing or in 20 seconds by LED curing.

Highly Efficient Near Infrared Photothermal Conversion Properties of Reduced Tungsten Oxide/Polyurethane Nanocomposites

PubMed Central

Chala, Tolesa Fita; Wu, Chang-Mou; Chou, Min-Hui; Gebeyehu, Molla Bahiru; Cheng, Kuo-Bing

2017-01-01

In this work, novel WO3-x/polyurethane (PU) nanocomposites were prepared by ball milling followed by stirring using a planetary mixer/de-aerator. The effects of phase transformation (WO3 → WO2.8 → WO2.72) and different weight fractions of tungsten oxide on the optical performance, photothermal conversion, and thermal properties of the prepared nanocomposites were examined. It was found that the nanocomposites exhibited strong photoabsorption in the entire near-infrared (NIR) region of 780–2500 nm and excellent photothermal conversion properties. This is because the particle size of WO3-x was greatly reduced by ball milling and they were well-dispersed in the polyurethane matrix. The higher concentration of oxygen vacancies in WO3-x contribute to the efficient absorption of NIR light and its conversion into thermal energy. In particular, WO2.72/PU nanocomposites showed strong NIR light absorption of ca. 92%, high photothermal conversion, and better thermal conductivity and absorptivity than other WO3/PU nanocomposites. Furthermore, when the nanocomposite with 7 wt % concentration of WO2.72 nanoparticles was irradiated with infrared light, the temperature of the nanocomposite increased rapidly and stabilized at 120 °C after 5 min. This temperature is 52 °C higher than that achieved by pure PU. These nanocomposites are suitable functional materials for solar collectors, smart coatings, and energy-saving applications. PMID:28737689

Chromium-free conversion coatings based on inorganic salts (Zr/Ti/Mn/Mo) for aluminum alloys used in aircraft applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Santa Coloma, P.; Izagirre, U.; Belaustegi, Y.; Jorcin, J. B.; Cano, F. J.; Lapeña, N.

2015-08-01

Novel chromium-free conversion coatings based on Zr/Ti/Mn/Mo compounds were developed at a pilot scale to improve the corrosion resistance of the AA2024-T3 and AA7075-T6 aluminum alloys for aircraft applications. The influence of the presence of Zr and Ti in the Zr/Ti/Mn/Mo conversion bath's formulation on the corrosion resistance of the coated alloys was investigated. The corrosion resistance provided by the conversion coatings was evaluated by salt spray exposure and potentiodynamic sweeps. Optical and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM/EDS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) operating in the Kelvin Probe mode (SKPFM) were used to provide microstructural information of the coated samples that achieved the best results in the corrosion tests. The salt spray test evidenced the higher corrosion resistance of the coated samples compared to the bare surfaces for both alloys. The potentiodynamic tests showed that the corrosion current density decreased for coated AA7075-T6 and AA2024-T3 alloys, which indicated an obvious improvement of the corrosion resistance with all the processes for both alloys. Although the corrosion resistance of the coated samples appeared to be higher for the alloy AA7075-T6 than for the alloy AA2024-T3, both alloys achieved the best corrosion protection with the coatings deposited from conversion bath formulations containing no titanium salts. The microscopy analysis on the coated AA7075-T6 samples revealed that a local deposition of Zr compounds and, possibly, an oxidation process occurred in the vicinity of the alloy's intermetallic particles. The amount of the Zr deposits at these locations increased with coating's formulations without Ti, which provided the best corrosion resistance. The Cr-free conversion coatings developed in this study for the AA7075-T6 and AA2024-T3 alloys do not meet yet the strict requirements of the aircraft industry. However, they significantly improved the corrosion performance with respect to the bare alloys and could be a good starting point for further studies and optimization.

Formulation of fermentation media from flour-rich waste streams for microbial lipid production by Lipomyces starkeyi.

PubMed

Tsakona, Sofia; Kopsahelis, Nikolaos; Chatzifragkou, Afroditi; Papanikolaou, Seraphim; Kookos, Ioannis K; Koutinas, Apostolis A

2014-11-10

Flour-rich waste (FRW) and by-product streams generated by bakery, confectionery and wheat milling plants could be employed as the sole raw materials for generic fermentation media production, suitable for microbial oil synthesis. Wheat milling by-products were used in solid state fermentations (SSF) of Aspergillus awamori for the production of crude enzymes, mainly glucoamylase and protease. Enzyme-rich SSF solids were subsequently employed for hydrolysis of FRW streams into nutrient-rich fermentation media. Batch hydrolytic experiments using FRW concentrations up to 205 g/L resulted in higher than 90% (w/w) starch to glucose conversion yields and 40% (w/w) total Kjeldahl nitrogen to free amino nitrogen conversion yields. Starch to glucose conversion yields of 98.2, 86.1 and 73.4% (w/w) were achieved when initial FRW concentrations of 235, 300 and 350 g/L were employed in fed-batch hydrolytic experiments, respectively. Crude hydrolysates were used as fermentation media in shake flask cultures with the oleaginous yeast Lipomyces starkeyi DSM 70296 reaching a total dry weight of 30.5 g/L with a microbial oil content of 40.4% (w/w), higher than that achieved in synthetic media. Fed-batch bioreactor cultures led to a total dry weight of 109.8 g/L with a microbial oil content of 57.8% (w/w) and productivity of 0.4 g/L/h. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Structured catalyst bed and method for conversion of feed materials to chemical products and liquid fuels

DOEpatents

Wang, Yong , Liu; Wei, [Richland, WA

2012-01-24

The present invention is a structured monolith reactor and method that provides for controlled Fischer-Tropsch (FT) synthesis. The invention controls mass transport limitations leading to higher CO conversion and lower methane selectivity. Over 95 wt % of the total product liquid hydrocarbons obtained from the monolithic catalyst are in the carbon range of C.sub.5-C.sub.18. The reactor controls readsorption of olefins leading to desired products with a preselected chain length distribution and enhanced overall reaction rate. And, liquid product analysis shows readsorption of olefins is reduced, achieving a narrower FT product distribution.

Analytical Study of 90Sr Betavoltaic Nuclear Battery Performance Based on p-n Junction Silicon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rahastama, Swastya; Waris, Abdul

2016-08-01

Previously, an analytical calculation of 63Ni p-n junction betavoltaic battery has been published. As the basic approach, we reproduced the analytical simulation of 63Ni betavoltaic battery and then compared it to previous results using the same design of the battery. Furthermore, we calculated its maximum power output and radiation- electricity conversion efficiency using semiconductor analysis method.Then, the same method were applied to calculate and analyse the performance of 90Sr betavoltaic battery. The aim of this project is to compare the analytical perfomance results of 90Sr betavoltaic battery to 63Ni betavoltaic battery and the source activity influences to performance. Since it has a higher power density, 90Sr betavoltaic battery yields more power than 63Ni betavoltaic battery but less radiation-electricity conversion efficiency. However, beta particles emitted from 90Sr source could travel further inside the silicon corresponding to stopping range of beta particles, thus the 90Sr betavoltaic battery could be designed thicker than 63Ni betavoltaic battery to achieve higher conversion efficiency.

Concrescent Conversation as a Group Communication Tool in a Chinese University MBA Course

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Akan, Obasi Haki; Andres, Hayward; Medley, Barbara C.

2014-01-01

In order to be more competitive in the global marketplace, China has adopted a long-term plan to reform their higher education system. One specific aim of this plan is to facilitate the achievement of China's goal of building a world-class market-driven economy through the development of an adequate supply of MBA-trained professional managers to…

Indicators of Higher Education Equity in the United States: 45 Year Trend Report

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cahalan, Margaret; Perna, Laura

2015-01-01

The U.S. has a core constitutional and founding commitment to equality of opportunity for all citizens. Whether viewed as an end in itself or a means to fostering increased national achievement and competitiveness, the 21st century United States conversation about equity reflects a national consensus about the many benefits of and necessity for…

A low complexity, low spur digital IF conversion circuit for high-fidelity GNSS signal playback

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Su, Fei; Ying, Rendong

2016-01-01

A low complexity high efficiency and low spur digital intermediate frequency (IF) conversion circuit is discussed in the paper. This circuit is key element in high-fidelity GNSS signal playback instrument. We analyze the spur performance of a finite state machine (FSM) based numerically controlled oscillators (NCO), by optimization of the control algorithm, a FSM based NCO with 3 quantization stage can achieves 65dB SFDR in the range of the seventh harmonic. Compare with traditional lookup table based NCO design with the same Spurious Free Dynamic Range (SFDR) performance, the logic resource require to implemented the NCO is reduced to 1/3. The proposed design method can be extended to the IF conversion system with good SFDR in the range of higher harmonic components by increasing the quantization stage.

Hello, Who is Calling?: Can Words Reveal the Social Nature of Conversations?

PubMed

Stark, Anthony; Shafran, Izhak; Kaye, Jeffrey

2012-01-01

This study aims to infer the social nature of conversations from their content automatically. To place this work in context, our motivation stems from the need to understand how social disengagement affects cognitive decline or depression among older adults. For this purpose, we collected a comprehensive and naturalistic corpus comprising of all the incoming and outgoing telephone calls from 10 subjects over the duration of a year. As a first step, we learned a binary classifier to filter out business related conversation, achieving an accuracy of about 85%. This classification task provides a convenient tool to probe the nature of telephone conversations. We evaluated the utility of openings and closing in differentiating personal calls, and find that empirical results on a large corpus do not support the hypotheses by Schegloff and Sacks that personal conversations are marked by unique closing structures. For classifying different types of social relationships such as family vs other, we investigated features related to language use (entropy), hand-crafted dictionary (LIWC) and topics learned using unsupervised latent Dirichlet models (LDA). Our results show that the posteriors over topics from LDA provide consistently higher accuracy (60-81%) compared to LIWC or language use features in distinguishing different types of conversations.

Review of two-phase flow liquid metal MHD and turbine energy conversion concepts for space applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fabris, Gracio

1992-01-01

Two-phase energy conversion systems could be liquid metal magnetohydrodynamic (LMMHD) with no moving parts or two-phase turbines. Both of them are inherently simple and reliable devices which can operate in a wide range of temperatures. Their thermal efficiency is significantly higher than for conventional cycles due to reheat of vapor by liquid phase during the energy converting expansion. Often they can be more easily coupled to heat sources. These features make two-phase systems particularly promising for space application. Insufficient research has been done in the past. So far achieved LMMHD generator and two-phase turbine efficiencies are in the 40 to 45 percent range. However if certain fluid dynamic and design problems are resolved these efficiencies could be brought into the range of 70 percent. This would make two-phase systems extremely competitive as compared to present or other proposed conversion system for space. Accordingly, well directed research effort on potential space applications of two-phase conversion systems would be a wise investment.

Syngas Conversion to Hydrocarbon Fuels through Mixed Alcohol Intermediates

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Dagle, Robert A.; Lebarbier, Vanessa M.; Albrecht, Karl O.

2013-05-13

Synthesis gas (syngas) can be used to synthesize a variety of fuels and chemicals. Domestic transportation and military operational interests have driven continued focus on domestic syngas-based fuels production. Liquid transportation fuels may be made from syngas via four basic processes: 1) higher alcohols, 2) Fischer-Tropsch (FT), 3) methanol-to-gasoline (MTG), and 4) methanol-to-olefins (MTO) and olefins-to-gasoline/distillate (MOGD). Compared to FT and higher alcohols, MTG and MTO-MOGD have received less attention in recent years. Due to the high capital cost of these synthetic fuel plants, the production cost of the finished fuel cannot compete with petroleum-derived fuel. Pacific Northwest National Laboratorymore » has recently evaluated one way to potentially reduce capital cost and overall production cost for MTG by combining the methanol and MTG syntheses in a single reactor. The concept consists of mixing the conventional MTG catalyst (i.e. HZSM-5) with an alcohol synthesis catalyst. It was found that a methanol synthesis catalyst, stable at high temperature (i.e. Pd/ZnO/Al2O3) [1], when mixed with ZSM-5, was active for syngas conversion. Relatively high syngas conversion can be achieved as the equilibrium-driven conversion limitations for methanol and dimethyl ether are removed as they are intermediates to the final hydrocarbon product. However, selectivity control was difficult to achieve as formation of undesirable durene and light hydrocarbons was problematic [2]. The objective of the present study was thus to evaluate other potential composite catalyst systems and optimize the reactions conditions for the conversion of syngas to hydrocarbon fuels, through the use of mixed alcohol intermediates. Mixed alcohols are of interest as they have recently been reported to produce higher yields of gasoline compared to methanol [3]. 1. Lebarbier, V.M., Dagle, R.A., Kovarik, L., Lizarazo-Adarme, J.A., King, D.L., Palo, D.R., Catalyst Science & Technology, 2012, 2, 2116-2127. 2. Zhu, Y., Jones, S.B., Biddy, M.J., Dagle, R.A., Palo, D.P., Bioresource Technology, 2012, 117, 341-351. 3. Gujar, A.C., Guda, V.K., Nolan, M., Yan W., Toghiani, H., White, M.G., Applied Catalysis A: General, 2009, 363, 115-121.« less

A New Piezoelectric Actuator Induces Bone Formation In Vivo: A Preliminary Study

PubMed Central

Reis, Joana; Frias, Clara; Canto e Castro, Carlos; Botelho, Maria Luísa; Marques, António Torres; Simões, José António Oliveira; Capela e Silva, Fernando; Potes, José

2012-01-01

This in vivo study presents the preliminary results of the use of a novel piezoelectric actuator for orthopedic application. The innovative use of the converse piezoelectric effect to mechanically stimulate bone was achieved with polyvinylidene fluoride actuators implanted in osteotomy cuts in sheep femur and tibia. The biological response around the osteotomies was assessed through histology and histomorphometry in nondecalcified sections and histochemistry and immunohistochemistry in decalcified sections, namely, through Masson's trichrome, and labeling of osteopontin, proliferating cell nuclear antigen, and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase. After one-month implantation, total bone area and new bone area were significantly higher around actuators when compared to static controls. Bone deposition rate was also significantly higher in the mechanically stimulated areas. In these areas, osteopontin increased expression was observed. The present in vivo study suggests that piezoelectric materials and the converse piezoelectric effect may be used to effectively stimulate bone growth. PMID:22701304

Strategies to achieve high-solids enzymatic hydrolysis of dilute-acid pretreated corn stover.

PubMed

Geng, Wenhui; Jin, Yongcan; Jameel, Hasan; Park, Sunkyu

2015-01-01

Three strategies were presented to achieve high solids loading while maximizing carbohydrate conversion, which are fed-batch, splitting/thickening, and clarifier processes. Enzymatic hydrolysis was performed at water insoluble solids (WIS) of 15% using washed dilute-acid pretreated corn stover. The carbohydrate concentration increased from 31.8 to 99.3g/L when the insoluble solids content increased from 5% to 15% WIS, while the final carbohydrate conversion was decreased from 78.4% to 73.2%. For the fed-batch process, a carbohydrate conversion efficiency of 76.8% was achieved when solid was split into 60:20:20 ratio, with all enzymes added first. For the splitting/thickening process, a carbohydrate conversion of 76.5% was realized when the filtrate was recycled to simulate a steady-state process. Lastly, the clarifier process was evaluated and the highest carbohydrate conversion of 81.4% was achieved. All of these results suggests the possibility of enzymatic hydrolysis at high solids to make the overall conversion cost-competitive. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Process evaluation of enzymatic hydrolysis with filtrate recycle for the production of high concentration sugars.

PubMed

Xue, Ying; Rusli, Jannov; Chang, Hou-Min; Phillips, Richard; Jameel, Hasan

2012-02-01

Process simulation and lab trials were carried out to demonstrate and confirm the efficiency of the concept that recycling hydrolysate at low total solid enzymatic hydrolysis is one of the options to increase the sugar concentration without mixing problems. Higher sugar concentration can reduce the capital cost for fermentation and distillation because of smaller retention volume. Meanwhile, operation cost will also decrease for less operating volume and less energy required for distillation. With the computer simulation, time and efforts can be saved to achieve the steady state of recycling process, which is the scenario for industrial production. This paper, to the best of our knowledge, is the first paper discussing steady-state saccharification with recycling of the filtrate form enzymatic hydrolysis to increase sugar concentration. Recycled enzymes in the filtrate (15-30% of the original enzyme loading) resulted in 5-10% higher carbohydrate conversion compared to the case in which recycled enzymes were denatured. The recycled hydrolysate yielded 10% higher carbohydrate conversion compared to pure sugar simulated hydrolysate at the same enzyme loading, which indicated hydrolysis by-products could boost enzymatic hydrolysis. The high sugar concentration (pure sugar simulated) showed inhibition effect, since about 15% decrease in carbohydrate conversion was observed compared with the case with no sugar added. The overall effect of hydrolysate recycling at WinGEMS simulated steady-state conditions with 5% total solids was increasing the sugar concentration from 35 to 141 g/l, while the carbohydrate conversion was 2% higher for recycling at steady state (87%) compared with no recycling strategy (85%). Ten percent and 15% total solid processes were also evaluated in this study.

1W frequency-doubled VCSEL-pumped blue laser with high pulse energy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Van Leeuwen, Robert; Chen, Tong; Watkins, Laurence; Xu, Guoyang; Seurin, Jean-Francois; Wang, Qing; Zhou, Delai; Ghosh, Chuni

2015-02-01

We report on a Q-switched VCSEL side-pumped 946 nm Nd:YAG laser that produces high average power blue light with high pulse energy after frequency doubling in BBO. The gain medium was water cooled and symmetrically pumped by three 1 kW 808 nm VCSEL pump modules. More than 1 W blue output was achieved at 210 Hz with 4.9 mJ pulse energy and at 340 Hz with 3.2 mJ pulse energy, with 42% and 36% second harmonic conversion efficiency respectively. Higher pulse energy was obtained at lower repetition frequencies, up to 9.3 mJ at 70 Hz with 52% conversion efficiency.

Anaerobic digestion of water hyacinth and sludge

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Biljetina, R.; Srivastava, V.J.; Chynoweth, D.P.

1986-01-01

The Institute of Gas Technology (IGT) has been operating an experimental test unit (ETU) at the Walt Disney World (WDW) wastewater treatment plant to demonstrate the conversion of water hyacinth and sludge to methane in a solids concentrating (SOLCON) digester. Results from 2 years to operation have confirmed earlier laboratory observations that this digester achieves higher methane yields and solids conversion than those observed in continuous stirred tank reactors. Methane yields as high as 0.49 m/sup 3/ kg/sup -1/ (7.9 SCF/lb) volatile solids added have been obtained during steady-state operation on a blend of water hyacinth and sludge. 9 refs.,more » 5 figs., 5 tabs.« less

Claisen thermally rearranged (CTR) polymers

PubMed Central

Tena, Alberto; Rangou, Sofia; Shishatskiy, Sergey; Filiz, Volkan; Abetz, Volker

2016-01-01

Thermally rearranged (TR) polymers, which are considered the next-generation of membrane materials because of their excellent transport properties and high thermal and chemical stability, are proven to have significant drawbacks because of the high temperature required for the rearrangement and low degree of conversion during this process. We demonstrate that using a [3,3]-sigmatropic rearrangement, the temperature required for the rearrangement of a solid glassy polymer was reduced by 200°C. Conversions of functionalized polyimide to polybenzoxazole of more than 97% were achieved. These highly mechanically stable polymers were almost five times more permeable and had more than two times higher degrees of conversion than the reference polymer treated under the same conditions. Properties of these second-generation TR polymers provide the possibility of preparing efficient polymer membranes in a form of, for example, thin-film composite membranes for various gas and liquid membrane separation applications. PMID:27482538

Claisen thermally rearranged (CTR) polymers.

PubMed

Tena, Alberto; Rangou, Sofia; Shishatskiy, Sergey; Filiz, Volkan; Abetz, Volker

2016-07-01

Thermally rearranged (TR) polymers, which are considered the next-generation of membrane materials because of their excellent transport properties and high thermal and chemical stability, are proven to have significant drawbacks because of the high temperature required for the rearrangement and low degree of conversion during this process. We demonstrate that using a [3,3]-sigmatropic rearrangement, the temperature required for the rearrangement of a solid glassy polymer was reduced by 200°C. Conversions of functionalized polyimide to polybenzoxazole of more than 97% were achieved. These highly mechanically stable polymers were almost five times more permeable and had more than two times higher degrees of conversion than the reference polymer treated under the same conditions. Properties of these second-generation TR polymers provide the possibility of preparing efficient polymer membranes in a form of, for example, thin-film composite membranes for various gas and liquid membrane separation applications.

Refractory materials for high-temperature thermoelectric energy conversion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wood, C.; Emin, D.

1983-01-01

Theoretical work of two decades ago adequately explained the transport behavior and effectively guided the development of thermoelectric materials of high conversion efficiencies of conventional semiconductors (e.g., SiGe alloys). The more significant contributions involved the estimation of optimum doping concentrations, the reduction of thermal conductivity by solid solution doping and the development of a variety of materials with ZT approx. 1 in the temperature range 300 K to 1200 K. ZT approx. 1 is not a theoretical limitation although, experimentally, values in excess of one were not achieved. Work has continued with emphasis on higher temperature energy conversion. A number of promising materials have been discovered in which it appears that ZT 1 is realizable. These materials are divided into two classes: (1) the rare-earth chalcogenides which behave as itinerant highly-degenerate n-type semiconductors at room-temperature, and (2) the boron-rich borides, which exhibit p-type small-polaronic hopping conductivity.

Phosphoenolpyruvate:glucose phosphotransferase system modification increases the conversion rate during L-tryptophan production in Escherichia coli.

PubMed

Liu, Lina; Chen, Sheng; Wu, Jing

2017-10-01

Escherichia coli FB-04(pta1), a recombinant L-tryptophan production strain, was constructed in our laboratory. However, the conversion rate (L-tryptophan yield per glucose) of this strain is somewhat low. In this study, additional genes have been deleted in an effort to increase the conversion rate of E. coli FB-04(pta1). Initially, the pykF gene, which encodes pyruvate kinase I (PYKI), was inactivated to increase the accumulation of phosphoenolpyruvate, a key L-tryptophan precursor. The resulting strain, E. coli FB-04(pta1)ΔpykF, showed a slightly higher L-tryptophan yield and a higher conversion rate in fermentation processes. To further improve the conversion rate, the phosphoenolpyruvate:glucose phosphotransferase system (PTS) was disrupted by deleting the ptsH gene, which encodes the phosphocarrier protein (HPr). The levels of biomass, L-tryptophan yield, and conversion rate of this strain, E. coli FB-04(pta1)ΔpykF/ptsH, were especially low during fed-batch fermentation process, even though it achieved a significant increase in conversion rate during shake-flask fermentation. To resolve this issue, four HPr mutations (N12S, N12A, S46A, and S46N) were introduced into the genomic background of E. coli FB-04(pta1)ΔpykF/ptsH, respectively. Among them, the strain harboring the N12S mutation (E. coli FB-04(pta1)ΔpykF-ptsHN12S) showed a prominently increased conversion rate of 0.178 g g -1 during fed-batch fermentation; an increase of 38.0% compared with parent strain E. coli FB-04(pta1). Thus, mutation of the genomic of ptsH gene provided an alternative method to weaken the PTS and improve the efficiency of carbon source utilization.

In situ synthesis of CdS/CdWO4/WO3 heterojunction films with enhanced photoelectrochemical properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhan, Faqi; Li, Jie; Li, Wenzhang; Yang, Yahui; Liu, Wenhua; Li, Yaomin

2016-09-01

CdS/CdWO4/WO3 heterojunction films on fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) substrates are for the first time prepared as an efficient photoanode for photoelectrochemical (PEC) hydrogen generation by an in situ conversion process. The samples are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), ultraviolet visible spectrometry (UV-vis) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The CdS hollow spheres (∼80 nm) sensitized WO3 plate film with a CdWO4 buffer-layer exhibits increased visible light absorption and a significantly improved photoelectrochemical performance. The photocurrent density at 0 V (vs. Ag/AgCl) of the CdS/CdWO4/WO3 anode is ∼3 times higher than that of the CdWO4/WO3 anode, and ∼9 times higher than that of pure WO3 under illumination. The highest incident-photon-to-current-efficiency (IPCE) value increased from 16% to 63% when the ternary heterojunction was formed. This study demonstrates that the synthesis of ternary composite photocatalysts by the in situ conversion process may be a promising approach to achieve high photoelectric conversion efficiency.

High Power Orbit Transfer Vehicle

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-07-01

multijunction device is a stack of individual single-junction cells in descending order of band gap. The top cell captures the high-energy photons and passes...the rest of the photons on to be absorbed by lower-band-gap cells. Multijunction devices achieve a higher total conversion efficiency because they...minimum temperatures on the thruster modules and main bus. In the MATLAB code for these calculations, maximum and minimum temperatures are plotted

Sunlight absorption engineering for thermophotovoltaics: contributions from the optical design.

PubMed

Míguez, Hernán

2015-03-01

Nowadays, solar thermophotovoltaic systems constitute a platform in which sophisticated optical material designs are put into practice with the aim of achieving the long sought after dream of developing an efficient energy conversion device based on this concept. Recent advances demonstrate that higher efficiencies are at reach using photonic nanostructures amenable to mass production and scale-up. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

High-Efficiency Artificial Photosynthesis Using a Novel Alkaline Membrane Cell

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Narayan, Sri; Haines, Brennan; Blosiu, Julian; Marzwell, Neville

2009-01-01

A new cell designed to mimic the photosynthetic processes of plants to convert carbon dioxide into carbonaceous products and oxygen at high efficiency, has an improved configuration using a polymer membrane electrolyte and an alkaline medium. This increases efficiency of the artificial photosynthetic process, achieves high conversion rates, permits the use of inexpensive catalysts, and widens the range of products generated by this type of process. The alkaline membrane electrolyte allows for the continuous generation of sodium formate without the need for any additional separation system. The electrolyte type, pH, electrocatalyst type, and cell voltage were found to have a strong effect on the efficiency of conversion of carbon dioxide to formate. Indium electrodes were found to have higher conversion efficiency compared to lead. Bicarbonate electrolyte offers higher conversion efficiency and higher rates than water solutions saturated with carbon dioxide. pH values between 8 and 9 lead to the maximum values of efficiency. The operating cell voltage of 2.5 V, or higher, ensures conversion of the carbon dioxide to formate, although the hydrogen evolution reaction begins to compete strongly with the formate production reaction at higher cell voltages. Formate is produced at indium and lead electrodes at a conversion efficiency of 48 mg of CO2/kilojoule of energy input. This efficiency is about eight times that of natural photosynthesis in green plants. The electrochemical method of artificial photosynthesis is a promising approach for the conversion, separation and sequestration of carbon dioxide for confined environments as in space habitats, and also for carbon dioxide management in the terrestrial context. The heart of the reactor is a membrane cell fabricated from an alkaline polymer electrolyte membrane and catalyst- coated electrodes. This cell is assembled and held in compression in gold-plated hardware. The cathode side of the cell is supplied with carbon dioxide-saturated water or bicarbonate solution. The anode side of the cell is supplied with sodium hydroxide solution. The solutions are circulated past the electrodes in the electrochemical cell using pumps. A regulated power supply provides the electrical energy required for the reactions. Photovoltaic cells can be used to better mimic the photosynthetic reaction. The current flowing through the electrochemical cell, and the cell voltage, are monitored during experimentation. The products of the electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide are allowed to accumulate in the cathode reservoir. Samples of the cathode solution are withdrawn for product analysis. Oxygen is generated on the anode side and is allowed to vent out of the reservoir.

Conversion to seronegative status after abatacept treatment in patients with early and poor prognostic rheumatoid arthritis is associated with better radiographic outcomes and sustained remission: post hoc analysis of the AGREE study.

PubMed

Jansen, Diahann T S L; Emery, Paul; Smolen, Josef S; Westhovens, Rene; Le Bars, Manuela; Connolly, Sean E; Ye, June; Toes, René E M; Huizinga, Tom W J

2018-01-01

To evaluate the effects of the T-cell costimulation blocker abatacept on anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA) and rheumatoid factor (RF) in early rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and associations between changes in serological status and clinical response. Post hoc analysis of the phase III AGREE study in methotrexate (MTX)-naïve patients with early RA and poor prognostic factors. Patients were randomised to abatacept (~10 mg/kg intravenously according to weight range) or placebo, plus MTX over 12 months followed by open-label abatacept plus MTX for 12 months. Autoantibody titres were determined by ELISA at baseline and months 6 and 12 (double-blind phase). Conversion to seronegative status and its association with clinical response were assessed at months 6 and 12. Abatacept plus MTX was associated with a greater decrease in ACPA (but not RF) titres and higher rates of both ACPA and RF conversion to seronegative status versus MTX alone. More patients converting to ACPA seronegative status receiving abatacept plus MTX achieved remission according to Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (C-reactive protein) or Clinical Disease Activity Index than patients who remained ACPA seropositive. Patients who converted to ACPA seronegative status treated with abatacept plus MTX had a greater probability of achieving sustained remission and less radiographic progression than MTX alone or patients who remained ACPA seropositive (either treatment). Treatment with abatacept plus MTX was more likely to induce conversion to ACPA/RF seronegative status in patients with early, erosive RA. Conversion to ACPA seronegative status was associated with better clinical and radiographic outcomes. NCT00122382.

Conversion to seronegative status after abatacept treatment in patients with early and poor prognostic rheumatoid arthritis is associated with better radiographic outcomes and sustained remission: post hoc analysis of the AGREE study

PubMed Central

Emery, Paul; Smolen, Josef S; Westhovens, Rene; Le Bars, Manuela; Connolly, Sean E; Ye, June; Toes, René E M; Huizinga, Tom W J

2018-01-01

Objective To evaluate the effects of the T-cell costimulation blocker abatacept on anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA) and rheumatoid factor (RF) in early rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and associations between changes in serological status and clinical response. Methods Post hoc analysis of the phase III AGREE study in methotrexate (MTX)-naïve patients with early RA and poor prognostic factors. Patients were randomised to abatacept (~10 mg/kg intravenously according to weight range) or placebo, plus MTX over 12 months followed by open-label abatacept plus MTX for 12 months. Autoantibody titres were determined by ELISA at baseline and months 6 and 12 (double-blind phase). Conversion to seronegative status and its association with clinical response were assessed at months 6 and 12. Results Abatacept plus MTX was associated with a greater decrease in ACPA (but not RF) titres and higher rates of both ACPA and RF conversion to seronegative status versus MTX alone. More patients converting to ACPA seronegative status receiving abatacept plus MTX achieved remission according to Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (C-reactive protein) or Clinical Disease Activity Index than patients who remained ACPA seropositive. Patients who converted to ACPA seronegative status treated with abatacept plus MTX had a greater probability of achieving sustained remission and less radiographic progression than MTX alone or patients who remained ACPA seropositive (either treatment). Conclusions Treatment with abatacept plus MTX was more likely to induce conversion to ACPA/RF seronegative status in patients with early, erosive RA. Conversion to ACPA seronegative status was associated with better clinical and radiographic outcomes. Trial registration number NCT00122382 PMID:29657830

Using Conversation MOPs in Natural Language Interfaces.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Turner, Elise H.; Cullingford, Richard E.

1989-01-01

Explores a method of combining convention and intention by representing conversation structure with conversation MOPs (schematic structures that store conversation rules as generalized episodes associated with goals the episodes achieved). Discusses how conversation MOPs process the opening portion of a dialogue in an interactive advice-giving…

Next-generation organic photovoltaics based on non-fullerene acceptors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, Pei; Li, Gang; Zhan, Xiaowei; Yang, Yang

2018-03-01

Over the past three years, a particularly exciting and active area of research within the field of organic photovoltaics has been the use of non-fullerene acceptors (NFAs). Compared with fullerene acceptors, NFAs possess significant advantages including tunability of bandgaps, energy levels, planarity and crystallinity. To date, NFA solar cells have not only achieved impressive power conversion efficiencies of 13-14%, but have also shown excellent stability compared with traditional fullerene acceptor solar cells. This Review highlights recent progress on single-junction and tandem NFA solar cells and research directions to achieve even higher efficiencies of 15-20% using NFA-based organic photovoltaics are also proposed.

The development of a non-cryogenic nitrogen/oxygen supply system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Greenough, B. M.

1972-01-01

Development of the hydrazine/water electrolysis process in a manned spacecraft to provide metabolic oxygen and both oxygen and nitrogen for cabin leakage makeup was studied. Electrode development efforts were directed to stability, achieved with catalyst additives and improved processing techniques, and a higher hydrazine conversion efficiency, achieved by reducing catalyst loading on the cathodes. Extensive testing of the one-man breadboard N2/02 system provided complete characterization of cabin atmosphere control aspects. A detailed design of a prototype modular N2/02 unit was conducted. The contact heat exchanger which is an integral component of this design was fabricated and sucessfully design-verification tested.

High Efficiency Microwave Power Amplifier: From the Lab to Industry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sims, William Herbert, III; Bell, Joseph L. (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

Since the beginnings of space travel, various microwave power amplifier designs have been employed. These included Class-A, -B, and -C bias arrangements. However, shared limitation of these topologies is the inherent high total consumption of input power associated with the generation of radio frequency (RF)/microwave power. The power amplifier has always been the largest drain for the limited available power on the spacecraft. Typically, the conversion efficiency of a microwave power amplifier is 10 to 20%. For a typical microwave power amplifier of 20 watts, input DC power of at least 100 watts is required. Such a large demand for input power suggests that a better method of RF/microwave power generation is required. The price paid for using a linear amplifier where high linearity is unnecessary includes higher initial and operating costs, lower DC-to-RF conversion efficiency, high power consumption, higher power dissipation and the accompanying need for higher capacity heat removal means, and an amplifier that is more prone to parasitic oscillation. The first use of a higher efficiency mode of power generation was described by Baxandall in 1959. This higher efficiency mode, Class-D, is achieved through distinct switching techniques to reduce the power losses associated with switching, conduction, and gate drive losses of a given transistor.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Prikhodko, Vitaly Y; Pihl, Josh A; Toops, Todd J

Ethanol is a very effective reductant of nitrogen oxides (NOX) over silver/alumina (Ag/Al2O3) catalysts in lean exhaust environment. With the widespread availability of ethanol/gasoline-blended fuel in the USA, lean gasoline engines equipped with an Ag/Al2O3 catalyst have the potential to deliver higher fuel economy than stoichiometric gasoline engines and to increase biofuel utilization while meeting exhaust emissions regulations. In this work a pre-commercial 2 wt% Ag/Al2O3 catalyst was evaluated on a 2.0-liter BMW lean burn gasoline direct injection engine for the selective catalytic reduction (SCR) of NOX with ethanol/gasoline blends. The ethanol/gasoline blends were delivered via in-pipe injection upstream ofmore » the Ag/Al2O3 catalyst with the engine operating under lean conditions. A number of engine conditions were chosen to provide a range of temperatures and space velocities for the catalyst performance evaluations. High NOX conversions were achieved with ethanol/gasoline blends containing at least 50% ethanol; however, higher C1/N ratio was needed to achieve greater than 90% NOX conversion, which also resulted in significant HC slip. Temperature and HC dosing were important in controlling selectivity to NH3 and N2O. At high temperatures, NH3 and N2O yields increased with increased HC dosing. At low temperatures, NH3 yield was very low, however, N2O levels became significant. The ability to generate NH3 under lean conditions has potential for application of a dual SCR approach (HC SCR + NH3 SCR) to reduce fuel consumption needed for NOX reduction and/or increased NOX conversion, which is discussed in this work.« less

A Method for Determining the Timing of Displaying the Speaker's Face and Captions for a Real-Time Speech-to-Caption System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuroki, Hayato; Ino, Shuichi; Nakano, Satoko; Hori, Kotaro; Ifukube, Tohru

The authors of this paper have been studying a real-time speech-to-caption system using speech recognition technology with a “repeat-speaking” method. In this system, they used a “repeat-speaker” who listens to a lecturer's voice and then speaks back the lecturer's speech utterances into a speech recognition computer. The througoing system showed that the accuracy of the captions is about 97% in Japanese-Japanese conversion and the conversion time from voices to captions is about 4 seconds in English-English conversion in some international conferences. Of course it required a lot of costs to achieve these high performances. In human communications, speech understanding depends not only on verbal information but also on non-verbal information such as speaker's gestures, and face and mouth movements. So the authors found the idea to display information of captions and speaker's face movement images with a suitable way to achieve a higher comprehension after storing information once into a computer briefly. In this paper, we investigate the relationship of the display sequence and display timing between captions that have speech recognition errors and the speaker's face movement images. The results show that the sequence “to display the caption before the speaker's face image” improves the comprehension of the captions. The sequence “to display both simultaneously” shows an improvement only a few percent higher than the question sentence, and the sequence “to display the speaker's face image before the caption” shows almost no change. In addition, the sequence “to display the caption 1 second before the speaker's face shows the most significant improvement of all the conditions.

The reciprocity law concerning light dose relationships applied to BisGMA/TEGDMA photopolymers: theoretical analysis and experimental characterization.

PubMed

Wydra, James W; Cramer, Neil B; Stansbury, Jeffrey W; Bowman, Christopher N

2014-06-01

A model BisGMA/TEGDMA unfilled resin was utilized to investigate the effect of varied irradiation intensity on the photopolymerization kinetics and shrinkage stress evolution, as a means for evaluation of the reciprocity relationship. Functional group conversion was determined by FTIR spectroscopy and polymerization shrinkage stress was obtained by a tensometer. Samples were polymerized with UV light from an EXFO Acticure with 0.1wt% photoinitiator. A one-dimensional kinetic model was utilized to predict the conversion-dose relationship. As irradiation intensity increased, conversion decreased at a constant irradiation dose and the overall dose required to achieve full conversion increased. Methacrylate conversion ranged from 64±2% at 3mW/cm(2) to 78±1% at 24mW/cm(2) while the final shrinkage stress varied from 2.4±0.1MPa to 3.0±0.1MPa. The ultimate conversion and shrinkage stress levels achieved were dependent not only upon dose but also the irradiation intensity, in contrast to an idealized reciprocity relationship. A kinetic model was utilized to analyze this behavior and provide theoretical conversion profiles versus irradiation time and dose. Analysis of the experimental and modeling results demonstrated that the polymerization kinetics do not and should not be expected to follow the reciprocity law behavior. As irradiation intensity is increased, the overall dose required to achieve full conversion also increased. Further, the ultimate conversion and shrinkage stress that are achieved are not dependent only upon dose but rather upon the irradiation intensity and corresponding polymerization rate. Copyright © 2014 Academy of Dental Materials. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Energy-saving quality road lighting with colloidal quantum dot nanophosphors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Erdem, Talha; Kelestemur, Yusuf; Soran-Erdem, Zeliha; Ji, Yun; Demir, Hilmi Volkan

2014-12-01

Here the first photometric study of road-lighting white light-emitting diodes (WLEDs) integrated with semiconductor colloidal quantum dots (QDs) is reported enabling higher luminance than conventional light sources, specifically in mesopic vision regimes essential to street lighting. Investigating over 100 million designs uncovers that quality road-lighting QD-WLEDs, with a color quality scale and color rendering index ≥85, enables 13-35% higher mesopic luminance than the sources commonly used in street lighting. Furthermore, these QD-WLEDs were shown to be electrically more efficient than conventional sources with power conversion efficiencies ≥16-29%. Considering this fact, an experimental proof-of-concept QD-WLED was demonstrated, which is the first account of QD based color conversion custom designed for street lighting applications. The obtained white LED achieved the targeted mesopic luminance levels in accordance with the road lighting standards of the USA and the UK. These results indicate that road-lighting QD-WLEDs are strongly promising for energy-saving quality road lighting.

Supplementation with xylanase and β-xylosidase to reduce xylo-oligomer and xylan inhibition of enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose and pretreated corn stover

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Hemicellulose is often credited with being one of the important physical barriers to enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose, and acts by blocking enzyme access to the cellulose surface. In addition, our recent research has suggested that hemicelluloses, particularly in the form of xylan and its oligomers, can more strongly inhibit cellulase activity than do glucose and cellobiose. Removal of hemicelluloses or elimination of their negative effects can therefore become especially pivotal to achieving higher cellulose conversion with lower enzyme doses. Results In this study, cellulase was supplemented with xylanase and β-xylosidase to boost conversion of both cellulose and hemicellulose in pretreated biomass through conversion of xylan and xylo-oligomers to the less inhibitory xylose. Although addition of xylanase and β-xylosidase did not necessarily enhance Avicel hydrolysis, glucan conversions increased by 27% and 8% for corn stover pretreated with ammonia fiber expansion (AFEX) and dilute acid, respectively. In addition, adding hemicellulase several hours before adding cellulase was more beneficial than later addition, possibly as a result of a higher adsorption affinity of cellulase and xylanase to xylan than glucan. Conclusions This key finding elucidates a possible mechanism for cellulase inhibition by xylan and xylo-oligomers and emphasizes the need to optimize the enzyme formulation for each pretreated substrate. More research is needed to identify advanced enzyme systems designed to hydrolyze different substrates with maximum overall enzyme efficacy. PMID:21702938

Population Pharmacokinetics of Colistin Methanesulfonate in Rats: Achieving Sustained Lung Concentrations of Colistin for Targeting Respiratory Infections

PubMed Central

W. S. Yapa, Shalini; Li, Jian; Porter, Christopher J. H.; Nation, Roger L.

2013-01-01

Colistin methanesulfonate (CMS), the inactive prodrug of colistin, is administered by inhalation for the management of respiratory infections. However, limited pharmacokinetic data are available for CMS and colistin following pulmonary delivery. This study investigates the pharmacokinetics of CMS and colistin following intravenous (i.v.) and intratracheal (i.t.) administration in rats and determines the targeting advantage after direct delivery into the lungs. In addition to plasma, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid was collected to quantify drug concentrations in lung epithelial lining fluid (ELF). The resulting data were analyzed using a population modeling approach in S-ADAPT. A three-compartment model described the disposition of both compounds in plasma following i.v. administration. The estimated mean clearance from the central compartment was 0.122 liters/h for CMS and 0.0657 liters/h for colistin. Conversion of CMS to colistin from all three compartments was required to fit the plasma data. The fraction of the i.v. dose converted to colistin in the systemic circulation was 0.0255. Two BAL fluid compartments were required to reflect drug kinetics in the ELF after i.t. dosing. A slow conversion of CMS (mean conversion time [MCTCMS] = 3.48 h) in the lungs contributed to high and sustained concentrations of colistin in ELF. The fraction of the CMS dose converted to colistin in ELF (fm,ELF = 0.226) was higher than the corresponding fractional conversion in plasma after i.v. administration. In conclusion, pulmonary administration of CMS achieves high and sustained exposures of colistin in lungs for targeting respiratory infections. PMID:23917323

Photoemission of Energetic Hot Electrons Produced via Up-Conversion in Doped Quantum Dots.

PubMed

Dong, Yitong; Parobek, David; Rossi, Daniel; Son, Dong Hee

2016-11-09

The benefits of the hot electrons from semiconductor nanostructures in photocatalysis or photovoltaics result from their higher energy compared to that of the band-edge electrons facilitating the electron-transfer process. The production of high-energy hot electrons usually requires short-wavelength UV or intense multiphoton visible excitation. Here, we show that highly energetic hot electrons capable of above-threshold ionization are produced via exciton-to-hot-carrier up-conversion in Mn-doped quantum dots under weak band gap excitation (∼10 W/cm 2 ) achievable with the concentrated solar radiation. The energy of hot electrons is as high as ∼0.4 eV above the vacuum level, much greater than those observed in other semiconductor or plasmonic metal nanostructures, which are capable of performing energetically and kinetically more-challenging electron transfer. Furthermore, the prospect of generating solvated electron is unique for the energetic hot electrons from up-conversion, which can open a new door for long-range electron transfer beyond short-range interfacial electron transfer.

High-efficiency AlxGa1-xAs/GaAs cathode for photon-enhanced thermionic emission solar energy converters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feng, Cheng; Zhang, Yijun; Qian, Yunsheng; Wang, Ziheng; Liu, Jian; Chang, Benkang; Shi, Feng; Jiao, Gangcheng

2018-04-01

A theoretical emission model for AlxGa1-xAs/GaAs cathode with complex structure based on photon-enhanced thermionic emission is developed by utilizing one-dimensional steady-state continuity equations. The cathode structure comprises a graded-composition AlxGa1-xAs window layer and an exponential-doping GaAs absorber layer. In the deduced model, the physical properties changing with the Al composition are taken into consideration. Simulated current-voltage characteristics are presented and some important factors affecting the conversion efficiency are also illustrated. Compared with the graded-composition and uniform-doping cathode structure, and the uniform-composition and uniform-doping cathode structure, the graded-composition and exponential-doping cathode structure can effectively improve the conversion efficiency, which is ascribed to the twofold built-in electric fields. More strikingly, this graded bandgap structure is especially suitable for photon-enhanced thermionic emission devices since a higher conversion efficiency can be achieved at a lower temperature.

Ultra-broadband and high-efficiency polarization conversion metasurface with multiple plasmon resonance modes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dong, Guo-Xiang; Shi, Hong-Yu; Xia, Song; Li, Wei; Zhang, An-Xue; Xu, Zhuo; Wei, Xiao-Yong

2016-08-01

In this paper, we present a novel metasurface design that achieves a high-efficiency ultra-broadband cross polarization conversion. The metasurface is composed of an array of unit resonators, each of which combines an H-shaped structure and two rectangular metallic patches. Different plasmon resonance modes are excited in unit resonators and allow the polarization states to be manipulated. The bandwidth of the cross polarization converter is 82% of the central frequency, covering the range from 15.7 GHz to 37.5 GHz. The conversion efficiency of the innovative new design is higher than 90%. At 14.43 GHz and 40.95 GHz, the linearly polarized incident wave is converted into a circularly polarized wave. Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos. 61471292, 61331005, 61471388, 51277012, 41404095, and 61501365), the 111 Project, China (Grant No. B14040), the National Basic Research Program of China (Grant No. 2015CB654602), and the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation ( Grant No. 2015M580849).

Multiphysics Computational Analysis of a Solid-Core Nuclear Thermal Engine Thrust Chamber

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, Ten-See; Canabal, Francisco; Cheng, Gary; Chen, Yen-Sen

2007-01-01

The objective of this effort is to develop an efficient and accurate computational heat transfer methodology to predict thermal, fluid, and hydrogen environments for a hypothetical solid-core, nuclear thermal engine - the Small Engine. In addition, the effects of power profile and hydrogen conversion on heat transfer efficiency and thrust performance were also investigated. The computational methodology is based on an unstructured-grid, pressure-based, all speeds, chemically reacting, computational fluid dynamics platform, while formulations of conjugate heat transfer were implemented to describe the heat transfer from solid to hydrogen inside the solid-core reactor. The computational domain covers the entire thrust chamber so that the afore-mentioned heat transfer effects impact the thrust performance directly. The result shows that the computed core-exit gas temperature, specific impulse, and core pressure drop agree well with those of design data for the Small Engine. Finite-rate chemistry is very important in predicting the proper energy balance as naturally occurring hydrogen decomposition is endothermic. Locally strong hydrogen conversion associated with centralized power profile gives poor heat transfer efficiency and lower thrust performance. On the other hand, uniform hydrogen conversion associated with a more uniform radial power profile achieves higher heat transfer efficiency, and higher thrust performance.

Feedstock Supply System Design and Economics for Conversion of Lignocellulosic Biomass to Hydrocarbon Fuels: Conversion Pathway: Biological Conversion of Sugars to Hydrocarbons The 2017 Design Case

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kevin Kenney; Kara G. Cafferty; Jacob J. Jacobson

The U.S. Department of Energy promotes the production of a range of liquid fuels and fuel blendstocks from lignocellulosic biomass feedstocks by funding fundamental and applied research that advances the state of technology in biomass collection, conversion, and sustainability. As part of its involvement in this program, the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) investigates the feedstock logistics economics and sustainability of these fuels. Between 2000 and 2012, INL conducted a campaign to quantify the economics and sustainability of moving biomass from standing in the field or stand to the throat of the biomass conversion process. The goal of this program wasmore » to establish the current costs based on conventional equipment and processes, design improvements to the current system, and to mark annual improvements based on higher efficiencies or better designs. The 2012 programmatic target was to demonstrate a delivered biomass logistics cost of $35/dry ton. This goal was successfully achieved in 2012 by implementing field and process demonstration unit-scale data from harvest, collection, storage, preprocessing, handling, and transportation operations into INL’s biomass logistics model. Looking forward to 2017, the programmatic target is to supply biomass to the conversion facilities at a total cost of $80/dry ton and on specification with in-feed requirements. The goal of the 2017 Design Case is to enable expansion of biofuels production beyond highly productive resource areas by breaking the reliance of cost-competitive biofuel production on a single, abundant, low-cost feedstock. If this goal is not achieved, biofuel plants are destined to be small and/or clustered in select regions of the country that have a lock on low-cost feedstock. To put the 2017 cost target into perspective of past accomplishments of the cellulosic ethanol pathway, the $80 target encompasses total delivered feedstock cost, including both grower payment and logistics costs, while meeting all conversion in-feed quality targets. The 2012 $35 programmatic target included only logistics costs with a limited focus on biomass quality« less

Preparation of Carbon Nanotube/TiO2 Mesoporous Hybrid Photoanode with Iron Pyrite (FeS2) Thin Films Counter Electrodes for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell

PubMed Central

Kilic, Bayram; Turkdogan, Sunay; Astam, Aykut; Ozer, Oguz Can; Asgin, Mansur; Cebeci, Hulya; Urk, Deniz; Mucur, Selin Pravadili

2016-01-01

Multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT)/TiO2 mesoporous networks can be employed as a new alternative photoanode in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). By using the MWCNT/TiO2 mesoporous as photoanodes in DSSC, we demonstrate that the MWCNT/TiO2 mesoporous photoanode is promising alternative to standard FTO/TiO2 mesoporous based DSSC due to larger specific surface area and high electrochemical activity. We also show that iron pyrite (FeS2) thin films can be used as an efficient counter electrode (CE), an alternative to the conventional high cost Pt based CE. We are able to synthesis FeS2 nanostructures utilizing a very cheap and easy hydrothermal growth route. MWCNT/TiO2 mesoporous based DSSCs with FeS2 CE achieved a high solar conversion efficiency of 7.27% under 100 mW cm−2 (AM 1.5G 1-Sun) simulated solar irradiance which is considerably (slightly) higher than that of A-CNT/TiO2 mesoporous based DSSCs with Pt CE. Outstanding performance of the FeS2 CE makes it a very promising choice among the various CE materials used in the conventional DSSC and it is expected to be used more often to achieve higher photon-to-electron conversion efficiencies. PMID:27243374

RF-to-DC Characteristics of Direct Irradiated On-Chip Gallium Arsenide Schottky Diode and Antenna for Application in Proximity Communication System

PubMed Central

Mustafa, Farahiyah; Hashim, Abdul Manaf

2014-01-01

We report the RF-to-DC characteristics of the integrated AlGaAs/GaAs Schottky diode and antenna under the direct injection and irradiation condition. The conversion efficiency up to 80% under direct injection of 1 GHz signal to the diode was achieved. It was found that the reduction of series resistance and parallel connection of diode and load tend to lead to the improvement of RF-to-DC conversion efficiency. Under direct irradiation from antenna-to-antenna method, the output voltage of 35 mV was still obtainable for the distance of 8 cm between both antennas in spite of large mismatch in the resonant frequency between the diode and the connected antenna. Higher output voltage in volt range is expected to be achievable for the well-matching condition. The proposed on-chip AlGaAs/GaAs HEMT Schottky diode and antenna seems to be a promising candidate to be used for application in proximity communication system as a wireless low power source as well as a highly sensitive RF detector. PMID:24561400

Towards cell-free isobutanol production: Development of a novel immobilized enzyme system.

PubMed

Grimaldi, Joseph; Collins, Cynthia H; Belfort, Georges

2016-01-01

Producing fuels and chemical intermediates with cell cultures is severely limited by low product concentrations (≤0.2%(v/v)) due to feedback inhibition, cell instability, and lack of economical product recovery processes. We have developed an alternate simplified production scheme based on a cell-free immobilized enzyme system. Two immobilized enzymes (keto-acid decarboxylase (KdcA) and alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH)) and one enzyme in solution (formate dehydrogenase (FDH) for NADH recycle) produced isobutanol titers 8 to 20 times higher than the highest reported titers with S. cerevisiae on a mol/mol basis. These high conversion rates and low protein leaching were achieved by covalent immobilization of enzymes (ADH) and enzyme fusions (fKdcA) on methacrylate resin. The new enzyme system without in situ removal of isobutanol achieved a 55% conversion of ketoisovaleric acid to isobutanol at a concentration of 0.135 (mole isobutanol produced for each mole ketoisovaleric acid consumed). Further increasing titer will require continuous removal of the isobutanol using an in situ recovery system. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers.

Ultrasound-assisted chemoenzymatic epoxidation of soybean oil by using lipase as biocatalyst.

PubMed

Bhalerao, Machhindra S; Kulkarni, Vaishali M; Patwardhan, Anand V

2018-01-01

The present work reports the use of ultrasonic irradiation for enhancing lipase catalyzed epoxidation of soybean oil. Higher degree of unsaturated fatty acids, present in the soybean oil was converted to epoxidized soybean oil by using an immobilized lipase, Candida antarctica (Novozym 435). The effects of various parameters on the relative percentage conversion of the double bond to oxirane oxygen were investigated and the optimum conditions were established. The parameters studied were temperature, hydrogen peroxide to ethylenic unsaturation mole ratio, stirring speed, solvent ratio, catalyst loading, ultrasound frequency, ultrasound input power and duty cycle. The main objective of this work was to intensify chemoenzymatic epoxidation of the soybean oil by using ultrasound, to reduce the time required for epoxidation. Epoxidation of the soybean oil was achieved under mild reaction conditions by indirect ultrasonic irradiations (using ultrasonic bath). The relative percentage conversion to oxirane oxygen of 91.22% was achieved within 5h. The lipase was remarkably stable under optimized reaction conditions, later was recovered and reused six times to produce epoxidized soybean oil (ESO). Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Design of High Speed and Low Offset Dynamic Latch Comparator in 0.18 µm CMOS Process

PubMed Central

Rahman, Labonnah Farzana; Reaz, Mamun Bin Ibne; Yin, Chia Chieu; Ali, Mohammad Alauddin Mohammad; Marufuzzaman, Mohammad

2014-01-01

The cross-coupled circuit mechanism based dynamic latch comparator is presented in this research. The comparator is designed using differential input stages with regenerative S-R latch to achieve lower offset, lower power, higher speed and higher resolution. In order to decrease circuit complexity, a comparator should maintain power, speed, resolution and offset-voltage properly. Simulations show that this novel dynamic latch comparator designed in 0.18 µm CMOS technology achieves 3.44 mV resolution with 8 bit precision at a frequency of 50 MHz while dissipating 158.5 µW from 1.8 V supply and 88.05 µA average current. Moreover, the proposed design propagates as fast as 4.2 nS with energy efficiency of 0.7 fJ/conversion-step. Additionally, the core circuit layout only occupies 0.008 mm2. PMID:25299266

Mode conversion in metal-insulator-metal waveguide with a shifted cavity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yueke; Yan, Xin

2018-01-01

We propose a method, which is utilized to achieve the plasmonic mode conversion in metal-insulator-metal (MIM) waveguide, theoretically. Our proposed structure is composed of bus waveguides and a shifted cavity. The shifted cavity can choose out a plasmonic mode (a- or s-mode) when it is in Fabry-Perot (FP) resonance. The length of the shifted cavity L is carefully chosen, and our structure can achieve the mode conversion between a- and s-mode in the communication region. Besides, our proposed structure can also achieve plasmonic mode-division multiplexing. All the numerical simulations are carried on by the finite element method to verify our design.

Electrodeposited Nanolaminated CoNiFe Cores for Ultracompact DC-DC Power Conversion

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kim, J; Kim, M; Herrault, F

2015-09-01

Laminated metallic alloy cores (i.e., alternating layers of thin film metallic alloy and insulating material) of appropriate lamination thickness enable suppression of eddy current losses at high frequencies. Magnetic cores comprised of many such laminations yield substantial overall magnetic volume, thereby enabling high-power operation. Previously, we reported nanolaminated permalloy (Ni-80 Fe-20) cores based on a sequential electrodeposition technique, demonstrating negligible eddy current losses at peak flux densities up to 0.5 T and operating at megahertz frequencies. This paper demonstrates improved performance of nanolaminated cores comprising tens to hundreds of layers of 300-500-nm-thick CoNiFe films that exhibit superior magnetic properties (e.g.,more » higher saturation flux density and lower coercivity) than permalloy. Nanolaminated CoNiFe cores can be operated up to a peak flux density of 0.9 T, demonstrating improved power handling capacity and exhibiting 30% reduced volumetric core loss, attributed to lowered hysteresis losses compared to the nanolaminated permalloy core of the same geometry. Operating these cores in a buck dc-dc power converter at a switching frequency of 1 MHz, the nanolaminated CoNiFe cores achieved a conversion efficiency exceeding 90% at output power levels up to 7 W, compared to an achieved permalloy core conversion efficiency below 86% at 6 W.« less

Molten Slag Would Boost Coal Conversion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ferrall, J. F.

1984-01-01

Reactor increases residence time of uncovered char. Near-100percent carbon conversion achievable in reactor incorporating moltenslag bath. Slag maintains unconverted carbon impinging on surface at high temperatures for longer period of time, enhancing conversion.

Pentacene on Ni(111): room-temperature molecular packing and temperature-activated conversion to graphene.

PubMed

Dinca, L E; De Marchi, F; MacLeod, J M; Lipton-Duffin, J; Gatti, R; Ma, D; Perepichka, D F; Rosei, F

2015-02-21

We investigate, using scanning tunnelling microscopy, the adsorption of pentacene on Ni(111) at room temperature and the behaviour of these monolayer films with annealing up to 700 °C. We observe the conversion of pentacene into graphene, which begins from as low as 220 °C with the coalescence of pentacene molecules into large planar aggregates. Then, by annealing at 350 °C for 20 minutes, these aggregates expand into irregular domains of graphene tens of nanometers in size. On surfaces where graphene and nickel carbide coexist, pentacene shows preferential adsorption on the nickel carbide phase. The same pentacene to graphene transformation was also achieved on Cu(111), but at a higher activation temperature, producing large graphene domains that exhibit a range of moiré superlattice periodicities.

Commercial Development Of Ovonic Thin Film Solar Cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ovshinsky, Stanford R.

1983-09-01

One square foot Ovonic amorphous photovoltaic devices are already in commercial production and are manufactured through a continuous web process. The next levels of commercialization required to achieve a large-volume power market will be discussed, and the device specifications correlated with the chemical and electronic properties of the materials that we are developing to achieve even higher efficiencies. It has been long considered a utopian dream to harness the energy of the sun to create electricity that would be competitive in cost to that produced from the conventional sources of energy such as oil, gas, and uranium. The impact on our society of stand-alone power generators without moving parts using the continually available, ubiquitous energy of the sun could certainly lead to a new age with consequences comparable to the first introduction of electricity which greatly accelerated the Industrial Revolution. Low cost, nonpolluting energy not dependent upon or limited by transmission costs could again make DC electricity a realistic option. The relatively young field of photovoltaics suffers from certain dogmas that are just now being questioned. For example, it is thought by many that solar cells utilizing crys-talline materials have inherently higher efficiencies than those using amorphous materials, and that somehow crystalline solar cells, whether fabricated from single crystals or polycrystalline material, in round or rectangular geometries, grown from the melt or by a rib-bon process, can be reduced in cost sufficiently that the economics become attractive enough for large-scale terrestrial generation of power. In this paper, we shall show that amorphous materials can have much higher efficiencies than do crystalline and that the answer to our power generation needs lies not in crystalline but in amorphous technology. At Energy Conversion Devices, Inc. (ECD), we have designed and built a production machine (described by my colleague, Dr. Izu, in a subsequent paper) which has clearly demonstrated that the basic barrier to low-cost production has been broken through and that one can now speak realistically of delivering power directly from the sun for under a dollar per peak watt merely by making larger versions of this basic continuous web, large-area thin-film machine. We have made one square foot amorphous silicon alloy PIN devices with conversion efficiencies in the range of 7%, and in the laboratory, we have reported smaller area PIN de-vices in the 10% conversion efficiency range. In addition, much higher energy conversion efficiencies can be obtained within the same process by using multi-cell layered or tandem thin-film solar cell structures (see Figure 1). These devices exhibit enhanced efficiency by utilizing a wider range of the solar spectrum. Since the theoretical maximum efficiency for multi-cell structures is over 60%, one can certainly realistically anticipate the pro-duction of thin-film amorphous photovoltaic devices with efficiencies as high as 30%. Our production device is already a two-cell tandem, as we have solved not only the problems of interfacing the individual cell components but also the difficulties associated with a one foot square format deposited on a continuous web. Figure 2 shows a continuous roll of Ovonic solar cells. Realistic calculations for a three-cell tandem thin-film device using amorphous semiconductor alloys with 1.8eV, 1.5eV, and 1.0eV optical band gaps indicate that solar energy conversion efficiencies of 20-30% can be achieved.

kW-class diode laser bars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Strohmaier, S. G.; Erbert, G.; Meissner-Schenk, A. H.; Lommel, M.; Schmidt, B.; Kaul, T.; Karow, M.; Crump, P.

2017-02-01

Progress will be presented on ongoing research into the development of ultra-high power and efficiency bars achieving significantly higher output power, conversion efficiency and brightness than currently commercially available. We combine advanced InAlGaAs/GaAs-based epitaxial structures and novel lateral designs, new materials and superior cooling architectures to enable improved performance. Specifically, we present progress in kilowatt-class 10-mm diode laser bars, where recent studies have demonstrated 880 W continuous wave output power from a 10 mm x 4 mm laser diode bar at 850 A of electrical current and 15°C water temperature. This laser achieves < 60% electro-optical efficiency at 880 W CW output power.

Hierarchical Interactions Model for Predicting Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) to Alzheimer's Disease (AD) Conversion

PubMed Central

Li, Han; Liu, Yashu; Gong, Pinghua; Zhang, Changshui; Ye, Jieping

2014-01-01

Identifying patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) who are likely to convert to dementia has recently attracted increasing attention in Alzheimer's disease (AD) research. An accurate prediction of conversion from MCI to AD can aid clinicians to initiate treatments at early stage and monitor their effectiveness. However, existing prediction systems based on the original biosignatures are not satisfactory. In this paper, we propose to fit the prediction models using pairwise biosignature interactions, thus capturing higher-order relationship among biosignatures. Specifically, we employ hierarchical constraints and sparsity regularization to prune the high-dimensional input features. Based on the significant biosignatures and underlying interactions identified, we build classifiers to predict the conversion probability based on the selected features. We further analyze the underlying interaction effects of different biosignatures based on the so-called stable expectation scores. We have used 293 MCI subjects from Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) database that have MRI measurements at the baseline to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Our proposed method achieves better classification performance than state-of-the-art methods. Moreover, we discover several significant interactions predictive of MCI-to-AD conversion. These results shed light on improving the prediction performance using interaction features. PMID:24416143

Direct conversion of wet algae to crude biodiesel under supercritical ethanol conditions

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Reddy, Harvind K.; Muppaneni, Tapaswy; Patil, Prafulla D.

This paper presents a single-step, environmentally friendly approach for the direct conversion of wet algae to crude biodiesel under supercritical ethanol conditions. Ethanol was used for the simultaneous extraction and transesterification of lipids in algae to produce fatty acid ethyl esters at supercritical conditions. In this work the effects of process parameters dry algae to ethanol (wt./vol.) ratio (1:6-1:15), reaction temperature (245-270 C), and reaction time (2-30 min.) on the yield of fatty acid ethyl esters (FAEE) were studied. 67% conversion was achieved at 265 C and 20 min of reaction time. The calorific value of a purified biodiesel samplemore » produced at optimum conditions was measured to be 43 MJ/kg, which is higher than that of fatty acid methyl esters produced from the same biomass. The purified fatty acid ethyl esters were analyzed using GC-MS and FTIR. TGA analysis of algal biomass and purified FAEE was presented along with TEM images of the biomass captured before and after supercritical ethanol transesterification. This green conversion process has the potential to provide an energy-efficient and economical route for the production of renewable biodiesel production.« less

Strengths, challenges, and opportunities for hydrothermal pretreatment in lignocellulosic biorefineries

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yang, Bin; Tao, Ling; Wyman, Charles E.

Pretreatment prior to or during biological conversion is required to achieve high sugar yields essential to economic production of fuels and chemicals from low cost, abundant lignocellulosic biomass. Aqueous thermochemical pretreatments achieve this performance objective from pretreatment coupled with subsequent enzymatic hydrolysis, but chemical pretreatment can also suffer from additional costs for exotic materials of construction, the need to recover or neutralize the chemicals, introduction of compounds that inhibit downstream operations, and waste disposal, as well as for the chemicals themselves. The simplicity of hydrothermal pretreatment with just hot water offers the potential to greatly improve the cost of themore » entire conversion process if sugar degradation during pretreatment, production of un-fermentable oligomers, and the amount of expensive enzymes needed to obtain satisfactory yields from hydrothermally pretreated solids can be reduced. Biorefinery economics would also benefit if value could be generated from lignin and other components that are currently fated to be burned for power. However, achieving these goals will no doubt require development of advanced hydrothermal pretreatment configurations. For example, passing water through a stationary bed of lignocellulosic biomass in a flowthrough configuration achieves very high yields of hemicellulose sugars, removes more than 75% of the lignin for potential valorization, and improves sugar release from the pretreated solids with lower enzyme loadings. Unfortunately, the large quantities of water needed to achieve this performance result in very dilute sugars, high energy costs for pretreatment and product recover, and large amounts of oligomers. Furthermore, improving our understanding of hydrothermal pretreatment fundamentals is needed to gain insights into R&D opportunities to improve performance, and help identify novel configurations that lower capital and operating costs and achieve higher yields.« less

Strengths, challenges, and opportunities for hydrothermal pretreatment in lignocellulosic biorefineries

DOE PAGES

Yang, Bin; Tao, Ling; Wyman, Charles E.

2017-10-11

Pretreatment prior to or during biological conversion is required to achieve high sugar yields essential to economic production of fuels and chemicals from low cost, abundant lignocellulosic biomass. Aqueous thermochemical pretreatments achieve this performance objective from pretreatment coupled with subsequent enzymatic hydrolysis, but chemical pretreatment can also suffer from additional costs for exotic materials of construction, the need to recover or neutralize the chemicals, introduction of compounds that inhibit downstream operations, and waste disposal, as well as for the chemicals themselves. The simplicity of hydrothermal pretreatment with just hot water offers the potential to greatly improve the cost of themore » entire conversion process if sugar degradation during pretreatment, production of un-fermentable oligomers, and the amount of expensive enzymes needed to obtain satisfactory yields from hydrothermally pretreated solids can be reduced. Biorefinery economics would also benefit if value could be generated from lignin and other components that are currently fated to be burned for power. However, achieving these goals will no doubt require development of advanced hydrothermal pretreatment configurations. For example, passing water through a stationary bed of lignocellulosic biomass in a flowthrough configuration achieves very high yields of hemicellulose sugars, removes more than 75% of the lignin for potential valorization, and improves sugar release from the pretreated solids with lower enzyme loadings. Unfortunately, the large quantities of water needed to achieve this performance result in very dilute sugars, high energy costs for pretreatment and product recover, and large amounts of oligomers. Furthermore, improving our understanding of hydrothermal pretreatment fundamentals is needed to gain insights into R&D opportunities to improve performance, and help identify novel configurations that lower capital and operating costs and achieve higher yields.« less

Managing Conversations: The Medium for Achieving "Breakthrough" Results.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bolton, Robert

1998-01-01

Unlike traditional management development, use of conversations in coaching high-performance work teams addresses core processes of speaking and listening. Management of conversations aims to create learning that will lead to breakthroughs in team performance. (SK)

In-depth analysis of chloride treatments for thin-film CdTe solar cells

PubMed Central

Major, J. D.; Al Turkestani, M.; Bowen, L.; Brossard, M.; Li, C.; Lagoudakis, P.; Pennycook, S. J.; Phillips, L. J.; Treharne, R. E.; Durose, K.

2016-01-01

CdTe thin-film solar cells are now the main industrially established alternative to silicon-based photovoltaics. These cells remain reliant on the so-called chloride activation step in order to achieve high conversion efficiencies. Here, by comparison of effective and ineffective chloride treatments, we show the main role of the chloride process to be the modification of grain boundaries through chlorine accumulation, which leads an increase in the carrier lifetime. It is also demonstrated that while improvements in fill factor and short circuit current may be achieved through use of the ineffective chlorides, or indeed simple air annealing, voltage improvement is linked directly to chlorine incorporation at the grain boundaries. This suggests that focus on improved or more controlled grain boundary treatments may provide a route to achieving higher cell voltages and thus efficiencies. PMID:27775037

Effect of Shade and Light Curing Mode on the Degree of Conversion of Silorane-Based and Methacrylate-Based Resin Composites.

PubMed

Sm, Mousavinasab; M, Atai; N, Salehi; A, Salehi

2016-12-01

The degree of conversion depends on the material composition, light source properties, distance from light source, light intensity, curing time, and other factors such as shade and translucency. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of different light-curing modes and shades of methacrylate and silorane-based resin composites on the degree of conversion of resin composites (DC). The methacrylate-based (Filtek Z250, 3M, ESPE) and low-shrinkage silorane-based (Filtek P90, 3M, ESPE) resin composites were used in three groups as follows: group 1-Filtek Z250 (shade A3), group 2-Filtek Z250 (shade B2), and group 3-Filtek P90 (shade A3). We used a light-emitting diode (LED) curing unit for photopolymerization. 10 samples were prepared in each group to evaluate the degree of conversion; 5 samples were cured using soft-start curing mode, and the other 5 were cured using standard curing mode. The DC of the resin composites was measured using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The data were analyzed using Kruskal Wallis and one-way ANOVA statistical tests. The degree of conversion of silorane-based resin composite was 70 - 75.8% and that of methacrylate-based resin composites was 60.2 - 68.2% (p = 0.009). The degree of conversion of the composite with brighter colour (B2) was statistically more than the darker composite (A3). Higher degree of conversion was achieved applying the standard curing mode. The results of the study showed that the colour and type of the resin composite and also the curing mode influence the degree of conversion of resin composites.

Nurses' fidelity to theory-based core components when implementing Family Health Conversations - a qualitative inquiry.

PubMed

Östlund, Ulrika; Bäckström, Britt; Lindh, Viveca; Sundin, Karin; Saveman, Britt-Inger

2015-09-01

A family systems nursing intervention, Family Health Conversation, has been developed in Sweden by adapting the Calgary Family Assessment and Intervention Models and the Illness Beliefs Model. The intervention has several theoretical assumptions, and one way translate the theory into practice is to identify core components. This may produce higher levels of fidelity to the intervention. Besides information about how to implement an intervention in accordance to how it was developed, evaluating whether it was actually implemented as intended is important. Accordingly, we describe the nurses' fidelity to the identified core components of Family Health Conversation. Six nurses, working in alternating pairs, conducted Family Health Conversations with seven families in which a family member younger than 65 had suffered a stroke. The intervention contained a series of three-1-hour conversations held at 2-3 week intervals. The nurses followed a conversation structure based on 12 core components identified from theoretical assumptions. The transcripts of the 21 conversations were analysed using manifest qualitative content analysis with a deductive approach. The 'core components' seemed to be useful even if nurses' fidelity varied among the core components. Some components were followed relatively well, but others were not. This indicates that the process for achieving fidelity to the intervention can be improved, and that it is necessary for nurses to continually learn theory and to practise family systems nursing. We suggest this can be accomplished through reflections, role play and training on the core components. Furthermore, as in this study, joint reflections on how the core components have been implemented can lead to deeper understanding and knowledge of how Family Health Conversation can be delivered as intended. © 2014 Nordic College of Caring Science.

Bacteriologic monitoring of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis patients in five DOTS-Plus pilot projects.

PubMed

Gammino, V M; Taylor, A B; Rich, M L; Bayona, J; Becerra, M C; Bonilla, C; Gelmanova, I; Hollo, V; Jaramillo, E; Keshavjee, S; Leimane, V; Mitnick, C D; Quelapio, M I D; Riektsina, V; Tupasi, T E; Wells, C D; Zignol, M; Cegielski, P J

2011-10-01

Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis programs in DOTS-Plus pilot sites in five countries. To calculate sputum conversion time and its relationship to treatment outcome, document the frequency of culture reversions and examine concordance of smear and culture to assess the potential consequences of monitoring by smear microscopy alone. Retrospective cohort analysis of 1926 patients receiving individualized, second-line therapy. Among 1385 sputum culture-positive cases at baseline, 1146 (83%) experienced at least one culture conversion during treatment. Conversion, however, was not sustained in all patients: 201 (15%) experienced initial culture conversion and at least one subsequent culture reversion to positive; 1064 (77%) achieved sustained culture conversion. Median time to culture conversion was 3 months. Among 206 patients whose nal conversion occurred 7-18 months after the initiation of therapy, 71% were cured or had completed treatment. Prolonged treatment for patients with delayed conversion may be beneficial, as 71% of late converters still achieved cure or completed treatment. This has implications for programs with de ned end points for treatment failure. The interval between rst and nal conversion among patients whose initial con- version is not sustained raises concern with respect to the ongoing debate regarding duration of treatment and the definition of cure.

Update on Extended Operation of Stirling Convertors in Thermal Vacuum at NASA Glenn Research Center

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Oriti, Salvatore M.

2006-01-01

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), Lockheed Martin Space Systems (LMSS), Infinia Corporation, and NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) have been developing a Stirling Radioisotope Generator (SRG) for use as a power system on space science missions. This generator would make use of Stirling cycle energy conversion to achieve higher efficiency than currently used alternatives. A test has been initiated at GRC to demonstrate functionality of Stirling conversion in a thermal vacuum environment over an extended period of time. The test article resembles the configuration of the SRG, but was designed without the requirement of low mass. Throughout the 8700 cumulative hours of operation, modifications to the supporting hardware were required to attain the desired operating conditions. These modifications, the status of testing, and the data recorded will be discussed in this paper.

Porphyrin-sensitized solar cells: systematic molecular optimization, coadsorption and cosensitization.

PubMed

Song, Heli; Liu, Qingyun; Xie, Yongshu

2018-02-15

As a promising low-cost solar energy conversion technique, dye-sensitized solar cells have undergone spectacular development since 1991. For practical applications, improvement of power conversion efficiency has always been one of the major research topics. Porphyrins are outstanding sensitizers endowed with strong sunlight harvesting ability in the visible region and multiple reaction sites available for functionalization. However, judicious molecular design in consideration of light-harvest, energy levels, operational dynamics, adsorption geometry and suppression of back reactions is specifically required for achieving excellent photovoltaic performance. This feature article highlights some of the recently developed porphyrin sensitizers, especially focusing on the systematic dye structure optimization approach in combination with coadsorption and cosensitization methods in pursuing higher efficiencies. Herein, we expect to provide more insights into the structure-performance correlation and molecular engineering strategies in a stepwise manner.

Dual-pumped nondegenerate four-wave mixing in semiconductor laser with a built-in external cavity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Jian-Wei; Qiu, Qi; Hyub Won, Yong

2017-04-01

In this paper, a semiconductor laser system consisting of a conventional multimode Fabry-Pérot laser diode with a built-in external cavity is presented and demonstrated. More than two resonance modes, whose peak levels are significantly higher than other residual modes, are simultaneously supported and output by adjusting the bias current and operating temperature of the active region. Based on this device, dual-pumped nondegenerate four-wave mixing—in which two pump waves and a single signal wave are simultaneously fed into the laser, and the injection power and wavelength of the injected pump and signal waves are changed—is observed and discussed thoroughly. The results show that while the wavelengths of pump wave A and signal wave S are kept constant, the other pump wave B jumps from about 1535 nm to 1578 nm, generating conversion signals with changed wavelengths. The achieved conversion bandwidth between the primary signal and the converted signal waves is broadly tunable in the range of several terahertz frequencies. Both the conversion efficiency and optical signal-to-noise ratio of the newly generated conversion signals are adopted to evaluate the performance of the proposed four-wave mixing process, and are strongly dependent on the wavelength and power of the injected waves. Here, the attained maximum conversion efficiency and optical signal-to-noise ratio are close to -22 dB and 15 dB, respectively.

The Effect of Mobile Learning on Students' Achievement and Conversational Skills

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Elfeky, Abdellah Ibrahim Mohammed; Masadeh, Thouqan Saleem Yakoub

2016-01-01

The present study aimed to examine the effect of Mobile Learning, which is a kind of E-learning that uses mobile devices, on the development of the academic achievement and conversational skills of English language specialty students at Najran University. The study used the quasi-experimental approach. Participants consisted of (50) students who…

Conversations in Equity and Social Justice: Constructing Safe Schools for Queer Youth

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Short, Donn

2010-01-01

The paper is a critique of discourse focused on at-risk behaviour and homophobic bullying. The paper argues that conversations around homophobic bullying must include discussions of doing equity and achieving social justice,in which the ultimate goal of constructing safe schools is achieved through the utter transformation of school culture.…

Condenser design for AMTEC power conversion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Crowley, Christopher J.

1991-01-01

The condenser and the electrodes are the two elements of an alkali metal thermal-to-electric conversion (AMTEC) cell which most greatly affect the energy conversion performance. A condenser is described which accomplishes two critical functions in an AMTEC cell: management of the fluid under microgravity conditions and optimization of conversion efficiency. The first function is achieved via the use of a controlled surface shape, along with drainage grooves and arteries to collect the fluid. Capillary forces manage the fluid in microgravity and dominate hydrostatic effects on the ground so the device is ground-testable. The second function is achieved via a smooth film of highly reflective liquid sodium on the condensing surface, resulting in minimization of parasitic heat losses due to radiation heat transfer. Power conversion efficiencies of 25 percent to 30 percent are estimated with this condenser using present technology for the electrodes.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lebarbier Dagel, Vanessa M.; Li, J.; Taylor, Charles E.

This collaborative joint research project is in the area of advanced gasification and conversion, within the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS)-National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL)-Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) Memorandum of Understanding. The goal for this subtask is the development of advanced syngas conversion technologies. Two areas of investigation were evaluated: Sorption-Enhanced Synthetic Natural Gas Production from Syngas The conversion of synthetic gas (syngas) to synthetic natural gas (SNG) is typically catalyzed by nickel catalysts performed at moderate temperatures (275 to 325°C). The reaction is highly exothermic and substantial heat is liberated, which can lead to process thermal imbalance andmore » destruction of the catalyst. As a result, conversion per pass is typically limited, and substantial syngas recycle is employed. Commercial methanation catalysts and processes have been developed by Haldor Topsoe, and in some reports, they have indicated that there is a need and opportunity for thermally more robust methanation catalysts to allow for higher per-pass conversion in methanation units. SNG process requires the syngas feed with a higher H2/CO ratio than typically produced from gasification processes. Therefore, the water-gas shift reaction (WGS) will be required to tailor the H2/CO ratio. Integration with CO2 separation could potentially eliminate the need for a separate WGS unit, thereby integrating WGS, methanation, and CO2 capture into one single unit operation and, consequently, leading to improved process efficiency. The SNG process also has the benefit of producing a product stream with high CO2 concentrations, which makes CO2 separation more readily achievable. The use of either adsorbents or membranes that selectively separate the CO2 from the H2 and CO would shift the methanation reaction (by driving WGS for hydrogen production) and greatly improve the overall efficiency and economics of the process. The scope of this activity was to develop methods and enabling materials for syngas conversion to SNG with readily CO2 separation. Suitable methanation catalyst and CO2 sorbent materials were developed. Successful proof-of-concept for the combined reaction-sorption process was demonstrated, which culminated in a research publication. With successful demonstration, a decision was made to switch focus to an area of fuels research of more interest to all three research institutions (CAS-NETL-PNNL). Syngas-to-Hydrocarbon Fuels through Higher Alcohol Intermediates There are two types of processes in syngas conversion to fuels that are attracting R&D interest: 1) syngas conversion to mixed alcohols; and 2) syngas conversion to gasoline via the methanol-to-gasoline process developed by Exxon-Mobil in the 1970s. The focus of this task was to develop a one-step conversion technology by effectively incorporating both processes, which is expected to reduce the capital and operational cost associated with the conversion of coal-derived syngas to liquid fuels. It should be noted that this work did not further study the classic Fischer-Tropsch reaction pathway. Rather, we focused on the studies for unique catalyst pathways that involve the direct liquid fuel synthesis enabled by oxygenated intermediates. Recent advances made in the area of higher alcohol synthesis including the novel catalytic composite materials recently developed by CAS using base metal catalysts were used.« less

"Hunger Hurts, but Starving Works". The Moral Conversion to Eating Disorders.

PubMed

Orsini, Gisella

2017-03-01

This article aims to shed light on the self-perceptions of people with eating disorders in Malta and Italy through a deep understanding of their narratives. In contrast to the biomedical perception of the phenomenon and in opposition with the prevalent feminist theories on the subject, I consider eating disorders as the result of self-transformative processes. I suggest that anorexics, bulimics and binge eaters are actively and deliberately engaged in a project of moral self-transformation that is culturally defined. The moral transformations of women with eating disorders in Malta and Italy, the two considered contexts of this research, reflect the social expectations of women in these societies. The drastic changes in personal attitudes towards both food and the body that characterise eating disorders are the result of a complete dedication to the moral values embodied in thinness, namely the control of bodily needs and pleasure. The self-transformative process of people with eating disorders can be understood as a form of moral conversion along a continuum of increasing control over hunger: the higher the control, the higher the level of satisfaction and the degree of moral conversion achieved. Considering the general low recovery rates of people with eating disorders, this approach helps in the understanding of why people who are diagnosed with an eating disorder accept medical definitions and treatments to different extents.

Enhanced conversion efficiency of dye-sensitized solar cells using a CNT-incorporated TiO{sub 2} slurry-based photoanode

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cai, Jiaoping; Chen, Zexiang, E-mail: zxchen@uestc.edu.cn; Li, Jun

2015-02-15

A new titanium dioxide (TiO{sub 2}) slurry formulation is herein reported for the fabrication of TiO{sub 2} photoanode for use in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The prepared TiO{sub 2} photoanode featured a highly uniform mesoporous structure with well-dispersed TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles. The energy conversion efficiency of the resulting TiO{sub 2} slurry-based DSSC was ∼63% higher than that achieved by a DSSC prepared using a commercial TiO{sub 2} slurry. Subsequently, the incorporation of acid-treated multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) into the TiO{sub 2} slurry was examined. More specifically, the effect of varying the concentration of the CNTs in this slurry on themore » performance of the resulting DSSCs was studied. The chemical state of the CNTs-incorporated TiO{sub 2} photoanode was investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. A high energy conversion efficiency of 6.23% was obtained at an optimum CNT concentration of ∼0.06 wt.%. The obtained efficiency corresponds to a 63% enhancement when compared with that obtained from a DSSC based on a commercial TiO{sub 2} slurry. The higher efficiency was attributed to the improvement in the collection and transport of excited electrons in the presence of the CNTs.« less

Continuous Production of Biorenewable, Polymer‐Grade Lactone Monomers through Sn‐β‐Catalyzed Baeyer–Villiger Oxidation with H2O2

PubMed Central

Yakabi, Keiko; Mathieux, Thibault; Milne, Kirstie; López‐Vidal, Eva M.; Buchard, Antoine

2017-01-01

Abstract The Baeyer–Villiger oxidation is a key transformation for sustainable chemical synthesis, especially when H2O2 and solid materials are employed as oxidant and catalyst, respectively. 4‐substituted cycloketones, which are readily available from renewables, present excellent platforms for Baeyer–Villiger upgrading. Such substrates exhibit substantially higher levels of activity and produce lactones at higher levels of lactone selectivity at all values of substrate conversion, relative to non‐substituted cyclohexanone. For 4‐isopropyl cyclohexanone, which is readily available from β‐pinene, continuous upgrading was evaluated in a plug‐flow reactor. Excellent selectivity (85 % at 65 % conversion), stability, and productivity were observed over 56 h, with over 1000 turnovers (mol product per mol Sn) being achieved with no loss of activity. A maximum space–time yield that was almost twice that for non‐substituted cyclohexanone was also obtained for this substrate [1173 vs. 607 g(product) kg(catalyst)−1 cm−3 h−1]. The lactone produced is also shown to be of suitable quality for ring opening polymerization. In addition to demonstrating the viability of the Sn‐β/H2O2 system to produce renewable lactone monomers suitable for polymer applications, the substituted alkyl cyclohexanones studied also help to elucidate steric, electronic, and thermodynamic elements of this transformation in greater detail than previously achieved. PMID:28804968

Satisfaction, Settlement and Exposition: Conversation and the University Tutorial

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fulford, Amanda

2013-01-01

In this paper, I consider the tutorial conversation in Higher Education. To focus the discussion I use the scenario of a tutorial conversation between a lecturer and a student. I begin by suggesting that the increasing emphasis placed on student satisfaction in certain Higher Education Institutions tends to focus the tutorial conversation towards…

Self-Compliant Bipolar Resistive Switching in SiN-Based Resistive Switching Memory

PubMed Central

Kim, Sungjun; Chang, Yao-Feng; Kim, Min-Hwi; Kim, Tae-Hyeon; Kim, Yoon; Park, Byung-Gook

2017-01-01

Here, we present evidence of self-compliant and self-rectifying bipolar resistive switching behavior in Ni/SiNx/n+ Si and Ni/SiNx/n++ Si resistive-switching random access memory devices. The Ni/SiNx/n++ Si device’s Si bottom electrode had a higher dopant concentration (As ion > 1019 cm−3) than the Ni/SiNx/n+ Si device; both unipolar and bipolar resistive switching behaviors were observed for the higher dopant concentration device owing to a large current overshoot. Conversely, for the device with the lower dopant concentration (As ion < 1018 cm−3), self-rectification and self-compliance were achieved owing to the series resistance of the Si bottom electrode. PMID:28772819

Pyridinium molten salts as co-adsorbents in dye-sensitized solar cells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chang, Jui-Cheng; Sun, I-Wen; Yang, Cheng-Hsien

2011-01-15

The influence of using pyridinium molten salts as co-adsorbents to modify the monolayer of a TiO{sub 2} semiconductor on the performance of a dye-sensitized solar cell is studied. The current-voltage characteristics are measured under AM 1.5 (100 mW cm{sup -2}). The pyridinium molten salts significantly enhance the open-circuit photovoltage (V{sub oc}), the short circuit photocurrent density (J{sub sc}) as well as the solar energy conversion efficiency ({eta}). 1-Ethyl-3-carboxypyridinium iodide ([ECP][I]) is applied successfully to prepare an insulating molecular layer with N719, and achieve high energy conversion efficiency as high as 4.49% at 100 mW cm{sup -2} and AM 1.5. Themore » resulting efficiency is 20% higher than that of a non-additive device. This enhancement of conversion efficiency is attributed to the negative shift of the conduction band (CB) edge and the abundant concentration of I{sup -} on the surface of the electrode when using [ECP][I] as the co-adsorbent. (author)« less

Enhanced photovoltaic performance of dye-sensitized solar cells based on NaYF4:Yb(3+), Er(3+)-incorporated nanocrystalline TiO2 electrodes.

PubMed

Zhu, Guang; Wang, Hongyan; Zhang, Quanxin; Zhang, Li

2015-08-01

Near infrared to visible up-conversion of light by rare earth ion-doped phosphors (NaYF4:Yb(3+), Er(3+)) that convert multiple photons of lower energy to higher energy photons offer new possibilities for improved performance of photovoltaic devices. Here, up-conversion phosphor NaYF4:Yb(3+), Er(3+) doped nanocrystalline TiO2 films are designed and used as a electrode for dye-sensitized solar cells, and the photovoltaic performance of DSSCs based on composite electrodes are investigated. The results show the cell with NaYF4:Yb(3+), Er(3+) achieves a power conversion efficiency of 7.65% under one sun illumination (AM 1.5G, 100mWcm(-2)), which is an increase of 14% compared to the cell without NaYF4:Yb(3+), Er(3+) (6.71%). The performance improvement is attributed to the dual effects of enhanced light harvesting from extended light absorption range and increased light scattering, and lower electron transfer resistance. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Unified Electromagnetic-Electronic Design of Light Trapping Silicon Solar Cells

PubMed Central

Boroumand, Javaneh; Das, Sonali; Vázquez-Guardado, Abraham; Franklin, Daniel; Chanda, Debashis

2016-01-01

A three-dimensional unified electromagnetic-electronic model is developed in conjunction with a light trapping scheme in order to predict and maximize combined electron-photon harvesting in ultrathin crystalline silicon solar cells. The comparison between a bare and light trapping cell shows significant enhancement in photon absorption and electron collection. The model further demonstrates that in order to achieve high energy conversion efficiency, charge separation must be optimized through control of the doping profile and surface passivation. Despite having a larger number of surface defect states caused by the surface patterning in light trapping cells, we show that the higher charge carrier generation and collection in this design compensates the absorption and recombination losses and ultimately results in an increase in energy conversion efficiency. The fundamental physics behind this specific design approach is validated through its application to a 3 μm thick functional light trapping solar cell which shows 192% efficiency enhancement with respect to the bare cell of same thickness. Such a unified design approach will pave the path towards achieving the well-known Shockley-Queisser (SQ) limit for c-Si in thin-film (<30 μm) geometries. PMID:27499446

Sulfur-Tolerant Molybdenum Carbide Catalysts Enabling Low-Temperature Stabilization of Fast Pyrolysis Bio-oil

DOE PAGES

Li, Zhenglong; Choi, Jae-Soon; Wang, Huamin; ...

2017-08-18

Low-temperature hydrogenation of carbonyl fractions can greatly improve the thermal stability of fast pyrolysis bio-oil which is crucial to achieve long-term operation of high-temperature upgrading reactors. The current state of the art, precious metals such as ruthenium, although highly effective in carbonyl hydrogenation, rapidly loses performance due to sulfur sensitivity. The present work showed that molybdenum carbides were active and sulfur-tolerant in low-temperature conversion carbonyl compounds. Furthermore, due to surface bifunctionality (presence of both metallic and acid sites), carbides catalyzed both C=O bond hydrogenation and C-C coupling reactions retaining most of carbon atoms in liquid products as more stable andmore » higher molecular weight oligomeric compounds while consuming less hydrogen than ruthenium. The carbides proved to be resistant to other deactivation mechanisms including hydrothermal aging, oxidation, coking and leaching. These properties enabled carbides to achieve and maintain good catalytic performance in both aqueous-phase furfural conversion and real bio-oil stabilization with sulfur present. This finding strongly suggests that molybdenum carbides can provide a catalyst solution necessary for the development of commercially viable bio-oil stabilization technology.« less

Nano-photonic light trapping near the Lambertian limit in organic solar cell architectures.

PubMed

Biswas, Rana; Timmons, Erik

2013-09-09

A critical step to achieving higher efficiency solar cells is the broad band harvesting of solar photons. Although considerable progress has recently been achieved in improving the power conversion efficiency of organic solar cells, these cells still do not absorb upto ~50% of the solar spectrum. We have designed and developed an organic solar cell architecture that can boost the absorption of photons by 40% and the photo-current by 50% for organic P3HT-PCBM absorber layers of typical device thicknesses. Our solar cell architecture is based on all layers of the solar cell being patterned in a conformal two-dimensionally periodic photonic crystal architecture. This results in very strong diffraction of photons- that increases the photon path length in the absorber layer, and plasmonic light concentration near the patterned organic-metal cathode interface. The absorption approaches the Lambertian limit. The simulations utilize a rigorous scattering matrix approach and provide bounds of the fundamental limits of nano-photonic light absorption in periodically textured organic solar cells. This solar cell architecture has the potential to increase the power conversion efficiency to 10% for single band gap organic solar cells utilizing long-wavelength absorbers.

Sulfur-Tolerant Molybdenum Carbide Catalysts Enabling Low-Temperature Stabilization of Fast Pyrolysis Bio-oil

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Li, Zhenglong; Choi, Jae-Soon; Wang, Huamin

Low-temperature hydrogenation of carbonyl fractions can greatly improve the thermal stability of fast pyrolysis bio-oil which is crucial to achieve long-term operation of high-temperature upgrading reactors. The current state of the art, precious metals such as ruthenium, although highly effective in carbonyl hydrogenation, rapidly loses performance due to sulfur sensitivity. The present work showed that molybdenum carbides were active and sulfur-tolerant in low-temperature conversion carbonyl compounds. Furthermore, due to surface bifunctionality (presence of both metallic and acid sites), carbides catalyzed both C=O bond hydrogenation and C-C coupling reactions retaining most of carbon atoms in liquid products as more stable andmore » higher molecular weight oligomeric compounds while consuming less hydrogen than ruthenium. The carbides proved to be resistant to other deactivation mechanisms including hydrothermal aging, oxidation, coking and leaching. These properties enabled carbides to achieve and maintain good catalytic performance in both aqueous-phase furfural conversion and real bio-oil stabilization with sulfur present. This finding strongly suggests that molybdenum carbides can provide a catalyst solution necessary for the development of commercially viable bio-oil stabilization technology.« less

In-depth analysis of chloride treatments for thin-film CdTe solar cells

DOE PAGES

Major, J. D.; Al Turkestani, M.; Bowen, L.; ...

2016-10-24

CdTe thin-film solar cells are now the main industrially established alternative to silicon-based photovoltaics. These cells remain reliant on the so-called chloride activation step in order to achieve high conversion efficiencies. Here, by comparison of effective and ineffective chloride treatments, we show the main role of the chloride process to be the modification of grain boundaries through chlorine accumulation, which leads an increase in the carrier lifetime. It is also demonstrated that while improvements in fill factor and short circuit current may be achieved through use of the ineffective chlorides, or indeed simple air annealing, voltage improvement is linked directlymore » to chlorine incorporation at the grain boundaries. Lastly, this suggests that focus on improved or more controlled grain boundary treatments may provide a route to achieving higher cell voltages and thus efficiencies.« less

An efficient copper phthalocyanine additive of perovskite precursor for improving the photovoltaic performance of planar perovskite solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Shufang; Liu, Qingwei; Zheng, Ya; Li, Renjie; Peng, Tianyou

2017-08-01

Solution processable planar heterojunction perovskite solar cell has drawn much attention as a promising low-cost photovoltaic device, and much effort has been made to improve its power conversion efficiency by choosing appropriate additives for the perovskite precursor solution. Different to those additives reported, a soluble and thermal stable tert-butyl substituted copper phthalocyanine (CuPc(tBu)4) as additive is first introduced into the perovskite precursor solution of a planar perovskite solar cell that is fabricated via the one-step solution process. It is found that the pristine device without CuPc(tBu)4 additive exhibits a power conversion efficiency of 15.3%, while an extremely low concentration (4.4 × 10-3 mM) of CuPc(tBu)4 in the precursor solution leads to the corresponding device achieving an enhanced power conversion efficiency of 17.3%. CuPc(tBu)4 as an additive can improve the quality of perovskite layer with higher crystallinity and surface coverage, then resulting in enhanced light absorption and reduced charge recombination, and thus the better power conversion efficiency. The finding presented here provides a new choice for improving the quality of perovskite layer and the photovoltaic performance of the planar heterojunction perovskite solar cells.

Integration of CdSe/CdSexTe1−x Type-II Heterojunction Nanorods into Hierarchically Porous TiO2 Electrode for Efficient Solar Energy Conversion

PubMed Central

Lee, Sangheon; Flanagan, Joseph C.; Kang, Joonhyeon; Kim, Jinhyun; Shim, Moonsub; Park, Byungwoo

2015-01-01

Semiconductor sensitized solar cells, a promising candidate for next-generation photovoltaics, have seen notable progress using 0-D quantum dots as light harvesting materials. Integration of higher-dimensional nanostructures and their multi-composition variants into sensitized solar cells is, however, still not fully investigated despite their unique features potentially beneficial for improving performance. Herein, CdSe/CdSexTe1−x type-II heterojunction nanorods are utilized as novel light harvesters for sensitized solar cells for the first time. The CdSe/CdSexTe1−x heterojunction-nanorod sensitized solar cell exhibits ~33% improvement in the power conversion efficiency compared to its single-component counterpart, resulting from superior optoelectronic properties of the type-II heterostructure and 1-octanethiol ligands aiding facile electron extraction at the heterojunction nanorod-TiO2 interface. Additional ~32% enhancement in power conversion efficiency is achieved by introducing percolation channels of large pores in the mesoporous TiO2 electrode, which allow 1-D sensitizers to infiltrate the entire depth of electrode. These strategies combined together lead to 3.02% power conversion efficiency, which is one of the highest values among sensitized solar cells utilizing 1-D nanostructures as sensitizer materials. PMID:26638994

Flame tube parametric studies for control of fuel bound nitrogen using rich-lean two-stage combustion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schultz, D. F.; Wolfbrandt, G.

1980-01-01

An experimental parametric study of rich-lean two-stage combustion in a flame tube is described and approaches for minimizing the conversion of fuel-bound nitrogen to nitrogen oxides in a premixed, homogeneous combustion system are evaluated. Air at 672 K and 0.48 MPa was premixed with fuel blends of propane, toluene, and pyridine at primary equivalence ratios ranging from 0.5 to 2.0 and secondary equivalence ratios of 0.5 to 0.7. Distillates of SRC-II, a coal syncrude, were also tested. The blended fuels were proportioned to vary fuel hydrogen composition from 9.0 to 18.3 weight percent and fuel nitrogen composition from zero to 1.5 weight percent. Rich-lean combustion proved effective in reducing fuel nitrogen to NO sub x conversion; conversion rates up to 10 times lower than those normally produced by single-stage combustion were achieved. The optimum primary equivalence ratio, where the least NO sub x was produced and combustion efficiency was acceptable, shifted between 1.4 and 1.7 with changes in fuel nitrogen content and fuel hydrogen content. Increasing levels of fuel nitrogen content lowered the conversion rate, but not enough to avoid higher NO sub x emissions as fuel nitrogen increased.

Integration of CdSe/CdSexTe1-x Type-II Heterojunction Nanorods into Hierarchically Porous TiO2 Electrode for Efficient Solar Energy Conversion.

PubMed

Lee, Sangheon; Flanagan, Joseph C; Kang, Joonhyeon; Kim, Jinhyun; Shim, Moonsub; Park, Byungwoo

2015-12-07

Semiconductor sensitized solar cells, a promising candidate for next-generation photovoltaics, have seen notable progress using 0-D quantum dots as light harvesting materials. Integration of higher-dimensional nanostructures and their multi-composition variants into sensitized solar cells is, however, still not fully investigated despite their unique features potentially beneficial for improving performance. Herein, CdSe/CdSe(x)Te(1-x) type-II heterojunction nanorods are utilized as novel light harvesters for sensitized solar cells for the first time. The CdSe/CdSe(x)Te(1-x) heterojunction-nanorod sensitized solar cell exhibits ~33% improvement in the power conversion efficiency compared to its single-component counterpart, resulting from superior optoelectronic properties of the type-II heterostructure and 1-octanethiol ligands aiding facile electron extraction at the heterojunction nanorod-TiO(2) interface. Additional ~31% enhancement in power conversion efficiency is achieved by introducing percolation channels of large pores in the mesoporous TiO(2) electrode, which allow 1-D sensitizers to infiltrate the entire depth of electrode. These strategies combined together lead to 3.02% power conversion efficiency, which is one of the highest values among sensitized solar cells utilizing 1-D nanostructures as sensitizer materials.

Full-spectrum volumetric solar thermal conversion via photonic nanofluids.

PubMed

Liu, Xianglei; Xuan, Yimin

2017-10-12

Volumetric solar thermal conversion is an emerging technique for a plethora of applications such as solar thermal power generation, desalination, and solar water splitting. However, achieving broadband solar thermal absorption via dilute nanofluids is still a daunting challenge. In this work, full-spectrum volumetric solar thermal conversion is demonstrated over a thin layer of the proposed 'photonic nanofluids'. The underlying mechanism is found to be the photonic superposition of core resonances, shell plasmons, and core-shell resonances at different wavelengths, whose coexistence is enabled by the broken symmetry of specially designed composite nanoparticles, i.e., Janus nanoparticles. The solar thermal conversion efficiency can be improved by 10.8% compared with core-shell nanofluids. The extinction coefficient of Janus dimers with various configurations is also investigated to unveil the effects of particle couplings. This work provides the possibility to achieve full-spectrum volumetric solar thermal conversion, and may have potential applications in efficient solar energy harvesting and utilization.

Step-by-Step Heating of Dye Solution for Efficient Solar Energy Harvesting in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shah, Syed Afaq Ali; Sayyad, Muhammad Hassan; Abdulkarim, Salem; Qiao, Qiquan

2018-05-01

A step-by-step heat treatment was applied to ruthenium-based N719 dye solution for its potential application in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The effects were analyzed and compared with standard untreated devices. A significant increase in short circuit current density was observed by employing a step-by-step heating method for dye solution in DSSCs. This increase of J sc is attributed to the enhancement in dye adsorption by the surface of the semiconductor and the higher number of charge carriers generated. DSSCs fabricated by a heated dye solution have achieved an overall power conversion efficiency of 8.41% which is significantly higher than the efficiency of 7.31% achieved with DSSCs fabricated without heated dye. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and capacitance voltage studies were performed to understand the better performance of the device fabricated with heated dye. Furthermore, transient photocurrent and transient photovoltage measurements were also performed to gain an insight into interfacial charge carrier recombinations.

TiO2-ZnS Cascade Electron Transport Layer for Efficient Formamidinium Tin Iodide Perovskite Solar Cells.

PubMed

Ke, Weijun; Stoumpos, Constantinos C; Logsdon, Jenna Leigh; Wasielewski, Michael R; Yan, Yanfa; Fang, Guojia; Kanatzidis, Mercouri G

2016-11-16

Achieving high open-circuit voltage (V oc ) for tin-based perovskite solar cells is challenging. Here, we demonstrate that a ZnS interfacial layer can improve the V oc and photovoltaic performance of formamidinium tin iodide (FASnI 3 ) perovskite solar cells. The TiO 2 -ZnS electron transporting layer (ETL) with cascade conduction band structure can effectively reduce the interfacial charge recombination and facilitate electron transfer. Our best-performing FASnI 3 perovskite solar cell using the cascaded TiO 2 -ZnS ETL has achieved a power conversion efficiency of 5.27%, with a higher V oc of 0.380 V, a short-circuit current density of 23.09 mA cm -2 , and a fill factor of 60.01%. The cascade structure is further validated with a TiO 2 -CdS ETL. Our results suggest a new approach for further improving the performance of tin-based perovskite solar cells with a higher V oc .

Selection of the Strain Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC 43121 and Its Application to Brewers' Spent Grain Conversion into Lactic Acid

PubMed Central

Liguori, Rossana; Soccol, Carlos Ricardo; Vandenberghe, Luciana Porto de Souza; Woiciechowski, Adenise Lorenci; Ionata, Elena; Marcolongo, Loredana; Faraco, Vincenza

2015-01-01

Six Lactobacillus strains were analyzed to select a bacterium for conversion of brewers' spent grain (BSG) into lactic acid. Among the investigated strains, L. acidophilus ATCC 43121 showed the highest yield of lactic acid production (16.1 g/L after 48 hours) when grown in a synthetic medium. It was then analyzed for its ability to grow on the hydrolysates obtained from BSG after acid-alkaline (AAT) or aqueous ammonia soaking (AAS) pretreatment. The lactic acid production by L. acidophilus ATCC 43121 through fermentation of the hydrolysate from AAS treated BSG was 96% higher than that from the AAT treated one, although similar yields of lactic acid per consumed glucose were achieved due to a higher (46%) glucose consumption by L. acidophilus ATCC 43121 in the AAS BSG hydrolysate. It is worth noting that adding yeast extract to the BSG hydrolysates increased both the yield of lactic acid per substrate consumed and the volumetric productivity. The best results were obtained by fermentation of AAS BSG hydrolysate supplemented by yeast extract, in which the strain produced 22.16 g/L of lactic acid (yield of 0.61 g/g), 27% higher than the value (17.49 g/L) obtained in the absence of a nitrogen source. PMID:26640784

Comparative life cycle assessment of lignocellulosic ethanol production: biochemical versus thermochemical conversion.

PubMed

Mu, Dongyan; Seager, Thomas; Rao, P Suresh; Zhao, Fu

2010-10-01

Lignocellulosic biomass can be converted into ethanol through either biochemical or thermochemical conversion processes. Biochemical conversion involves hydrolysis and fermentation while thermochemical conversion involves gasification and catalytic synthesis. Even though these routes produce comparable amounts of ethanol and have similar energy efficiency at the plant level, little is known about their relative environmental performance from a life cycle perspective. Especially, the indirect impacts, i.e. emissions and resource consumption associated with the production of various process inputs, are largely neglected in previous studies. This article compiles material and energy flow data from process simulation models to develop life cycle inventory and compares the fossil fuel consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and water consumption of both biomass-to-ethanol production processes. The results are presented in terms of contributions from feedstock, direct, indirect, and co-product credits for four representative biomass feedstocks i.e., wood chips, corn stover, waste paper, and wheat straw. To explore the potentials of the two conversion pathways, different technological scenarios are modeled, including current, 2012 and 2020 technology targets, as well as different production/co-production configurations. The modeling results suggest that biochemical conversion has slightly better performance on greenhouse gas emission and fossil fuel consumption, but that thermochemical conversion has significantly less direct, indirect, and life cycle water consumption. Also, if the thermochemical plant operates as a biorefinery with mixed alcohol co-products separated for chemicals, it has the potential to achieve better performance than biochemical pathway across all environmental impact categories considered due to higher co-product credits associated with chemicals being displaced. The results from this work serve as a starting point for developing full life cycle assessment model that facilitates effective decision-making regarding lignocellulosic ethanol production.

Comparative Life Cycle Assessment of Lignocellulosic Ethanol Production: Biochemical Versus Thermochemical Conversion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mu, Dongyan; Seager, Thomas; Rao, P. Suresh; Zhao, Fu

2010-10-01

Lignocellulosic biomass can be converted into ethanol through either biochemical or thermochemical conversion processes. Biochemical conversion involves hydrolysis and fermentation while thermochemical conversion involves gasification and catalytic synthesis. Even though these routes produce comparable amounts of ethanol and have similar energy efficiency at the plant level, little is known about their relative environmental performance from a life cycle perspective. Especially, the indirect impacts, i.e. emissions and resource consumption associated with the production of various process inputs, are largely neglected in previous studies. This article compiles material and energy flow data from process simulation models to develop life cycle inventory and compares the fossil fuel consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and water consumption of both biomass-to-ethanol production processes. The results are presented in terms of contributions from feedstock, direct, indirect, and co-product credits for four representative biomass feedstocks i.e., wood chips, corn stover, waste paper, and wheat straw. To explore the potentials of the two conversion pathways, different technological scenarios are modeled, including current, 2012 and 2020 technology targets, as well as different production/co-production configurations. The modeling results suggest that biochemical conversion has slightly better performance on greenhouse gas emission and fossil fuel consumption, but that thermochemical conversion has significantly less direct, indirect, and life cycle water consumption. Also, if the thermochemical plant operates as a biorefinery with mixed alcohol co-products separated for chemicals, it has the potential to achieve better performance than biochemical pathway across all environmental impact categories considered due to higher co-product credits associated with chemicals being displaced. The results from this work serve as a starting point for developing full life cycle assessment model that facilitates effective decision-making regarding lignocellulosic ethanol production.

ATR technique, an appropriate method for determining the degree of conversion in dental giomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prejmerean, Cristina; Prodan, Doina; Vlassa, Mihaela; Streza, Mihaela; Buruiana, Tinca; Colceriu, Loredana; Prejmerean, Vasile; Cuc, Stanca; Moldovan, Marioara

2016-12-01

Dental light-curing giomers were developed to combine the favourable properties of diacrylic resin composites (DRCs) and glass-ionomer cements (GICs) in a single material and to eliminate their inherent drawbacks. Giomers are characterized by their aesthetic appearance, high mechanical properties, adhesion to dental tissues as well as fluoride release and recharge abilities. The qualities of the giomers are greatly influenced by the level of conversion of the component resins. Infrared spectroscopy is one of the most largely used techniques for the determination of the degree of conversion in resin-based dental materials. However different results were obtained due to the performances of the used methods. The present work presents the determination of conversion degree in a series of dental copolymers and their corresponding giomers using transmission Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and an attenuated total reflection technique (ATR) technique, respectively, the main aim being the study of the influence of the materials composition and of the light curing modes upon the achieved conversion in the cured giomers. Beautifil II commercial giomer was used as a control. A halogen lamp and a diode-blue LED lamp were used for the curing of the materials. The results showed that the composition of the resins greatly influenced the conversion. The highest conversions (up to 79%) were obtained in the case of the experimental giomers which contained the experimental Bis-GMA urethane analogue, followed by the Beautifil II giomer (61%) and experimental giomers based on commercial Bis-GMA (up to 50%), respectively. The resins light-cured by using the diode-blue LED lamp presented slightly higher conversions than the resins cured by halogen lamp. The study demonstrates the possibility to evaluate easily and reproducibly the conversion in light-curing composite materials with complex chemical composition and structure, particularly in the case of giomers by using the ATR technique.

Changing Our Conversations

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Porto, Mark

2007-01-01

In this article, a principal is inspired to change the conversations with students and staff members from discipline and deficit to hope and planning for future achievement. He wants conversations to be more about academic goals and decision making and less about discipline and random acceptance of postsecondary plans. He has asked all staff…

Theme--Achieving 2020. Goal 3: All Students Are Conversationally Literate in Agriculture, Food, Fiber, and Natural Resource Systems.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Trexler, Cary, Ed.

2000-01-01

Nine theme articles focus on the need for students to be conversationally literate about agriculture, food, fiber, and natural resources systems. Discusses the definition of conversational literacy, the human and institutional resources needed, and exemplary models for promoting literacy. (JOW)

A new magnesium bisulfite pretreatment (MBSP) development for bio-ethanol production from corn stover.

PubMed

Yu, Heng; Ren, Jiwei; Liu, Lei; Zheng, Zhaojuan; Zhu, Junjun; Yong, Qiang; Ouyang, Jia

2016-01-01

This study established a new more neutral magnesium bisulfate pretreatment (MBSP) using magnesium bisulfate as sulfonating agent for improving the enzymatic hydrolysis efficiency of corn stover. Using the MBSP with 5.21% magnesium bisulfate, 170°C and pH 5.2 for 60 min, about 90% of lignin and 80% of hemicellulose were removed from biomass and more than 90% cellulose conversion of substrate was achieved after 48 h hydrolysis. About 6.19 kg raw corn stover could produce 1 kg ethanol by Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Meanwhile, MBSP also could protect sugars from excessive degradation, prevent fermentation inhibition formation and directly convert the hemicelluloses into xylooligosaccharides as higher-value products. These results suggested that the MBSP method offers an alternative approach to the efficient conversion of nonwoody lignocellulosic biomass to ethanol and had broad space for development. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Generation of sub-gigabar-pressure shocks by a hyper-velocity impact in the collider driven by laser-induced cavity pressure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Badziak, J.; Kucharik, M.; Liska, R.

2018-02-01

The generation of high-pressure shocks in the newly proposed collider in which the projectile impacting a solid target is driven by the laser-induced cavity pressure acceleration (LICPA) mechanism is investigated using two-dimensional hydrodynamic simulations. The dependence of parameters of the shock generated in the target by the impact of a gold projectile on the impacted target material and the laser driver energy is examined. It is found that both in case of low-density (CH, Al) and high-density (Au, Cu) solid targets the shock pressures in the sub-Gbar range can be produced in the LICPA-driven collider with the laser energy of only a few hundreds of joules, and the laser-to-shock energy conversion efficiency can reach values of 10 - 20 %, by an order of magnitude higher than the conversion efficiencies achieved with other laser-based methods used so far.

Giant self-biased converse magnetoelectric effect in multiferroic heterostructure with single-phase magnetostrictive materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Jitao; Li, Ping; Wen, Yumei; He, Wei; Yang, Aichao; Wang, Decai; Yang, Chao; Lu, Caijiang

2014-10-01

Giant self-biased converse magnetoelectric (CME) effects with obvious hysteretic behaviors are systematically investigated in two-phase SmFe2/PZT [Pb(Zr1-x, Tix)O3] multiferroic laminates at room temperature. Taking advantage of the huge anisotropic field of SmFe2 plate, large remnant CME coupling is provoked by this field instead of permanent magnets to bias the laminate. Consequently, bitable magnetization status switching is realized through a smaller ac voltage far below the electric coercive field in the absence of magnetic bias field. Experiments demonstrate that a large remnant CME coefficient (αCME) of 0.007 mG/V is achieved, exhibiting ˜50 times higher CME coefficient than the previous laminate composite multi-phase magnetostrictive plates. These results provide promising applications for realization of high-density magnetoelectric random access memories (MERAMs) devices with lower energy consumption.

Experimental Study of Hydrogasification of Lignite and Subbituminous Coal Chars

PubMed Central

Gil, Stanisław

2015-01-01

The experimental facility for pressure hydrogasification research was adapted to the pressure of 10 MPa and temperature of 1300 K, which ensured repeatability of results and hydrogen heating to the process temperature. A hydrogasification reaction of chars produced from two rank coals was investigated at temperatures up to 1173 K, pressures up to 8 MPa, and the gas flow rates of 0.5–5 dmn 3/min. Reactivity of the “Szczerców” lignite char was found to be slightly higher than that of the subbituminous “Janina” coal char produced under the same conditions. A high value of the char reactivity was observed to a certain carbon conversion degree, above which a sharp drop took place. It was shown that, to achieve proper carbon conversion, the hydrogasification reaction must proceed at a temperature above 1200 K. PMID:26065028

Applications of power beaming from space-based nuclear power stations. [Laser beaming to airplanes; microwave beaming to ground

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Powell, J.R.; Botts, T.E.; Hertzberg, A.

1981-01-01

Power beaming from space-based reactor systems is examined using an advanced compact, lightweight Rotating Bed Reactor (RBR). Closed Brayton power conversion efficiencies in the range of 30 to 40% can be achieved with turbines, with reactor exit temperatures on the order of 2000/sup 0/K and a liquid drop radiator to reject heat at temperatures of approx. 500/sup 0/K. Higher RBR coolant temperatures (up to approx. 3000/sup 0/K) are possible, but gains in power conversion efficiency are minimal, due to lower expander efficiency (e.g., a MHD generator). Two power beaming applications are examined - laser beaming to airplanes and microwave beamingmore » to fixed ground receivers. Use of the RBR greatly reduces system weight and cost, as compared to solar power sources. Payback times are a few years at present prices for power and airplane fuel.« less

Design and synthesis of chlorinated benzothiadiazole-based polymers for efficient solar energy conversion

DOE PAGES

Hu, Zhiming; Chen, Hui; Qu, Jianfei; ...

2017-03-10

Here, chlorinated benzothiadiazide based polymers with multiple chlorine atoms has been designed and synthesized for polymer solar cells with enhanced open circuit voltage up to 0.85 V. The chlorine substitution is found to significantly adjust the band gap of the polymers, and change polymer’s orientation from random morphology of chlorine free PBT4T-2OD, to mixed face-on packing of one chlorine substituted PCBT4T-2OD, and finally to edge-on of two chlorine substituted PCCBT4T-2OD. The optimized chlorinated polymer, PCBT4T-2OD with only one chlorine atom substituted on BT moiety, has been founded to achieve the highest power conversion efficiency up to 8.20% with PC 71BM,more » which is about 68% higher than that of its non-chlorine analogues.« less

Synthesis of Biodiesel in Batch and Packed-Bed Reactors Using Powdered and Granular Sugar Catalyst

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Janaun, J.; Lim, P. M.; Balan, W. S.; Yaser, A. Z.; Chong, K. P.

2017-06-01

Increasing world production of palm oil warrants effective utilization of its waste. In particular, conversion of waste cooking oil into biodiesel has obtained global interest because of renewable energy need and reduction of CO2 emission. In this study, oleic acid used as a model compound for waste cooking oil conversion using esterification reaction catalysed by sugar catalyst (SC) in powdered (P-SC) and granular (G-SC) forms. The catalysts were synthesized via incomplete carbonization of D-glucose followed by functionalization with concentrated sulphuric acid. Catalysts characterizations were done for their physical and chemical properties using modern tools. Batch and packed-bed reactor systems were used to evaluate the reactivity of the catalysts. The results showed that G-SC had slightly higher total acidity and more porous than P-SC. The experimental conditions for batch reaction were temperature of 60°C, molar ratio of 1:20 (Oleic Acid:Methanol) and 2 wt. catalyst with respect to oleic acid. The results showed the maximum oleic acid conversion using G-SC and P-SC were 52 and 48, respectively. Whereas, the continuous reaction with varying feed flow rate as a function of retention time was studied by using 3 g of P-SC in 60 °C and 1:20 molar ratio in a packed-bed reactor. The results showed that a longer retention time which was 6.48 min and feed flow rate 1.38 ml/min, achieved higher average conversion of 9.9 and decreased with further increasing flow rate. G-SC showed a better average conversion of 10.8 at lowest feed flow rate of 1.38 ml/min in continuous reaction experiments. In a broader perspective, large scale continuous biodiesel production is feasible using granular over powdered catalyst mainly due to it lower pressure drop.

Engineering a synthetic anaerobic respiration for reduction of xylose to xylitol using NADH output of glucose catabolism by Escherichia coli AI21.

PubMed

Iverson, Andrew; Garza, Erin; Manow, Ryan; Wang, Jinhua; Gao, Yuanyuan; Grayburn, Scott; Zhou, Shengde

2016-04-16

Anaerobic rather than aerobic fermentation is preferred for conversion of biomass derived sugars to high value redox-neutral and reduced commodities. This will likely result in a higher yield of substrate to product conversion and decrease production cost since substrate often accounts for a significant portion of the overall cost. To this goal, metabolic pathway engineering has been used to optimize substrate carbon flow to target products. This approach works well for the production of redox neutral products such as lactic acid from redox neutral sugars using the reducing power NADH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, reduced) generated from glycolysis (2 NADH per glucose equivalent). Nevertheless, greater than two NADH per glucose catabolized is needed for the production of reduced products (such as xylitol) from redox neutral sugars by anaerobic fermentation. The Escherichia coli strain AI05 (ΔfrdBC ΔldhA ΔackA Δ(focA-pflB) ΔadhE ΔptsG ΔpdhR::pflBp 6-(aceEF-lpd)), previously engineered for reduction of xylose to xylitol using reducing power (NADH equivalent) of glucose catabolism, was further engineered by 1) deleting xylAB operon (encoding for xylose isomerase and xylulokinase) to prevent xylose from entering the pentose phosphate pathway; 2) anaerobically expressing the sdhCDAB-sucABCD operon (encoding for succinate dehydrogenase, α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase and succinyl-CoA synthetase) to enable an anaerobically functional tricarboxcylic acid cycle with a theoretical 10 NAD(P)H equivalent per glucose catabolized. These reducing equivalents can be oxidized by synthetic respiration via xylose reduction, producing xylitol. The resulting strain, AI21 (pAI02), achieved a 96 % xylose to xylitol conversion, with a yield of 6 xylitol per glucose catabolized (molar yield of xylitol per glucose consumed (YRPG) = 6). This represents a 33 % improvement in xylose to xylitol conversion, and a 63 % increase in xylitol yield per glucose catabolized over that achieved by AI05 (pAI02). Increasing reducing power (NADH equivalent) output per glucose catabolized was achieved by anaerobic expression of both the pdh operon (pyruvate dehydrogenase) and the sdhCDAB-sucABCD operon, resulting in a strain capable of generating 10 NADH equivalent per glucose under anaerobic condition. The new E. coli strain AI21 (pAI02) achieved an actual 96 % conversion of xylose to xylitol (via synthetic respiration), and 6 xylitol (from xylose) per glucose catabolized (YRPG = 6, the highest known value). This strategy can be used to engineer microbial strains for the production of other reduced products from redox neutral sugars using glucose as a source of reducing power.

Photon energy conversion by near-zero permittivity nonlinear materials

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Luk, Ting S.; Sinclair, Michael B.; Campione, Salvatore

Efficient harmonic light generation can be achieved with ultrathin films by coupling an incident pump wave to an epsilon-near-zero (ENZ) mode of the thin film. As an example, efficient third harmonic generation from an indium tin oxide nanofilm (.lamda./42 thick) on a glass substrate for a pump wavelength of 1.4 .mu.m was demonstrated. A conversion efficiency of 3.3.times.10.sup.-6 was achieved by exploiting the field enhancement properties of the ENZ mode with an enhancement factor of 200. This nanoscale frequency conversion method is applicable to other plasmonic materials and reststrahlen materials in proximity of the longitudinal optical phonon frequencies.

Efficient 525 nm laser generation in single or double resonant cavity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Shilong; Han, Zhenhai; Liu, Shikai; Li, Yinhai; Zhou, Zhiyuan; Shi, Baosen

2018-03-01

This paper reports the results of a study into highly efficient sum frequency generation from 792 and 1556 nm wavelength light to 525 nm wavelength light using either a single or double resonant ring cavity based on a periodically poled potassium titanyl phosphate crystal (PPKTP). By optimizing the cavity's parameters, the maximum power achieved for the resultant 525 nm laser was 263 and 373 mW for the single and double resonant cavity, respectively. The corresponding quantum conversion efficiencies were 8 and 77% for converting 1556 nm photons to 525 nm photons with the single and double resonant cavity, respectively. The measured intra-cavity single pass conversion efficiency for both configurations was about 5%. The performances of the sum frequency generation in these two configurations was studied and compared in detail. This work will provide guidelines for optimizing the generation of sum frequency generated laser light for a variety of configurations. The high conversion efficiency achieved in this work will help pave the way for frequency up-conversion of non-classical quantum states, such as the squeezed vacuum and single photon states. The proposed green laser source will be used in our future experiments, which includes a plan to generate two-color entangled photon pairs and achieve the frequency down-conversion of single photons carrying orbital angular momentum.

Effects of a low-shrinkage methacrylate monomer and monoacylphosphine oxide photoinitiator on curing efficiency and mechanical properties of experimental resin-based composites.

PubMed

Manojlovic, Dragica; Dramićanin, Miroslav D; Milosevic, Milos; Zeković, Ivana; Cvijović-Alagić, Ivana; Mitrovic, Nenad; Miletic, Vesna

2016-01-01

This study investigated the degree of conversion, depth of cure, Vickers hardness, flexural strength, flexural modulus and volumetric shrinkage of experimental composite containing a low shrinkage monomer FIT-852 (FIT; Esstech Inc.) and photoinitiator 2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyldiphenylphosphine oxide (TPO; Sigma Aldrich) compared to conventional composite containing Bisphenol A-glycidyl methacrylate (BisGMA) and camphorquinone-amine photoinitiator system. The degree of conversion was generally higher in FIT-based composites (45-64% range) than in BisGMA-based composites (34-58% range). Vickers hardness, flexural strength and modulus were higher in BisGMA-based composites. A polywave light-curing unit was generally more efficient in terms of conversion and hardness of experimental composites than a monowave unit. FIT-based composite containing TPO showed the depth of cure below 2mm irrespective of the curing light. The depth of cure of FIT-based composite containing CQ and BisGMA-based composites with either photoinitiator was in the range of 2.8-3.0mm. Volumetric shrinkage of FIT-based composite (0.9-5.7% range) was lower than that of BisGMA-based composite (2.2-12% range). FIT may be used as a shrinkage reducing monomer compatible with the conventional CQ-amine system as well as the alternative TPO photoinitiator. However, the depth of cure of FIT_TPO composite requires boosting to achieve clinically recommended thickness of 2mm. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Practical considerations for solar energy thermally enhanced photo-luminescence (TEPL) (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kruger, Nimrod; Manor, Assaf; Kurtulik, Matej; Sabapathy, Tamilarasan; Rotschild, Carmel

2017-04-01

While single-junction photovoltaics (PV's) are considered limited in conversion efficiency according to the Shockley-Queisser limit, concepts such as solar thermo-photovoltaics aim to harness lost heat and overcome this barrier. We claim the novel concept of Thermally Enhanced Photoluminescence (TEPL) as an easier route to achieve this goal. Here we present a practical TEPL device where a thermally insulated photo-luminescent (PL) absorber, acts as a mediator between a photovoltaic cell and the sun. This high temperature absorber emits blue-shifted PL at constant flux, then coupled to a high band gap PV cell. This scheme promotes PV conversion efficiencies, under ideal conditions, higher than 62% at temperatures lower than 1300K. Moreover, for a PV and absorber band-gaps of 1.45eV (GaAs PV's) and 1.1eV respectively, under practical conditions, solar concentration of 1000 suns, and moderate thermal insulation; the conversion efficiencies potentially exceed 46%. Some of these practical conditions belong to the realm of optical design; including high photon recycling (PR) and absorber external quantum efficiency (EQE). High EQE values, a product of the internal QE of the active PL materials and the extraction efficiency of each photon (determined by the absorber geometry and interfaces), have successfully been reached by experts in laser cooling technology. PR is the part of emitted low energy photons (in relation to the PV band-gap) that are reabsorbed and consequently reemitted with above band-gap energies. PV back-reflector reflectivity, also successfully achieved by those who design the cutting edge high efficiency PV cells, plays a major role here.

Simultaneous removal of 2,4,6-tribromophenol from water and bromate ion minimization by ozonation.

PubMed

Gounden, Asogan N; Singh, Sooboo; Jonnalagadda, Sreekantha B

2018-06-02

The study investigates the degradation of 2,4,6-tribromophenol (2,4,6-TBP) and the influence of solution pH, alkalinity, H 2 O 2 and O 3 dosage. Debromination efficiency of 2,4,6-TBP was the highest in basic water (pH = 10.61). The extent of TOC removal compared favourably with the amount of substrate converted, suggesting favourable mineralization of oxygenated by-products (OBPs). Ozonation in basic water favoured the formation of toxicBrO 3 - , while in acidic water (pH = 2.27) BrO 3 - yield was lowest. In acidic water the presence of CO 3 2- showed negligible effect on conversion, TOC and  BrO 3 - yield compared to ozonation alone. In basic water both 2,4,6-TBP conversion and TOC removal decreased with an increase in CO 3 2- , hence minimizing BrO 3 - formation. The O 3 /H 2 O 2 process showed an improvement in the debromination efficiency and TOC data revealed that total mineralization of OBP's was achieved. However, only 10% H 2 O 2 was able to effectively decrease BrO 3 - formation. Increasing the ozone concentration from 20 to 100 ppm enhanced the conversion of 2,4,6-TBP and TOC removal. At low ozone concentrations poor mineralization of OBP's occurred, while complete mineralization was achieved at higher ozone dose. The reaction pathways for ozone degradation of 2,4,6-TBP in acidic and basic waters is proposed. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Guanidinium: A Route to Enhanced Carrier Lifetime and Open-Circuit Voltage in Hybrid Perovskite Solar Cells.

PubMed

De Marco, Nicholas; Zhou, Huanping; Chen, Qi; Sun, Pengyu; Liu, Zonghao; Meng, Lei; Yao, En-Ping; Liu, Yongsheng; Schiffer, Andy; Yang, Yang

2016-02-10

Hybrid perovskites have shown astonishing power conversion efficiencies owed to their remarkable absorber characteristics including long carrier lifetimes, and a relatively substantial defect tolerance for solution-processed polycrystalline films. However, nonradiative charge carrier recombination at grain boundaries limits open circuit voltages and consequent performance improvements of perovskite solar cells. Here we address such recombination pathways and demonstrate a passivation effect through guanidinium-based additives to achieve extraordinarily enhanced carrier lifetimes and higher obtainable open circuit voltages. Time-resolved photoluminescence measurements yield carrier lifetimes in guanidinium-based films an order of magnitude greater than pure-methylammonium counterparts, giving rise to higher device open circuit voltages and power conversion efficiencies exceeding 17%. A reduction in defect activation energy of over 30% calculated via admittance spectroscopy and confocal fluorescence intensity mapping indicates successful passivation of recombination/trap centers at grain boundaries. We speculate that guanidinium ions serve to suppress formation of iodide vacancies and passivate under-coordinated iodine species at grain boundaries and within the bulk through their hydrogen bonding capability. These results present a simple method for suppressing nonradiative carrier loss in hybrid perovskites to further improve performances toward highly efficient solar cells.

Biorefinery of instant noodle waste to biofuels.

PubMed

Yang, Xiaoguang; Lee, Sang Jun; Yoo, Hah Young; Choi, Han Suk; Park, Chulhwan; Kim, Seung Wook

2014-05-01

Instant noodle waste, one of the main residues of the modern food industry, was employed as feedstock to convert to valuable biofuels. After isolation of used oil from the instant noodle waste surface, the starch residue was converted to bioethanol by Saccharomyces cerevisiae K35 with simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF). The maximum ethanol concentration and productivity was 61.1g/l and 1.7 g/lh, respectively. After the optimization of fermentation, ethanol conversion rate of 96.8% was achieved within 36 h. The extracted oil was utilized as feedstock for high quality biodiesel conversion with typical chemical catalysts (KOH and H2SO4). The optimum conversion conditions for these two catalysts were estimated; and the highest biodiesel conversion rates were achieved 98.5% and 97.8%, within 2 and 3h, respectively. The high conversion rates of both bioethanol and biodiesel demonstrate that novel substrate instant noodle waste can be an attractive biorefinery feedstock in the biofuels industry. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Optimizing Immobilized Enzyme Performance in Cell-Free Environments to Produce Liquid Fuels

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Belfort, Georges; Grimaldi, Joseph J.

2015-01-27

Limitations on biofuel production using cell culture (Escherichia coli, Clostridium, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, brown microalgae, blue-green algae and others) include low product (alcohol) concentrations (≤0.2 vol%) due to feedback inhibition, instability of cells, and lack of economical product recovery processes. To overcome these challenges, an alternate simplified biofuel production scheme was tested based on a cell-free immobilized enzyme system. Using this cell free system, we were able to obtain about 2.6 times higher concentrations of iso-butanol using our non-optimized system as compared with live cell systems. This process involved two steps: (i) converts acid to aldehyde using keto-acid decarboxylase (KdcA), andmore » (ii) produces alcohol from aldehyde using alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) with a cofactor (NADH) conversion from inexpensive formate using a third enzyme, formate dehydrogenase (FDH). To increase stability and conversion efficiency with easy separations, the first two enzymes were immobilized onto methacrylate resin. Fusion proteins of labile KdcA (fKdcA) were expressed to stabilize the covalently immobilized KdcA. Covalently immobilized ADH exhibited long-term stability and efficient conversion of aldehyde to alcohol over multiple batch cycles without fusions. High conversion rates and low protein leaching were achieved by covalent immobilization of enzymes on methacrylate resin. The complete reaction scheme was demonstrated by immobilizing both ADH and fKdcA and using FDH free in solution. The new system without in situ removal of isobutanol achieved a 55% conversion of ketoisovaleric acid to isobutanol at a concentration of 0.5 % (v/v). Further increases in titer will require continuous removal of the isobutanol using our novel brush membrane system that exhibits a 1.5 fold increase in the separation factor of isobutanol from water versus that obtained for commercial silicone rubber membranes. These bio-inspired brush membranes are based on the presence of glycocalyx filaments coating the luminal surface of our vasculature and represent a new class of synthetic membranes. They thus meet the requirements/scope of the Bimolecular Materials program, Materials Science and Engineering Div., Office of Science, US DOE.« less

Conversations With Wargamers

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-01-01

DATES COVERED (From To) 4 . TITLE AND SUBTITLE Conversations with Wargamers 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER N0O014-05-D-05O0 5b. GRANT NUMBER 5c...you sought to achieve in multi-level games? 3. What interfered with your ability to achieve your goals? 4 . What did you do to overcome the problems...scale. The Pacific Warapproach 4 . Herman, Mark. Gulf Strike. Boardgame. Baltimore: Victory Games. (1983) 5. Herman, Mark. Pacific War. Boardgame

Reciprocal Effects between Adolescent Externalizing Problems and Measures of Achievement

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zimmermann, Friederike; Schütte, Kerstin; Taskinen, Päivi; Köller, Olaf

2013-01-01

Student misbehavior is a pervasive problem and may seriously affect academic achievement. Previous research hints at different effects depending on whether achievement tests or achievement judgments are used as academic outcomes. Previous research also indicates that low achievement can conversely contribute to problem behavior and that low…

A Dynamic Dialog System Using Semantic Web Technologies

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ababneh, Mohammad

2014-01-01

A dialog system or a conversational agent provides a means for a human to interact with a computer system. Dialog systems use text, voice and other means to carry out conversations with humans in order to achieve some objective. Most dialog systems are created with specific objectives in mind and consist of preprogrammed conversations. The primary…

When Partial Nephrectomy is Unsuccessful: Understanding the Reasons for Conversion from Robotic Partial to Radical Nephrectomy at a Tertiary Referral Center.

PubMed

Kara, Önder; Maurice, Matthew J; Mouracade, Pascal; Malkoç, Ercan; Dagenais, Julien; Nelson, Ryan J; Chavali, Jaya Sai S; Stein, Robert J; Fergany, Amr; Kaouk, Jihad H

2017-07-01

We sought to identify the preoperative factors associated with conversion from robotic partial nephrectomy to radical nephrectomy. We report the incidence of this event. Using our institutional review board approved database, we abstracted data on 1,023 robotic partial nephrectomies performed at our center between 2010 and 2015. Standard and converted cases were compared in terms of patients and tumor characteristics, and perioperative, functional and oncologic outcomes. Logistic regression analysis was done to identify predictors of radical conversion. The overall conversion rate was 3.1% (32 of 1,023 cases). The most common reasons for conversion were tumor involvement of hilar structures (8 cases or 25%), failure to achieve negative margins on frozen section (7 or 21.8%), suspicion of advanced disease (5 or 15.6%) and failure to progress (5 or 15.6%). Patients requiring conversion were older and had a higher Charlson score (both p <0.01), including an increased prevalence of chronic kidney disease (p = 0.02). Increasing tumor size (5 vs 3.1 cm, p <0.01) and R.E.N.A.L. (radius, exophytic/endophytic properties, nearness of tumor to collecting system or sinus, anterior/posterior, location relative to polar lines and hilar location) score (9 vs 8, p <0.01) were also associated with an increased risk of conversion. Worse baseline renal function (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.96-0.99, p = 0.04), large tumor size (OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.22-1.7, p <0.01) and increasing R.E.N.A.L. score (p = 0.02) were independent predictors of conversion. Compared to converted cases, at latest followup standard robotic partial nephrectomy cases had similar short-term oncologic outcomes but better renal functional preservation (p <0.01). At a high volume center the rate of robotic partial nephrectomy conversion to radical nephrectomy was 3.1%, including 2.2% of preoperatively anticipated nephrectomy cases. Increasing tumor size and complexity, and poor preoperative renal function are the main predictors of conversion. Copyright © 2017 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Performance of lead-free versus lead-based hunting ammunition in ballistic soap.

PubMed

Gremse, Felix; Krone, Oliver; Thamm, Mirko; Kiessling, Fabian; Tolba, René Hany; Rieger, Siegfried; Gremse, Carl

2014-01-01

Lead-free hunting bullets are an alternative to lead-containing bullets which cause health risks for humans and endangered scavenging raptors through lead ingestion. However, doubts concerning the effectiveness of lead-free hunting bullets hinder the wide-spread acceptance in the hunting and wildlife management community. We performed terminal ballistic experiments under standardized conditions with ballistic soap as surrogate for game animal tissue to characterize dimensionally stable, partially fragmenting, and deforming lead-free bullets and one commonly used lead-containing bullet. The permanent cavities created in soap blocks are used as a measure for the potential wound damage. The soap blocks were imaged using computed tomography to assess the volume and shape of the cavity and the number of fragments. Shots were performed at different impact speeds, covering a realistic shooting range. Using 3D image segmentation, cavity volume, metal fragment count, deflection angle, and depth of maximum damage were determined. Shots were repeated to investigate the reproducibility of ballistic soap experiments. All bullets showed an increasing cavity volume with increasing deposited energy. The dimensionally stable and fragmenting lead-free bullets achieved a constant conversion ratio while the deforming copper and lead-containing bullets showed a ratio, which increases linearly with the total deposited energy. The lead-containing bullet created hundreds of fragments and significantly more fragments than the lead-free bullets. The deflection angle was significantly higher for the dimensionally stable bullet due to its tumbling behavior and was similarly low for the other bullets. The deforming bullets achieved higher reproducibility than the fragmenting and dimensionally stable bullets. The deforming lead-free bullet closely resembled the deforming lead-containing bullet in terms of energy conversion, deflection angle, cavity shape, and reproducibility, showing that similar terminal ballistic behavior can be achieved. Furthermore, the volumetric image processing allowed superior analysis compared to methods that involve cutting of the soap blocks.

Performance of Lead-Free versus Lead-Based Hunting Ammunition in Ballistic Soap

PubMed Central

Gremse, Felix; Krone, Oliver; Thamm, Mirko; Kiessling, Fabian; Tolba, René Hany; Rieger, Siegfried; Gremse, Carl

2014-01-01

Background Lead-free hunting bullets are an alternative to lead-containing bullets which cause health risks for humans and endangered scavenging raptors through lead ingestion. However, doubts concerning the effectiveness of lead-free hunting bullets hinder the wide-spread acceptance in the hunting and wildlife management community. Methods We performed terminal ballistic experiments under standardized conditions with ballistic soap as surrogate for game animal tissue to characterize dimensionally stable, partially fragmenting, and deforming lead-free bullets and one commonly used lead-containing bullet. The permanent cavities created in soap blocks are used as a measure for the potential wound damage. The soap blocks were imaged using computed tomography to assess the volume and shape of the cavity and the number of fragments. Shots were performed at different impact speeds, covering a realistic shooting range. Using 3D image segmentation, cavity volume, metal fragment count, deflection angle, and depth of maximum damage were determined. Shots were repeated to investigate the reproducibility of ballistic soap experiments. Results All bullets showed an increasing cavity volume with increasing deposited energy. The dimensionally stable and fragmenting lead-free bullets achieved a constant conversion ratio while the deforming copper and lead-containing bullets showed a ratio, which increases linearly with the total deposited energy. The lead-containing bullet created hundreds of fragments and significantly more fragments than the lead-free bullets. The deflection angle was significantly higher for the dimensionally stable bullet due to its tumbling behavior and was similarly low for the other bullets. The deforming bullets achieved higher reproducibility than the fragmenting and dimensionally stable bullets. Conclusion The deforming lead-free bullet closely resembled the deforming lead-containing bullet in terms of energy conversion, deflection angle, cavity shape, and reproducibility, showing that similar terminal ballistic behavior can be achieved. Furthermore, the volumetric image processing allowed superior analysis compared to methods that involve cutting of the soap blocks. PMID:25029572

Morphology controlled graphene-alloy nanoparticle hybrids with tunable carbon monoxide conversion to carbon dioxide.

PubMed

Devi, M Manolata; Dolai, N; Sreehala, S; Jaques, Y M; Mishra, R S Kumar; Galvao, Douglas S; Tiwary, C S; Sharma, Sudhanshu; Biswas, Krishanu

2018-05-10

Selective oxidation of CO to CO2 using metallic or alloy nanoparticles as catalysts can solve two major problems of energy requirements and environmental pollution. Achieving 100% conversion efficiency at a lower temperature is a very important goal. This requires sustained efforts to design and develop novel supported catalysts containing alloy nanoparticles. In this regard, the decoration of nanoalloys with graphene, as a support for the catalyst, can provide a novel structure due to the synergic effect of the nanoalloys and graphene. Here, we demonstrate the effect of nano-PdPt (Palladium-Platinum) alloys having different morphologies on the catalytic efficiency for the selective oxidation of CO. Efforts were made to prepare different morphologies of PdPt alloy nanoparticles with the advantage of tuning the capping agent (PVP - polyvinyl pyrollidone) and decorating them on graphene sheets via the wet-chemical route. The catalytic activity of the G-PdPt hybrids with an urchin-like morphology has been found to be superior (higher % conversion at 135 °C lower) to that with a nanoflower morphology. The above experimental observations are further supported by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations.

Three junction holographic micro-scale PV system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Yuechen; Vorndran, Shelby; Ayala Pelaez, Silvana; Kostuk, Raymond K.

2016-09-01

In this work a spectrum splitting micro-scale concentrating PV system is evaluated to increase the conversion efficiency of flat panel PV systems. In this approach, the dispersed spectrum splitting concentration systems is scaled down to a small size and structured in an array. The spectrum splitting configuration allows the use of separate single bandgap PV cells that increase spectral overlap with the incident solar spectrum. This results in an overall increase in the spectral conversion efficiency of the resulting system. In addition other benefits of the micro-scale PV system are retained such reduced PV cell material requirements, more versatile interconnect configurations, and lower heat rejection requirements that can lead to a lower cost system. The system proposed in this work consists of two cascaded off-axis holograms in combination with a micro lens array, and three types of PV cells. An aspherical lens design is made to minimize the dispersion so that higher concentration ratios can be achieved for a three-junction system. An analysis methodology is also developed to determine the optical efficiency of the resulting system, the characteristics of the dispersed spectrum, and the overall system conversion efficiency for a combination of three types of PV cells.

Superacid Catalyzed Coal Conversion Chemistry. 1st and 2nd Quarterly Technical Progress Reports, September 1, 1983-March 30, 1984.

DOE R&D Accomplishments Database

Olah, G. A.

1984-01-01

In our laboratories we have previously developed a mild coal conversion process. This involves the use of a superacid system consisting of HF and BF{sub 3} in presence of hydrogen and/or a hydrogen donor solvent. In order to understand the chemistry involved in the process of depolymerization of coal by the HF:BF{sub 3}:H{sub 2} system we are carrying out a systematic study of a number of coal model compounds. The model compounds selected for present study have two benzene rings connected with various bridging units such as alkylidene, ether, sulfide etc. From studies so far carried out it appears that high pyridine extractibilities achieved by treating coal at temperature below 100 degrees C results from the cleavage of bridges such as present in bibenzyl, diphenyl methane, dibenzyl ether, dibenzyl sulfide etc. On the other hand the increased cyclohexane extractibility and distillability observed at relatively higher temperatures and hydrogen pressures reflects the hydrogenation and cleavage of the aromatic backbone in coal structure similar to what is seen in the conversion of model compounds such as biphenyl, diphenyl ether, diphenyl sulfide, anthracene, etc.

Solar Spectrum Photocatalytic Conversion of CO2 and Water Vapor Into Hydrocarbons Using TiO2 Nanoparticle Membranes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rani, Sanju; Bao, Ningzhong; Roy, Somnath C.

2014-01-01

A viable option for recycling carbon dioxide is through the sunlight-powered photocatalytic conversion of CO2 and water vapor into hydrocarbon fuels over highly active nanocatalysts. With photocatalytic CO2 reduction sunlight, a renewable energy source as durable as the sun, is used to drive the catalytic reaction with the resultant fuel products compatible with the current hydrocarbon-based energy infrastructure. The use of co-catalyst (Cu, Pt)-sensitized TiO2 nanoparticle wafers in the photocatalytic conversion of CO2 and water vapor to hydrocarbon fuels, with optimal humidity levels and exposure times established. We also attempted to increase product formation by sputtering both co-catalysts on the nanoparticle wafer's surface, with the resulting product rates significantly higher than that of either the Cu or Pt coated samples. When the TiO2 nanoparticle wafers are used in a flow-through membrane implementation we find a significant increase in product rates of formation, including methane, hydrogen, and carbon monoxide. We believe that nanocatalyst-based flow-through membranes are a viable route for achieving large-scale and low cost photocatalytic solar fuel production.

Conversion from non-orthogonally to orthogonally polarized optical single-sideband modulation using optically injected semiconductor lasers.

PubMed

Hung, Yu-Han; Tseng, Chin-Hao; Hwang, Sheng-Kwang

2018-06-01

This Letter investigates an optically injected semiconductor laser for conversion from non-orthogonally to orthogonally polarized optical single-sideband modulation. The underlying mechanism relies solely on nonlinear laser characteristics and, thus, only a typical semiconductor laser is required as the key conversion unit. This conversion can be achieved for a broadly tunable frequency range up to at least 65 GHz. After conversion, the microwave phase quality, including linewidth and phase noise, is mostly preserved, and simultaneous microwave amplification up to 23 dB is feasible.

Effect of the SiO2 Support on the Catalytic Performance of Ag/ZrO2/SiO2 Catalysts for the Single-Bed Production of Butadiene from Ethanol

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Dagle, Vanessa; Flake, Matthew D.; Lemmon, Teresa

2018-05-18

A ternary Ag/ZrO2/SiO2 catalyst system was studied for the single-step conversion of ethanol to butadiene by varying the catalyst composition (Ag, Ir, or Pt metal component, Ag/ZrO2 loading, and choice of SiO2 support) and operating conditions (space velocity and feed gas composition). Exceptional catalytic performance was achieved over a 1%Ag/4%ZrO2/SiO2-SBA-16 catalyst leading to 99% conversion and 71% butadiene selectivity while operating under mild conditions (325ºC, 1 atm, 0.23 hr-1). Several classes of silica (i.e., silica gels, fumed silicas, meoporous silicas) were evaluated as support, and SBA-16 was found to be the most promising. The nature of the SiO2 support wasmore » found to have a strong influence on both conversion and selectivity. Higher SiO2 catalyst surface areas lead to greater conversion due to increased Ag dispersion thus accelerating the initial ethanol dehydrogenation reaction. By independently varying Ag and ZrO2 loading, Ag was found to be the main component affecting ethanol conversion. Butadiene selectivity varied depending on the concentration of ZrO2 and acidic characteristics of the SiO2 support. A direct relationship between butadiene selectivity and concentration of Lewis acid sites was evidenced. Also, adding H2 to the feed had little effect on conversion while improving catalytic stability, however, selectivity to butadiene was decreased. Finally, catalyst regenerability was successfully demonstrated for several cycles.« less

Effect of the SiO 2 support on the catalytic performance of Ag/ZrO 2 /SiO 2 catalysts for the single-bed production of butadiene from ethanol

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Dagle, Vanessa Lebarbier; Flake, Matthew D.; Lemmon, Teresa L.

A ternary Ag/ZrO2/SiO2 catalyst system was studied for the single-step conversion of ethanol to butadiene by varying the catalyst composition (Ag, Ir, or Pt metal component, Ag/ZrO2 loading, and choice of SiO2 support) and operating conditions (space velocity and feed gas composition). Exceptional catalytic performance was achieved over a 1%Ag/4%ZrO2/SiO2-SBA-16 catalyst leading to 99% conversion and 71% butadiene selectivity while operating under mild conditions (325ºC, 1 atm, 0.23 hr-1). Several classes of silica (i.e., silica gels, fumed silicas, meoporous silicas) were evaluated as support, and SBA-16 was found to be the most promising. The nature of the SiO2 support wasmore » found to have a strong influence on both conversion and selectivity. Higher SiO2 catalyst surface areas lead to greater conversion due to increased Ag dispersion thus accelerating the initial ethanol dehydrogenation reaction. By independently varying Ag and ZrO2 loading, Ag was found to be the main component affecting ethanol conversion. Butadiene selectivity varied depending on the concentration of ZrO2 and acidic characteristics of the SiO2 support. A direct relationship between butadiene selectivity and concentration of Lewis acid sites was evidenced. Also, adding H2 to the feed had little effect on conversion while improving catalytic stability, however, selectivity to butadiene was decreased. Finally, catalyst regenerability was successfully demonstrated for several cycles.« less

Atomic Iron Catalysis of Polysulfide Conversion in Lithium-Sulfur Batteries.

PubMed

Liu, Zhenzhen; Zhou, Lei; Ge, Qi; Chen, Renjie; Ni, Mei; Utetiwabo, Wellars; Zhang, Xiaoling; Yang, Wen

2018-06-13

Lithium-sulfur batteries have been regarded as promising candidates for energy storage because of their high energy density and low cost. It is a main challenge to develop long-term cycling stability battery. Here, a catalytic strategy is presented to accelerate reversible transformation of sulfur and its discharge products in lithium-sulfur batteries. This is achieved with single-atomic iron active sites in porous nitrogen-doped carbon, prepared by polymerizing and carbonizing diphenylamine in the presence of iron phthalocyanine and a hard template. The Fe-PNC/S composite electrode exhibited a high discharge capacity (427 mAh g -1 ) at a 0.1 C rate after 300 cycles with the Columbic efficiency of above 95.6%. Besides, the electrode delivers much higher capacity of 557.4 mAh g -1 at 0.5 C over 300 cycles. Importantly, the Fe-PCN/S has a smaller phase nucleation overpotential of polysulfides than nitrogen-doped carbon alone for the formation of nanoscale of Li 2 S as revealed by ex situ SEM, which enhance lithium-ion diffusion in Li 2 S, and therefore a high rate performance and remarkable cycle life of Li-sulfur batteries were achieved. Our strategy paves a new way for polysulfide conversion with atomic iron catalysis to exploit high-performance lithium-sulfur batteries.

Photonic generation of FCC-compliant UWB pulses based on modified Gaussian quadruplet and incoherent wavelength-to-time conversion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mu, Hongqian; Wang, Muguang; Tang, Yu; Zhang, Jing; Jian, Shuisheng

2018-03-01

A novel scheme for the generation of FCC-compliant UWB pulse is proposed based on modified Gaussian quadruplet and incoherent wavelength-to-time conversion. The modified Gaussian quadruplet is synthesized based on linear sum of a broad Gaussian pulse and two narrow Gaussian pulses with the same pulse-width and amplitude peak. Within specific parameter range, FCC-compliant UWB with spectral power efficiency of higher than 39.9% can be achieved. In order to realize the designed waveform, a UWB generator based on spectral shaping and incoherent wavelength-to-time mapping is proposed. The spectral shaper is composed of a Gaussian filter and a programmable filter. Single-mode fiber functions as both dispersion device and transmission medium. Balanced photodetection is employed to combine linearly the broad Gaussian pulse and two narrow Gaussian pulses, and at same time to suppress pulse pedestals that result in low-frequency components. The proposed UWB generator can be reconfigured for UWB doublet by operating the programmable filter as a single-band Gaussian filter. The feasibility of proposed UWB generator is demonstrated experimentally. Measured UWB pulses match well with simulation results. FCC-compliant quadruplet with 10-dB bandwidth of 6.88-GHz, fractional bandwidth of 106.8% and power efficiency of 51% is achieved.

Nanogap near-field thermophotovoltaics.

PubMed

Fiorino, Anthony; Zhu, Linxiao; Thompson, Dakotah; Mittapally, Rohith; Reddy, Pramod; Meyhofer, Edgar

2018-06-18

Conversion of heat to electricity via solid-state devices is of great interest and has led to intense research of thermoelectric materials 1,2 . Alternative approaches for solid-state heat-to-electricity conversion include thermophotovoltaic (TPV) systems where photons from a hot emitter traverse a vacuum gap and are absorbed by a photovoltaic (PV) cell to generate electrical power. In principle, such systems may also achieve higher efficiencies and offer more versatility in use. However, the typical temperature of the hot emitter remains too low (<1,000 K) to achieve a sufficient photon flux to the PV cell, limiting practical applications. Theoretical proposals 3-12 suggest that near-field (NF) effects 13-18 that arise in nanoscale gaps may be leveraged to increase the photon flux to the PV cell and significantly enhance the power output. Here, we describe functional NFTPV devices consisting of a microfabricated system and a custom-built nanopositioner and demonstrate an ~40-fold enhancement in the power output at nominally 60 nm gaps relative to the far field. We systematically characterize this enhancement over a range of gap sizes and emitter temperatures, and for PV cells with two different bandgap energies. We anticipate that this technology, once optimized, will be viable for waste heat recovery applications.

Predictive Factors for Visual Field Conversion: Comparison of Scanning Laser Polarimetry and Optical Coherence Tomography.

PubMed

Diekmann, Theresa; Schrems-Hoesl, Laura M; Mardin, Christian Y; Laemmer, Robert; Horn, Folkert K; Kruse, Friedrich E; Schrems, Wolfgang A

2018-02-01

The purpose of this study was to compare the ability of scanning laser polarimetry (SLP) and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) to predict future visual field conversion of subjects with ocular hypertension and early glaucoma. All patients were recruited from the Erlangen glaucoma registry and examined using standard automated perimetry, 24-hour intraocular pressure profile, and optic disc photography. Peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (RNFL) measurements were obtained by SLP (GDx-VCC) and SD-OCT (Spectralis OCT). Positive and negative predictive values (PPV, NPV) were calculated for morphologic parameters of SLP and SD-OCT. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were plotted and log-rank tests were performed to compare the survival distributions. Contingency tables and Venn-diagrams were calculated to compare the predictive ability. The study included 207 patients-75 with ocular hypertension, 85 with early glaucoma, and 47 controls. Median follow-up was 4.5 years. A total of 29 patients (14.0%) developed visual field conversion during follow-up. SLP temporal-inferior RNFL [0.667; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.281-0.935] and SD-OCT temporal-inferior RNFL (0.571; 95% CI, 0.317-0.802) achieved the highest PPV; nerve fiber indicator (0.923; 95% CI, 0.876-0.957) and SD-OCT mean (0.898; 95% CI, 0.847-0.937) achieved the highest NPV of all investigated parameters. The Kaplan-Meier curves confirmed significantly higher survival for subjects within normal limits of measurements of both devices (P<0.001). Venn diagrams tested with McNemar test statistics showed no significant difference for PPV (P=0.219) or NPV (P=0.678). Both GDx-VCC and SD-OCT demonstrate comparable results in predicting future visual field conversion if taking typical scans for GDx-VCC. In addition, the likelihood ratios suggest that GDx-VCC's nerve fiber indicator<30 may be the most useful parameter to confirm future nonconversion. (http://www.ClinicalTrials.gov number, NTC00494923; Erlangen Glaucoma Registry).

A New CuO-Fe2 O3 -Mesocarbon Microbeads Conversion Anode in a High-Performance Lithium-Ion Battery with a Li1.35 Ni0.48 Fe0.1 Mn1.72 O4 Spinel Cathode.

PubMed

Di Lecce, Daniele; Verrelli, Roberta; Campanella, Daniele; Marangon, Vittorio; Hassoun, Jusef

2017-04-10

A ternary CuO-Fe 2 O 3 -mesocarbon microbeads (MCMB) conversion anode was characterized and combined with a high-voltage Li 1.35 Ni 0.48 Fe 0.1 Mn 1.72 O 4 spinel cathode in a lithium-ion battery of relevant performance in terms of cycling stability and rate capability. The CuO-Fe 2 O 3 -MCMB composite was prepared by using high-energy milling, a low-cost pathway that leads to a crystalline structure and homogeneous submicrometrical morphology as revealed by XRD and electron microscopy. The anode reversibly exchanges lithium ions through the conversion reactions of CuO and Fe 2 O 3 and by insertion into the MCMB carbon. Electrochemical tests, including impedance spectroscopy, revealed a conductive electrode/electrolyte interface that enabled the anode to achieve a reversible capacity value higher than 500 mAh g -1 when cycled at a current of 120 mA g -1 . The remarkable stability of the CuO-Fe 2 O 3 -MCMB electrode and the suitable characteristics in terms of delivered capacity and voltage-profile retention allowed its use in an efficient full lithium-ion cell with a high-voltage Li 1.35 Ni 0.48 Fe 0.1 Mn 1.72 O 4 cathode. The cell had a working voltage of 3.6 V and delivered a capacity of 110 mAh g cathode -1 with a Coulombic efficiency above 99 % after 100 cycles at 148 mA g cathode -1 . This relevant performances, rarely achieved by lithium-ion systems that use the conversion reaction, are the result of an excellent cell balance in terms of negative-to-positive ratio, favored by the anode composition and electrochemical features. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Enhanced Efficiency of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells with Mesoporous-Macroporous TiO2 Photoanode Obtained Using ZnO Template

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pham, Trang T. T.; Mathews, Nripan; Lam, Yeng-Ming; Mhaisalkar, Subodh

2017-06-01

Improved light harvesting efficiency can be achieved by enhancing the optical properties of the titanium dioxide (TiO2) photoanode in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), leading to higher power conversion efficiency. By incorporating submicrometer cavities in TiO2 mesoporous film, using zinc oxide (ZnO) particles as a template, a bimodal pore size structure has been created, called a mesoporous-macroporous nanostructure. This photoanode structure consists of 20-nm TiO2 nanoparticles with two kinds of pores with size of 20 nm (mesopores) and 500 nm (macropores). Energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy and x-ray diffraction studies showed no trace of ZnO in the TiO2 after removal by TiCl4 treatment. Higher diffuse transmittance of this film compared with the standard transparent photoanode provides evidence of improved light scattering. When employed in a device, the incident-photon-to-current efficiency of ZnO-assisted devices showed enhancement at longer wavelengths, corresponding to the Mie light scattering effect with the macropores as scattering centers. This resulted in overall higher power conversion efficiency of the DSSC. In this work, a nonvolatile gel ionic liquid was used as the electrolyte to also demonstrate the benefit of this structure in combination with a viscous electrolyte and its promising application to prolong the stability of DSSCs.

Anomalous pH-Dependent Nanofluidic Salinity Gradient Power.

PubMed

Yeh, Li-Hsien; Chen, Fu; Chiou, Yu-Ting; Su, Yen-Shao

2017-12-01

Previous studies on nanofluidic salinity gradient power (NSGP), where energy associated with the salinity gradient can be harvested with ion-selective nanopores, all suggest that nanofluidic devices having higher surface charge density should have higher performance, including osmotic power and conversion efficiency. In this manuscript, this viewpoint is challenged and anomalous counterintuitive pH-dependent NSGP behaviors are reported. For example, with equal pH deviation from its isoelectric point (IEP), the nanopore at pH < IEP is shown to have smaller surface charge density but remarkably higher NSGP performance than that at pH > IEP. Moreover, for sufficiently low pH, the NSGP performance decreases with lowering pH (increasing nanopore charge density). As a result, a maximum osmotic power density as high as 5.85 kW m -2 can be generated along with a conversion efficiency of 26.3% achieved for a single alumina nanopore at pH 3.5 under a 1000-fold concentration ratio. Using the rigorous model with considering the surface equilibrium reactions on the pore wall, it is proved that these counterintuitive surface-charge-dependent NSGP behaviors result from the pH-dependent ion concentration polarization effect, which yields the degradation in effective concentration ratio across the nanopore. These findings provide significant insight for the design of next-generation, high-performance NSGP devices. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

An Open-Circuit Voltage and Power Conversion Efficiency Study of Fullerene Ternary Organic Solar Cells Based on Oligomer/Oligomer and Oligomer/Polymer.

PubMed

Zhang, Guichuan; Zhou, Cheng; Sun, Chen; Jia, Xiaoe; Xu, Baomin; Ying, Lei; Huang, Fei; Cao, Yong

2017-07-01

Variations in the open-circuit voltage (V oc ) of ternary organic solar cells are systematically investigated. The initial study of these devices consists of two electron-donating oligomers, S2 (two units) and S7 (seven units), and the electron-accepting [6,6]-phenyl C71 butyric acid methyl ester (PC 71 BM) and reveals that the V oc is continuously tunable due to the changing energy of the charge transfer state (E ct ) of the active layers. Further investigation suggests that V oc is also continuously tunable upon change in E ct in a ternary blend system that consists of S2 and its corresponding polymer (P11):PC 71 BM. It is interesting to note that higher power conversion efficiencies can be obtained for both S2:S7:PC 71 BM and S2:P11:PC 71 BM ternary systems compared with their binary systems, which can be ascribed to an improved V oc due to the higher E ct and an improved fill factor due to the improved film morphology upon the incorporation of S2. These findings provide a new guideline for the future design of conjugated polymers for achieving higher performance of ternary organic solar cells. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Multi-Megawatt Power System Trade Study

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Longhurst, Glen Reed; Schnitzler, Bruce Gordon; Parks, Benjamin Travis

2001-11-01

As part of a larger task, the Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory (INEEL) was tasked to perform a trade study comparing liquid-metal cooled reactors having Rankine power conversion systems with gas-cooled reactors having Brayton power conversion systems. This report summarizes the approach, the methodology, and the results of that trade study. Findings suggest that either approach has the possibility to approach the target specific mass of 3-5 kg/kWe for the power system, though it appears either will require improvements to achieve that. Higher reactor temperatures have the most potential for reducing the specific mass of gas-cooled reactors but domore » not necessarily have a similar effect for liquid-cooled Rankine systems. Fuels development will be the key to higher reactor operating temperatures. Higher temperature turbines will be important for Brayton systems. Both replacing lithium coolant in the primary circuit with gallium and replacing potassium with sodium in the power loop for liquid systems increase system specific mass. Changing the feed pump turbine to an electric motor in Rankine systems has little effect. Key technologies in reducing specific mass are high reactor and radiator operating temperatures, low radiator areal density, and low turbine/generator system masses. Turbine/generator mass tends to dominate overall power system mass for Rankine systems. Radiator mass was dominant for Brayton systems.« less

Which Achievement Gap?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Anderson, Sharon; Medrich, Elliott; Fowler, Donna

2007-01-01

From the halls of Congress to the local elementary school, conversations on education reform have tossed around the term "achievement gap" as though people all know precisely what that means. As it's commonly used, "achievement gap" refers to the differences in scores on state or national achievement tests between various…

Chlorination of alumina in kaolinitic clay

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grob, B.; Richarz, W.

1984-09-01

The chlorination of alumina in kaolinitic clay with Cl2 and CO gas mixtures was studied gravimetrically. The effects of the calcination method and of NaCl addition on the reactivity of the clay were examined. Fast reaction rates were achieved only with samples previously exposed to a sulfating treatment. Optimum conditions, with maximum yield and selectivity to A1C13 and minimum SiO2 conversion, were found between 770 and 970 K. At higher temperatures the SiCl4 formed poisons the reactive alumina surface by selective chemisorption with a marked decrease of the reaction rate.

Catalytic conversion of Chlorella pyrenoidosa to biofuels in supercritical alcohols over zeolites.

PubMed

Yang, Le; Ma, Rui; Ma, Zewei; Li, Yongdan

2016-06-01

Microalgae have been considered as the feedstock for the third generation biofuels production, given its high lipid content and fast productivity. Herein, a catalytic approach for microalgae liquefaction to biocrude is examined in a temperature range of 250-300°C in methanol and ethanol over zeolites. Higher biocrude yield was achieved in ethanol and at lower temperatures, while better quality biocrude with higher light biocrude ratio and lower average molecular weight (Mw) was favored in methanol and at higher temperatures. Application of zeolites improves the biocrude quality significantly. Among the catalysts, HY shows the strongest acidity and performs the best to produce high quality biocrude. Solid residues have been extensively explored with thermal gravity analysis and elemental analysis. It is reported for the first time that up to 99wt.% of sulfur is deposited in the solid residue at 250°C for both solvents. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Design of wide-angle solar-selective absorbers using aperiodic metal-dielectric stacks.

PubMed

Sergeant, Nicholas P; Pincon, Olivier; Agrawal, Mukul; Peumans, Peter

2009-12-07

Spectral control of the emissivity of surfaces is essential in applications such as solar thermal and thermophotovoltaic energy conversion in order to achieve the highest conversion efficiencies possible. We investigated the spectral performance of planar aperiodic metal-dielectric multilayer coatings for these applications. The response of the coatings was optimized for a target operational temperature using needle-optimization based on a transfer matrix approach. Excellent spectral selectivity was achieved over a wide angular range. These aperiodic metal-dielectric stacks have the potential to significantly increase the efficiency of thermophotovoltaic and solar thermal conversion systems. Optimal coatings for concentrated solar thermal conversion were modeled to have a thermal emissivity <7% at 720K while absorbing >94% of the incident light. In addition, optimized coatings for solar thermophotovoltaic applications were modeled to have thermal emissivity <16% at 1750K while absorbing >85% of the concentrated solar radiation.

Crystal conversion between metal-organic frameworks with different crystal topologies for efficient crystal design on two-dimensional substrates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsuruoka, Takaaki; Inoue, Kohei; Miyanaga, Ayumi; Tobiishi, Kaho; Ohhashi, Takashi; Hata, Manami; Takashima, Yohei; Akamatsu, Kensuke

2018-04-01

Crystal conversion of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) between different crystal topologies on a polymer substrate has been successfully achieved by localized dissolution of MOF crystals followed by a rapid self-assembly of framework components. Upon addition of the desired organic linkers to the reaction system containing MOF crystals on the substrate, reversible crystal conversion between the [Cu2(btc)3]n and [Cu2(ndc)2(dabco)]n frameworks (btc = 1,3,5-benzene tricarboxylate, ndc = 1,4-naphthalene dicarboxylate, dabco = 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane) could be routinely achieved in high yields. Most surprisingly, in the case of conversion from the [Cu2(ndc)2(dabco)]n to [Cu2(btc)3]n frameworks, the [Cu2(btc)3]n crystals with unique shapes (cuboctahedron and truncated cube) could be prepared using butanol as a reaction medium.

The effect of lignin removal by alkaline peroxide pretreatment on the susceptibility of corn stover to purified cellulolytic and xylanolytic enzymes.

PubMed

Selig, Michael J; Vinzant, Todd B; Himmel, Michael E; Decker, Stephen R

2009-05-01

Pretreatment of corn stover with alkaline peroxide (AP) at pH 11.5 resulted in reduction of lignin content in the residual solids as a function of increasing batch temperature. Scanning electron microscopy of these materials revealed notably more textured surfaces on the plant cell walls as a result of the delignifying pretreatment. As expected, digestion of the delignified samples with commercial cellulase preparations showed an inverse relationship between the content of lignin present in the residual solids after pretreatment and the extent of both glucan and xylan conversion achievable. Digestions with purified enzymes revealed that decreased lignin content in the pretreated solids did not significantly impact the extent of glucan conversion achievable by cellulases alone. Not until purified xylanolytic activities were included with the cellulases were significant improvements in glucan conversion realized. In addition, an inverse relationship was observed between lignin content after pretreatment and the extent of xylan conversion achievable in a 24-h period with the xylanolytic enzymes in the absence of the cellulases. This observation, coupled with the direct relationship between enzymatic xylan and glucan conversion observed in a number of cases, suggests that the presence of lignins may not directly occlude cellulose present in lignocelluloses but rather impact cellulase action indirectly by its association with xylan.

Magneto-Electric Conversion of Optical Energy to Electricity

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-07-06

thermodynamic limitations. The heat load accompanying magneto-electric rectification was theorized to be negligible, since the conversion process involves a...circles) and cross-polarized (filled circles) quasi-elastic light-scattering in Gadolinium Gallium Garnet (GGG). Right: Same data as on the left...of inertia and crystals achieved magnetic saturation at the lowest intensities. 4. Efficiency Limit – Thermodynamic limit of energy conversion

All-optical 40Gbit/s format conversion from NRZ to RZ based on SFG in a PPLN waveguide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Jian; Sun, Junqiang

2006-01-01

A novel all-optical 40Gbit/s NRZ-to-RZ data format conversion scheme based on sum-frequency generation (SFG) interaction in a periodically poled LiNbO 3 (PPLN) waveguide is presented for the first time, using a Mach-Zehnder interferometer (MZI). The conversion mechanism relies on the combination of attenuation and nonlinear phase shift Φ NL induced on the signal field. The performance of the conversion is numerically evaluated, with the result showing that it is more effective to yield Φ NL when appropriately phase mismatched for SFG process but Φ NL~0 when quasi-phase-matching (QPM). Compared with the cascaded second-order nonlinear interactions (SHG+DFG) with the influence of walk-off effect, a high conversion efficiency and good performance are achieved with peak power 500mw and width 2ps of the pump, which can be used in super high-speed situation (40Gbit/s and above). Finally, the inverse process of SFG and corresponding walk-off effect are analyzed and the optimum arrangement of power is proposed, showing that proper power, pump width, and waveguide length are necessary for achieving a satisfied conversion effect.

Single-walled carbon nanotube film-silicon heterojunction radioisotope betavoltaic microbatteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Peng; Chang, Yiyang; Zhang, Jinwen

2014-05-01

Ever since the appearance of nanomaterials and nanotechnologies, they have been used in almost every type of microbattery except for nuclear ones. Here we present a radioisotope betavoltaic (BV) microbattery based on a single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) film that acts as a carrier separator. SWCNT film also provides a shortcut for carrier transportation. The energy conversion efficiency of a BV microbattery can reach up to 0.15% after the subtraction of the energy loss of beta particles in air and SWCNT film, proving that the SWCNT film-silicon heterojunction presents a promising configuration suitable for use in radioisotope BV microbatteries. Tracing the particle route, we achieved a charge collection rate of 59.9%, indicating that our device could potentially achieve higher performance. Primary strategies to improve the performance of the BV microbattery are discussed.

High-speed real-time image compression based on all-optical discrete cosine transformation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Qiang; Chen, Hongwei; Wang, Yuxi; Chen, Minghua; Yang, Sigang; Xie, Shizhong

2017-02-01

In this paper, we present a high-speed single-pixel imaging (SPI) system based on all-optical discrete cosine transform (DCT) and demonstrate its capability to enable noninvasive imaging of flowing cells in a microfluidic channel. Through spectral shaping based on photonic time stretch (PTS) and wavelength-to-space conversion, structured illumination patterns are generated at a rate (tens of MHz) which is three orders of magnitude higher than the switching rate of a digital micromirror device (DMD) used in a conventional single-pixel camera. Using this pattern projector, high-speed image compression based on DCT can be achieved in the optical domain. In our proposed system, a high compression ratio (approximately 10:1) and a fast image reconstruction procedure are both achieved, which implicates broad applications in industrial quality control and biomedical imaging.

A comparison of mango seed kernel powder, mango leaf powder and Manilkara zapota seed powder for decolorization of methylene blue dye and antimicrobial activity.

PubMed

Sundararaman, B; Muthuramu, K L

2016-11-01

The waste mango seed generated from mango pulp industry in India is a major problem in handling the waste and hence, conversion of mango seed kernel. Mango seeds were collected and processed for oil extraction. Decolorization of methylene blue was achieved by mango seed kernel powder, mango leaf powder and Manilkara zapota seed powder. Higher efficiency was attained in mango seed kernel powder when compared to mango leaf powder and Manilkara zapota seed powder. A 60 to 95 % of removal efficiency was achieved by varying concentration. Effect of pH, dye concentration, adsorbent dosage and temperature were studied. Mango seed kernel powder is a better option that can be used as an adsorbent for the removal of methylene blue and basic red dye from its aqueous solutions.

Channeling of electron transport to improve collection efficiency in mesoporous titanium dioxide dye sensitized solar cell stacks

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fakharuddin, Azhar; Ahmed, Irfan; Yusoff, Mashitah M.

2014-02-03

Dye-sensitized solar cell (DSC) modules are generally made by interconnecting large photoelectrode strips with optimized thickness (∼14 μm) and show lower current density (J{sub SC}) compared with their single cells. We found out that the key to achieving higher J{sub SC} in large area devices is optimized photoelectrode volume (V{sub D}), viz., thickness and area which facilitate the electron channeling towards working electrode. By imposing constraints on electronic path in a DSC stack, we achieved >50% increased J{sub SC} and ∼60% increment in photoelectric conversion efficiency in photoelectrodes of similar V{sub D} (∼3.36 × 10{sup −4} cm{sup 3}) without using any metallic gridmore » or a special interconnections.« less

Assessment of integrated process based on hydrothermal and alkaline treatments for enzymatic saccharification of sweet sorghum stems.

PubMed

Sun, Shao-Long; Sun, Shao-Ni; Wen, Jia-Long; Zhang, Xue-Ming; Peng, Feng; Sun, Run-Cang

2015-01-01

In this study, sweet sorghum stem was subjected to hydrothermal pretreatment (HTP) and alkaline post-treatment to enhance its saccharification ratio by reducing its recalcitrance. The results showed that the HTP (110-210°C, 0.5-2.0h) significantly degraded hemicelluloses, and the pretreatment at the temperature higher than 190°C led to the partial degradation of the cellulose. As compared to the sole HTP, the integrated process removed most of lignin and hemicelluloses, which incurred a higher cellulose saccharification ratio. Under an optimum condition evaluated (HTP at 170°C for 0.5h and subsequent 2% NaOH treatment), 77.5% saccharification ratio was achieved, which was 1.8, 2.0 and 5.5 times as compared to the only HTP pretreated substrates, alkaline treated substrates alone and the raw material without pretreatment, respectively. Clearly, the integrated process can be considered as a promising approach to achieve an efficient conversion of lignocellulose to fermentable glucose. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Quantifying Blood Loss and Transfusion Risk After Primary vs Conversion Total Hip Arthroplasty.

PubMed

Newman, Jared M; Webb, Matthew R; Klika, Alison K; Murray, Trevor G; Barsoum, Wael K; Higuera, Carlos A

2017-06-01

Primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) and conversion THA may result in substantial blood loss, sometimes necessitating transfusion. Despite the complexities of the latter, both are grouped in the same category for quality assessment and reimbursement. This study's purpose was to compare both blood loss and transfusion risk in primary and conversion THA and identify their associated predictors. A total of 1616 patients who underwent primary and conversion THA at a single hospital from 2009-2013 were reviewed (primary THA = 1575; conversion THA = 41). Demographics, comorbidities, and perioperative data were collected from electronic records. Blood loss was calculated using a validated method. Transfusion triggers were based on standardized criteria. Separate multivariable regression models for blood loss and transfusion were performed. Conversion THA patients were younger (P = .002), had lower age-adjusted Charlson scores (P = .006), longer surgeries (P < .001), higher blood loss (P < .001), and more transfusions (P < .001). Primary and conversion THA groups were different in terms of surgical approach (P < .001), anesthesia type (P = .002), and venous thromboembolism prophylaxis (P = .01). Compared to primary THA, conversion THA had an average 478.9 mL higher blood loss (P = .003) and increased adjusted odds ratio of 3.2 (P = .019) for transfusion. Conversion THA leads to higher blood loss and transfusion compared with primary THA. These differences were quantified in the present study and showed consistent results between the 2 metrics. The differences between these procedures should be addressed during quality assurance because conversion THA is associated with higher resource utilization, which is important in the allocation of resources and tiered reimbursement strategies. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Particle acceleration with anomalous pitch angle scattering in 2D magnetohydrodynamic reconnection simulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Borissov, A.; Kontar, E. P.; Threlfall, J.; Neukirch, T.

2017-09-01

The conversion of magnetic energy into other forms (such as plasma heating, bulk plasma flows, and non-thermal particles) during solar flares is one of the outstanding open problems in solar physics. It is generally accepted that magnetic reconnection plays a crucial role in these conversion processes. In order to achieve the rapid energy release required in solar flares, an anomalous resistivity, which is orders of magnitude higher than the Spitzer resistivity, is often used in magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) simulations of reconnection in the corona. The origin of Spitzer resistivity is based on Coulomb scattering, which becomes negligible at the high energies achieved by accelerated particles. As a result, simulations of particle acceleration in reconnection events are often performed in the absence of any interaction between accelerated particles and any background plasma. This need not be the case for scattering associated with anomalous resistivity caused by turbulence within solar flares, as the higher resistivity implies an elevated scattering rate. We present results of test particle calculations, with and without pitch angle scattering, subject to fields derived from MHD simulations of two-dimensional (2D) X-point reconnection. Scattering rates proportional to the ratio of the anomalous resistivity to the local Spitzer resistivity, as well as at fixed values, are considered. Pitch angle scattering, which is independent of the anomalous resistivity, causes higher maximum energies in comparison to those obtained without scattering. Scattering rates which are dependent on the local anomalous resistivity tend to produce fewer highly energised particles due to weaker scattering in the separatrices, even though scattering in the current sheet may be stronger when compared to resistivity-independent scattering. Strong scattering also causes an increase in the number of particles exiting the computational box in the reconnection outflow region, as opposed to along the separatrices as is the case in the absence of scattering.

160-Gb/s all-optical phase-transparent wavelength conversion through cascaded SFG-DFG in a broadband linear-chirped PPLN waveguide.

PubMed

Lu, Guo-Wei; Shinada, Satoshi; Furukawa, Hideaki; Wada, Naoya; Miyazaki, Tetsuya; Ito, Hiromasa

2010-03-15

We experimentally demonstrated ultra-fast phase-transparent wavelength conversion using cascaded sum- and difference-frequency generation (cSFG-DFG) in linear-chirped periodically poled lithium niobate (PPLN). Error-free wavelength conversion of a 160-Gb/s return-to-zero differential phase-shift keying (RZ-DPSK) signal was successfully achieved. Thanks to the enhanced conversion bandwidth in the PPLN with linear-chirped periods, no optical equalizer was required to compensate the spectrum distortion after conversion, unlike a previous demonstration of 160-Gb/s RZ on-off keying (OOK) using fixed-period PPLN.

Land use imperils plant and animal community stability through changes in asynchrony rather than diversity

PubMed Central

Blüthgen, Nico; Simons, Nadja K.; Jung, Kirsten; Prati, Daniel; Renner, Swen C.; Boch, Steffen; Fischer, Markus; Hölzel, Norbert; Klaus, Valentin H.; Kleinebecker, Till; Tschapka, Marco; Weisser, Wolfgang W.; Gossner, Martin M.

2016-01-01

Human land use may detrimentally affect biodiversity, yet long-term stability of species communities is vital for maintaining ecosystem functioning. Community stability can be achieved by higher species diversity (portfolio effect), higher asynchrony across species (insurance hypothesis) and higher abundance of populations. However, the relative importance of these stabilizing pathways and whether they interact with land use in real-world ecosystems is unknown. We monitored inter-annual fluctuations of 2,671 plant, arthropod, bird and bat species in 300 sites from three regions. Arthropods show 2.0-fold and birds 3.7-fold higher community fluctuations in grasslands than in forests, suggesting a negative impact of forest conversion. Land-use intensity in forests has a negative net impact on stability of bats and in grasslands on birds. Our findings demonstrate that asynchrony across species—much more than species diversity alone—is the main driver of variation in stability across sites and requires more attention in sustainable management. PMID:26869180

Land use imperils plant and animal community stability through changes in asynchrony rather than diversity.

PubMed

Blüthgen, Nico; Simons, Nadja K; Jung, Kirsten; Prati, Daniel; Renner, Swen C; Boch, Steffen; Fischer, Markus; Hölzel, Norbert; Klaus, Valentin H; Kleinebecker, Till; Tschapka, Marco; Weisser, Wolfgang W; Gossner, Martin M

2016-02-12

Human land use may detrimentally affect biodiversity, yet long-term stability of species communities is vital for maintaining ecosystem functioning. Community stability can be achieved by higher species diversity (portfolio effect), higher asynchrony across species (insurance hypothesis) and higher abundance of populations. However, the relative importance of these stabilizing pathways and whether they interact with land use in real-world ecosystems is unknown. We monitored inter-annual fluctuations of 2,671 plant, arthropod, bird and bat species in 300 sites from three regions. Arthropods show 2.0-fold and birds 3.7-fold higher community fluctuations in grasslands than in forests, suggesting a negative impact of forest conversion. Land-use intensity in forests has a negative net impact on stability of bats and in grasslands on birds. Our findings demonstrate that asynchrony across species--much more than species diversity alone--is the main driver of variation in stability across sites and requires more attention in sustainable management.

Ammonia Generation and Utilization in a Passive SCR (TWC+SCR) System on Lean Gasoline Engine

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Prikhodko, Vitaly Y.; James E. Parks, II; Pihl, Josh A.

Lean gasoline engines offer greater fuel economy than the common stoichiometric gasoline engine, but the current three way catalyst (TWC) on stoichiometric engines is unable to control nitrogen oxide (NOX) emissions in oxidizing exhaust. For these lean gasoline engines, lean NOX emission control is required to meet existing Tier 2 and upcoming Tier 3 emission regulations set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). While urea-based selective catalytic reduction (SCR) has proven effective in controlling NOX from diesel engines, the urea storage and delivery components can add significant size and cost. As such, onboard NH 3 production via a passivemore » SCR approach is of interest. In a passive SCR system, NH 3 is generated over a close-coupled TWC during periodic slightly rich engine operation and subsequently stored on an underfloor SCR catalyst. Upon switching to lean operation, NOX passes through the TWC and is reduced by the stored NH 3 on the SCR catalyst. In this work, a passive SCR system was evaluated on a 2.0-liter BMW lean burn gasoline direct injection engine to assess NH 3 generation over a Pd-only TWC and utilization over a Cu-based SCR catalyst. System NOX reduction efficiency and fuel efficiency improvement compared to stoichiometric engine operation were measured. A feedback control strategy based on cumulative NH 3 produced by the TWC during rich operation and NOX emissions during lean operation was implemented on the engine to control lean/rich cycle timing. At an SCR average inlet temperature of 350 °C, an NH 3:NOX ratio of 1.15:1 (achieved through longer rich cycle timing) resulted in 99.7 % NOX conversion. Increasing NH 3 generation further resulted in even higher NOX conversion; however, tailpipe NH 3 emissions resulted. At higher underfloor temperatures, NH 3 oxidation over the SCR limited NH 3 availability for NOX reduction. At the engine conditions studied, greater than 99 % NOX conversion was achieved with passive SCR while delivering fuel efficiency benefits ranging between 6-11 % compared with stoichiometric operation.« less

Ammonia Generation and Utilization in a Passive SCR (TWC+SCR) System on Lean Gasoline Engine

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Prikhodko, Vitaly Y; Parks, II, James E; Pihl, Josh A

Lean gasoline engines offer greater fuel economy than the common stoichiometric gasoline engine, but the current three-way catalyst (TWC) on stoichiometric engines is unable to control nitrogen oxide (NOX) emissions in the oxygen-rich exhaust. Thus, lean NOX emission control is required to meet existing Tier 2 and upcoming Tier 3 emission regulations set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). While urea-based selective catalytic reduction (SCR) has proven effective in controlling NOX from diesel engines, the urea storage and delivery components can add significant size and cost. As such, onboard NH3 production via a passive SCR approach is of interest.more » In a passive SCR system, NH3 is generated over a close-coupled TWC during periodic slightly rich engine operation and subsequently stored on an underfloor SCR catalyst. Upon switching to lean operation, NOX passes through the TWC and is reduced by the stored NH3 on the SCR catalyst. In this work, a passive SCR system was evaluated on a 2.0-liter BMW lean burn gasoline direct injection engine to assess NH3 generation over a Pd-only TWC and utilization over a Cu-based SCR catalyst. System NOX reduction efficiency and fuel efficiency improvement compared to stoichiometric engine operation were measured. A feedback control strategy based on cumulative NH3 produced by the TWC during rich operation and NOX emissions during lean operation was implemented on the engine to control lean/rich cycle timing. 15% excess NH3 production over a 1:1 NH3:NOX ratio was required (via longer rich cycle timing) to achieve 99.7% NOX conversion at an SCR average inlet temperature of 350 C. Increasing NH3 generation further resulted in even higher NOX conversion; however, tailpipe NH3 emissions resulted. At higher temperatures, NH3 oxidation becomes important and limits NH3 availability for NOX reduction. At the engine conditions studied here, greater than 99% NOX conversion was achieved with passive SCR while delivering fuel efficiency benefits ranging between 6-11% compared with stoichiometric operation.« less

Ammonia Generation and Utilization in a Passive SCR (TWC+SCR) System on Lean Gasoline Engine

DOE PAGES

Prikhodko, Vitaly Y.; James E. Parks, II; Pihl, Josh A.; ...

2016-04-05

Lean gasoline engines offer greater fuel economy than the common stoichiometric gasoline engine, but the current three way catalyst (TWC) on stoichiometric engines is unable to control nitrogen oxide (NOX) emissions in oxidizing exhaust. For these lean gasoline engines, lean NOX emission control is required to meet existing Tier 2 and upcoming Tier 3 emission regulations set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). While urea-based selective catalytic reduction (SCR) has proven effective in controlling NOX from diesel engines, the urea storage and delivery components can add significant size and cost. As such, onboard NH 3 production via a passivemore » SCR approach is of interest. In a passive SCR system, NH 3 is generated over a close-coupled TWC during periodic slightly rich engine operation and subsequently stored on an underfloor SCR catalyst. Upon switching to lean operation, NOX passes through the TWC and is reduced by the stored NH 3 on the SCR catalyst. In this work, a passive SCR system was evaluated on a 2.0-liter BMW lean burn gasoline direct injection engine to assess NH 3 generation over a Pd-only TWC and utilization over a Cu-based SCR catalyst. System NOX reduction efficiency and fuel efficiency improvement compared to stoichiometric engine operation were measured. A feedback control strategy based on cumulative NH 3 produced by the TWC during rich operation and NOX emissions during lean operation was implemented on the engine to control lean/rich cycle timing. At an SCR average inlet temperature of 350 °C, an NH 3:NOX ratio of 1.15:1 (achieved through longer rich cycle timing) resulted in 99.7 % NOX conversion. Increasing NH 3 generation further resulted in even higher NOX conversion; however, tailpipe NH 3 emissions resulted. At higher underfloor temperatures, NH 3 oxidation over the SCR limited NH 3 availability for NOX reduction. At the engine conditions studied, greater than 99 % NOX conversion was achieved with passive SCR while delivering fuel efficiency benefits ranging between 6-11 % compared with stoichiometric operation.« less

Four-Terminal All-Perovskite Tandem Solar Cells Achieving Power Conversion Efficiencies Exceeding 23%

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhao, Dewei; Wang, Changlei; Song, Zhaoning

We report on fabrication of 4-terminal all-perovskite tandem solar cells with power conversion efficiencies exceeding 23% by mechanically stacking semitransparent 1.75 eV wide-bandgap FA 0.8Cs 0.2Pb(I 0.7Br 0.3) 3 perovskite top cells with 1.25 eV low-bandgap (FASnI 3) 0.6(MAPbI 3) 0.4 bottom cells. The top cells use MoOx/ITO transparent electrodes and achieve transmittance up to 70% beyond 700 nm.

System and method for single-phase, single-stage grid-interactive inverter

DOEpatents

Liu, Liming; Li, Hui

2015-09-01

The present invention provides for the integration of distributed renewable energy sources/storages utilizing a cascaded DC-AC inverter, thereby eliminating the need for a DC-DC converter. The ability to segment the energy sources and energy storages improves the maintenance capability and system reliability of the distributed generation system, as well as achieve wide range reactive power compensation. In the absence of a DC-DC converter, single stage energy conversion can be achieved to enhance energy conversion efficiency.

Four-Terminal All-Perovskite Tandem Solar Cells Achieving Power Conversion Efficiencies Exceeding 23%

DOE PAGES

Zhao, Dewei; Wang, Changlei; Song, Zhaoning; ...

2018-01-04

We report on fabrication of 4-terminal all-perovskite tandem solar cells with power conversion efficiencies exceeding 23% by mechanically stacking semitransparent 1.75 eV wide-bandgap FA 0.8Cs 0.2Pb(I 0.7Br 0.3) 3 perovskite top cells with 1.25 eV low-bandgap (FASnI 3) 0.6(MAPbI 3) 0.4 bottom cells. The top cells use MoOx/ITO transparent electrodes and achieve transmittance up to 70% beyond 700 nm.

Lead-free inverted planar formamidinium tin triiodide perovskite solar cells achieving power conversion efficiencies up to 6.22%

DOE PAGES

Liao, Weiqiang; Zhao, Dewei; Yu, Yue; ...

2016-08-29

Efficient lead (Pb)-free inverted planar formamidinium tin triiodide (FASnI 3) perovskite solar cells (PVSCs) are demonstrated. Our FASnI 3 PVSCs achieved average power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of 5.41% ± 0.46% and a maximum PCE of 6.22% under forward voltage scan. Here, the PVSCs exhibit small photocurrent–voltage hysteresis and high reproducibility. The champion cell shows a steady-state efficiency of ≈6.00% for over 100 s.

Primary vs Conversion Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Cost Analysis

PubMed Central

Chin, Garwin; Wright, David J.; Snir, Nimrod; Schwarzkopf, Ran

2018-01-01

Introduction Increasing hip fracture incidence in the United States is leading to higher occurrences of conversion total hip arthroplasty (THA) for failed surgical treatment of the hip. In spite of studies showing higher complication rates in conversion THA, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid services currently bundles conversion and primary THA under the same diagnosis-related group. We examined the cost of treatment of conversion THA compared with primary THA. Our hypothesis is that conversion THA will have higher cost and resource use than primary THA. Methods Fifty-one consecutive conversion THA patients (Current Procedure Terminology code 27132) and 105 matched primary THA patients (Current Procedure Terminology code 27130) were included in this study. The natural log-transformed costs for conversion and primary THA were compared using regression analysis. Age, gender, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologist, Charlson comorbidity score, and smoker status were controlled in the analysis. Conversion THA subgroups formed based on etiology were compared using analysis of variance analysis. Results Conversion and primary THAs were determined to be significantly different (P < .05) and greater in the following costs: hospital operating direct cost (29.2% greater), hospital operating total cost (28.8% greater), direct hospital cost (24.7% greater), and total hospital cost (26.4% greater). Conclusions Based on greater hospital operating direct cost, hospital operating total cost, direct hospital cost, and total hospital cost, conversion THA has significantly greater cost and resource use than primary THA. In order to prevent disincentives for treating these complex surgical patients, reclassification of conversion THA is needed, as they do not fit together with primary THA. PMID:26387923

Effect of the SiO 2 support on the catalytic performance of Ag/ZrO 2/SiO 2 catalysts for the single-bed production of butadiene from ethanol

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Dagle, Vanessa Lebarbier; Flake, Matthew D.; Lemmon, Teresa L.

A ternary Ag/ZrO 2/SiO 2 catalyst system was studied for single-step conversion of ethanol to butadiene by varying the catalyst composition (Ag, Ir, or Pt metal component, Ag/ZrO 2 loading, and choice of SiO 2 support) and operating conditions (space velocity and feed gas composition). Exceptional catalytic performance was achieved over a 1%Ag/4%ZrO 2/SiO 2-SBA-16 catalyst leading to 99% conversion and 71% butadiene selectivity while operating under mild conditions (325°C, 1 atm, and 0.23 h –1). Several classes of silica—silica gels, fumed silicas, mesoporous silicas)—were evaluated as catalyst supports, and SBA-16 was found to be the most promising choice. Themore » SiO 2 support was found to significantly influence both conversion and selectivity. A higher SiO 2 catalyst surface area facilitates increased Ag dispersion which leads to greater conversion due to the accelerated initial ethanol dehydrogenation reaction step. By independently varying Ag and ZrO 2 loading, Ag was found to be the main component that affects ethanol conversion. ZrO 2 loading and thus Lewis acid sites concentration was found to have little impact on the ethanol conversion. Butadiene selectivity depends on the concentration of Lewis acid site, which in turn differs depending on the choice of SiO 2 support material. We observed a direct relationship between butadiene selectivity and concentration of Lewis acid sites. Butadiene selectivity decreases as the concentration of Lewis acid sites increases, which corresponds to an increase in ethanol dehydration to ethylene and diethyl ether. Additionally, adding H 2 to the feed had little effect on conversion while improving catalytic stability; however, selectivity to butadiene decreased. Lastly, catalyst regenerability was successfully demonstrated for several cycles.« less

Effect of the SiO 2 support on the catalytic performance of Ag/ZrO 2/SiO 2 catalysts for the single-bed production of butadiene from ethanol

DOE PAGES

Dagle, Vanessa Lebarbier; Flake, Matthew D.; Lemmon, Teresa L.; ...

2018-05-19

A ternary Ag/ZrO 2/SiO 2 catalyst system was studied for single-step conversion of ethanol to butadiene by varying the catalyst composition (Ag, Ir, or Pt metal component, Ag/ZrO 2 loading, and choice of SiO 2 support) and operating conditions (space velocity and feed gas composition). Exceptional catalytic performance was achieved over a 1%Ag/4%ZrO 2/SiO 2-SBA-16 catalyst leading to 99% conversion and 71% butadiene selectivity while operating under mild conditions (325°C, 1 atm, and 0.23 h –1). Several classes of silica—silica gels, fumed silicas, mesoporous silicas)—were evaluated as catalyst supports, and SBA-16 was found to be the most promising choice. Themore » SiO 2 support was found to significantly influence both conversion and selectivity. A higher SiO 2 catalyst surface area facilitates increased Ag dispersion which leads to greater conversion due to the accelerated initial ethanol dehydrogenation reaction step. By independently varying Ag and ZrO 2 loading, Ag was found to be the main component that affects ethanol conversion. ZrO 2 loading and thus Lewis acid sites concentration was found to have little impact on the ethanol conversion. Butadiene selectivity depends on the concentration of Lewis acid site, which in turn differs depending on the choice of SiO 2 support material. We observed a direct relationship between butadiene selectivity and concentration of Lewis acid sites. Butadiene selectivity decreases as the concentration of Lewis acid sites increases, which corresponds to an increase in ethanol dehydration to ethylene and diethyl ether. Additionally, adding H 2 to the feed had little effect on conversion while improving catalytic stability; however, selectivity to butadiene decreased. Lastly, catalyst regenerability was successfully demonstrated for several cycles.« less

Effects of sonication on co-precipitation synthesis and activity of copper manganese oxide catalyst to remove methane and sulphur dioxide gases.

PubMed

Yap, Yeow Hong; Lim, Mitchell S W; Lee, Zheng Yee; Lai, Kar Chiew; Jamaal, Muhamad Ashraf; Wong, Farng Hui; Ng, Hoon Kiat; Lim, Siew Shee; Tiong, T Joyce

2018-01-01

The utilisation of ultrasound in chemical preparation has been the focus of intense study in various fields, including materials science and engineering. This paper presents a novel method of synthesising the copper-manganese oxide (Hopcalite) catalyst that is used for the removal of volatile organic compounds and greenhouse gases like carbon monoxide. Several samples prepared under different conditions, with and without ultrasound, were subjected to a series of characterisation tests such as XRD, BET, FE-SEM, EDX, TPR-H 2 , TGA and FT-IR in order to establish their chemical and physical properties. A series of catalytic tests using a micro-reactor were subsequently performed on the samples in order to substantiate the aforementioned properties by analysing their ability to oxidise compressed natural gas (CNG), containing methane and sulphur dioxide. Results showed that ultrasonic irradiation of the catalyst led to observable alterations in its morphology: surfaces of the particles were noticeably smoothed and an increased in amorphicity was detected. Furthermore, ultrasonic irradiation has shown to enhance the catalytic activity of Hopcalite, achieving a higher conversion of methane relative to non-sonicated samples. Varying the ultrasonic intensity also produced appreciable effects, whereby an increase in intensity results in a higher conversion rate. The catalyst sonicated at the highest intensity of 29.7W/cm 2 has a methane conversion rate of 13.5% at 400°C, which was the highest among all the samples tested. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Comparative evaluation of acid and alkaline sulfite pretreatments for enzymatic saccharification of bagasses from three different sugarcane hybrids.

PubMed

Monte, Joseana R; Laurito-Friend, Debora F; Ferraz, André; Milagres, Adriane M F

2018-04-26

Sugarcane bagasses from three experimental sugarcane hybrids and a mill-reference sample were used to compare the efficiency and mode of action of acid and alkaline sulfite pretreatment processes. Varied chemical loads and reaction temperatures were used to prepare samples with distinguished characteristics regarding xylan and lignin removals, as well as sulfonation levels of residual lignins. The pretreatment with low sulfite loads (5%) under acidic conditions (pH 2) provided maximum glucose yield of 70% during enzymatic hydrolysis with cellulases (10 FPU/g) and β-glucosidases (20 UI/g bagasse). In this case, glucan enzymatic conversion from pretreated materials was mostly associated with extensive xylan removal (70-100%) and partial delignification occurred during the pretreatment. The use of low sulfite loads under acidic conditions required pretreatment temperatures of 160°C. In contrast, at a lower pretreatment temperature (120°C), alkaline sulfite process achieved similar glucan digestibility, but required a higher sulfite load (7.5%). Residual xylans from acid pretreated materials were almost completely hydrolysed by commercial enzymes, contrasting with relatively lower xylan to xylose conversions observed in alkaline pretreated samples. Efficient xylan removal during acid sulfite pretreatment and also during enzymatic digestion can be useful to enhance glucan accessibility and digestibility by cellulases. Alkaline sulfite process also provided substrates with high glucan digestibility, mainly associated with delignification and sulfonation of residual lignins. The results demonstrate that temperature, pH and sulfite can be combined for reducing lignocellulose recalcitrance and achieve similar glucan conversion rates in the alkaline and acid sulfite pretreated bagasses. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers.

Discrete parametric band conversion in silicon for mid-infrared applications.

PubMed

Tien, En-Kuang; Huang, Yuewang; Gao, Shiming; Song, Qi; Qian, Feng; Kalyoncu, Salih K; Boyraz, Ozdal

2010-10-11

Silicon photonics has great potential for mid-wave-infrared applications. The dispersion of waveguide can be manipulated by waveguide dimension and cladding materials. Simulation shows that <3 μm wide conversion can be achieved by tuning the pump wavelength.

Infrared Signal Detection by Upconversion Technique

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wong, Teh-Hwa; Yu, Jirong; Bai, Yingxin; Johnson, William E.

2014-01-01

We demonstrated up-conversion assisted detection of a 2.05-micron signal by using a bulk periodically poled Lithium niobate crystal. The 94% intrinsic up-conversion efficiency and 22.58% overall detection efficiency at pW level of 2.05-micron was achieved.

Metabolic engineering of sugars and simple sugar derivatives in plants.

PubMed

Patrick, John W; Botha, Frikkie C; Birch, Robert G

2013-02-01

Carbon captured through photosynthesis is transported, and sometimes stored in plants, as sugar. All organic compounds in plants trace to carbon from sugars, so sugar metabolism is highly regulated and integrated with development. Sugars stored by plants are important to humans as foods and as renewable feedstocks for industrial conversion to biofuels and biomaterials. For some purposes, sugars have advantages over polymers including starches, cellulose or storage lipids. This review considers progress and prospects in plant metabolic engineering for increased yield of endogenous sugars and for direct production of higher-value sugars and simple sugar derivatives. Opportunities are examined for enhancing export of sugars from leaves. Focus then turns to manipulation of sugar metabolism in sugar-storing sink organs such as fruits, sugarcane culms and sugarbeet tubers. Results from manipulation of suspected 'limiting' enzymes indicate a need for clearer understanding of flux control mechanisms, to achieve enhanced levels of endogenous sugars in crops that are highly selected for this trait. Outcomes from in planta conversion to novel sugars and derivatives range from severe interference with plant development to field demonstration of crops accumulating higher-value sugars at high yields. The differences depend on underlying biological factors including the effects of the novel products on endogenous metabolism, and on biotechnological fine-tuning including developmental expression and compartmentation patterns. Ultimately, osmotic activity may limit the accumulation of sugars to yields below those achievable using polymers; but results indicate the potential for increases above current commercial sugar yields, through metabolic engineering underpinned by improved understanding of plant sugar metabolism. © 2012 The Authors Plant Biotechnology Journal © 2012 Society for Experimental Biology, Association of Applied Biologists and Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Enzymatic transesterification of microalgal oil from Chlorella vulgaris ESP-31 for biodiesel synthesis using immobilized Burkholderia lipase.

PubMed

Tran, Dang-Thuan; Yeh, Kuei-Ling; Chen, Ching-Lung; Chang, Jo-Shu

2012-03-01

An indigenous microalga Chlorella vulgaris ESP-31 grown in an outdoor tubular photobioreactor with CO(2) aeration obtained a high oil content of up to 63.2%. The microalgal oil was then converted to biodiesel by enzymatic transesterification using an immobilized lipase originating from Burkholderia sp. C20. The conversion of the microalgae oil to biodiesel was conducted by transesterification of the extracted microalgal oil (M-I) and by transesterification directly using disrupted microalgal biomass (M-II). The results show that M-II achieved higher biodiesel conversion (97.3 wt% oil) than M-I (72.1 wt% oil). The immobilized lipase worked well when using wet microalgal biomass (up to 71% water content) as the oil substrate. The immobilized lipase also tolerated a high methanol to oil molar ratio (>67.93) when using the M-II approach, and can be repeatedly used for six cycles (or 288 h) without significant loss of its original activity. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Organic chemistry. A rhodium catalyst for single-step styrene production from benzene and ethylene.

PubMed

Vaughan, Benjamin A; Webster-Gardiner, Michael S; Cundari, Thomas R; Gunnoe, T Brent

2015-04-24

Rising global demand for fossil resources has prompted a renewed interest in catalyst technologies that increase the efficiency of conversion of hydrocarbons from petroleum and natural gas to higher-value materials. Styrene is currently produced from benzene and ethylene through the intermediacy of ethylbenzene, which must be dehydrogenated in a separate step. The direct oxidative conversion of benzene and ethylene to styrene could provide a more efficient route, but achieving high selectivity and yield for this reaction has been challenging. Here, we report that the Rh catalyst ((Fl)DAB)Rh(TFA)(η(2)-C2H4) [(Fl)DAB is N,N'-bis(pentafluorophenyl)-2,3-dimethyl-1,4-diaza-1,3-butadiene; TFA is trifluoroacetate] converts benzene, ethylene, and Cu(II) acetate to styrene, Cu(I) acetate, and acetic acid with 100% selectivity and yields ≥95%. Turnover numbers >800 have been demonstrated, with catalyst stability up to 96 hours. Copyright © 2015, American Association for the Advancement of Science.

Equilibrium model analysis of waste plastics gasification using CO2 and steam.

PubMed

Kannan, P; Lakshmanan, G; Al Shoaibi, A; Srinivasakannan, C

2017-12-01

Utilization of carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) in thermochemical treatment of waste plastics may significantly help to improve CO 2 recycling, thus simultaneously curtailing dioxins/furans and CO 2 emissions. Although CO 2 is not such an effective gasifying agent as steam, a few investigations have explored the utilization of CO 2 in conjunction with steam to achieve somewhat higher carbon conversion. This work presents a comparative evaluation study of CO 2 and steam gasification of a typical post-consumer waste plastics mixture using an Aspen Plus equilibrium model. The effect of flow rate of gasifying medium (CO 2 and/or steam) and gasification temperature on product gas composition, carbon conversion, and cold gas efficiency has been analyzed. Simulation results demonstrate that CO 2 can serve as a potential gasifying agent for waste plastics gasification. The resulting product gas was rich in CO whereas CO 2 -steam blends yield a wider H 2 /CO ratio, thus extending the applications of the product gas.

Effect of substrate and cation requirement on anaerobic volatile fatty acid conversion rates at elevated biogas pressure.

PubMed

Lindeboom, Ralph E F; Ferrer, Ivet; Weijma, Jan; van Lier, Jules B

2013-12-01

This work studied the anaerobic conversion of neutralized volatile fatty acids (VFA) into biogas under Autogenerative High Pressure Digestion (AHPD) conditions. The effects of the operating conditions on the biogas quality, and the substrate utilisation rates were evaluated using 3 AHPD reactors (0.6 L); feeding a concentration of acetate and VFA (1-10 g COD/L) corresponding to an expected pressure increase of 1-20 bar. The biogas composition improved with pressure up to 4.5 bar (>93% CH4), and stabilized at 10 and 20 bar. Both, acetotrophic and hydrogenotrophic methanogenic activity was observed. Substrate utilisation rates of 0.2, 0.1 and 0.1 g CODCH4/g VSS/d for acetate, propionate and butyrate were found to decrease by up to 50% with increasing final pressure. Most likely increased Na(+)-requirement to achieve CO2 sequestration at higher pressure rather than end-product inhibition was responsible. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effects of naturalistic cell phone conversations on driving performance.

PubMed

Rakauskas, Michael E; Gugerty, Leo J; Ward, Nicholas J

2004-01-01

The prevalence of automobile drivers talking on cell phones is growing, but the effect of that behavior on driving performance is unclear. Also unclear is the relationship between the difficulty level of a phone conversation and the resulting distraction. This study used a driving simulator to determine the effect that easy and difficult cell phone conversations have on driving performance. Cell phone use caused participants to have higher variation in accelerator pedal position, drive more slowly with more variation in speed, and report a higher level of workload regardless of conversation difficulty level. Drivers may cope with the additional stress of phone conversations by enduring higher workloads or setting reduced performance goals. Because an increasing number of people talk on the phone while driving, crashes caused by distracted drivers using cell phones will cause disruptions in business, as well as injury, disability, and permanent loss of personnel.

Pyroelectric conversion in space: A conceptual design study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Olsen, R. B.

1983-01-01

Pyroelectric conversion is potentially a very lightweight means of providing electrical power generation in space. Two conceptualized systems approaches for the direct conversion of heat (from sunlight) into electrical energy using the pyroelectric effect of a new class of polar polymers were evaluated. Both of the approaches involved large area thin sheets of plastic which are thermally cycled by radiative input and output of thermal energy. The systems studied are expected to eventually achieve efficiencies of the order of 8% and may deliver as much as one half kilowatt per kilogram. In addition to potentially very high specific power, the pyroelectric conversion approaches outlined appear to offer low cost per watt in the form of an easily deployed, flexible, strong, electrically ""self-healing'', and high voltage sheet. This study assessed several potential problems such as plasma interactions and radiation degradation and suggests approaches to overcome them. The fundamental technological issues for space pyroelectric conversion are: (1) demonstration of the conversion cycle with the proposed class of polymers, (2) achievement of improved dielectric strength of the material, (3) demonstration of acceptable plasma power losses for low altitude, and (4) establishment of reasonable lifetime for the pyroelectric material in the space environment. Recommendations include an experimental demonstration of the pyroelectric conversion cycle followed by studies to improve the dielectric strength of the polymer and basic studies to discover additional pyroelectric materials.

Conversational Interaction and the Development of Conversational Competence in Additional Languages in Higher Education: Considerations for Students, Language Centres, and Language Policy Developers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Meyer, Stephan; Blondel, Valérie; Mall-Grob, Beatrice

2017-01-01

This article addresses the questions: why is the development of conversational competence important within higher education? And how might this goal be pursued? We offer answers that may aid a broad range of stakeholders (language learners, course designers, lecturers, language development managers, and policy makers) in thinking through these…

Gasification of empty fruit bunch with carbon dioxide in an entrained flow gasifier for syngas production

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rahmat, N. F. H.; Rasid, R. A.

2017-06-01

The main objectives of this work are to study the gasification of EFB in an atmospheric entrained flow gasifier, using carbon dioxide (CO2) as its gasifying agent and to determine the optimum gasification operating conditions, which includes temperature and the oxidant to fuel (OTF) ratio. These were evaluated in terms of important gasification parameters such as the concentration of hydrogen (H2) and carbon monoxide (CO) produced the syngas ratio H2/CO and carbon conversion. The gasification reactions take place in the presence of CO2 at very high reaction rate because of the high operating temperature (700°C - 900°C). The use of CO2 as the oxidant for gasification process can improve the composition of syngas produced as in the Boudouard reaction. Rise of reaction temperature which is 900°C will increase the concentration of both H2 & CO by up to 81 and 30 respectively, though their production were decreased after the OTF ratio of 0.6 for temperature 700°C & 800°C and OTF ratio 0.8 for temperature 750°C. The operating temperature must be higher than 850°C to ensure the Boudouard reaction become the more prominent reaction for the biomass gasification. The syngas ratio obtained was in the range of ≈ 0.6 - 2.4 which is sufficient for liquid fuel synthesis. For the carbon conversion, the highest fuel conversion recorded at temperature 850°C for all OTF ratios. As the OTF ratio increases, it was found that there was an increase in the formation of CO and H2. This suggests that to achieve higher carbon conversion, high operating temperature and OTF ratio are preferable. This study provides information on the optimum operating conditions for the gasification of biomass, especially the EFB, hence may upsurge the utilization of biomass waste as an energy source.

Relative Sustainability of Natural Gas Assisted High-Octane Gasoline Blendstock Production from Biomass

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tan, Eric C; Zhang, Yi Min; Cai, Hao

Biomass-derived hydrocarbon fuel technologies are being developed and pursued for better economy, environment, and society benefits underpinning the sustainability of transportation energy. Increasing availability and affordability of natural gas (NG) in the US can play an important role in assisting renewable fuel technology development, primarily in terms of economic feasibility. When a biorefinery is co-processing NG with biomass, the current low cost of NG coupled with the higher NG carbon conversion efficiency potentially allow for cost competitiveness of the fuel while achieving a minimum GHG emission reduction of 50 percent or higher compared to petroleum fuel. This study evaluates themore » relative sustainability of the production of high-octane gasoline blendstock via indirect liquefaction (IDL) of biomass (and with NG co-feed) through methanol/dimethyl ether intermediates. The sustainability metrics considered in this study include minimum fuel selling price (MFSP), carbon conversion efficiency, life cycle GHG emissions, life cycle water consumption, fossil energy return on investment (EROI), GHG emission avoidance cost, and job creation. Co-processing NG can evidently improve the MFSP. Evaluation of the relative sustainability can shed light on the biomass-NG synergistic impacts and sustainability trade-offs associated with the IDL as high-octane gasoline blendstock production.« less

A 1 kW-class multi-stage heat-driven thermoacoustic cryocooler system operating at liquefied natural gas temperature range

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, L. M.; Hu, J. Y.; Wu, Z. H.; Luo, E. C.; Xu, J. Y.; Bi, T. J.

2015-07-01

This article introduces a multi-stage heat-driven thermoacoustic cryocooler capable of reaching cooling capacity about 1 kW at liquefied natural gas temperature range without any moving mechanical parts. The cooling system consists of an acoustically resonant double-acing traveling wave thermoacoustic heat engine and three identical pulse tube coolers. Unlike other traditional traveling wave thermoacoustic heat engines, the acoustically resonant double-acting thermoacoustic heat engine is a closed-loop configuration consists of three identical thermoacoustic conversion units. Each pulse tube cooler is bypass driven by one thermoacoustic heat engine unit. The device is acoustically completely symmetric and therefore "self-matching" for efficient traveling-wave thermoacoustic conversion. In the experiments, with 7 MPa helium gas as working gas, when the heating temperature reaches 918 K, total cooling capacity of 0.88 kW at 110 K is obtained with a resonant frequency of about 55 Hz. When the heating temperature is 903 K, a maximum total cooling capacity at 130 K of 1.20 kW is achieved, with a thermal-to-cold exergy efficiency of 8%. Compared to previously developed heat-driven thermoacoustic cryocoolers, this device has higher thermal efficiency and higher power density. It shows a good prospect of application in the field of natural gas liquefaction and recondensation.

Effect of proton-conduction in electrolyte on electric efficiency of multi-stage solid oxide fuel cells

PubMed Central

Matsuzaki, Yoshio; Tachikawa, Yuya; Somekawa, Takaaki; Hatae, Toru; Matsumoto, Hiroshige; Taniguchi, Shunsuke; Sasaki, Kazunari

2015-01-01

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are promising electrochemical devices that enable the highest fuel-to-electricity conversion efficiencies under high operating temperatures. The concept of multi-stage electrochemical oxidation using SOFCs has been proposed and studied over the past several decades for further improving the electrical efficiency. However, the improvement is limited by fuel dilution downstream of the fuel flow. Therefore, evolved technologies are required to achieve considerably higher electrical efficiencies. Here we present an innovative concept for a critically-high fuel-to-electricity conversion efficiency of up to 85% based on the lower heating value (LHV), in which a high-temperature multi-stage electrochemical oxidation is combined with a proton-conducting solid electrolyte. Switching a solid electrolyte material from a conventional oxide-ion conducting material to a proton-conducting material under the high-temperature multi-stage electrochemical oxidation mechanism has proven to be highly advantageous for the electrical efficiency. The DC efficiency of 85% (LHV) corresponds to a net AC efficiency of approximately 76% (LHV), where the net AC efficiency refers to the transmission-end AC efficiency. This evolved concept will yield a considerably higher efficiency with a much smaller generation capacity than the state-of-the-art several tens-of-MW-class most advanced combined cycle (MACC). PMID:26218470

Effect of proton-conduction in electrolyte on electric efficiency of multi-stage solid oxide fuel cells.

PubMed

Matsuzaki, Yoshio; Tachikawa, Yuya; Somekawa, Takaaki; Hatae, Toru; Matsumoto, Hiroshige; Taniguchi, Shunsuke; Sasaki, Kazunari

2015-07-28

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are promising electrochemical devices that enable the highest fuel-to-electricity conversion efficiencies under high operating temperatures. The concept of multi-stage electrochemical oxidation using SOFCs has been proposed and studied over the past several decades for further improving the electrical efficiency. However, the improvement is limited by fuel dilution downstream of the fuel flow. Therefore, evolved technologies are required to achieve considerably higher electrical efficiencies. Here we present an innovative concept for a critically-high fuel-to-electricity conversion efficiency of up to 85% based on the lower heating value (LHV), in which a high-temperature multi-stage electrochemical oxidation is combined with a proton-conducting solid electrolyte. Switching a solid electrolyte material from a conventional oxide-ion conducting material to a proton-conducting material under the high-temperature multi-stage electrochemical oxidation mechanism has proven to be highly advantageous for the electrical efficiency. The DC efficiency of 85% (LHV) corresponds to a net AC efficiency of approximately 76% (LHV), where the net AC efficiency refers to the transmission-end AC efficiency. This evolved concept will yield a considerably higher efficiency with a much smaller generation capacity than the state-of-the-art several tens-of-MW-class most advanced combined cycle (MACC).

Adsorption of sulfur dioxide on ammonia-treated activated carbon fibers

USGS Publications Warehouse

Mangun, C.L.; DeBarr, J.A.; Economy, J.

2001-01-01

A series of activated carbon fibers (ACFs) and ammonia-treated ACFs prepared from phenolic fiber precursors have been studied to elucidate the role of pore size, pore volume, and pore surface chemistry on adsorption of sulfur dioxide and its catalytic conversion to sulfuric acid. As expected, the incorporation of basic functional groups into the ACFs was shown as an effective method for increasing adsorption of sulfur dioxide. The adsorption capacity for dry SO2 did not follow specific trends; however the adsorption energies calculated from the DR equation were found to increase linearly with nitrogen content for each series of ACFs. Much higher adsorption capacities were achieved for SO2 in the presence of oxygen and water due to its catalytic conversion to H2SO4. The dominant factor for increasing adsorption of SO2 from simulated flue gas for each series of fibers studied was the weight percent of basic nitrogen groups present. In addition, the adsorption energies calculated for dry SO2 were shown to be linearly related to the adsorption capacity of H2SO4 from this flue gas for all fibers. It was shown that optimization of this parameter along with the pore volume results in higher adsorption capacities for removal of SO2 from flue gases. ?? 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.

Study of parameters affecting the conversion in a plug flow reactor for reactions of the type 2A→B

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beltran-Prieto, Juan Carlos; Long, Nguyen Huynh Bach Son

2018-04-01

Modeling of chemical reactors is an important tool to quantify reagent conversion, product yield and selectivity towards a specific compound and to describe the behavior of the system. Proposal of differential equations describing the mass and energy balance are among the most important steps required during the modeling process as they play a special role in the design and operation of the reactor. Parameters governing transfer of heat and mass have a strong relevance in the rate of the reaction. Understanding this information is important for the selection of reactor and operating regime. In this paper we studied the irreversible gas-phase reaction 2A→B. We model the conversion that can be achieved as function of the reactor volume and feeding temperature. Additionally, we discuss the effect of activation energy and the heat of reaction on the conversion achieved in the tubular reactor. Furthermore, we considered that dimerization occurs instantaneously in the catalytic surface to develop equations for the determination of rate of reaction per unit area of three different catalytic surface shapes. This data can be combined with information about the global rate of conversion in the reactor to improve regent conversion and yield of product.

Pulse sequences for efficient multi-cycle terahertz generation in periodically poled lithium niobate.

PubMed

Ravi, Koustuban; Schimpf, Damian N; Kärtner, Franz X

2016-10-31

The use of laser pulse sequences to drive the cascaded difference frequency generation of high energy, high peak-power and multi-cycle terahertz pulses in cryogenically cooled (100 K) periodically poled Lithium Niobate is proposed and studied. Detailed simulations considering the coupled nonlinear interaction of terahertz and optical waves (or pump depletion), show that unprecedented optical-to-terahertz energy conversion efficiencies > 5%, peak electric fields of hundred(s) of mega volts/meter at terahertz pulse durations of hundred(s) of picoseconds can be achieved. The proposed methods are shown to circumvent laser induced damage limitations at Joule-level pumping by 1µm lasers to enable multi-cycle terahertz sources with pulse energies > 10 milli-joules. Various pulse sequence formats are proposed and analyzed. Numerical calculations for periodically poled structures accounting for cascaded difference frequency generation, self-phase-modulation, cascaded second harmonic generation and laser induced damage are introduced. The physics governing terahertz generation using pulse sequences in this high conversion efficiency regime, limitations and practical considerations are discussed. It is shown that varying the poling period along the crystal length and further reduction of absorption can lead to even higher energy conversion efficiencies >10%. In addition to numerical calculations, an analytic formulation valid for arbitrary pulse formats and closed-form expressions for important cases are presented. Parameters optimizing conversion efficiency in the 0.1-1 THz range, the corresponding peak electric fields, crystal lengths and terahertz pulse properties are furnished.

Hydrogenation of CO 2 to methanol: Importance of metal–oxide and metal–carbide interfaces in the activation of CO 2

DOE PAGES

Rodriguez, José A.; Liu, Ping; Stacchiola, Dario J.; ...

2015-09-30

In this study, the high thermochemical stability of CO 2 makes it very difficult to achieve the catalytic conversion of the molecule into alcohols or other hydrocarbon compounds, which can be used as fuels or the starting point for the generation of fine chemicals. Pure metals and bimetallic systems used for the CO 2 → CH 3OH conversion usually bind CO 2 too weakly and, thus, show low catalytic activity. Here, we discuss a series of recent studies that illustrate the advantages of metal–oxide and metal–carbide interfaces when aiming at the conversion of CO2 into methanol. CeO x/Cu(111), Cu/CeO x/TiOmore » 2(110), and Au/CeO x/TiO 2(110) exhibit an activity for the CO 2 → CH 3OH conversion that is 2–3 orders of magnitude higher than that of a benchmark Cu(111) catalyst. In the Cu–ceria and Au–ceria interfaces, the multifunctional combination of metal and oxide centers leads to complementary chemical properties that open active reaction pathways for methanol synthesis. Efficient catalysts are also generated after depositing Cu and Au on TiC(001). In these cases, strong metal–support interactions modify the electronic properties of the admetals and make them active for the binding of CO 2 and its subsequent transformation into CH 3OH at the metal–carbide interfaces.« less

Midinfrared wavelength conversion in hydrogenated amorphous silicon waveguides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Jiang; Wang, Zhaolu; Huang, Nan; Han, Jing; Li, Yongfang; Liu, Hongjun

2017-10-01

Midinfrared (MIR) wavelength conversion based on degenerate four-wave mixing is theoretically investigated in hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) waveguides. The broadband phase mismatch is achieved in the normal group-velocity dispersion regime. The conversion bandwidth is extended to 900 nm, and conversion efficiency of up to -14 dB with a pump power of 70 mW in a 2-mm long a-Si:H rib waveguides is obtained. This low-power on-chip wavelength converter will have potential for application in a wide range of MIR nonlinear optic devices.

Social Valence in Children with Specific Language Impairment during Imitation-Based and Conversation-Based Language Intervention.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Haley, Katarina L.; And Others

1994-01-01

Fifteen preschool children with specific language impairment engaged in typical language intervention activities during conversation-based and imitation-based language programs. A higher number of positive social valence ratings; higher frequency of smiling, laughing, and engagement; and higher rate of verbal initiations were noted within…

Down-conversion IM-DD RF photonic link utilizing MQW MZ modulator.

PubMed

Xu, Longtao; Jin, Shilei; Li, Yifei

2016-04-18

We present the first down-conversion intensity modulated-direct detection (IM-DD) RF photonic link that achieves frequency down-conversion using the nonlinear optical phase modulation inside a Mach-Zehnder (MZ) modulator. The nonlinear phase modulation is very sensitive and it can enable high RF-to-IF conversion efficiency. Furthermore, the link linearity is enhanced by canceling the nonlinear distortions from the nonlinear phase modulation and the MZ interferometer. Proof-of-concept measurement was performed. The down-conversion IM-DD link demonstrated 28dB improvement in distortion levels over that of a conventional IM-DD link using a LiNbO₃ MZ modulator.

On-chip optical mode conversion based on dynamic grating in photonic-phononic hybrid waveguide

PubMed Central

Chen, Guodong; Zhang, Ruiwen; Sun, Junqiang

2015-01-01

We present a scheme for reversible and tunable on-chip optical mode conversion based on dynamic grating in a hybrid photonic-phononic waveguide. The dynamic grating is built up through the acousto-optic effect and the theoretical model of the optical mode conversion is developed by considering the geometrical deformation and refractive index change. Three kinds of mode conversions are able to be realized using the same hybrid waveguide structure in a large bandwidth by only changing the launched acoustic frequency. The complete mode conversion can be achieved by choosing a proper acoustic power under a given waveguide length. PMID:25996236

High efficiency solution processed sintered CdTe nanocrystal solar cells: the role of interfaces.

PubMed

Panthani, Matthew G; Kurley, J Matthew; Crisp, Ryan W; Dietz, Travis C; Ezzyat, Taha; Luther, Joseph M; Talapin, Dmitri V

2014-02-12

Solution processing of photovoltaic semiconducting layers offers the potential for drastic cost reduction through improved materials utilization and high device throughput. One compelling solution-based processing strategy utilizes semiconductor layers produced by sintering nanocrystals into large-grain semiconductors at relatively low temperatures. Using n-ZnO/p-CdTe as a model system, we fabricate sintered CdTe nanocrystal solar cells processed at 350 °C with power conversion efficiencies (PCE) as high as 12.3%. JSC of over 25 mA cm(-2) are achieved, which are comparable or higher than those achieved using traditional, close-space sublimated CdTe. We find that the VOC can be substantially increased by applying forward bias for short periods of time. Capacitance measurements as well as intensity- and temperature-dependent analysis indicate that the increased VOC is likely due to relaxation of an energetic barrier at the ITO/CdTe interface.

Silicon Sheet Growth Development for the Large Area Sheet Task of the Low Cost Solar Array Project. Heat Exchanger Method - Ingot Casting Fixed Abrasive Method - Multi-Wire Slicing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schmid, F.; Khattak, C. P.

1978-01-01

Solar cells fabricated from HEM cast silicon yielded up to 15% conversion efficiencies. This was achieved in spite of using unpurified graphite parts in the HEM furnace and without optimization of material or cell processing parameters. Molybdenum retainers prevented SiC formation and reduced carbon content by 50%. The oxygen content of vacuum cast HEM silicon is lower than typical Czochralski grown silicon. Impregnation of 45 micrometers diamonds into 7.5 micrometers copper sheath showed distortion of the copper layer. However, 12.5 micrometers and 15 micrometers copper sheath can be impregnated with 45 micrometers diamonds to a high concentration. Electroless nickel plating of wires impregnated only in the cutting edge showed nickel concentration around the diamonds. This has the possibility of reducing kerf. The high speed slicer fabricated can achieve higher speed and longer stroke with vibration isolation.

Photothermal conversion of CO₂ into CH₄ with H₂ over Group VIII nanocatalysts: an alternative approach for solar fuel production.

PubMed

Meng, Xianguang; Wang, Tao; Liu, Lequan; Ouyang, Shuxin; Li, Peng; Hu, Huilin; Kako, Tetsuya; Iwai, Hideo; Tanaka, Akihiro; Ye, Jinhua

2014-10-20

The photothermal conversion of CO2 provides a straightforward and effective method for the highly efficient production of solar fuels with high solar-light utilization efficiency. This is due to several crucial features of the Group VIII nanocatalysts, including effective energy utilization over the whole range of the solar spectrum, excellent photothermal performance, and unique activation abilities. Photothermal CO2 reaction rates (mol h(-1) g(-1)) that are several orders of magnitude larger than those obtained with photocatalytic methods (μmol h(-1) g(-1)) were thus achieved. It is proposed that the overall water-based CO2 conversion process can be achieved by combining light-driven H2 production from water and photothermal CO2 conversion with H2. More generally, this work suggests that traditional catalysts that are characterized by intense photoabsorption will find new applications in photo-induced green-chemistry processes. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Research and Technology Activities Supporting Closed-Brayton-Cycle Power Conversion System Development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barrett, Michael J.

2004-01-01

The elements of Brayton technology development emphasize power conversion system risk mitigation. Risk mitigation is achieved by demonstrating system integration feasibility, subsystem/component life capability (particularly in the context of material creep) and overall spacecraft mass reduction. Closed-Brayton-cycle (CBC) power conversion technology is viewed as relatively mature. At the 2-kWe power level, a CBC conversion system Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of six (6) was achieved during the Solar Dynamic Ground Test Demonstration (SD-GTD) in 1998. A TRL 5 was demonstrated for 10 kWe-class CBC components during the development of the Brayton Rotating Unit (BRU) from 1968 to 1976. Components currently in terrestrial (open cycle) Brayton machines represent TRL 4 for similar uses in 100 kWe-class CBC space systems. Because of the baseline component and subsystem technology maturity, much of the Brayton technology task is focused on issues related to systems integration. A brief description of ongoing technology activities is given.

Effect of Few-Layered Graphene-Based CdO Nanocomposite-Enhanced Power Conversion Efficiency of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bykkam, Satish; Kalagadda, Bikshalu; Kalagadda, Venkateswara Rao; Ahmadipour, Mohsen; Chakra, Ch. Shilpa; Rajendar, V.

2018-01-01

A few-layered graphene (FLG)/cadmium oxide (CdO) nanocomposite was sucessfully prepared through ultrasonic-assisted synthesis. The morphology of FLG (1.0 wt.%, 2.0 wt.%, and 3.0 wt.%)/CdO nanocomposites were characterized using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy techniques. The optical properties were studied with the help of UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy, while the crystalline phases were analyzed using x-ray diffraction. The doctor blade method was used to deposit FLG/CdO nanocomposites on fluorine-doped tin oxide conductive glass substrates. The effect of FLG weight percentage (1.0 wt.%, 2.0 wt.%, and 3.0 wt.%) was studied on the power conversion efficiency of dye-sensitized solar cell applications. The photovoltaic characteristics, current density-voltage curves were measured with ruthenium (II)-based dye under air mass condition 1.5G, 100 m W m-2 of a solar simulator. The results showed that higher power conversion efficiency of 3.54% was achieved at the appropriate weight percentage of FLG (1.0 wt.%)/CdO nanocomposite, compared to the CdO and other nanocomposite working electrodes FLG (2.0 wt.%, and 3.0 wt.%)/CdO.

Climate Impact and Economic Feasibility of Solar Thermochemical Jet Fuel Production.

PubMed

Falter, Christoph; Batteiger, Valentin; Sizmann, Andreas

2016-01-05

Solar thermochemistry presents a promising option for the efficient conversion of H2O and CO2 into liquid hydrocarbon fuels using concentrated solar energy. To explore the potential of this fuel production pathway, the climate impact and economic performance are analyzed. Key drivers for the economic and ecological performance are thermochemical energy conversion efficiency, the level of solar irradiation, operation and maintenance, and the initial investment in the fuel production plant. For the baseline case of a solar tower concentrator with CO2 capture from air, jet fuel production costs of 2.23 €/L and life cycle greenhouse gas (LC GHG) emissions of 0.49 kgCO2-equiv/L are estimated. Capturing CO2 from a natural gas combined cycle power plant instead of the air reduces the production costs by 15% but leads to LC GHG emissions higher than that of conventional jet fuel. Favorable assumptions for all involved process steps (30% thermochemical energy conversion efficiency, 3000 kWh/(m(2) a) solar irradiation, low CO2 and heliostat costs) result in jet fuel production costs of 1.28 €/L at LC GHG emissions close to zero. Even lower production costs may be achieved if the commercial value of oxygen as a byproduct is considered.

Effect of substrate availability on nitrous oxide production by deammonification processes under anoxic conditions

PubMed Central

Schneider, Yvonne; Beier, Maike; Rosenwinkel, Karl‐Heinz

2012-01-01

Summary Due to its high global warming potential, nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions from wastewater treatment processes have recently received a high degree of attention. Nevertheless, there is still a lack of information regarding the microbiological processes leading to N2O production. In this study, two lab‐scale sequencing batch reactors were operated with deammonification biomass to investigate the role of denitrification and the influence of substrate availability regarding N2O formation during the anoxic phase of deammonification. Three different operational phases were established: within the first phase conversion by anammox was favoured and after a transition phase, denitrification activity was promoted. Low nitrous oxide production was observed during stable operation aiming for anammox conversion. Pulsed inflow of the wastewater containing ammonium (NH4+) and nitrite (NO2‐) led to increased N2O production rates. Within the period of denitrification as dominating nitrogen conversion process, the nitrous oxide concentration level was higher during continuous inflow conditions, but the reaction to pulsed inflow was less pronounced. The results indicated that denitrification was responsible for N2O formation from the deammonification biomass. Operational settings to achieve suppression of denitrification processes to a large extend were deducted from the results of the experiments. PMID:22296600

The software for automatic creation of the formal grammars used by speech recognition, computer vision, editable text conversion systems, and some new functions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kardava, Irakli; Tadyszak, Krzysztof; Gulua, Nana; Jurga, Stefan

2017-02-01

For more flexibility of environmental perception by artificial intelligence it is needed to exist the supporting software modules, which will be able to automate the creation of specific language syntax and to make a further analysis for relevant decisions based on semantic functions. According of our proposed approach, of which implementation it is possible to create the couples of formal rules of given sentences (in case of natural languages) or statements (in case of special languages) by helping of computer vision, speech recognition or editable text conversion system for further automatic improvement. In other words, we have developed an approach, by which it can be achieved to significantly improve the training process automation of artificial intelligence, which as a result will give us a higher level of self-developing skills independently from us (from users). At the base of our approach we have developed a software demo version, which includes the algorithm and software code for the entire above mentioned component's implementation (computer vision, speech recognition and editable text conversion system). The program has the ability to work in a multi - stream mode and simultaneously create a syntax based on receiving information from several sources.

Performance of Ni/dolomite pellet catalyst on gas distribution from cassava rhizome gasification with a modular fixed-bed gasifier.

PubMed

Sricharoenchaikul, V; Atong, D; Sornkade, P; Nisamaneenate, J

2017-05-01

Thermal conversion of cassava rhizome was performed using a modular downdraft gasifier with the addition of Ni-based catalysts as promising tar eliminating and produced gas upgrading techniques. The activities of a synthesized 5% Ni/dolomite pellet catalyst prepared by impregnation method were investigated in a secondary reactor downstream of the gasifier. High reforming activity of the Ni/dolomite pellet catalyst on tar reduction was achieved. The conversion to H 2 and CO was improved via steam reforming of methane and char reaction with CO 2 . Moreover, the formation of CH 4 and C x H y was diminished through the tar or condensable hydrocarbon reformed on the catalyst surface. The carbon and hydrogen conversions of cassava rhizome with prepared catalyst were 83.79% and 61.78%, respectively, at an air flow rate of 1.98 m 3 /hr. At this condition, tar formation was low, while the lower heating value was 4.39 MJ/m 3 and H 2 to CO molar ratio was 1.22. Generally, the addition of a catalyst not only enhanced gas production, but also reduced tar and particulate matter generation; thus, its implementation should help lessen the pollution control requirement and cost of operation, while allowing higher quality fuel gas production.

Effects on Organic Photovoltaics Using Femtosecond-Laser-Treated Indium Tin Oxides.

PubMed

Chen, Mei-Hsin; Tseng, Ya-Hsin; Chao, Yi-Ping; Tseng, Sheng-Yang; Lin, Zong-Rong; Chu, Hui-Hsin; Chang, Jan-Kai; Luo, Chih-Wei

2016-09-28

The effects of femtosecond-laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) on an indium tin oxide (ITO) surface applied to an organic photovoltaic (OPV) system were investigated. The modifications of ITO induced by LIPPS in OPV devices result in more than 14% increase in power conversion efficiency (PCE) and short-circuit current density relative to those of the standard device. The basic mechanisms for the enhanced short-circuit current density are attributed to better light harvesting, increased scattering effects, and more efficient charge collection between the ITO and photoactive layers. Results show that higher PCEs would be achieved by laser-pulse-treated electrodes.

Thermal modeling of high efficiency AMTEC cells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ivanenok, J.F. III; Sievers, R.K.; Crowley, C.J.

1995-12-31

Remotely condensed Alkali Metal Thermal to Electric Conversion (AMTEC) cells achieve high efficiency by thermally isolating the hot {beta} Alumina Solid Electrolyte (BASE) tube from the cold condensing region. In order to design high efficiency AMTEC cells the designer must understand the heat losses associated with the AMTEC process. The major parasitic heat losses are due to conduction and radiation, and significant coupling of the two mechanisms occurs. This paper describes an effort to characterize the thermal aspects of the model PL-6 AMTEC cell and apply this understanding to the design of a higher efficiency AMTEC cell, model PL-8. Twomore » parallel analyses were used to model the thermal characteristics of PL-6. The first was a lumped node model using the classical electric circuit analogy and the second was a detailed finite-difference model. The lumped node model provides high speed and reasonable accuracy, and the detailed finite-difference model provides a more accurate, as well as visual, description of the cell temperature profiles. The results of the two methods are compared to the as-measured PL-6 data. PL-6 was the first cell to use a micromachined condenser to lower the radiation losses to the condenser, and it achieved a conversion efficiency of 15% (3 W output/20 W Input) at a temperature of 1050 K.« less

Self-assembly based plasmonic arrays tuned by atomic layer deposition for extreme visible light absorption.

PubMed

Hägglund, Carl; Zeltzer, Gabriel; Ruiz, Ricardo; Thomann, Isabell; Lee, Han-Bo-Ram; Brongersma, Mark L; Bent, Stacey F

2013-07-10

Achieving complete absorption of visible light with a minimal amount of material is highly desirable for many applications, including solar energy conversion to fuel and electricity, where benefits in conversion efficiency and economy can be obtained. On a fundamental level, it is of great interest to explore whether the ultimate limits in light absorption per unit volume can be achieved by capitalizing on the advances in metamaterial science and nanosynthesis. Here, we combine block copolymer lithography and atomic layer deposition to tune the effective optical properties of a plasmonic array at the atomic scale. Critical coupling to the resulting nanocomposite layer is accomplished through guidance by a simple analytical model and measurements by spectroscopic ellipsometry. Thereby, a maximized absorption of light exceeding 99% is accomplished, of which up to about 93% occurs in a volume-equivalent thickness of gold of only 1.6 nm. This corresponds to a record effective absorption coefficient of 1.7 × 10(7) cm(-1) in the visible region, far exceeding those of solid metals, graphene, dye monolayers, and thin film solar cell materials. It is more than a factor of 2 higher than that previously obtained using a critically coupled dye J-aggregate, with a peak width exceeding the latter by 1 order of magnitude. These results thereby substantially push the limits for light harvesting in ultrathin, nanoengineered systems.

Singlet fission/silicon solar cell exceeding 100% EQE (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pazos, Luis M.; Lee, Jumin; Kirch, Anton; Tabachnyk, Maxim; Friend, Richard H.; Ehrler, Bruno

2016-09-01

Current matching limits the commercialization of tandem solar cells due to their instability over spectral changes, leading to the need of using solar concentrators and trackers to keep the spectrum stable. We demonstrate that voltage-matched systems show far higher performance over spectral changes; caused by clouds, dust and other variations in atmospheric conditions. Singlet fission is a process in organic semiconductors which has shown very efficient, 200%, down-conversion yield and the generated excitations are long-lived, ideal for solar cells. As a result, the number of publications has grown exponentially in the past 5 years. Yet, so far no one has achieved to combine singlet fission with most low bandgap semiconductors, including crystalline silicon, the dominating solar cell material with a 90% share of the PV Market. Here we show that singlet fission can facilitate the fabrication of voltage-matched systems, opening a simple design route for the effective implementation of down-conversion in commercially available photovoltaic technologies, with no modification of the electronic circuitry of such. The implemention of singlet fission is achieved simply by decoupling the fabrication of the individual subcells. For this demonstration we used an ITO/PEDOT/P3HT/Pentacene/C60/Ag wide-bandgap subcell, and a commercial silicon solar cell as the low-bandgap component. We show that the combination of the two leads to the first tandem silicon solar cell which exceeds 100% external quantum efficiency.

Final Test Report: Hexavalent Chrome Free Coatings for Electronics Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) Shielding Effectiveness (SE)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kessel, Kurt R.

2016-01-01

The test results for Salt Spray Resistance, Static Heat and Humidity and Marine Environment can be found in Sections 3.1.3.3, 3.1.4.3 and 3.1.5.3 respectively. In summary, both the Metalast TCP and SurTec 650 Type 2 conversion coatings perform very similar to the incumbent Type 1 conversion coating against both 6061 and 5052 aluminum under all three test conditions. Significant prior work was performed to select the aluminum and conversion coating included within this test cycle; Reference - NASA GSDO Program Hexavalent Chrome Alternatives Final Pretreatments Test Report Task Order: NNH12AA45D September 01, 2013. As illustrated in the data, the 6061 aluminum panels SLIGHTLY out-performed the 5052 aluminum panels. Individual shielding effectiveness graphs for each panel are included within Appendix C and D. One other notable effect found during review of the data is that the Test Panels exposed to B117 Salt Fog reduced in shielding effectiveness significantly more than the Marine Environment Test Panels. The shielding effectiveness of the Marine Test Panels was approximately 20dB higher than the Test Panels that underwent B117 Salt Fog Exposure. The intent of this evaluation was not to maximize shielding effectiveness values. The same Parker Chomerics Cho-Seal 6503 gasket material was used for all panels with aluminum and conversion coating variants. A typical EMI gasket design for corrosive environments would be done quite differently. The intent was to execute a test that would provide the best possible evaluation of different aluminum materials and conversion coatings in corrosive environments. The test program achieved this intent. The fact that the two aluminums and two Type II conversion coatings performed similar to the incumbent Type 1 conversion coating is a positive outcome. It was desired to have an outcome that further differentiation the performance of two aluminum types and two conversion coating types but this could not be extracted by the test results. Further analysis of the test plates may be done by X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) or Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS). Feasibility of this is under review.

Parent-Adolescent Conversations about Eating, Physical Activity and Weight: Prevalence across Sociodemographic Characteristics and Associations with Adolescent Weight and Weight-Related Behaviors

PubMed Central

Berge, Jerica M.; MacLehose, Richard F; Loth, Katie A.; Eisenberg, Marla E.; Fulkerson, Jayne A.; Neumark-Sztainer, Dianne

2015-01-01

This paper aims to describe the prevalence of parent-adolescent conversations about eating, physical activity and weight across sociodemographic characteristics and to examine associations with adolescent BMI, dietary intake, physical activity and sedentary behaviors. Data from two linked epidemiological studies were used for cross-sectional analysis. Parents (n=3,424; 62% females) and adolescents (n=2,182; 53.2% girls) were socioeconomically and racially/ethnically diverse. Fathers reported more parent-adolescent conversations about healthful eating and physical activity with their sons and mothers reported more weight-focused conversations with their daughters. Parents of Hispanic/Latino and Asian/Hmong youth and parents from lower SES categories engaged in more conversations about weight and size. Adolescents whose mothers or fathers had weight-focused conversations with them had higher BMI percentiles. Adolescents who had two parents engaging in weight-related conversations had higher BMI percentiles. Healthcare providers may want to talk about the types of weight-related conversations parents are having with their adolescents and emphasize avoiding conversations about weight specifically. PMID:24997555

Lead-Free Inverted Planar Formamidinium Tin Triiodide Perovskite Solar Cells Achieving Power Conversion Efficiencies up to 6.22.

PubMed

Liao, Weiqiang; Zhao, Dewei; Yu, Yue; Grice, Corey R; Wang, Changlei; Cimaroli, Alexander J; Schulz, Philip; Meng, Weiwei; Zhu, Kai; Xiong, Ren-Gen; Yan, Yanfa

2016-11-01

Efficient lead (Pb)-free inverted planar formamidinium tin triiodide (FASnI 3 ) perovskite solar cells (PVSCs) are demonstrated. Our FASnI 3 PVSCs achieved average power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of 5.41% ± 0.46% and a maximum PCE of 6.22% under forward voltage scan. The PVSCs exhibit small photocurrent-voltage hysteresis and high reproducibility. The champion cell shows a steady-state efficiency of ≈6.00% for over 100 s. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Conversion of Sleeve Gastrectomy to Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass is Effective for Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease but not for Further Weight Loss.

PubMed

Parmar, Chetan D; Mahawar, Kamal K; Boyle, Maureen; Schroeder, Norbert; Balupuri, Shlok; Small, Peter K

2017-07-01

Inadequate weight loss (IWL)/weight regain (WR) and gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD), unresponsive to medical management, are two most common indications for conversion of sleeve gastrectomy (SG) to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). This study reports detailed outcomes of conversion of SG to RYGB for these two indications separately. We interrogated our prospectively maintained database to identify patients who underwent a conversion of their SG to RYGB in our unit. Outcomes in patients converted for IWL/WR and those converted for GERD were evaluated separately. We carried out 22 SG to RYGB in our unit between Aug 2012 and April 2015 with a mean follow-up of 16 months. Indication for conversion was GERD in 10/22 (45.5%) patients and IWL/WR in 11/22 (50.0%) patients. Patients undergoing conversion for GERD were significantly lighter (BMI 30.5) than those converted for IWL/WR (BMI 43.3) at the time of conversion. The conversion was very effective for GERD with 100% patients reporting improvement in symptoms, and 80% patients were able to stop their antacid medications. IWL/WR group achieved a further BMI drop of 2.5 points 2 years after surgery (final BMI 40.8) in comparison with 2.0 points BMI drop achieved by the GERD group (final BMI 28.5). This study demonstrates that conversion of SG to RYGB is effective for GERD symptoms but not for further weight loss, which was modest in both groups. Future studies need to examine the best revisional procedure for IWL/WR after SG.

The Development of Teacher Assessment Identity through Participation in Online Moderation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Adie, Lenore

2013-01-01

Teachers' professional conversations regarding the qualities evidenced in student work provide opportunities to develop a shared understanding of achievement standards. This research investigates social moderation conducted in a synchronous online mode as a specific form of professional conversation. The discussion considers the different factors…

Microwave birefringent metamaterials for polarization conversion based on spoof surface plasmon polariton modes

PubMed Central

Li, Yongfeng; Zhang, Jieqiu; Ma, Hua; Wang, Jiafu; Pang, Yongqiang; Feng, Dayi; Xu, Zhuo; Qu, Shaobo

2016-01-01

We propose the design of wideband birefringent metamaterials based on spoof surface plasmon polaritons (SSPPs). Spatial k-dispersion design of SSPP modes in metamaterials is adopted to achieve high-efficiency transmission of electromagnetic waves through the metamaterial layer. By anisotropic design, the transmission phase accumulation in metamaterials can be independently modulated for x- and y-polarized components of incident waves. Since the dispersion curve of SSPPs is nonlinear, frequency-dependent phase differences can be obtained between the two orthogonal components of transmitted waves. As an example, we demonstrate a microwave birefringent metamaterials composed of fishbone structures. The full-polarization-state conversions on the zero-longitude line of Poincaré sphere can be fulfilled twice in 6–20 GHz for both linearly polarized (LP) and circularly polarized (CP) waves incidence. Besides, at a given frequency, the full-polarization-state conversion can be achieved by changing the polarization angle of the incident LP waves. Both the simulation and experiment results verify the high-efficiency polarization conversion functions of the birefringent metamaterial, including circular-to-circular, circular-to-linear(linear-to-circular), linear-to-linear polarization conversions. PMID:27698443

How Age, Linguistic Status, and the Nature of the Auditory Scene Alter the Manner in Which Listening Comprehension Is Achieved in Multitalker Conversations.

PubMed

Avivi-Reich, Meital; Jakubczyk, Agnes; Daneman, Meredyth; Schneider, Bruce A

2015-10-01

We investigated how age and linguistic status affected listeners' ability to follow and comprehend 3-talker conversations, and the extent to which individual differences in language proficiency predict speech comprehension under difficult listening conditions. Younger and older L1s as well as young L2s listened to 3-talker conversations, with or without spatial separation between talkers, in either quiet or against moderate or high 12-talker babble background, and were asked to answer questions regarding their contents. After compensating for individual differences in speech recognition, no significant differences in conversation comprehension were found among the groups. As expected, conversation comprehension decreased as babble level increased. Individual differences in reading comprehension skill contributed positively to performance in younger EL1s and in young EL2s to a lesser degree but not in older EL1s. Vocabulary knowledge was significantly and positively related to performance only at the intermediate babble level. The results indicate that the manner in which spoken language comprehension is achieved is modulated by the listeners' age and linguistic status.

Investigation of Redox Metal Oxides for Carbonaceous Fuel Conversion and CO2 Capture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Galinsky, Nathan Lee

The chemical looping combustion (CLC) process uses metal oxides, also referred to as oxygen carriers, in a redox scheme for conversion of carbonaceous fuels into a concentrated stream of CO2 and steam while also producing heat and electricity. The unique redox scheme of CLC allows CO2 capture with minimal energy penalty. The CLC process performance greatly depends on the oxygen carrier that is chosen. To date, more than 1000 oxygen carriers have been developed for chemical-looping processes using metal oxides containing first-row transition metals. Oxygen carriers are typically mixed with an inert ceramic support to improve their overall mechanical stability and recyclability. This study focuses on design of (i) iron oxide oxygen carriers for conversion of gaseous carbonaceous fuels and (ii) development of perovskite CaMnO 3-d with improved stability and redox properties for conversion of solid fuels. Iron oxide is cheap and environmentally benign. However, it suffers from low activity with carbonaceous fuels due partially to the low ionic conductivity of iron oxides. In order to address the low activity of iron-oxide-based oxygen carriers, support addition has been shown to lower the energy barrier of oxygen anion transport within the oxygen carrier. This work adds a mixed-ionic-and-electronic-conductor (MIEC) support to iron oxide to help facilitate O2- transport inside the lattice of iron oxide. The MIEC-supported iron oxide is compared to commonly used supports including TiO2 and Al2O 3 and the pure ionic conductor support yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) for conversion of different carbonaceous fuels and hydrogen. Results show that the MIEC-supported iron oxide exhibits up to 70 times higher activity than non-MIEC-supported iron oxides for methane conversion. The MIEC supported iron oxide also shows good recyclability with only minor agglomeration and carbon formation observed. The effect of support-iron oxide synergies is further investigated to understand other physical and chemical properties that lead to highly active and recyclable oxygen carriers. Perovskite and fluorite-structured MIEC supports are tested for conversion of methane. The perovskite supported iron oxides exhibit higher activity and stability resulting from the high mixed conductivity of the support. Fluorite-structured CeO2 oxygen carriers deactivated by 75% after 10 redox cycles. This deactivation was attributed to agglomeration of iron oxide. The agglomeration was determined to occur due to Fe x+ transport during the oxidation step leading to high content of Fe on the surface of the oxygen carrier. Besides the MIEC supports, inert MgAl2O4 supported iron oxide is observed to activate in methane. The activation is attributed to carbon formation causing physical degradation of the oxygen carrier and leading to higher surface area and porosity. To achieve high activity with solid fuels, chemical looping with oxygen uncoupling (CLOU) is commonly used. This process uses oxygen carriers with high PO2 that allows the oxygen carrier to release a portion of their lattice oxygen as gaseous oxygen. In turn, the gaseous oxygen can react with solid fuel particles at a higher rate than the lattice oxygen. CaMnO 3 perovskite oxygen carriers offer high potential for CLOU. However, pure CaMnO3 suffers from long-term recyclability and sulfur poisoning. Addition of A-site (Ba and Sr) and B-site (Fe, Ni, Co, Al, and V) dopants are used to improve the performance of the base CaMnO3 oxygen carrier. Sr (A-site) and Fe (B-site) exhibit high compatibility with the base perovskite structure. Both dopants observe oxygen uncoupling properties up to 200°C below that of pure CaMnO3. Additionally, the doped structures also exhibit higher stability at high temperatures (>1000°C) and during redox cycles. The doped oxygen carriers also demonstrate significantly improved activity for coal char conversion.

Orienting to Topic in Clinical Discourse Elicitation of Everyday Conversation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fond, Marissa Joanne

2013-01-01

Talking topically, as it is understood intuitively and evoked metadiscursively, requires constructing an intersubjective orientation to talk that must be continually renewed. Analysis of interactants' ability to orient to topic emergence provides evidence of what is achieved in interaction, as well as why conversational coordination can lapse…

The Caring Approach and Social Issues in Management Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Burton, Brian K.; Dunn, Craig P.

2005-01-01

Most of the conversation, in both research and teaching circles, regarding stakeholder theory has been conducted in the language of absolute principles, of outcomes, and of responding to stakeholders to achieve organizational outcomes. More recently, conversations have occurred that have a different perspective on social issues in management…

Broadband wavelength conversion in hydrogenated amorphous silicon waveguide with silicon nitride layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Jiang; Li, Yongfang; Wang, Zhaolu; Han, Jing; Huang, Nan; Liu, Hongjun

2018-01-01

Broadband wavelength conversion based on degenerate four-wave mixing is theoretically investigated in a hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) waveguide with silicon nitride inter-cladding layer (a-Si:HN). We have found that enhancement of the non-linear effect of a-Si:H waveguide nitride intermediate layer facilitates broadband wavelength conversion. Conversion bandwidth of 490 nm and conversion efficiency of 11.4 dB were achieved in a numerical simulation of a 4 mm-long a-Si:HN waveguide under 1.55 μm continuous wave pumping. This broadband continuous-wave wavelength converter has potential applications in photonic networks, a type of readily manufactured low-cost highly integrated optical circuits.

Effect of preparation method and CuO promotion in the conversion of ethanol into 1,3-butadiene over SiO₂-MgO catalysts.

PubMed

Angelici, Carlo; Velthoen, Marjolein E Z; Weckhuysen, Bert M; Bruijnincx, Pieter C A

2014-09-01

Silica-magnesia (Si/Mg=1:1) catalysts were studied in the one-pot conversion of ethanol to butadiene. The catalyst synthesis method was found to greatly influence morphology and performance, with materials prepared through wet-kneading performing best both in terms of ethanol conversion and butadiene yield. Detailed characterization of the catalysts synthesized through co-precipitation or wet-kneading allowed correlation of activity and selectivity with morphology, textural properties, crystallinity, and acidity/basicity. The higher yields achieved with the wet-kneaded catalysts were attributed to a morphology consisting of SiO2 spheres embedded in a thin layer of MgO. The particle size of the SiO2 catalysts also influenced performance, with catalysts with smaller SiO2 spheres showing higher activity. Temperature-programmed desorption (TPD) measurements showed that best butadiene yields were obtained with SiO2-MgO catalysts characterized by an intermediate amount of acidic and basic sites. A Hammett indicator study showed the catalysts' pK(a) value to be inversely correlated with the amount of dehydration by-products formed. Butadiene yields could be further improved by the addition of 1 wt% of CuO as promoter to give butadiene yields and selectivities as high as 40% and 53%, respectively. The copper promoter boosts the production of the acetaldehyde intermediate changing the rate-determining step of the process. TEM-energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analyses showed CuO to be present on both the SiO2 and MgO components. UV/Vis spectra of promoted catalysts in turn pointed at the presence of cluster-like CuO species, which are proposed to be responsible for the increased butadiene production. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

High-Efficiency Photovoltaic Devices using Trap-Controlled Quantum-Dot Ink prepared via Phase-Transfer Exchange.

PubMed

Aqoma, Havid; Al Mubarok, Muhibullah; Hadmojo, Wisnu Tantyo; Lee, Eun-Hye; Kim, Tae-Wook; Ahn, Tae Kyu; Oh, Seung-Hwan; Jang, Sung-Yeon

2017-05-01

Colloidal-quantum-dot (CQD) photovoltaic devices are promising candidates for low-cost power sources owing to their low-temperature solution processability and bandgap tunability. A power conversion efficiency (PCE) of >10% is achieved for these devices; however, there are several remaining obstacles to their commercialization, including their high energy loss due to surface trap states and the complexity of the multiple-step CQD-layer-deposition process. Herein, high-efficiency photovoltaic devices prepared with CQD-ink using a phase-transfer-exchange (PTE) method are reported. Using CQD-ink, the fabrication of active layers by single-step coating and the suppression of surface trap states are achieved simultaneously. The CQD-ink photovoltaic devices achieve much higher PCEs (10.15% with a certified PCE of 9.61%) than the control devices (7.85%) owing to improved charge drift and diffusion. Notably, the CQD-ink devices show much lower energy loss than other reported high-efficiency CQD devices. This result reveals that the PTE method is an effective strategy for controlling trap states in CQDs. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Evaluation and Optimization of a Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Power Conversion Cycle for Nuclear Applications

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Edwin A. Harvego; Michael G. McKellar

2011-05-01

There have been a number of studies involving the use of gases operating in the supercritical mode for power production and process heat applications. Supercritical carbon dioxide (CO2) is particularly attractive because it is capable of achieving relatively high power conversion cycle efficiencies in the temperature range between 550°C and 750°C. Therefore, it has the potential for use with any type of high-temperature nuclear reactor concept, assuming reactor core outlet temperatures of at least 550°C. The particular power cycle investigated in this paper is a supercritical CO2 Recompression Brayton Cycle. The CO2 Recompression Brayton Cycle can be used as eithermore » a direct or indirect power conversion cycle, depending on the reactor type and reactor outlet temperature. The advantage of this cycle when compared to the helium Brayton Cycle is the lower required operating temperature; 550°C versus 850°C. However, the supercritical CO2 Recompression Brayton Cycle requires an operating pressure in the range of 20 MPa, which is considerably higher than the required helium Brayton cycle operating pressure of 8 MPa. This paper presents results of analyses performed using the UniSim process analyses software to evaluate the performance of the supercritical CO2 Brayton Recompression Cycle for different reactor outlet temperatures. The UniSim model assumed a 600 MWt reactor power source, which provides heat to the power cycle at a maximum temperature of between 550°C and 750°C. The UniSim model used realistic component parameters and operating conditions to model the complete power conversion system. CO2 properties were evaluated, and the operating range for the cycle was adjusted to take advantage of the rapidly changing conditions near the critical point. The UniSim model was then optimized to maximize the power cycle thermal efficiency at the different maximum power cycle operating temperatures. The results of the analyses showed that power cycle thermal efficiencies in the range of 40 to 50% can be achieved.« less

Mechanical properties of resin cements with different activation modes.

PubMed

Braga, R R; Cesar, P F; Gonzaga, C C

2002-03-01

Dual-cured cements have been studied in terms of the hardness or degree of conversion achieved with different curing modes. However, little emphasis is given to the influence of the curing method on other mechanical properties. This study investigated the flexural strength, flexural modulus and hardness of four proprietary resin cements. Materials tested were: Enforce and Variolink II (light-, self- and dual-cured), RelyX ARC (self- and dual-cured) and C & B (self-cured). Specimens were fractured using a three-point bending test. Pre-failure loads corresponding to specific displacements of the cross-head were used for flexural modulus calculation. Knoop hardness (KHN) was measured on fragments obtained after the flexural test. Tests were performed after 24 h storage at 37 degrees C. RelyX ARC dual-cured showed higher flexural strength than the other groups. RelyX ARC and Variolink II depended upon photo-activation to achieve higher hardness values. Enforce showed similar hardness for dual- and self-curing modes. No correlation was found between flexural strength and hardness, indicating that other factors besides the degree of cure (e.g. filler content and monomer type) affect the flexural strength of composites. No statistical difference was detected in the flexural modulus among the different groups.

Sulfate addition as an effective method to improve methane fermentation performance and propionate degradation in thermophilic anaerobic co-digestion of coffee grounds, milk and waste activated sludge with AnMBR.

PubMed

Li, Qian; Li, Yu-You; Qiao, Wei; Wang, Xiaochang; Takayanagi, Kazuyuki

2015-06-01

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of sulfate on propionate degradation and higher organic loading rate (OLR) achievement in a thermophilic AnMBR for 373days using coffee grounds, milk and waste activated sludge (WAS) as the co-substrate. Without the addition of sulfate, the anaerobic system failed at an OLR of 14.6g-COD/L/d, with propionate accumulating to above 2.23g-COD/L, and recovery by an alkalinity supplement was not successful. After sulfate was added into substrates at a COD/SO4(2-) ratio of 200:1 to 350:1, biogas production increased proportionally with OLR increasing from 4.06 to 15.2g-COD/L/d. Propionic acid was maintained at less than 100mg-COD/L due to the effective conversion of propionic acid to methane after the sulfate supplement was added. The long-term stable performance of the AnMBR indicated that adding sulfate was beneficial for the degradation of propionate and achieving a higher OLR under the thermophilic condition. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

High-efficiency thin-film GaAs solar cells, phase2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yeh, Y. C. M.

1981-01-01

Thin GaAs epi-layers with good crystallographic quality were grown using a (100) Si-substrate on which a thin Ge epi-interlayer was grown by CVD from germane. Both antireflection-coated metal oxide semiconductor (AMOS) and n(+)/p homojunction structures were studied. The AMOS cells were fabricated on undoped-GaAs epi-layers deposited on bulk poly-Ge substrates using organo-metallic CVD film-growth, with the best achieved AM1 conversion efficiency being 9.1%. Both p-type and n(+)-type GaAs growth were optimized using 50 ppm dimethyl zinc and 1% hydrogen sulfide, respectively. A direct GaAs deposition method in fabricating ultra-thin top layer, epitaxial n(+)/p shallow homojunction solar cells on (100) GaAs substrates (without anodic thinning) was developed to produce large area (1 sq/cm) cells, with 19.4% AM1 conversion efficiency achieved. Additionally, an AM1 conversion efficiency of 18.4% (17.5% with 5% grid coverage) was achieved for a single crystal GaAs n(+)/p cell grown by OM-CVD on a Ge wafer.

Elucidation of conditions allowing conversion of penicillin G and other penicillins to deacetoxycephalosporins by resting cells and extracts of Streptomyces clavuligerus NP1

PubMed Central

Cho, Hiroshi; Adrio, José L.; Luengo, José M.; Wolfe, Saul; Ocran, Simeon; Hintermann, Gilberto; Piret, Jacqueline M.; Demain, Arnold L.

1998-01-01

Using resting cells and extracts of Streptomyces clavuligerus NP1, we have been able to convert penicillin G (benzylpenicillin) to deacetoxycephalosporin G. Conversion was achieved by increasing by 45× the concentration of FeSO4 (1.8 mM) and doubling the concentration of α-ketoglutarate (1.28 mM) as compared with standard conditions used for the normal cell-free conversion of penicillin N to deacetoxycephalosporin C. ATP, MgSO4, KCl, and DTT, important in cell-free expansion of penicillin N, did not play a significant role in the ring expansion of penicillin G by resting cells or cell-free extracts. When these conditions were used with 14 other penicillins, ring expansion was achieved in all cases. PMID:9751702

Cardboard proportions and total solids contents as driving factors in dry co-fermentation of food waste.

PubMed

Capson-Tojo, Gabriel; Trably, Eric; Rouez, Maxime; Crest, Marion; Bernet, Nicolas; Steyer, Jean-Philippe; Delgenès, Jean-Philippe; Escudié, Renaud

2018-01-01

This study evaluated the influence of the co-substrate proportions (0-60% of cardboard in dry basis) and the initial total solid contents (20-40%) on the batch fermentation performance. Maximum hydrogen yields were obtained when mono-fermenting food waste at high solids contents (89mlH 2 ·gVS -1 ). The hydrogen yields were lower when increasing the proportions of cardboard. The lower hydrogen yields at higher proportions of cardboard were translated into higher yields of caproic acid (up to 70.1gCOD·kgCOD bio -1 ), produced by consumption of acetic acid and hydrogen. The highest substrate conversions were achieved at low proportions of cardboard, indicating a stabilization effect due to higher buffering capacities in co-fermentation. Clostridiales were predominant in all operational conditions. This study opens up new possibilities for using the cardboard proportions for controlling the production of high added-value products in dry co-fermentation of food waste. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Minimal modeling of the extratropical general circulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

O'Brien, Enda; Branscome, Lee E.

1989-01-01

The ability of low-order, two-layer models to reproduce basic features of the mid-latitude general circulation is investigated. Changes in model behavior with increased spectral resolution are examined in detail. Qualitatively correct time-mean heat and momentum balances are achieved in a beta-plane channel model which includes the first and third meridional modes. This minimal resolution also reproduces qualitatively realistic surface and upper-level winds and mean meridional circulations. Higher meridional resolution does not result in substantial changes in the latitudinal structure of the circulation. A qualitatively correct kinetic energy spectrum is produced when the resolution is high enough to include several linearly stable modes. A model with three zonal waves and the first three meridional modes has a reasonable energy spectrum and energy conversion cycle, while also satisfying heat and momentum budget requirements. This truncation reproduces the basic mechanisms and zonal circulation features that are obtained at higher resolution. The model performance improves gradually with higher resolution and is smoothly dependent on changes in external parameters.

Power conversion distribution system using a resonant high-frequency AC link

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sood, P. K.; Lipo, T. A.

1986-01-01

Static power conversion systems based on a resonant high frequency (HF) link offers a significant reduction in the size and weight of the equipment over that achieved with conventional approaches, especially when multiple sources and loads are to be integrated. A faster system response and absence of audible noise are the other principal characteristics of such systems. A conversion configuration based on a HF link which is suitable for applications requiring distributed power is proposed.

SAFARI-1: Achieving conversion to LEU - A local challenge

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Piani, C.S.B.

2008-07-15

Two years have passed since the South African Department of Minerals and Energy authorised the conversion from High Enriched Uranium (HEU) to Low Enriched Uranium (LEU) of the South African Research Reactor (SAFARI-1) and the associated fuel manufacturing at Pelindaba. The scheduling, as originally proposed, allowed approximately three years for the full conversion of the reactor, anticipating simultaneous manufacturing ability from the fuel production plant. Due to technical difficulties experienced in the conversion of the local manufacturing plant from HEU (UAl alloy) to LEU (U Silicide) and the uncertainty as to costing and scheduling of such an achievement, the conversionmore » of SAFARI-1 based on local supply has been allocated a lower priority. The acquisition in mid-2006 of 2 LEU silicide elements of SA design, manufactured by AREVA- CERCA and irradiated as test elements in SAFARI-1 to burn-ups of {approx}65% each; was successfully accomplished within 9 cycles of irradiation each. Furthermore, four 'Hybrid' elements (AREVA-CERCA plates assembled locally at Pelindaba) are ready for irradiation and have received regulatory authorisation to load. This will enable the SAFARI-1 conversion program to continue systematically according to an agreed schedule. This paper will trace the developments of the above and reflect the current status and the rescheduled conversion phases of the reactor according to latest expectations. (author)« less

What Drives Apostates and Converters? The Social and Familial Antecedents of Religious Change among Adolescents

PubMed Central

Longo, Gregory S.; Kim-Spoon, Jungmeen

2015-01-01

While research on the psychology of religion and spirituality has examined religious conversion, little research has examined social and familial variables that might play a role in conversion in adolescence. Longitudinal work examining concurrent conversion experiences – as opposed to retrospective reports – is particularly rare. In an examination of 209 parent-adolescent dyads, findings suggested that those who became religious at Time 2 had higher social competence at Time 1 than did apostates, whereas adolescents who were religious at both times had higher social competence, parent communication, and parent trust than apostates. Additionally, those who converted to their parent’s religion at Time 2 were higher than apostates in Time 1 social competence and parent communication. Results point to the importance of considering social and familial factors in religious conversion. PMID:25664141

Unplanned Robotic-Assisted Conversion-to-Open Colorectal Surgery is Associated with Adverse Outcomes.

PubMed

Lee, Yongjin F; Albright, Jeremy; Akram, Warqaa M; Wu, Juan; Ferraro, Jane; Cleary, Robert K

2018-06-01

Laparoscopic conversion-to-open colorectal surgery is associated with worse outcomes when compared to operations completed without conversion. Consequences of robotic conversion have not yet been determined. The purpose of this study is to compare short-term outcomes of converted robotic colorectal cases with those that are completed without conversion, as well as with cases done by the open approach. The ACS-NSQIP database was queried for patients who underwent robotic completed, robotic converted-to-open, and open colorectal resection between 2012 and 2015. Propensity scores were estimated using gradient-boosted machines and converted to weights. Generalized linear models were fit using propensity score-weighted data. A total of 25,253 patients met inclusion criteria-21,356 (84.5%) open, 3663 (14.5%) robotic completed, and 234 (0.9%) conversions. Conversion rate was 6.0%. Converted cases had significantly higher 30-day mortality rate, higher complication rate, and longer hospital length of stay than completed cases. Converted patients also had significantly higher rates of the following complications: surgical site infections, cardiac complications, deep venous thrombosis, postoperative ileus, postoperative re-intubation, renal failure, and 30-day reoperation. Compared to the open approach, converted patients had significantly more cardiac complications, postoperative reintubation, and longer operating times with no significant difference in 30-day mortality. Unplanned robotic conversion-to-open is associated with worse outcomes than completed cases and outcomes that more closely resemble traditional open colorectal surgery. Patients should be counseled with regard to minimally invasive conversion rates and outcomes. The continued pursuit of technological advancements that decrease the risk for conversion in minimally invasive colorectal surgery is clearly warranted.

Electroviscous effect and electrokinetic energy conversion in time periodic pressure-driven flow through a parallel-plate nanochannel with surface charge-dependent slip

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buren, Mandula; Jian, Yongjun; Zhao, Yingchun; Chang, Long

2018-05-01

In this paper we analytically investigate the electroviscous effect and electrokinetic energy conversion in the time periodic pressure-driven flow of an incompressible viscous Newtonian liquid through a parallel-plate nanochannel with surface charge-dependent slip. Analytical and semi-analytical solutions for electric potential, velocity and streaming electric field are obtained and are utilized to compute electrokinetic energy conversion efficiency. The results show that velocity amplitude and energy conversion efficiency are reduced when the effect of surface charge on slip length is considered. The surface charge effect increases with zeta potential and ionic concentration. In addition, the energy conversion efficiency is large when the ratio of channel half-height to the electric double layer thickness is small. The boundary slip results in a large increase in energy conversion. Higher values of the frequency of pressure pulsation lead to higher values of the energy conversion efficiency. We also obtain the energy conversion efficiency in constant pressure-driven flow and find that the energy conversion efficiency in periodical pressure-driven flow becomes larger than that in constant pressure-driven flow when the frequency is large enough.

The Effects of Cell Phone Conversations on the Attention and Memory of Bystanders

PubMed Central

Galván, Veronica V.; Vessal, Rosa S.; Golley, Matthew T.

2013-01-01

The pervasive use of cell phones impacts many people–both cell phone users and bystanders exposed to conversations. This study examined the effects of overhearing a one-sided (cell phone) conversation versus a two-sided conversation on attention and memory. In our realistic design, participants were led to believe they were participating in a study examining the relationship between anagrams and reading comprehension. While the participant was completing an anagram task, the researcher left the room and participants overheard a scripted conversation, either two confederates talking with each other or one confederate talking on a cell phone. Upon the researcher’s return, the participant took a recognition memory task with words from the conversation, and completed a questionnaire measuring the distracting nature of the conversation. Participants who overheard the one-sided conversation rated the conversation as significantly higher in distractibility than those who overheard the two-sided conversation. Also, participants in the one-sided condition scored higher on the recognition task. In particular they were more confident and accurate in their responses to words from the conversation than participants in the two-sided condition. However, participants’ scores on the anagram task were not significantly different between conditions. As in real world situations, individual participants could pay varying amounts of attention to the conversation since they were not explicitly instructed to ignore it. Even though the conversation was irrelevant to the anagram task and contained less words and noise, one-sided conversations still impacted participants’ self-reported distractibility and memory, thus showing people are more attentive to cell phone conversations than two-sided conversations. Cell phone conversations may be a common source of distraction causing negative consequences in workplace environments and other public places. PMID:23516514

The effects of cell phone conversations on the attention and memory of bystanders.

PubMed

Galván, Veronica V; Vessal, Rosa S; Golley, Matthew T

2013-01-01

The pervasive use of cell phones impacts many people-both cell phone users and bystanders exposed to conversations. This study examined the effects of overhearing a one-sided (cell phone) conversation versus a two-sided conversation on attention and memory. In our realistic design, participants were led to believe they were participating in a study examining the relationship between anagrams and reading comprehension. While the participant was completing an anagram task, the researcher left the room and participants overheard a scripted conversation, either two confederates talking with each other or one confederate talking on a cell phone. Upon the researcher's return, the participant took a recognition memory task with words from the conversation, and completed a questionnaire measuring the distracting nature of the conversation. Participants who overheard the one-sided conversation rated the conversation as significantly higher in distractibility than those who overheard the two-sided conversation. Also, participants in the one-sided condition scored higher on the recognition task. In particular they were more confident and accurate in their responses to words from the conversation than participants in the two-sided condition. However, participants' scores on the anagram task were not significantly different between conditions. As in real world situations, individual participants could pay varying amounts of attention to the conversation since they were not explicitly instructed to ignore it. Even though the conversation was irrelevant to the anagram task and contained less words and noise, one-sided conversations still impacted participants' self-reported distractibility and memory, thus showing people are more attentive to cell phone conversations than two-sided conversations. Cell phone conversations may be a common source of distraction causing negative consequences in workplace environments and other public places.

Photon up-conversion increases biomass yield in Chlorella vulgaris.

PubMed

Menon, Kavya R; Jose, Steffi; Suraishkumar, Gadi K

2014-12-01

Photon up-conversion, a process whereby lower energy radiations are converted to higher energy levels via the use of appropriate phosphor systems, was employed as a novel strategy for improving microalgal growth and lipid productivity. Photon up-conversion enables the utilization of regions of the solar spectrum, beyond the typical photosynthetically active radiation, that are usually wasted or are damaging to the algae. The effects of up-conversion of red light by two distinct sets of up-conversion phosphors were studied in the model microalgae Chlorella vulgaris. Up-conversion by set 1 phosphors led to a 2.85 fold increase in biomass concentration and a 3.2 fold increase in specific growth rate of the microalgae. While up-conversion by set 2 phosphors resulted in a 30% increase in biomass and 12% increase in specific intracellular neutral lipid, while the specific growth rates were comparable to that of the control. Furthermore, up-conversion resulted in higher levels of specific intracellular reactive oxygen species in C. vulgaris. Up-conversion of red light (654 nm) was shown to improve biomass yields in C. vulgaris. In principle, up-conversion can be used to increase the utilization range of the electromagnetic spectrum for improved cultivation of photosynthetic systems such as plants, algae, and microalgae. Copyright © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Conversion therapy for inoperable advanced gastric cancer patients by docetaxel, cisplatin, and S-1 (DCS) chemotherapy: a multi-institutional retrospective study.

PubMed

Sato, Yasushi; Ohnuma, Hiroyuki; Nobuoka, Takayuki; Hirakawa, Masahiro; Sagawa, Tamotsu; Fujikawa, Koshi; Takahashi, Yasuo; Shinya, Minami; Katsuki, Shinich; Takahashi, Minoru; Maeda, Masahiro; Okagawa, Yutaka; Naoki, Uemura; Kikuch, Syouhei; Okamoto, Koichi; Miyamoto, Hiroshi; Shimada, Mitsuo; Takemasa, Ichiro; Kato, Junji; Takayama, Tetsuji

2017-05-01

Conversion therapy is an option for unresectable metastatic gastric cancer when distant metastases are controlled by chemotherapy; however, the feasibility and efficacy remain unclear. This study aimed to assess the feasibility and efficacy of conversion therapy in patients with initially unresectable gastric cancer treated with docetaxel, cisplatin, and S-1 (DCS) chemotherapy by evaluating clinical outcomes. One hundred unresectable metastatic gastric cancer patients, enrolled in three DCS chemotherapy clinical trials, were retrospectively evaluated. The patients received oral S-1 (40 mg/m 2 b.i.d.) on days 1-14 and intravenous cisplatin (60 mg/m 2 ) and docetaxel (50-60 mg/m 2 ) on day 8 every 3 weeks. Conversion therapy was defined when the patients could undergo R0 resection post-DCS chemotherapy and were able to tolerate curative surgery. Conversion therapy was achieved in 33/100 patients, with no perioperative mortality. Twenty-eight of the 33 patients (84.8 %) achieved R0 resection, and 78.8 % were defined as histological chemotherapeutic responders. The median overall survival (OS) of patients who underwent conversion therapy was 47.8 months (95 % CI 28.0-88.5 months). Patients who underwent R0 resection had significantly longer OS than those who underwent R1 and R2 resections (P = 0.0002). Of the patients with primarily unresectable metastases, 10 % lived >5 years. Among patients who underwent conversion therapy, multivariate analysis showed that the pathological response was a significant independent predictor for OS. DCS safely induced a high conversion rate, with very high R0 and pathological response rates, and was associated with a good prognosis; these findings warrant further prospective investigations.

NIR stimulus-responsive core-shell type nanoparticles based on photothermal conversion for enhanced antitumor efficacy through chemo-photothermal therapy.

PubMed

Sun, Kai; You, Chaoqun; Wang, Senlin; Gao, Zhiguo; Wu, Hongshuai; Tao, W Andy; Zhu, Xiaoli; Sun, Baiwang

2018-07-13

A novel core-shell type nanoparticle (CSNP) was designed here to target co-delivery of doxorubicin (DOX) and photosensitizer indocyanine green (ICG) to tumor sites by the aid of NIR induced photothermal conversion effect for the purpose of synergistic chemo-photothermal cancer therapy. The electrostatically self-assembled CSNPs were prepared by amino-functionalized mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN-NH 2 ) as the positive inner core and DSPE-PEG 2000 -COOH and DSPE-PEG 2000 -FA modified lecithin as the negative outer shell. The obtained CSNPs were nanospheres with a uniform size of 47 nm, which were kept stable at 4 °C in PBS (pH = 7). Research on the release of NIR stimulus (808 nm, 1.54 W cm -2 , 6 min) manifested that the release property of the CSNPs was controllable under low pH conditions. In addition, specific concentration (40 μg ml -1 ) ICG-loaded CSNPs, achieving an appropriate temperature up to 45 °C, indicated a desired photothermal conversion efficiency. For targeting the folate receptor, the folate modified CSNPs enabled us to reach a higher cellular uptake by the mean fluorescence intensity. In vitro cell assay, the prepared CSNPs showed outstanding inhibitory efficiency (2.07% cell viability and 91.8% cell apoptosis) on MCF-7 cells for 24 h when irradiated by an 808 nm laser with a power of 1.54 W cm -2 for 6 min. Our research highlights that the prepared nanoparticles hold potential promise for cancer treatment based on photothermal conversion performance and FA-targeted delivery.

Fully Convolutional Networks for Ground Classification from LIDAR Point Clouds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rizaldy, A.; Persello, C.; Gevaert, C. M.; Oude Elberink, S. J.

2018-05-01

Deep Learning has been massively used for image classification in recent years. The use of deep learning for ground classification from LIDAR point clouds has also been recently studied. However, point clouds need to be converted into an image in order to use Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs). In state-of-the-art techniques, this conversion is slow because each point is converted into a separate image. This approach leads to highly redundant computation during conversion and classification. The goal of this study is to design a more efficient data conversion and ground classification. This goal is achieved by first converting the whole point cloud into a single image. The classification is then performed by a Fully Convolutional Network (FCN), a modified version of CNN designed for pixel-wise image classification. The proposed method is significantly faster than state-of-the-art techniques. On the ISPRS Filter Test dataset, it is 78 times faster for conversion and 16 times faster for classification. Our experimental analysis on the same dataset shows that the proposed method results in 5.22 % of total error, 4.10 % of type I error, and 15.07 % of type II error. Compared to the previous CNN-based technique and LAStools software, the proposed method reduces the total error and type I error (while type II error is slightly higher). The method was also tested on a very high point density LIDAR point clouds resulting in 4.02 % of total error, 2.15 % of type I error and 6.14 % of type II error.

NIR stimulus-responsive core–shell type nanoparticles based on photothermal conversion for enhanced antitumor efficacy through chemo-photothermal therapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Kai; You, Chaoqun; Wang, Senlin; Gao, Zhiguo; Wu, Hongshuai; Tao, W. Andy; Zhu, Xiaoli; Sun, Baiwang

2018-07-01

A novel core–shell type nanoparticle (CSNP) was designed here to target co-delivery of doxorubicin (DOX) and photosensitizer indocyanine green (ICG) to tumor sites by the aid of NIR induced photothermal conversion effect for the purpose of synergistic chemo-photothermal cancer therapy. The electrostatically self-assembled CSNPs were prepared by amino-functionalized mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN-NH2) as the positive inner core and DSPE-PEG2000-COOH and DSPE-PEG2000-FA modified lecithin as the negative outer shell. The obtained CSNPs were nanospheres with a uniform size of 47 nm, which were kept stable at 4 °C in PBS (pH = 7). Research on the release of NIR stimulus (808 nm, 1.54 W cm‑2, 6 min) manifested that the release property of the CSNPs was controllable under low pH conditions. In addition, specific concentration (40 μg ml‑1) ICG-loaded CSNPs, achieving an appropriate temperature up to 45 °C, indicated a desired photothermal conversion efficiency. For targeting the folate receptor, the folate modified CSNPs enabled us to reach a higher cellular uptake by the mean fluorescence intensity. In vitro cell assay, the prepared CSNPs showed outstanding inhibitory efficiency (2.07% cell viability and 91.8% cell apoptosis) on MCF-7 cells for 24 h when irradiated by an 808 nm laser with a power of 1.54 W cm‑2 for 6 min. Our research highlights that the prepared nanoparticles hold potential promise for cancer treatment based on photothermal conversion performance and FA-targeted delivery.

Conversion efficiency of skutterudite-based thermoelectric modules.

PubMed

Salvador, James R; Cho, Jung Y; Ye, Zuxin; Moczygemba, Joshua E; Thompson, Alan J; Sharp, Jeffrey W; Koenig, Jan D; Maloney, Ryan; Thompson, Travis; Sakamoto, Jeffrey; Wang, Hsin; Wereszczak, Andrew A

2014-06-28

Presently, the only commercially available power generating thermoelectric (TE) modules are based on bismuth telluride (Bi2Te3) alloys and are limited to a hot side temperature of 250 °C due to the melting point of the solder interconnects and/or generally poor power generation performance above this point. For the purposes of demonstrating a TE generator or TEG with higher temperature capability, we selected skutterudite based materials to carry forward with module fabrication because these materials have adequate TE performance and are mechanically robust. We have previously reported the electrical power output for a 32 couple skutterudite TE module, a module that is type identical to ones used in a high temperature capable TEG prototype. The purpose of this previous work was to establish the expected power output of the modules as a function of varying hot and cold side temperatures. Recent upgrades to the TE module measurement system built at the Fraunhofer Institute for Physical Measurement Techniques allow for the assessment of not only the power output, as previously described, but also the thermal to electrical energy conversion efficiency. Here we report the power output and conversion efficiency of a 32 couple, high temperature skutterudite module at varying applied loading pressures and with different interface materials between the module and the heat source and sink of the test system. We demonstrate a 7% conversion efficiency at the module level when a temperature difference of 460 °C is established. Extrapolated values indicate that 7.5% is achievable when proper thermal interfaces and loading pressures are used.

Let Us Talk about Our Rights.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Seleoane, Mandla

This monograph attempts to familiarize people with their constitutional rights through the use of a playlet presented as a conversation among three people. The conversation points out that many rights stand in conflict with one another and how a balancing act must be achieved to carry out the enjoyment of one's rights. The monograph proceeds on…

Opportunities Lost: Local Translations of Advocacy Policy Conversations

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ares, Nancy; Buendia, Edward

2007-01-01

Background/Context: Policy documents such as Title I of the No Child Left Behind Act [NCLB] (2001) direct schools and school systems to funnel resources to students based on their socioeconomic and linguistic status, as well as according to performance on standardized measures of achievement. Such conversations in the US about serving "at…

12 CFR 563b.105 - What information must I include in my business plan?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... achieve your planned deployment of conversion proceeds in your proposed market areas, and how your... lending needs in your proposed market areas. OTS strongly discourages business plans that provide for a... properly managed leverage strategy. (3) The risks associated with your plan for deployment of conversion...

Robust and efficient enzymatic saccharification of softwoods by SPORL

Treesearch

J.Y. Zhu; X.J. Pan; W. Zhu; G.S. Wang; R. Gleisner

2009-01-01

This study demonstrated Sulfite Pretreatment to Overcome Recalcitrance of Lignocellulose (SPORL) for robust conversion of softwood through enzymatic hydrolysis. At a sodium bisulfite charge around 9%, over 90% cellulose conversion could be achieved when spruce wood chips were pretreated at 180°C with pH near 2. For lodgepole pine, pretreatment liquor initial...

Supported black phosphorus nanosheets as hydrogen-evolving photocatalyst achieving 5.4% energy conversion efficiency at 353 K.

PubMed

Tian, Bin; Tian, Bining; Smith, Bethany; Scott, M C; Hua, Ruinian; Lei, Qin; Tian, Yue

2018-04-11

Solar-driven water splitting using powdered catalysts is considered as the most economical means for hydrogen generation. However, four-electron-driven oxidation half-reaction showing slow kinetics, accompanying with insufficient light absorption and rapid carrier combination in photocatalysts leads to low solar-to-hydrogen energy conversion efficiency. Here, we report amorphous cobalt phosphide (Co-P)-supported black phosphorus nanosheets employed as photocatalysts can simultaneously address these issues. The nanosheets exhibit robust hydrogen evolution from pure water (pH = 6.8) without bias and hole scavengers, achieving an apparent quantum efficiency of 42.55% at 430 nm and energy conversion efficiency of over 5.4% at 353 K. This photocatalytic activity is attributed to extremely efficient utilization of solar energy (~75% of solar energy) by black phosphorus nanosheets and high-carrier separation efficiency by amorphous Co-P. The hybrid material design realizes efficient solar-to-chemical energy conversion in suspension, demonstrating the potential of black phosphorus-based materials as catalysts for solar hydrogen production.

Interfacing a quantum dot with a spontaneous parametric down-conversion source

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huber, Tobias; Prilmüller, Maximilian; Sehner, Michael; Solomon, Glenn S.; Predojević, Ana; Weihs, Gregor

2017-09-01

Quantum networks require interfacing stationary and flying qubits. These flying qubits are usually nonclassical states of light. Here we consider two of the leading source technologies for nonclassical light, spontaneous parametric down-conversion and single semiconductor quantum dots. Down-conversion delivers high-grade entangled photon pairs, whereas quantum dots excel at producing single photons. We report on an experiment that joins these two technologies and investigates the conditions under which optimal interference between these dissimilar light sources may be achieved.

Behaviours and influence factors of radon progeny in three typical dwellings.

PubMed

Li, Hongzhao; Zhang, Lei; Guo, Qiuju

2011-03-01

To investigate the behaviours and influence factors of radon progeny in rural dwellings in China, site measurements of radon equilibrium factor, unattached fraction and some important indoor environmental factors, such as aerosol concentration, aerosol size distribution and ventilation rate, were carried out in three typical types of dwellings, and a theoretical study was also performed synchronously. Good consistency between the results of site measurements and the theoretical calculation on equilibrium factor F and unattached fraction f(p) was achieved. Lower equilibrium factor and higher unattached fraction in mud or cave houses were found compared to those in brick houses, and it was suggested by the theoretical study that the smaller aerosol size distribution in mud or cave houses might be the main reason for what was observed. The dose conversion factor in the mud houses and the cave houses may be higher than that in brick houses.

Correlation of Wissler Human Thermal Model Blood Flow and Shiver Algorithms

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bue, Grant; Makinen, Janice; Cognata, Thomas

2010-01-01

The Wissler Human Thermal Model (WHTM) is a thermal math model of the human body that has been widely used to predict the human thermoregulatory response to a variety of cold and hot environments. The model has been shown to predict core temperature and skin temperatures higher and lower, respectively, than in tests of subjects in crew escape suit working in a controlled hot environments. Conversely the model predicts core temperature and skin temperatures lower and higher, respectively, than in tests of lightly clad subjects immersed in cold water conditions. The blood flow algorithms of the model has been investigated to allow for more and less flow, respectively, for the cold and hot case. These changes in the model have yielded better correlation of skin and core temperatures in the cold and hot cases. The algorithm for onset of shiver did not need to be modified to achieve good agreement in cold immersion simulations

Reduced mitochondrial coenzyme Q10 levels in HepG2 cells treated with high-dose simvastatin: A possible role in statin-induced hepatotoxicity?

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tavintharan, S.; Ong, C.N.; Jeyaseelan, K.

2007-09-01

Lowering of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol is well achieved by 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors (statins). Statins inhibit the conversion of HMG-CoA to mevalonate, a precursor for cholesterol and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ{sub 10}). In HepG2 cells, simvastatin decreased mitochondrial CoQ{sub 10} levels, and at higher concentrations was associated with a moderately higher degree of cell death, increased DNA oxidative damage and a reduction in ATP synthesis. Supplementation of CoQ{sub 10}, reduced cell death and DNA oxidative stress, and increased ATP synthesis. It is suggested that CoQ{sub 10} deficiency plays an important role in statin-induced hepatopathy, and that CoQ{sub 10} supplementation protectsmore » HepG2 cells from this complication.« less

Flower-shaped ZnO nanocrystallite aggregates synthesized through a template-free aqueous solution method for dye-sensitized solar cells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chang, Wei-Chen, E-mail: changpeter@iner.gov.tw; Institute of Nuclear Energy Research, Atomic Energy Council, Executive Yuan, 1000 Wenhua Rd., Chiaan Village, Lungtan, Taoyuan 325, Taiwan; Chen, Hung-Shuo

Hierarchically structured flower-shaped aggregates composed of ZnO nanocrystals were synthesized through a template-free aqueous solution method. The synthesized nanocrystallite aggregates were demonstrated to be promising photoanode materials for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Compared with commercially available ZnO nanoparticles (ZnONPs), the flower-like aggregates (ZnONFs), each having an overall dimension of 400–600 nm, exhibited similar dye loading but higher light-scattering ability, which led to a substantial increase in the light-harvesting efficiency of resulting cells. The unique morphology of ZnONFs also boosted the absorbed photon-to-electric current generation efficiency. Consequently, DSSCs constructed from ZnONFs showed significantly improved photocurrent and achieved an overall conversion efficiency ofmore » 4.42%, which was 47% higher than that attained by ZnONP-based cells.« less

Catalytic dehydroaromatization of n-alkanes by pincer-ligated iridium complexes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahuja, Ritu; Punji, Benudhar; Findlater, Michael; Supplee, Carolyn; Schinski, William; Brookhart, Maurice; Goldman, Alan S.

2011-02-01

Aromatic hydrocarbons are among the most important building blocks in the chemical industry. Benzene, toluene and xylenes are obtained from the high temperature thermolysis of alkanes. Higher alkylaromatics are generally derived from arene-olefin coupling, which gives branched products—that is, secondary alkyl arenes—with olefins higher than ethylene. The dehydrogenation of acyclic alkanes to give alkylaromatics can be achieved using heterogeneous catalysts at high temperatures, but with low yields and low selectivity. We present here the first catalytic conversion of n-alkanes to alkylaromatics using homogeneous or molecular catalysts—specifically ‘pincer’-ligated iridium complexes—and olefinic hydrogen acceptors. For example, the reaction of n-octane affords up to 86% yield of aromatic product, primarily o-xylene and secondarily ethylbenzene. In the case of n-decane and n-dodecane, the resulting alkylarenes are exclusively unbranched (that is, n-alkyl-substituted), with selectivity for the corresponding o-(n-alkyl)toluene.

Conversational Memory Employing Cued and Free Recall.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Benoit, Pamela J.; Benoit, William L.

1988-01-01

Tests two hypotheses: (1) that cued recall elicits significantly more conversational information than free recall; and (2) that conversational interactants recall more of their partner's utterances than their own. Finds cued recall produced significantly higher amounts of remembering than free recall. (MS)

Blade-Cast Nonfullerene Organic Solar Cells in Air with Excellent Morphology, Efficiency, and Stability.

PubMed

Zhang, Lin; Lin, Baojun; Hu, Bo; Xu, Xianbin; Ma, Wei

2018-04-17

Blade-coating serving as a prototype tool for slot-die coating can be very compatible with large-area roll-to-roll coating. Using blade-coating in an ambient environment, an average power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 10.03% is achieved in nonfullerene organic solar cells, which is higher than that of the optimal spin-coated device with a PCE of 9.41%. It is demonstrated that blade-coating can induce a higher degree of molecular packing for both conjugated polymer donors and small-molecular acceptors as it helps to produce a seeding film containing numerous crystal grains, subsequently providing nucleation sites for the residual solution when the motion of the blade exposes a liquid front. Due to this effect, blade-coating can partially replace the role of the additive 1,8-diiodooctane (DIO) and thus achieves the optimized morphology with fewer additives. Moreover, it is found that the blade-coated film with 0.25% DIO possesses not only a smaller domain size but also higher domain purity, suggesting more D/A (donor/acceptor) interfaces and a purer phase domain as compared to the spin-coated film with 1% DIO. Encouragingly, the blade-coated device with less DIO (0.25%) exhibits much better stability than the spin-coated device with 1% DIO, showing excellent prospects. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Ultrafast electrochemical preparation of graphene/CoS nanosheet counter electrodes for efficient dye-sensitized solar cells

DOE PAGES

Zhu, Chongyang; Zhu, Yimei; Min, Huihua; ...

2015-10-05

Utilizing inexpensive, high-efficiency counter electrodes (CEs) to replace the traditional platinum counterparts in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) is worthwhile. In this paper, we detail how we synchronously prepared composite CEs of CoS nanosheet arrays and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) layers for the first time via a low temperature, ultrafast one-step electrochemical strategy. With this approach, the whole fabrication process of the composite CEs was only a small percentage of the average time (~15 hours) using other methods. The DSSC assembled with the rGO–CoS composite CE achieved an enhanced power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 8.34%, which is dramatically higher than 6.27%more » of pure CoS CE-based DSSC and even exceeds 7.50% of Pt CE-based DSSC. The outstanding PCE breakthrough is undoubtedly attributed to the enhancement in electrocatalytic ability of the rGO–CoS composite CE due to the incorporation of highly conducting rGO layers and the GO layers-induced growth of CoS nanosheet arrays with higher density and larger surface area. Therefore, lower charge-transfer resistance and higher exchange current density can be achieved as corroborated by the electrochemical impedance spectra (EIS) and Tafel polarization curves (TPCs). As a result, further experiments also proved that the electrochemical strategy exhibited its universality of fabricating other graphene-enhanced chalcogenide functional composite films.« less

Mono- and dichromatic LED illumination leads to enhanced growth and energy conversion for high-efficiency cultivation of microalgae for application in space.

PubMed

Wagner, Ines; Steinweg, Christian; Posten, Clemens

2016-08-01

Illumination with red and blue photons is known to be efficient for cultivation of higher plants. For microalgae cultivation, illumination with specific wavelengths rather than full spectrum illumination can be an alternative where there is a lack of knowledge about achievable biomass yields. This study deals with the usage of color LED illumination to cultivate microalgae integrated into closed life support systems for outer space. The goal is to quantify biomass yields using color illumination (red, blue, green and mixtures) compared to white light. Chlamydomonas reinhardtii was cultivated in plate reactors with color compared to white illumination regarding PCE, specific pigment concentration and cell size. Highest PCE values were achieved under low PFDs with a red/blue illumination (680 nm/447 nm) at a 90 to 10% molar ratio. At higher PFDs saturation effects can be observed resulting from light absorption characteristics and the linear part of PI curve. Cell size and aggregation are also influenced by the applied light color. Red/blue color illumination is a promising option applicable for microalgae-based modules of life support systems under low to saturating light intensities and double-sided illumination. Results of higher PCE with addition of blue photons to red light indicate an influence of sensory pigments. Copyright © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Cross-Cultural Comparisons of the Perceived Importance of Conversational Constraints.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kim, Min-Sun

1994-01-01

Investigates how cultural groups differ in the relative importance they attach to conversational constraints. Suggests that the perceived importance of clarity is higher in the more individualistic cultures but that the perceived importance of avoiding hurting the hearer's feelings and of minimizing imposition is higher in the more collectivistic…

Physical and electrical characteristics of Si/SiC quantum dot superlattice solar cells with passivation layer of aluminum oxide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsai, Yi-Chia; Li, Yiming; Samukawa, Seiji

2017-12-01

In this work, we numerically simulate the silicon (Si)/silicon carbide (SiC) quantum dot superlattice solar cell (SiC-QDSL) with aluminum oxide (Al2O3-QDSL) passivation. By exploiting the passivation layer of Al2O3, the high photocurrent and the conversion efficiency can be achieved without losing the effective bandgap. Based on the two-photon transition mechanism in an AM1.5 and a one sun illumination, the simulated short-circuit current (J sc) of 4.77 mA cm-2 is very close to the experimentally measured 4.75 mA cm-2, which is higher than those of conventional SiC-QDSLs. Moreover, the efficiency fluctuation caused by the structural variation is less sensitive by using the passivation layer. A high conversion efficiency of 17.4% is thus estimated by adopting the QD’s geometry used in the experiment; and, it can be further boosted by applying a hexagonal QD formation with an inter-dot spacing of 0.3 nm.

Physical and electrical characteristics of Si/SiC quantum dot superlattice solar cells with passivation layer of aluminum oxide.

PubMed

Tsai, Yi-Chia; Li, Yiming; Samukawa, Seiji

2017-12-01

In this work, we numerically simulate the silicon (Si)/silicon carbide (SiC) quantum dot superlattice solar cell (SiC-QDSL) with aluminum oxide (Al 2 O 3 -QDSL) passivation. By exploiting the passivation layer of Al 2 O 3 , the high photocurrent and the conversion efficiency can be achieved without losing the effective bandgap. Based on the two-photon transition mechanism in an AM1.5 and a one sun illumination, the simulated short-circuit current (J sc ) of 4.77 mA cm -2 is very close to the experimentally measured 4.75 mA cm -2 , which is higher than those of conventional SiC-QDSLs. Moreover, the efficiency fluctuation caused by the structural variation is less sensitive by using the passivation layer. A high conversion efficiency of 17.4% is thus estimated by adopting the QD's geometry used in the experiment; and, it can be further boosted by applying a hexagonal QD formation with an inter-dot spacing of 0.3 nm.

Valorization of food waste into hydroxymethylfurfural: Dual role of metal ions in successive conversion steps.

PubMed

Yu, Iris K M; Tsang, Daniel C W; Yip, Alex C K; Chen, Season S; Ok, Yong Sik; Poon, Chi Sun

2016-11-01

This study aimed to transform food waste into a value-added chemical, hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), and unravel the tangled effects induced by the metal catalysts on each single step of the successive conversion pathway. The results showed that using cooked rice and bread crust as surrogates of starch-rich food waste, yields of 8.1-9.5% HMF and 44.2-64.8% glucose were achieved over SnCl4 catalyst. Protons released from metal hydrolysis and acidic by-products rendered Brønsted acidity to catalyze fructose dehydration and hydrolysis of glycosidic bond. Lewis acid site of metals could facilitate both fructose dehydration and glucose isomerization via promoting the rate-limiting internal hydride shift, with the catalytic activity determined by its electronegativity, electron configuration, and charge density. Lewis acid site of a higher valence also enhanced hydrolysis of polysaccharide. However, the metals also catalyzed undesirable polymerization possibly by polarizing the carbonyl groups of sugars and derivatives, which should be minimized by process optimization. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Efficiently-cooled plasmonic amorphous silicon solar cells integrated with a nano-coated heat-pipe plate

PubMed Central

Zhang, Yinan; Du, Yanping; Shum, Clifford; Cai, Boyuan; Le, Nam Cao Hoai; Chen, Xi; Duck, Benjamin; Fell, Christopher; Zhu, Yonggang; Gu, Min

2016-01-01

Solar photovoltaics (PV) are emerging as a major alternative energy source. The cost of PV electricity depends on the efficiency of conversion of light to electricity. Despite of steady growth in the efficiency for several decades, little has been achieved to reduce the impact of real-world operating temperatures on this efficiency. Here we demonstrate a highly efficient cooling solution to the recently emerging high performance plasmonic solar cell technology by integrating an advanced nano-coated heat-pipe plate. This thermal cooling technology, efficient for both summer and winter time, demonstrates the heat transportation capability up to ten times higher than those of the metal plate and the conventional wickless heat-pipe plates. The reduction in temperature rise of the plasmonic solar cells operating under one sun condition can be as high as 46%, leading to an approximate 56% recovery in efficiency, which dramatically increases the energy yield of the plasmonic solar cells. This newly-developed, thermally-managed plasmonic solar cell device significantly extends the application scope of PV for highly efficient solar energy conversion. PMID:27113558

Photonic-Assisted mm-Wave and THz Wireless Transmission towards 100 Gbit/s Data Rate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Freire Hermelo, Maria; Chuenchom, Rattana; Rymanov, Vitaly; Kaiser, Thomas; Sheikh, Fawad; Czylwik, Andreas; Stöhr, Andreas

2017-09-01

This paper presents photonic-assisted 60 GHz mm-wave and 325 GHz system approaches that enable the transmission of spectral-efficient and high data rate signals over fiber and over air. First, we focus on generic channel characteristics within the mm-wave 60 GHz band and at the terahertz (THz) band around 325 GHz. Next, for generating the high data rate baseband signals, we present a technical solution for constructing an extreme bandwidth arbitrary waveform generator (AWG). We then report the development of a novel coherent photonic mixer (CPX) module for direct optic-to-RF conversion of extreme wideband optical signals, with a>5 dB higher conversion gain compared to conventional photodiodes. Finally, we experimentally demonstrate record spectral efficient wireless transmission for both bands. The achieved spectral efficiencies reach 10 bit/s/Hz for the 60 GHz band and 6 bit/s/Hz for the 325 GHz band. The maximum data rate transmitted at THz frequencies in the 325 GHz band is 59 Gbit/s using a 64-QAM-OFDM modulation format and a 10 GHz wide data signal.

Efficiently-cooled plasmonic amorphous silicon solar cells integrated with a nano-coated heat-pipe plate.

PubMed

Zhang, Yinan; Du, Yanping; Shum, Clifford; Cai, Boyuan; Le, Nam Cao Hoai; Chen, Xi; Duck, Benjamin; Fell, Christopher; Zhu, Yonggang; Gu, Min

2016-04-26

Solar photovoltaics (PV) are emerging as a major alternative energy source. The cost of PV electricity depends on the efficiency of conversion of light to electricity. Despite of steady growth in the efficiency for several decades, little has been achieved to reduce the impact of real-world operating temperatures on this efficiency. Here we demonstrate a highly efficient cooling solution to the recently emerging high performance plasmonic solar cell technology by integrating an advanced nano-coated heat-pipe plate. This thermal cooling technology, efficient for both summer and winter time, demonstrates the heat transportation capability up to ten times higher than those of the metal plate and the conventional wickless heat-pipe plates. The reduction in temperature rise of the plasmonic solar cells operating under one sun condition can be as high as 46%, leading to an approximate 56% recovery in efficiency, which dramatically increases the energy yield of the plasmonic solar cells. This newly-developed, thermally-managed plasmonic solar cell device significantly extends the application scope of PV for highly efficient solar energy conversion.

Approaching conversion limit with all-dielectric solar cell reflectors.

PubMed

Fu, Sze Ming; Lai, Yi-Chun; Tseng, Chi Wei; Yan, Sheng Lun; Zhong, Yan Kai; Shen, Chang-Hong; Shieh, Jia-Min; Li, Yu-Ren; Cheng, Huang-Chung; Chi, Gou-chung; Yu, Peichen; Lin, Albert

2015-02-09

Metallic back reflectors has been used for thin-film and wafer-based solar cells for very long time. Nonetheless, the metallic mirrors might not be the best choices for photovoltaics. In this work, we show that solar cells with all-dielectric reflectors can surpass the best-configured metal-backed devices. Theoretical and experimental results all show that superior large-angle light scattering capability can be achieved by the diffuse medium reflectors, and the solar cell J-V enhancement is higher for solar cells using all-dielectric reflectors. Specifically, the measured diffused scattering efficiency (D.S.E.) of a diffuse medium reflector is >0.8 for the light trapping spectral range (600nm-1000nm), and the measured reflectance of a diffuse medium can be as high as silver if the geometry of embedded titanium oxide(TiO(2)) nanoparticles is optimized. Moreover, the diffuse medium reflectors have the additional advantage of room-temperature processing, low cost, and very high throughput. We believe that using all-dielectric solar cell reflectors is a way to approach the thermodynamic conversion limit by completely excluding metallic dissipation.

Efficient 2(nd) and 4(th) harmonic generation of a single-frequency, continuous-wave fiber amplifier.

PubMed

Sudmeyer, Thomas; Imai, Yutaka; Masuda, Hisashi; Eguchi, Naoya; Saito, Masaki; Kubota, Shigeo

2008-02-04

We demonstrate efficient cavity-enhanced second and fourth harmonic generation of an air-cooled, continuous-wave (cw), single-frequency 1064 nm fiber-amplifier system. The second harmonic generator achieves up to 88% total external conversion efficiency, generating more than 20-W power at 532 nm wavelength in a diffraction-limited beam (M(2) < 1.05). The nonlinear medium is a critically phase-matched, 20-mm long, anti-reflection (AR) coated LBO crystal operated at 25 degrees C. The fourth harmonic generator is based on an AR-coated, Czochralski-grown beta-BaB(2)O(4) (BBO) crystal optimized for low loss and high damage threshold. Up to 12.2 W of 266-nm deep-UV (DUV) output is obtained using a 6-mm long critically phase-matched BBO operated at 40 degrees C. This power level is more than two times higher than previously reported for cw 266-nm generation. The total external conversion efficiency from the fundamental at 1064 nm to the fourth harmonic at 266 nm is >50%.

Efficiently-cooled plasmonic amorphous silicon solar cells integrated with a nano-coated heat-pipe plate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Yinan; Du, Yanping; Shum, Clifford; Cai, Boyuan; Le, Nam Cao Hoai; Chen, Xi; Duck, Benjamin; Fell, Christopher; Zhu, Yonggang; Gu, Min

2016-04-01

Solar photovoltaics (PV) are emerging as a major alternative energy source. The cost of PV electricity depends on the efficiency of conversion of light to electricity. Despite of steady growth in the efficiency for several decades, little has been achieved to reduce the impact of real-world operating temperatures on this efficiency. Here we demonstrate a highly efficient cooling solution to the recently emerging high performance plasmonic solar cell technology by integrating an advanced nano-coated heat-pipe plate. This thermal cooling technology, efficient for both summer and winter time, demonstrates the heat transportation capability up to ten times higher than those of the metal plate and the conventional wickless heat-pipe plates. The reduction in temperature rise of the plasmonic solar cells operating under one sun condition can be as high as 46%, leading to an approximate 56% recovery in efficiency, which dramatically increases the energy yield of the plasmonic solar cells. This newly-developed, thermally-managed plasmonic solar cell device significantly extends the application scope of PV for highly efficient solar energy conversion.

Honeycomb-like NiCo2S4 nanosheets prepared by rapid electrodeposition as a counter electrode for dye-sensitized solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yin, Jie; Wang, Yuqiao; Meng, Wenfei; Zhou, Tianyue; Li, Baosong; Wei, Tao; Sun, Yueming

2017-08-01

Honeycomb-like nickel cobalt sulfide (NiCo2S4) nanosheets were directly deposited on fluorine-doped tin oxide substrate by a rapid voltammetric deposition method. The method was also controllable and feasible for preparing NiCo2S4 on flexible Ti foil without any heating processes. Compared with Pt, CoS and NiS, NiCo2S4 exhibited low charge-transfer resistances and excellent electrocatalytic activity for {{{{I}}}3}- reduction, acting as a counter electrode for a dye-sensitized solar cell. The NiCo2S4-based solar cell showed higher power conversion efficiency (7.44%) than that of Pt-based solar cell (7.09%) under simulated illumination (AM 1.5 G, 100 mW cm-2). The device based on the flexible NiCo2S4/Ti foil achieved a power conversion efficiency of 5.28% under the above illumination conditions. This work can be extended to flexible and wearable technologies due to its facile technique.

Design of a broadband reciprocal optical diode in multimode silicon waveguide by partial depth etching

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Danfeng; Zhang, Jinqiannan; Ye, Han; Yu, Zhongyuan; Liu, Yumin

2018-07-01

We propose a design of reciprocal optical diode based on asymmetric spatial mode conversion in multimode silicon waveguide on the silicon-on-insulator platform. The design possesses large bandwidth, high contrast ratio and high fabrication tolerance. The forward even-to-odd mode conversion and backward blockade of even mode are achieved by partial depth etching in the functional region. Simulated by three-dimension finite-difference time-domain method, the forward transmission efficiency is about -2.05 dB while the backward transmission efficiency is only -22.68 dB, reaching a highest contrast ratio of 0.983 at the wavelength of 1550 nm. The operational bandwidth is up to 200 nm (from 1450 nm to 1650 nm) with contrast ratio higher than 0.911. The numerical analysis also demonstrates that the proposed optical diode possesses high tolerance for geometry parameter errors which may be introduced in fabrication. The design based on partial depth etching is compatible with CMOS process and is expected to contribute to the silicon-based all-optical circuits.

Effect of flash release treatment on phenolic extraction and wine composition.

PubMed

Morel-Salmi, Cécile; Souquet, Jean-Marc; Bes, Magali; Cheynier, Véronique

2006-06-14

The flash release (FR) process, consisting of rapidly heating the grapes and then applying strong vacuum, has been proposed to increase the polyphenol content of red wines. Its impact on polyphenol extraction kinetics and on the polyphenol composition of red juice and wines was studied over two seasons on different grape varieties (Grenache, Mourvedre, Carignan). The FR process allows fast extraction of all phenolic compounds (hydroxycinnamic acids, flavonols, anthocyanins, catechins, proanthocyanidins) and can be used to produce polyphenol-enriched grape juices. However, the concentration of all polyphenols dramatically decreased throughout fermentation when pressing was achieved immediately after FR. The FR wines made with pomace maceration were also enriched in polyphenols compared to the corresponding control wines. Increasing the duration of high-temperature exposure in the FR treatment further increased extraction of phenolic compounds but also accelerated their conversion to derived species. The tannin-to-anthocyanin ratio was particularly low in the wine fermented in the liquid phase, higher after FR than in the control, and even higher after longer heating. FR resulted in an increased tannin-to-anthocyanin ratio and an increased conversion of anthocyanins to tannin-anthocyanin adducts showing the same color properties as anthocyanins. The tannin-to-anthocyanin ratio was particularly low in the wine fermented in the liquid phase that also contained larger amounts of orange sulfite bleaching-resistant pigments.

Conversion of solar energy into electricity by using duckweed in Direct Photosynthetic Plant Fuel Cell.

PubMed

Hubenova, Yolina; Mitov, Mario

2012-10-01

In the present study we demonstrate for the first time the possibility for conversion of solar energy into electricity on the principles of Direct Photosynthetic Plant Fuel Cell (DPPFC) technology by using aquatic higher plants. Lemna minuta duckweed was grown autotrophically in specially constructed fuel cells under sunlight irradiation and laboratory lighting. Current and power density up to 1.62±0.10 A.m(-2) and 380±19 mW.m(-2), respectively, were achieved under sunlight conditions. The influence of the temperature, light intensity and day/night sequencing on the current generation was investigated. The importance of the light intensity was demonstrated by the higher values of generated current (at permanently connected resistance) during daytime than those through the nights, indicating the participation of light-dependent photosynthetic processes. The obtained DPPFC outputs in the night show the contribution of light-independent reactions (respiration). The electron transfer in the examined DPPFCs is associated with a production of endogenous mediator, secreted by the duckweed. The plants' adaptive response to the applied polarization is also connected with an enhanced metabolism resulting in an increase of the protein and carbohydrate intracellular content. Further investigations aiming at improvement of the DPPFC outputs and elucidation of the electron transfer mechanism are required for practical application. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Final Scientific/Technical Report -- Single-Junction Organic Solar Cells with >15% Efficiency

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Starkenburg, Daken; Weldeab, Asmerom; Fagnani, Dan

Organic solar cells have the potential to offer low-cost solar energy conversion due to low material costs and compatibility with low-temperature and high throughput manufacturing processes. This project aims to further improve the efficiency of organic solar cells by applying a previously demonstrated molecular self-assembly approach to longer-wavelength light-absorbing organic materials. The team at the University of Florida designed and synthesized a series of low-bandgap organic semiconductors with functional hydrogen-bonding groups, studied their assembly characteristics and optoelectronic properties in solid-state thin film, and fabricated organic solar cells using solution processing. These new organic materials absorb light up 800 nm wavelength,more » and provide a maximum open-circuit voltage of 1.05 V in the resulted solar cells. The results further confirmed the effectiveness in this approach to guide the assembly of organic semiconductors in thin films to yield higher photovoltaic performance for solar energy conversion. Through this project, we have gained important understanding on designing, synthesizing, and processing organic semiconductors that contain appropriately functionalized groups to control the morphology of the organic photoactive layer in solar cells. Such fundamental knowledge could be used to further develop new functional organic materials to achieve higher photovoltaic performance, and contribute to the eventual commercialization of the organic solar cell technology.« less

Real World Testing Of A Piezoelectric Rotational Energy Harvester For Human Motion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pillatsch, P.; Yeatman, E. M.; Holmes, A. S.

2013-12-01

Harvesting energy from human motion is challenging because the frequencies are generally low and random compared to industrial machinery that vibrates at much higher frequencies. One of the most promising and popular strategies to overcome this is frequency up-conversion. The transducing element is actuated at its optimal frequency of operation, higher than the source excitation frequency, through some kind of catch and release mechanism. This is beneficial for efficient power generation. Such devices have now been investigated for a few years and this paper takes a previously introduced piezoelectric rotational harvester, relying on beam plucking for the energy conversion, to the next step by testing the device during a half marathon race. The prototype and data acquisition system are described in detail and the experimental results presented. A comparison of the input excitation, based on an accelerometer readout, and the output voltage of the piezoelectric beam, recorded at the same time, confirm the successful implementation of the system. For a device functional volume of 1.85 cm3, a maximum power output of 7 μW was achieved when the system was worn on the upper arm. However, degradation of the piezoelectric material meant that the performance dropped rapidly from this initial level; this requires further research. Furthermore, the need for intermediate energy storage solutions is discussed, as human motion harvesters only generate power as long as the wearer is actually moving.

Biogas Upgrading via Hydrogenotrophic Methanogenesis in Two-Stage Continuous Stirred Tank Reactors at Mesophilic and Thermophilic Conditions.

PubMed

Bassani, Ilaria; Kougias, Panagiotis G; Treu, Laura; Angelidaki, Irini

2015-10-20

This study proposes an innovative setup composed by two stage reactors to achieve biogas upgrading coupling the CO2 in the biogas with external H2 and subsequent conversion into CH4 by hydrogenotrophic methanogenesis. In this configuration, the biogas produced in the first reactor was transferred to the second one, where H2 was injected. This configuration was tested at both mesophilic and thermophilic conditions. After H2 addition, the produced biogas was upgraded to average CH4 content of 89% in the mesophilic reactor and 85% in the thermophilic. At thermophilic conditions, a higher efficiency of CH4 production and CO2 conversion was recorded. The consequent increase of pH did not inhibit the process indicating adaptation of microorganisms to higher pH levels. The effects of H2 on the microbial community were studied using high-throughput Illumina random sequences and full-length 16S rRNA genes extracted from the total sequences. The relative abundance of archaeal community markedly increased upon H2 addition with Methanoculleus as dominant genus. The increase of hydrogenotrophic methanogens and syntrophic Desulfovibrio and the decrease of aceticlastic methanogens indicate a H2-mediated shift toward the hydrogenotrophic pathway enhancing biogas upgrading. Moreover, Thermoanaerobacteraceae were likely involved in syntrophic acetate oxidation with hydrogenotrophic methanogens in absence of aceticlastic methanogenesis.

3D graphene from CO 2 and K as an excellent counter electrode for dye-sensitized solar cells

DOE PAGES

Wei, Wei; Stacchiola, Dario J.; Hu, Yun Hang

2017-07-19

3D graphene, which was synthesized directly from CO 2 via its exothermic reaction with liquid K, exhibited excellent performance as a counter electrode for a dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC). The DSSC has achieved a high power conversion efficiency of 8.25%, which is 10 times larger than that (0.74%) of a DSSC with a counter electrode of the regular graphene synthesized via chemical exfoliation of graphite. The efficiency is even higher than that (7.73%) of a dye-sensitized solar cell with an expensive standard Pt counter electrode. This work provides a novel approach to use a greenhouse gas for DSSCs.

Thermal optimization of second harmonic generation at high pump powers.

PubMed

Sahm, Alexander; Uebernickel, Mirko; Paschke, Katrin; Erbert, Götz; Tränkle, Günther

2011-11-07

We measure the temperature distribution of a 3 cm long periodically poled LiNbO₃ crystal in a single-pass second harmonic generation (SHG) setup at 488 nm. By means of three resistance heaters and directly mounted Pt100 sensors the crystal is subdivided in three sections. 9.4 W infrared pump light and 1.3 W of SHG light cause a de-homogenized temperature distribution of 0.2 K between the middle and back section. A sectional offset heating is used to homogenize the temperature in those two sections and thus increasing the conversion efficiency. A 15% higher SHG output power matching the prediction of our theoretical model is achieved.

Impute DC link (IDCL) cell based power converters and control thereof

DOEpatents

Divan, Deepakraj M.; Prasai, Anish; Hernendez, Jorge; Moghe, Rohit; Iyer, Amrit; Kandula, Rajendra Prasad

2016-04-26

Power flow controllers based on Imputed DC Link (IDCL) cells are provided. The IDCL cell is a self-contained power electronic building block (PEBB). The IDCL cell may be stacked in series and parallel to achieve power flow control at higher voltage and current levels. Each IDCL cell may comprise a gate drive, a voltage sharing module, and a thermal management component in order to facilitate easy integration of the cell into a variety of applications. By providing direct AC conversion, the IDCL cell based AC/AC converters reduce device count, eliminate the use of electrolytic capacitors that have life and reliability issues, and improve system efficiency compared with similarly rated back-to-back inverter system.

Luminescence properties of Tm3+ ions single-doped YF3 materials in an unconventional excitation region.

PubMed

Chen, Yuan; Liu, Qing; Lin, Han; Yan, Xiaohong

2018-05-01

According to the spectral distribution of solar radiation at the earth's surface, under the excitation region of 1150 to 1350 nm, the up-conversion luminescence of Tm 3+ ions was investigated. The emission bands were matched well with the spectral response region of silicon solar cells, achieved by Tm 3+ ions single-doped yttrium fluoride (YF 3 ) phosphor, which was different from the conventional Tm 3+ /Yb 3+ ion couple co-doped materials. Additionally, the similar emission bands of Tm 3+ ions were achieved under excitation in the ultraviolet region. It is expected that via up-conversion and down-conversion routes, Tm 3+ -sensitized materials could convert photons to the desired wavelengths in order to reduce the energy loss of silicon solar cells, thereby enhancing the photovoltaic efficiency. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Highly efficient frequency conversion with bandwidth compression of quantum light

PubMed Central

Allgaier, Markus; Ansari, Vahid; Sansoni, Linda; Eigner, Christof; Quiring, Viktor; Ricken, Raimund; Harder, Georg; Brecht, Benjamin; Silberhorn, Christine

2017-01-01

Hybrid quantum networks rely on efficient interfacing of dissimilar quantum nodes, as elements based on parametric downconversion sources, quantum dots, colour centres or atoms are fundamentally different in their frequencies and bandwidths. Although pulse manipulation has been demonstrated in very different systems, to date no interface exists that provides both an efficient bandwidth compression and a substantial frequency translation at the same time. Here we demonstrate an engineered sum-frequency-conversion process in lithium niobate that achieves both goals. We convert pure photons at telecom wavelengths to the visible range while compressing the bandwidth by a factor of 7.47 under preservation of non-classical photon-number statistics. We achieve internal conversion efficiencies of 61.5%, significantly outperforming spectral filtering for bandwidth compression. Our system thus makes the connection between previously incompatible quantum systems as a step towards usable quantum networks. PMID:28134242

Field trial of differential-phase-shift quantum key distribution using polarization independent frequency up-conversion detectors.

PubMed

Honjo, T; Yamamoto, S; Yamamoto, T; Kamada, H; Nishida, Y; Tadanaga, O; Asobe, M; Inoue, K

2007-11-26

We report a field trial of differential phase shift quantum key distribution (QKD) using polarization independent frequency up-conversion detectors. A frequency up-conversion detector is a promising device for achieving a high key generation rate when combined with a high clock rate QKD system. However, its polarization dependence prevents it from being applied to practical QKD systems. In this paper, we employ a modified polarization diversity configuration to eliminate the polarization dependence. Applying this method, we performed a long-term stability test using a 17.6-km installed fiber. We successfully demonstrated stable operation for 6 hours and achieved a sifted key generation rate of 120 kbps and an average quantum bit error rate of 3.14 %. The sifted key generation rate was not the estimated value but the effective value, which means that the sifted key was continuously generated at a rate of 120 kbps for 6 hours.

Error free all optical wavelength conversion in highly nonlinear As-Se chalcogenide glass fiber.

PubMed

Ta'eed, Vahid G; Fu, Libin; Pelusi, Mark; Rochette, Martin; Littler, Ian C; Moss, David J; Eggleton, Benjamin J

2006-10-30

We present the first demonstration of all optical wavelength conversion in chalcogenide glass fiber including system penalty measurements at 10 Gb/s. Our device is based on As2Se3 chalcogenide glass fiber which has the highest Kerr nonlinearity (n(2)) of any fiber to date for which either advanced all optical signal processing functions or system penalty measurements have been demonstrated. We achieve wavelength conversion via cross phase modulation over a 10 nm wavelength range near 1550 nm with 7 ps pulses at 2.1 W peak pump power in 1 meter of fiber, achieving only 1.4 dB excess system penalty. Analysis and comparison of the fundamental fiber parameters, including nonlinear coefficient, two-photon absorption coefficient and dispersion parameter with other nonlinear glasses shows that As(2)Se(3) based devices show considerable promise for radically integrated nonlinear signal processing devices.

Subcritical hydrothermal liquefaction of cattle manure to bio-oil: Effects of conversion parameters on bio-oil yield and characterization of bio-oil.

PubMed

Yin, Sudong; Dolan, Ryan; Harris, Matt; Tan, Zhongchao

2010-05-01

In this study, cattle manure was converted to bio-oil by subcritical hydrothermal liquefaction in the presence of NaOH. The effects of conversion temperature, process gas, initial conversion pressure, residence time and mass ratio of cattle manure to water on the bio-oil yield were studied. The bio-oil was characterized in terms of elemental composition, higher heating value, ultraviolet-visible (UV/Vis) spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Results showed that the bio-oil yield depended on the conversion temperature and the process gas. Higher initial conversion pressure, longer residence time and larger mass ratio of cattle manure to water, however, had negative impacts on the bio-oil yield. The higher heating value of bio-oil was 35.53MJ/kg on average. The major non-polar components of bio-oil were toluene, ethyl benzene and xylene, which are components of crude oil, gasoline and diesel. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Vector mode conversion based on tilted fiber Bragg grating in ring-core fibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mi, Yuean; Ren, Guobin; Gao, Yixiao; Li, Haisu; Zhu, Bofeng; Liu, Yu

2018-03-01

We propose a vector mode conversion approach based on tilted fiber Bragg grating (TFBG) written in ring-core fiber with effective separation of eigenmodes. The mode coupling properties of TFBG are numerically investigated. It is shown that under the constraint of phase matching, the conversion of high-order vector modes could be achieved at specific wavelengths. Moreover, the polarization of incident light and tilt angle of TFBG play critical roles in mode coupling process. The proposed TFBG provides an efficient method to realize high-order vector mode conversion, and it shows great potential for fibers based OAM beam generation and fiber lasers with vortex beams output.

Preparation of ultra-thin and high-quality WO{sub 3} compact layers and comparision of WO{sub 3} and TiO{sub 2} compact layer thickness in planar perovskite solar cells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhang, Jincheng; Shi, Chengwu, E-mail: shicw506@foxmail.com; Chen, Junjun

2016-06-15

In this paper, the ultra-thin and high-quality WO{sub 3} compact layers were successfully prepared by spin-coating-pyrolysis method using the tungsten isopropoxide solution in isopropanol. The influence of WO{sub 3} and TiO{sub 2} compact layer thickness on the photovoltaic performance of planar perovskite solar cells was systematically compared, and the interface charge transfer and recombination in planar perovskite solar cells with TiO{sub 2} compact layer was analyzed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The results revealed that the optimum thickness of WO{sub 3} and TiO{sub 2} compact layer was 15 nm and 60 nm. The planar perovskite solar cell with 15 nm WO{submore » 3} compact layer gave a 9.69% average and 10.14% maximum photoelectric conversion efficiency, whereas the planar perovskite solar cell with 60 nm TiO{sub 2} compact layer achieved a 11.79% average and 12.64% maximum photoelectric conversion efficiency. - Graphical abstract: The planar perovskite solar cell with 15 nm WO{sub 3} compact layer gave a 9.69% average and 10.14% maximum photoelectric conversion efficiency, whereas the planar perovskite solar cell with 60 nm TiO{sub 2} compact layer achieved a 11.79% average and 12.64% maximum photoelectric conversion efficiency. Display Omitted - Highlights: • Preparation of ultra-thin and high-quality WO{sub 3} compact layers. • Perovskite solar cell with 15 nm-thick WO{sub 3} compact layer achieved PCE of 10.14%. • Perovskite solar cell with 60 nm-thick TiO{sub 2} compact layer achieved PCE of 12.64%.« less

Degradation of palm oil empty fruit bunch (EFB) into bio-oil in sub-and supercritical solvents

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sarwono, Rakhman; Pusfitasari, Eka Dian

2017-01-01

Hydrothemal Liquefaction (HTL) of empty fruit bunch (EFB) of palm oil in different solvents (water, ethanol and hexane) were comparatively investigated. Experiments were carried out in an autoclave in different EFB loading of 9%, 11%, and 13%. The temperature operation was 350 oC, without any catalysts and reaction time of 5 hours. The efficiency of above solvents in terms of conversion rate, soluble liquid and carbon products were found in this experiments. The water solvent gave higher conversion rate of 35 - 36.5 %, while hexane gave conversion of 17 - 25.25 %, and ethanol gave the lower conversion rate of 12.65 - 30.3%, respectively. Increasing the EFB load decreased the conversion rate for ethanol and hexane solvents, for water there are no significant change in the conversion rate. The bio-oil as soluble liquid produced were in order of water, ethanol, and hexane solvents, respectively. The chemical properties of bio-oil products were significantly affected by the type of liquefaction solvent. The compositional of bio-oil consists of mostly of a mixture of organic acids, ketones, and esters. The hexane and ethanol solvents resulted mostly organic acids. In water solvent resulted 2-pentanone, 4-hydroxy-4-methyl and others substances. According to the bio-oil results, organic solvents resulted higher HHV compared to water solvent. The higher heating value (HHV) of the carbon products were also comparatively, ethanol solvent resulted soluble liquid with higher HHV compared to the water solvent.

Decomposing Fuel Economy and Greenhouse Gas Regulatory Standards in the Energy Conversion Efficiency and Tractive Energy Domain

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pannone, Greg; Thomas, John F; Reale, Michael

The three foundational elements that determine mobile source energy use and tailpipe carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions are the tractive energy requirements of the vehicle, the on-cycle energy conversion efficiency of the propulsion system, and the energy source. The tractive energy requirements are determined by the vehicle's mass, aerodynamic drag, tire rolling resistance, and parasitic drag. Oncycle energy conversion of the propulsion system is dictated by the tractive efficiency, non-tractive energy use, kinetic energy recovery, and parasitic losses. The energy source determines the mobile source CO2 emissions. For current vehicles, tractive energy requirements and overall energy conversion efficiency are readily availablemore » from the decomposition of test data. For future applications, plausible levels of mass reduction, aerodynamic drag improvements, and tire rolling resistance can be transposed into the tractive energy domain. Similarly, by combining thermodynamic, mechanical efficiency, and kinetic energy recovery fundamentals with logical proxies, achievable levels of energy conversion efficiency can be established to allow for the evaluation of future powertrain requirements. Combining the plausible levels of tractive energy and on-cycle efficiency provides a means to compute sustainable vehicle and propulsion system scenarios that can achieve future regulations. Using these principles, the regulations established in the United States (U.S.) for fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are evaluated. Fleet-level scenarios are generated and compared to the technology deployment assumptions made during rule-making. When compared to the rule-making assumptions, the results indicate that a greater level of advanced vehicle and propulsion system technology deployment will be required to achieve the model year 2025 U.S. standards for fuel economy and CO2 emissions.« less

Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgeons Achieve High Rates of K-Award Conversion Into R01 Funding.

PubMed

Narahari, Adishesh K; Mehaffey, J Hunter; Hawkins, Robert B; Baderdinni, Pranav K; Chandrabhatla, Anirudha S; Tribble, Curtis G; Kron, Irving L; Roeser, Mark E; Walters, Dustin M; Ailawadi, Gorav

2018-03-14

Obtaining National Institutes of Health (NIH) R01 funding remains extremely difficult. The utility of career development grants (K awards) for achieving the goal of R01 funding remains debated, particularly for surgeon-scientists. We examined the success rate for cardiothoracic and vascular (CTV) surgeons compared to other specialties in converting K-level grants into R01 equivalents. All K (K08 and K23) grants awarded to surgeons by the NIH between 1992-2017 were identified through NIH RePORTER, an online database combining funding, publications, and patents. Only grants awarded to CTV surgeons were included. Grants active within the past year were excluded. Mann-Whitney U-tests and Chi-squared tests were used to compare groups. A total of 62 K grants awarded to CTV surgeons were identified during this period. Sixteen grants were still active within the last year and excluded from analysis. Twenty-two (48%) of the remaining K awardees successfully transitioned to an R01 or equivalent grant. Awardees with successful conversion published 9 publications per K grant compared to 4 publications for those who did not convert successfully (p=0.01). The median time for successful conversion to an R grant was 5.0 years after the K award start date. Importantly, the 10-year conversion rate to R01 was equal for CTV surgeons compared to other clinician-investigators (52.6% vs 42.5%). CTV surgeons have an equal 10-year conversion rate to first R01 award compared to other clinicians. These data suggest that NIH achieves a good return on investment when funding CTV surgeon-scientists with K-level funding. Copyright © 2018 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Developments in Turbo-Brayton Power Converters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zagarola, Mark V.; Crowley, Christopher J.; Swift, Walter L.

2003-01-01

Design studies show that a Brayton cycle power unit is an extremely attractive option for thermal-to-electric power conversion on long-duration, space missions. At low power levels (50 to 100 We), a Brayton system should achieve a conversion efficiency between 20% and 40% depending on the radiative heat sink temperature. The expected mass of the converter for these power levels is about 3 kg. The mass of the complete system consisting of the converter, the electronics, a radiator, and a single general purpose heat source should be about 6 kg. The system is modular and the technology is readily scalable to higher power levels (to greater than 10 kWe) where conversion efficiencies of between 28% and 45% are expected, the exact value depending on sink temperature and power level. During a recently completed project, key physical features of the converter were determined, and key operating characteristics were demonstrated for a system of this size. The key technologies in these converters are derived from those which have been developed and successfully implemented in miniature turbo-Brayton cryogenic refrigerators for space applications. These refrigerators and their components have been demonstrated to meet rigorous requirements for vibration emittance and susceptibility, acoustic susceptibility, electromagnetic interference and susceptibility, environmental cycling, and endurance. Our progress in extending the underlying turbo-Brayton cryocooler technologies to thermal-to-electric power converters is the subject of this paper.

New gene cluster from the thermophile Bacillus fordii MH602 in the conversion of DL-5-substituted hydantoins to L-amino acids.

PubMed

Mei, Yan-Zhen; Wan, Yong-Min; He, Bing-Fang; Ying, Han-Jie; Ouyang, Ping-Kai

2009-12-01

The thermophile Bacillus fordii MH602 was screened for stereospecifically hydrolyzing DL-5-substituted hydantoins to L-alpha-amino acids. Since the reaction at higher temperature, the advantageous for enhancement of substrate solubility and for racemization of DL-5-substituted hydantoins during the conversion were achieved. The hydantoin metabolism gene cluster from thermophile was firstly reported in this paper. The genes involved in hydantoin utilization (hyu) were isolated on an 8.2 kb DNA fragment by Restriction Site-dependent PCR, and six ORFs were identified by DNA sequence analysis. The hyu gene cluster contained four genes with novel cluster organization characteristics: the hydantoinase gene hyuH, putative transport protein hyuP, hyperprotein hyuHP, and L-carbamoylase gene hyuC. The hyuH and hyuC genes were heterogeneously expressed in E. coli. The results indicated that hyuH and hyuC are involved in the conversion of DL-5-substituted hydantoins to an N-carbamyl intermediate that is subsequently converted to L-alpha-amino acids. Hydantoinase and carbamoylase from B. fordii MH602 comparing respectively with reported hydantoinase and carbamoylase showed the highest identities of 71% and 39%. The novel cluster organization characteristics and the difference of the key enzymes between thermopile B. fordii MH602 and other mesophiles were presumed to be related to the evolutionary origins of concerned metabolism.

Two-stage conversion of crude glycerol to energy using dark fermentation linked with microbial fuel cell or microbial electrolysis cell.

PubMed

Chookaew, Teera; Prasertsan, Poonsuk; Ren, Zhiyong Jason

2014-03-25

Crude glycerol is a main byproduct of the biodiesel industry, and the beneficial use of waste glycerol has been a major challenge. This study characterises the conversion of crude glycerol into bioenergy such as H2 and electricity using a two-stage process linking dark fermentation with a microbial fuel cell (MFC) or microbial electrolysis cell (MEC). The results showed that fermentation achieved a maximum H2 rate of 332 mL/L and a yield of 0.55 mol H2/mol glycerol, accompanied by 20% of organic removal. Fed with the raw fermentation products with an initial COD of 7610 mg/L, a two-chamber MFC produced 92 mW/m(2) in power density and removed 50% of COD. The Columbic efficiency was 14%. When fed with 50% diluted fermentation product, a similar power output (90m W/m(2)) and COD removal (49%) were obtained, but the CE doubled to 27%. Similar substrates were used to produce H2 in two-chamber MECs, and the diluted influent had a higher performance, with the highest yield at 106 mL H2/g COD and a CE of 24%. These results demonstrate that dark fermentation linked with MFC/MEC can be a feasible option for conversion of waste glycerol into bioenergy. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Magnetic Material Assessment of a Novel Ultra-High Step-Up Converter with Single Semiconductor Switch and Galvanic Isolation for Fuel-Cell Power System.

PubMed

Shen, Chih-Lung; Liou, Heng

2017-11-15

In this paper, a novel step-up converter is proposed, which has the particular features of single semiconductor switch, ultra-high conversion ratio, galvanic isolation, and easy control. Therefore, the proposed converter is suitable for the applications of fuel-cell power system. Coupled inductors and switched capacitors are incorporated in the converter to obtain an ultra-high voltage ratio that is much higher than that of a conventional high step-up converter. Even if the turns ratio of coupled inductor and duty ratio are only to be 1 and 0.5, respectively, the converter can readily achieve a voltage gain of up to 18. Owing to this outstanding performance, it can also be applied to any other low voltage source for voltage boosting. In the power stage, only one active switch is used to handle the converter operation. In addition, the leakage energy of the two couple inductors can be totally recycled without any snubber, which simplifies the control mechanism and improves the conversion efficiency. Magnetic material dominates the conversion performance of the converter. Different types of iron cores are discussed for the possibility to serve as a coupled inductor. A 200 W prototype with 400 V output voltage is built to validate the proposed converter. In measurement, it indicates that the highest efficiency can be up to 94%.

Sulfur resistance of Ce-Mn/TiO2 catalysts for low-temperature NH3–SCR

PubMed Central

Yang, Wenjing; Cui, Shitong; Street, Jason; Luo, Yan

2018-01-01

Ce-Mn/TiO2 catalyst prepared using a simple impregnation method demonstrated a better low-temperature selective catalytic reduction of NO with NH3 (NH3–SCR) activity in comparison with the sol-gel method. The Ce-Mn/TiO2 catalyst loading with 20% Ce had the best low-temperature activity and achieved a NO conversion rate higher than 90% at 140–260°C with a 99.7% NO conversion rate at 180°C. The Ce-Mn/TiO2 catalyst only had a 6% NO conversion rate decrease after 100 ppm of SO2 was added to the stream. When SO2 was removed from the stream, the catalyst was able to recover completely. The crystal structure, morphology, textural properties and valence state of the metals involving the novel catalysts were investigated using X-ray diffraction, N2 adsorption and desorption analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy, respectively. The decrease of NH3–SCR performance in the presence of 100 ppm SO2 was due to the decrease of the surface area, change of the pore structure, the decrease of Ce4+ and Mn4+ concentration and the formation of the sulfur phase chemicals which blocked the active sites and changed the valence status of the elements. PMID:29657791

Effect of substrate availability on nitrous oxide production by deammonification processes under anoxic conditions.

PubMed

Schneider, Yvonne; Beier, Maike; Rosenwinkel, Karl-Heinz

2012-05-01

Due to its high global warming potential, nitrous oxide (N(2)O) emissions from wastewater treatment processes have recently received a high degree of attention. Nevertheless, there is still a lack of information regarding the microbiological processes leading to N(2)O production. In this study, two lab-scale sequencing batch reactors were operated with deammonification biomass to investigate the role of denitrification and the influence of substrate availability regarding N(2)O formation during the anoxic phase of deammonification. Three different operational phases were established: within the first phase conversion by anammox was favoured and after a transition phase, denitrification activity was promoted. Low nitrous oxide production was observed during stable operation aiming for anammox conversion. Pulsed inflow of the wastewater containing ammonium (NH(4)(+)) and nitrite (NO(2)(-)) led to increased N(2)O production rates. Within the period of denitrification as dominating nitrogen conversion process, the nitrous oxide concentration level was higher during continuous inflow conditions, but the reaction to pulsed inflow was less pronounced. The results indicated that denitrification was responsible for N(2)O formation from the deammonification biomass. Operational settings to achieve suppression of denitrification processes to a large extend were deducted from the results of the experiments. © 2012 The Authors. Microbial Biotechnology © 2012 Society for Applied Microbiology and Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Magnetic Material Assessment of a Novel Ultra-High Step-Up Converter with Single Semiconductor Switch and Galvanic Isolation for Fuel-Cell Power System

PubMed Central

Shen, Chih-Lung; Liou, Heng

2017-01-01

In this paper, a novel step-up converter is proposed, which has the particular features of single semiconductor switch, ultra-high conversion ratio, galvanic isolation, and easy control. Therefore, the proposed converter is suitable for the applications of fuel-cell power system. Coupled inductors and switched capacitors are incorporated in the converter to obtain an ultra-high voltage ratio that is much higher than that of a conventional high step-up converter. Even if the turns ratio of coupled inductor and duty ratio are only to be 1 and 0.5, respectively, the converter can readily achieve a voltage gain of up to 18. Owing to this outstanding performance, it can also be applied to any other low voltage source for voltage boosting. In the power stage, only one active switch is used to handle the converter operation. In addition, the leakage energy of the two couple inductors can be totally recycled without any snubber, which simplifies the control mechanism and improves the conversion efficiency. Magnetic material dominates the conversion performance of the converter. Different types of iron cores are discussed for the possibility to serve as a coupled inductor. A 200 W prototype with 400 V output voltage is built to validate the proposed converter. In measurement, it indicates that the highest efficiency can be up to 94%. PMID:29140282

Au nanorods-incorporated plasmonic-enhanced inverted organic solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peng, Ling; Mei, Yang; Chen, Shu-Fen; Zhang, Yu-Pei; Hao, Jing-Yu; Deng, Ling-Ling; Huang, Wei

2015-11-01

The effect of Au nanorods (NRs) on optical-to-electric conversion efficiency is investigated in inverted polymer solar cells, in which Au NRs are sandwiched between two layers of ZnO. Accompanied by the optimization of thickness of ZnO covered on Au NRs, a high-power conversion efficiency of 3.60% and an enhanced short-circuit current density (JSC) of 10.87 mA/cm2 are achieved in the poly(3-hexylthiophene): [6,6]-phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester (P3HT:PC60BM)-based inverted cell and the power conversion efficiency (PCE) is enhanced by 19.6% compared with the control device. The detailed analyses of the light absorption characteristics, the simulated scattering induced by Au NRs, and the electromagnetic field around Au NRs show that the absorption improvement in the photoactive layer due to the light scattering from the longitudinal axis and the near-field increase around Au NRs induced by localized surface plasmon resonance plays a key role in enhancing the performances. Project supported by the Ministry of Science and Technology, China (Grant No. 2012CB933301), the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos. 61274065, 51173081, 61136003, BZ2010043, 51372119, and 51172110), and the Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Provincial Higher Education Institutions and Synergetic Innovation Center for Organic Electronics and Information Displays, China.

Sulfur resistance of Ce-Mn/TiO2 catalysts for low-temperature NH3-SCR

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Quan; Yang, Wenjing; Cui, Shitong; Street, Jason; Luo, Yan

2018-03-01

Ce-Mn/TiO2 catalyst prepared using a simple impregnation method demonstrated a better low-temperature selective catalytic reduction of NO with NH3 (NH3-SCR) activity in comparison with the sol-gel method. The Ce-Mn/TiO2 catalyst loading with 20% Ce had the best low-temperature activity and achieved a NO conversion rate higher than 90% at 140-260°C with a 99.7% NO conversion rate at 180°C. The Ce-Mn/TiO2 catalyst only had a 6% NO conversion rate decrease after 100 ppm of SO2 was added to the stream. When SO2 was removed from the stream, the catalyst was able to recover completely. The crystal structure, morphology, textural properties and valence state of the metals involving the novel catalysts were investigated using X-ray diffraction, N2 adsorption and desorption analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy, respectively. The decrease of NH3-SCR performance in the presence of 100 ppm SO2 was due to the decrease of the surface area, change of the pore structure, the decrease of Ce4+ and Mn4+ concentration and the formation of the sulfur phase chemicals which blocked the active sites and changed the valence status of the elements.

Combined uranous nitrate production consisting of undivided electrolytic cell and divided electrolytic cell (Electrolysis → Electrolytic cell)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yuan, Zhongwei; Yan, Taihong; Zheng, Weifang

2013-07-01

The electrochemical reduction of uranyl nitrate is a green, mild way to make uranous ions. Undivided electrolyzers whose maintenance is less but their conversion ratio and current efficiency are low, have been chosen. However, at the beginning of undivided electrolysis, high current efficiency can also be maintained. Divided electrolyzers' conversion ratio and current efficiency is much higher because the re-oxidation of uranous on anode is avoided, but their maintenance costs are more, because in radioactive environment the membrane has to be changed after several operations. In this paper, a combined method of uranous production is proposed which consists of 2more » stages: undivided electrolysis (early stage) and divided electrolysis (late stage) to benefit from the advantages of both electrolysis modes. The performance of the combined method was tested. The results show that in combined mode, after 200 min long electrolysis (80 min undivided electrolysis and 120 min divided electrolysis), U(IV) yield can achieve 92.3% (500 ml feed, U 199 g/l, 72 cm{sup 2} cathode, 120 mA/cm{sup 2}). Compared with divided mode, about 1/3 working time in divided electrolyzer is reduced to achieve the same U(IV) yield. If 120 min long undivided electrolysis was taken, more than 1/2 working time can be reduced in divided electrolyzer, which means that about half of the maintenance cost can also be reduced. (authors)« less

A Critical Assessment of Microbiological Biogas to Biomethane Upgrading Systems.

PubMed

Rittmann, Simon K-M R

2015-01-01

Microbiological biogas upgrading could become a promising technology for production of methane (CH(4)). This is, storage of irregular generated electricity results in a need to store electricity generated at peak times for use at non-peak times, which could be achieved in an intermediate step by electrolysis of water to molecular hydrogen (H(2)). Microbiological biogas upgrading can be performed by contacting carbon dioxide (CO(2)), H(2) and hydrogenotrophic methanogenic Archaea either in situ in an anaerobic digester, or ex situ in a separate bioreactor. In situ microbiological biogas upgrading is indicated to require thorough bioprocess development, because only low volumetric CH(4) production rates and low CH(4) fermentation offgas content have been achieved. Higher volumetric production rates are shown for the ex situ microbiological biogas upgrading compared to in situ microbiological biogas upgrading. However, the ex situ microbiological biogas upgrading currently suffers from H(2) gas liquid mass transfer limitation, which results in low volumetric CH(4) productivity compared to pure H(2)/CO(2) conversion to CH(4). If waste gas utilization from biological and industrial sources can be shown without reduction in volumetric CH(4) productivity, as well as if the aim of a single stage conversion to a CH(4) fermentation offgas content exceeding 95 vol% can be demonstrated, ex situ microbiological biogas upgrading with pure or enrichment cultures of methanogens could become a promising future technology for almost CO(2)-neutral biomethane production.

78 FR 18657 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; Chicago Board Options Exchange, Incorporated; Notice of Filing and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-03-27

... they do not achieve MADV during Measurement Period One. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event of a liquidity event occurring in the first year of Measurement Period One, the Earn-Out Percentage may... upon a ``Conversion Event.'' A Conversion Event includes (i) a transfer of a majority of the...

The Sensitive Infrared Signal Detection by Sum Frequency Generation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wong, Teh-Hwa; Yu, Jirong; Bai, Yingxin

2013-01-01

An up-conversion device that converts 2.05-micron light to 700 nm signal by sum frequency generation using a periodically poled lithium niobate crystal is demonstrated. The achieved 92% up-conversion efficiency paves the path to detect extremely weak 2.05-micron signal with well established silicon avalanche photodiode detector for sensitive lidar applications.

Three-dimensional imaging for precise structural control of Si quantum dot networks for all-Si solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kourkoutis, Lena F.; Hao, Xiaojing; Huang, Shujuan; Puthen-Veettil, Binesh; Conibeer, Gavin; Green, Martin A.; Perez-Wurfl, Ivan

2013-07-01

All-Si tandem solar cells based on Si quantum dots (QDs) are a promising approach to future high-performance, thin film solar cells using abundant, stable and non-toxic materials. An important prerequisite to achieve a high conversion efficiency in such cells is the ability to control the geometry of the Si QD network. This includes the ability to control both, the size and arrangement of Si QDs embedded in a higher bandgap matrix. Using plasmon tomography we show the size, shape and density of Si QDs, that form in Si rich oxide (SRO)/SiO2 multilayers upon annealing, can be controlled by varying the SRO stoichiometry. Smaller, more spherical QDs of higher densities are obtained at lower Si concentrations. In richer SRO layers ellipsoidal QDs tend to form. Using electronic structure calculations within the effective mass approximation we show that ellipsoidal QDs give rise to reduced inter-QD coupling in the layer. Efficient carrier transport via mini-bands is in this case more likely across the multilayers provided the SiO2 spacer layer is thin enough to allow coupling in the vertical direction.All-Si tandem solar cells based on Si quantum dots (QDs) are a promising approach to future high-performance, thin film solar cells using abundant, stable and non-toxic materials. An important prerequisite to achieve a high conversion efficiency in such cells is the ability to control the geometry of the Si QD network. This includes the ability to control both, the size and arrangement of Si QDs embedded in a higher bandgap matrix. Using plasmon tomography we show the size, shape and density of Si QDs, that form in Si rich oxide (SRO)/SiO2 multilayers upon annealing, can be controlled by varying the SRO stoichiometry. Smaller, more spherical QDs of higher densities are obtained at lower Si concentrations. In richer SRO layers ellipsoidal QDs tend to form. Using electronic structure calculations within the effective mass approximation we show that ellipsoidal QDs give rise to reduced inter-QD coupling in the layer. Efficient carrier transport via mini-bands is in this case more likely across the multilayers provided the SiO2 spacer layer is thin enough to allow coupling in the vertical direction. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Electron tomography reconstruction movies. See DOI: 10.1039/c3nr01998e

Polystyrene bound oxidovanadium(IV) and dioxidovanadium(V) complexes of histamine derived ligand for the oxidation of methyl phenyl sulfide, diphenyl sulfide and benzoin.

PubMed

Maurya, Mannar R; Arya, Aarti; Kumar, Amit; Pessoa, João Costa

2009-03-28

Ligand Hsal-his (I) derived from salicylaldehyde and histamine has been covalently bound to chloromethylated polystyrene cross-linked with 5% divinylbenzene. Upon treatment with [VO(acac)(2)] in DMF, the polystyrene-bound ligand (abbreviated as PS-Hsal-his, II) gave the stable polystyrene-bound oxidovanadium(iv) complex PS-[V(IV)O(sal-his)(acac)] , which upon oxidation yielded the dioxidovanadium(v) PS-[V(V)O(2)(sal-his)] complex. The corresponding non polymer-bound complexes [V(IV)O(sal-his)(acac)] and [V(V)O(2)(sal-his)] have also been obtained. These complexes have been characterised by IR, electronic, (51)V NMR and EPR spectral studies, and thermal as well as scanning electron micrograph studies. Complexes and have been used as a catalyst for the oxidation of methyl phenyl sulfide, diphenyl sulfide and benzoin with 30% H(2)O(2) as oxidant. Under the optimised reaction conditions, a maximum of 93.8% conversion of methyl phenyl sulfide with 63.7% selectivity towards methyl phenyl sulfoxide and 36.3% towards methyl phenyl sulfone has been achieved in 2 h with 2 . Under similar conditions, diphenyl sulfide gave 83.4% conversion where selectivity of reaction products varied in the order: diphenyl sulfoxide (71.8%) > diphenyl sulfone (28.2%). A maximum of 91.2% conversion of benzoin has been achieved within 6 h, and the selectivities of reaction products are: methylbenzoate (37.0%) > benzil (30.5%) > benzaldehyde-dimethylacetal (22.5%) > benzoic acid (8.1%). The PS-bound complex, 1 exhibits very comparable catalytic potential. These polymer-anchored heterogeneous catalysts do not leach during catalytic action, are recyclable and show higher catalytic activity and turnover frequency than the corresponding non polymer-bound complexes. EPR and (51)V NMR spectroscopy was used to characterise methanolic solutions of 3 and 4 and to identify species formed upon addition of H(2)O(2) and/or acid and/or methyl phenyl sulfide.

A novel solid state fermentation coupled with gas stripping enhancing the sweet sorghum stalk conversion performance for bioethanol

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Bioethanol production from biomass is becoming a hot topic internationally. Traditional static solid state fermentation (TS-SSF) for bioethanol production is similar to the traditional method of intermittent operation. The main problems of its large-scale intensive production are the low efficiency of mass and heat transfer and the high ethanol inhibition effect. In order to achieve continuous production and high conversion efficiency, gas stripping solid state fermentation (GS-SSF) for bioethanol production from sweet sorghum stalk (SSS) was systematically investigated in the present study. Results TS-SSF and GS-SSF were conducted and evaluated based on different SSS particle thicknesses under identical conditions. The ethanol yield reached 22.7 g/100 g dry SSS during GS-SSF, which was obviously higher than that during TS-SSF. The optimal initial gas stripping time, gas stripping temperature, fermentation time, and particle thickness of GS-SSF were 10 h, 35°C, 28 h, and 0.15 cm, respectively, and the corresponding ethanol stripping efficiency was 77.5%. The ethanol yield apparently increased by 30% with the particle thickness decreasing from 0.4 cm to 0.05 cm during GS-SSF. Meanwhile, the ethanol yield increased by 6% to 10% during GS-SSF compared with that during TS-SSF under the same particle thickness. The results revealed that gas stripping removed the ethanol inhibition effect and improved the mass and heat transfer efficiency, and hence strongly enhanced the solid state fermentation (SSF) performance of SSS. GS-SSF also eliminated the need for separate reactors and further simplified the bioethanol production process from SSS. As a result, a continuous conversion process of SSS and online separation of bioethanol were achieved by GS-SSF. Conclusions SSF coupled with gas stripping meet the requirements of high yield and efficient industrial bioethanol production. It should be a novel bioconversion process for bioethanol production from SSS biomass. PMID:24713041

Modifying the red cell surface: towards an ABO-universal blood supply.

PubMed

Olsson, Martin L; Clausen, Henrik

2008-01-01

Eliminating the risk for ABO-incompatible transfusion errors and simplifying logistics by creating a universal blood inventory is a challenging idea. Goldstein and co-workers pioneered the field of enzymatic conversion of blood group A and B red blood cells (RBCs) to O (ECO). Using alpha-galactosidase from coffee beans to produce B-ECO RBCs, proof of principle for this revolutionary concept was achieved in clinical trials. However, because this enzyme has poor kinetic properties and low pH optimum the process was not economically viable. Conversion of group A RBCs was only achieved with the weak A2 subgroup with related enzymes having acidic pH optima. More recently, the identification of entirely new families of bacterial exoglycosidases with remarkably improved kinetic properties for cleaving A and B antigens has reinvigorated the field. Enzymatic conversion of groups A, B and AB RBCs with these novel enzymes resulting in ECO RBCs typing as O can now be achieved with low enzyme protein consumption, short incubation times and at neutral pH. Presently, clinical trials evaluating safety and efficacy of ECO RBCs are ongoing. Here, we review the status of the ECO technology, its impact and potential for introduction into clinical component preparation laboratories.

Impacts of halogen additions on mercury oxidation, in a slipstream selective catalyst reduction (SCR), reactor when burning sub-bituminous coal.

PubMed

Cao, Yan; Gao, Zhengyang; Zhu, Jiashun; Wang, Quanhai; Huang, Yaji; Chiu, Chengchung; Parker, Bruce; Chu, Paul; Pant, Wei-Ping

2008-01-01

This paper presents a comparison of impacts of halogen species on the elemental mercury (Hg(0)) oxidation in a real coal-derived flue gas atmosphere. It is reported there is a higher percentage of Hg(0) in the flue gas when burning sub-bituminous coal (herein Powder River Basin (PRB) coal) and lignite, even with the use of selective catalytic reduction (SCR). The higher Hg(0)concentration in the flue gas makes it difficult to use the wet-FGD process for the mercury emission control in coal-fired utility boilers. Investigation of enhanced Hg(0) oxidation by addition of hydrogen halogens (HF, HCl, HBr, and HI) was conducted in a slipstream reactor with and without SCR catalysts when burning PRB coal. Two commercial SCR catalysts were evaluated. SCR catalyst no. 1 showed higher efficiencies of both NO reduction and Hg(0) oxidation than those of SCR catalyst no. 2. NH3 addition seemed to inhibit the Hg(0) oxidation, which indicated competitive processes between NH3 reduction and Hg(0) oxidation on the surface of SCR catalysts. The hydrogen halogens, in the order of impact on Hg(0) oxidation, were HBr, HI, and HCl or HF. Addition of HBr at approximately 3 ppm could achieve 80% Hg(0) oxidation. Addition of HI at approximately 5 ppm could achieve 40% Hg(0) oxidation. In comparison to the empty reactor, 40% Hg(0) oxidation could be achieved when HCl addition was up to 300 ppm. The enhanced Hg(0) oxidation by addition of HBr and HI seemed not to be correlated to the catalytic effects by both evaluated SCR catalysts. The effectiveness of conversion of hydrogen halogens to halogen molecules or interhalogens seemed to be attributed to their impacts on Hg(0) oxidation.

Multifunctional switching unit for add/drop, wavelength conversion, format conversion, and WDM multicast based on bidirectional LCoS and SOA-loop architecture.

PubMed

Wang, Danshi; Zhang, Min; Qin, Jun; Lu, Guo-Wei; Wang, Hongxiang; Huang, Shanguo

2014-09-08

We propose a multifunctional optical switching unit based on the bidirectional liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS) and semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA) architecture. Add/drop, wavelength conversion, format conversion, and WDM multicast are experimentally demonstrated. Due to the bidirectional characteristic, the LCoS device cannot only multiplex the input signals, but also de-multiplex the converted signals. Dual-channel wavelength conversion and format conversion from 2 × 25Gbps differential quadrature phase-shift-keying (DQPSK) to 2 × 12.5Gbps differential phase-shift-keying (DPSK) based on four-wave mixing (FWM) in SOA is obtained with only one pump. One-to-six WDM multicast of 25Gbps DQPSK signals with two pumps is also achieved. All of the multicast channels are with a power penalty less than 1.1 dB at FEC threshold of 3.8 × 10⁻³.

Wavelength-encoded tomography based on optical temporal Fourier transform

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhang, Chi; Wong, Kenneth K. Y., E-mail: kywong@eee.hku.hk

We propose and demonstrate a technique called wavelength-encoded tomography (WET) for non-invasive optical cross-sectional imaging, particularly beneficial in biological system. The WET utilizes time-lens to perform the optical Fourier transform, and the time-to-wavelength conversion generates a wavelength-encoded image of optical scattering from internal microstructures, analogous to the interferometery-based imaging such as optical coherence tomography. Optical Fourier transform, in principle, comes with twice as good axial resolution over the electrical Fourier transform, and will greatly simplify the digital signal processing after the data acquisition. As a proof-of-principle demonstration, a 150 -μm (ideally 36 μm) resolution is achieved based on a 7.5-nm bandwidth swept-pump,more » using a conventional optical spectrum analyzer. This approach can potentially achieve up to 100-MHz or even higher frame rate with some proven ultrafast spectrum analyzer. We believe that this technique is innovative towards the next-generation ultrafast optical tomographic imaging application.« less

Superwettability-Induced Confined Reaction toward High-Performance Flexible Electrodes.

PubMed

Xiong, Weiwei; Liu, Hongliang; Zhou, Yahong; Ding, Yi; Zhang, Xiqi; Jiang, Lei

2016-05-18

To find a general strategy to realize confinement of the conductive layer for high-performance flexible electrodes, with improved interfacial adhesion and high conductivity, is of important scientific significance. In this work, superwettability-induced confined reaction is used to fabricate high-performance flexible Ag/polymer electrodes, showing significantly improved silver conversion efficiency and interfacial adhesion. The as-prepared flexible electrodes by superhydrophilic polymeric surface under oil are highly conductive with an order of magnitude higher than the Ag/polymer electrodes obtained from original polymeric surface. The high conductivity achieved via superhydrophilic confinement is ascribed to the fact that the superhydrophilic polymeric surface can enhance the reaction rate of silver deposition and reduce the size of silver nanoparticles to achieve the densest packing. This new approach will provide a simple method to fabricate flexible and highly conductive Ag/polymer electrodes with excellent adhesion between the conductive layer and the substrate, and can be extended to other metal/polymeric electrodes or alloy/polymeric electrodes.

Study of series-connected polymer tandem solar cells based on a highly efficient donor material of PTB7-Th

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zang, Yue; Gao, Xiumin; Xin, Qing; Lin, Jun; Zhao, Jufeng

2017-06-01

A highly efficient donor polymer, PTB7-Th, combined with acceptor fullerene PC71BM was introduced as the subcell in the series-connected tandem devices to achieve high-performance polymer tandem solar cells. Design of the device architecture was investigated using modeling and simulation methods to identify the optimal structure and to predict performance of the tandem cells. To address the challenge of current matching between the constituent subcells, the effect of active layer thickness, different device structure, and use of ultrathin Ag film were analyzed. It was found that the distribution of optical intensity in the tandem structure can be optimized through the optical spacer effect of interfacial layers and micro-cavity effect derived from the embedded ultrathin Ag film. Our results indicate that the efficient light utilization with appropriate subcells can allow achievement of power conversion efficiency of 12%, which can be 25% higher than that of a single cell of PTB7-Th.

Hybrid solar cells composed of perovskite and polymer photovoltaic structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Phaometvarithorn, Apatsanan; Chuangchote, Surawut; Kumnorkaew, Pisist; Wootthikanokkhan, Jatuphorn

2018-06-01

Organic/inorganic lead halide perovskite solar cells have recently attracted much attention in photovoltaic research, due to the devices show promising ways to achieve high efficiencies. The perovskite devices with high efficiencies, however, are typically fabricated in tandem solar cell which is complicated. In this research work, we introduce a solar cell device with the combination of CH3NH3PbI3-xClx perovskite and bulk heterojunction PCDTBT:PC70BM polymer without any tandem structure. The new integrated perovskite/polymer hybrid structure of ITO/PEDOT:PSS/perovskite/PCDTBT:PC70BM/PC70BM/TiOx/Al provides higher power conversion efficiency (PCE) of devices compared with conventional perovskite cell structure. With the optimized PCDTBT:PC70BM thickness of ∼70 nm, the highest PCE of 11.67% is achieved. Variation of conducting donor polymers in this new structure is also preliminary demonstrated. This study provides an attractively innovative structure and a promising design for further development of the new-generation solar cells.

Effect of fed-batch vs. continuous mode of operation on microbial fuel cell performance treating biorefinery wastewater

DOE PAGES

Pannell, Tyler C.; Goud, R. Kannaiah; Schell, Daniel J.; ...

2016-05-01

Bioelectrochemical systems have been shown to treat low-value biorefinery streams while recovering energy, however, low current densities and anode conversion efficiencies (ACE) limit their application. A bioanode was developed via enrichment of electroactive biofilm under fed-batch and continuous feeding conditions using corn stover-derived waste stream. The continuously-fed MFC exhibited a current density of 5.8±0.06 A/m 2 and an ACE of 39%±4. The fed-batch MFC achieved a similar current density and an ACE of 19.2%, however, its performance dropped after 36 days of operation to 1.1 A/m 2 and 0.5%, respectively. In comparison, the ACE of the continuously-fed MFC remained stablemore » achieving an ACE of 30% ± 3 after 48 days of operation. An MFC treating a biorefinery stream post fuel separation achieved a current density of 10.7±0.1 A/m 2 and an ACE of 57% ± 9 at an organic loading of 12.5 g COD/L-day. Characterization of the microbial communities indicate higher abundance of Firmicutes and Proteobacteria and lower abundance of Bacteriodetes and a higher level of Geobacter spp. (1.4% vs. 0.2%) in continuously-fed MFC vs. fed-batch MFC. Finally, the results demonstrate that limiting substrate to the equivalent maximum current that the anode can generate, maintains MFC performance over a long term for high strength wastewaters, such as those generated in the biorefinery.« less

Effect of fed-batch vs. continuous mode of operation on microbial fuel cell performance treating biorefinery wastewater

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pannell, Tyler C.; Goud, R. Kannaiah; Schell, Daniel J.

Bioelectrochemical systems have been shown to treat low-value biorefinery streams while recovering energy, however, low current densities and anode conversion efficiencies (ACE) limit their application. A bioanode was developed via enrichment of electroactive biofilm under fed-batch and continuous feeding conditions using corn stover-derived waste stream. The continuously-fed MFC exhibited a current density of 5.8±0.06 A/m 2 and an ACE of 39%±4. The fed-batch MFC achieved a similar current density and an ACE of 19.2%, however, its performance dropped after 36 days of operation to 1.1 A/m 2 and 0.5%, respectively. In comparison, the ACE of the continuously-fed MFC remained stablemore » achieving an ACE of 30% ± 3 after 48 days of operation. An MFC treating a biorefinery stream post fuel separation achieved a current density of 10.7±0.1 A/m 2 and an ACE of 57% ± 9 at an organic loading of 12.5 g COD/L-day. Characterization of the microbial communities indicate higher abundance of Firmicutes and Proteobacteria and lower abundance of Bacteriodetes and a higher level of Geobacter spp. (1.4% vs. 0.2%) in continuously-fed MFC vs. fed-batch MFC. Finally, the results demonstrate that limiting substrate to the equivalent maximum current that the anode can generate, maintains MFC performance over a long term for high strength wastewaters, such as those generated in the biorefinery.« less

The cost of conversion in robotic and laparoscopic colorectal surgery.

PubMed

Cleary, Robert K; Mullard, Andrew J; Ferraro, Jane; Regenbogen, Scott E

2018-03-01

Conversion from minimally invasive to open colorectal surgery remains common and costly. Robotic colorectal surgery is associated with lower rates of conversion than laparoscopy, but institutions and payers remain concerned about equipment and implementation costs. Recognizing that reimbursement reform and bundled payments expand perspectives on cost to include the entire surgical episode, we evaluated the role of minimally invasive conversion in total payments. This is an observational study from a linked data registry including clinical data from the Michigan Surgical Quality Collaborative and payment data from the Michigan Value Collaborative between July 2012 and April 2015. We evaluated colorectal resections initiated with open and minimally invasive approaches, and compared reported risk-adjusted and price-standardized 30-day episode payments and their components. We identified 1061 open, 1604 laparoscopic, and 275 robotic colorectal resections. Adjusted episode payments were significantly higher for open operations than for minimally invasive procedures completed without conversion ($19,489 vs. $15,518, p < 0.001). The conversion rate was significantly higher with laparoscopic than robotic operations (15.1 vs. 7.6%, p < 0.001). Adjusted episode payments for minimally invasive operations converted to open were significantly higher than for those completed by minimally invasive approaches ($18,098 vs. $15,518, p < 0.001). Payments for operations completed robotically were greater than those completed laparoscopically ($16,949 vs. $15,250, p < 0.001), but the difference was substantially decreased when conversion to open cases was included ($16,939 vs. $15,699, p = 0.041). Episode payments for open colorectal surgery exceed both laparoscopic and robotic minimally invasive options. Conversion to open surgery significantly increases the payments associated with minimally invasive colorectal surgery. Because conversion rates in robotic colorectal operations are half of those in laparoscopy, the excess expenditures attributable to robotics are attenuated by consideration of the cost of conversions.

RAFT Aqueous Dispersion Polymerization of N-(2-(Methacryloyloxy)ethyl)pyrrolidone: A Convenient Low Viscosity Route to High Molecular Weight Water-Soluble Copolymers

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

RAFT solution polymerization of N-(2-(methacryoyloxy)ethyl)pyrrolidone (NMEP) in ethanol at 70 °C was conducted to produce a series of PNMEP homopolymers with mean degrees of polymerization (DP) varying from 31 to 467. Turbidimetry was used to assess their inverse temperature solubility behavior in dilute aqueous solution, with an LCST of approximately 55 °C being observed in the high molecular weight limit. Then a poly(glycerol monomethacylate) (PGMA) macro-CTA with a mean DP of 63 was chain-extended with NMEP using a RAFT aqueous dispersion polymerization formulation at 70 °C. The target PNMEP DP was systematically varied from 100 up to 6000 to generate a series of PGMA63–PNMEPx diblock copolymers. High conversions (≥92%) could be achieved when targeting up to x = 5000. GPC analysis confirmed high blocking efficiencies and a linear evolution in Mn with increasing PNMEP DP. A gradual increase in Mw/Mn was also observed when targeting higher DPs. However, this problem could be minimized (Mw/Mn < 1.50) by utilizing a higher purity grade of NMEP (98% vs 96%). This suggests that the broader molecular weight distributions observed at higher DPs are simply the result of a dimethacrylate impurity causing light branching, rather than an intrinsic side reaction such as chain transfer to polymer. Kinetic studies confirmed that the RAFT aqueous dispersion polymerization of NMEP was approximately four times faster than the RAFT solution polymerization of NMEP in ethanol when targeting the same DP in each case. This is perhaps surprising because both 1H NMR and SAXS studies indicate that the core-forming PNMEP chains remain relatively solvated at 70 °C in the latter formulation. Moreover, dissolution of the initial PGMA63–PNMEPx particles occurs on cooling from 70 to 20 °C as the PNMEP block passes through its LCST. Hence this RAFT aqueous dispersion polymerization formulation offers an efficient route to a high molecular weight water-soluble polymer in a rather convenient low-viscosity form. Finally, the relatively expensive PGMA macro-CTA was replaced with a poly(methacrylic acid) (PMAA) macro-CTA. High conversions were also achieved for PMAA85–PNMEPx diblock copolymers prepared via RAFT aqueous dispersion polymerization for x ≤ 4000. Again, better control was achieved when using the 98% purity NMEP monomer in such syntheses. PMID:27375300

RAFT Aqueous Dispersion Polymerization of N-(2-(Methacryloyloxy)ethyl)pyrrolidone: A Convenient Low Viscosity Route to High Molecular Weight Water-Soluble Copolymers.

PubMed

Cunningham, Victoria J; Derry, Matthew J; Fielding, Lee A; Musa, Osama M; Armes, Steven P

2016-06-28

RAFT solution polymerization of N -(2-(methacryoyloxy)ethyl)pyrrolidone (NMEP) in ethanol at 70 °C was conducted to produce a series of PNMEP homopolymers with mean degrees of polymerization (DP) varying from 31 to 467. Turbidimetry was used to assess their inverse temperature solubility behavior in dilute aqueous solution, with an LCST of approximately 55 °C being observed in the high molecular weight limit. Then a poly(glycerol monomethacylate) (PGMA) macro-CTA with a mean DP of 63 was chain-extended with NMEP using a RAFT aqueous dispersion polymerization formulation at 70 °C. The target PNMEP DP was systematically varied from 100 up to 6000 to generate a series of PGMA 63 -PNMEP x diblock copolymers. High conversions (≥92%) could be achieved when targeting up to x = 5000. GPC analysis confirmed high blocking efficiencies and a linear evolution in M n with increasing PNMEP DP. A gradual increase in M w / M n was also observed when targeting higher DPs. However, this problem could be minimized ( M w / M n < 1.50) by utilizing a higher purity grade of NMEP (98% vs 96%). This suggests that the broader molecular weight distributions observed at higher DPs are simply the result of a dimethacrylate impurity causing light branching, rather than an intrinsic side reaction such as chain transfer to polymer. Kinetic studies confirmed that the RAFT aqueous dispersion polymerization of NMEP was approximately four times faster than the RAFT solution polymerization of NMEP in ethanol when targeting the same DP in each case. This is perhaps surprising because both 1 H NMR and SAXS studies indicate that the core-forming PNMEP chains remain relatively solvated at 70 °C in the latter formulation. Moreover, dissolution of the initial PGMA 63 -PNMEP x particles occurs on cooling from 70 to 20 °C as the PNMEP block passes through its LCST. Hence this RAFT aqueous dispersion polymerization formulation offers an efficient route to a high molecular weight water-soluble polymer in a rather convenient low-viscosity form. Finally, the relatively expensive PGMA macro-CTA was replaced with a poly(methacrylic acid) (PMAA) macro-CTA. High conversions were also achieved for PMAA 85 -PNMEP x diblock copolymers prepared via RAFT aqueous dispersion polymerization for x ≤ 4000. Again, better control was achieved when using the 98% purity NMEP monomer in such syntheses.

Ultralow noise up-conversion detector and spectrometer for the telecom band.

PubMed

Shentu, Guo-Liang; Pelc, Jason S; Wang, Xiao-Dong; Sun, Qi-Chao; Zheng, Ming-Yang; Fejer, M M; Zhang, Qiang; Pan, Jian-Wei

2013-06-17

We demonstrate up-conversion single-photon detection for the 1550-nm telecommunications band using a PPLN waveguide, long-wavelength pump, and narrowband filtering using a volume Bragg grating. We achieve total-system detection efficiency of around 30% with noise at the dark-count level of a Silicon APD. Based on the new detector, a single-pixel up-conversion infrared spectrometer with a noise equivalent power of -142 dBm Hz(-1/2) was demonstrated, which was as good as a liquid nitrogen cooled CCD camera.

Research progress of infrared detecting and display integrated device based on infrared-visible up-conversion technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Junfeng; Li, Weile; He, Bo; Wang, Haowei; Song, Yong; Yang, Shengyi; Ni, Guoqiang

2018-01-01

Infrared detecting and display device (IR-DDD) is a newly developed optical up-conversion device that integrates the light-emitting diode (LED) onto the infrared (IR) photo-detector, in order to convert IR light into the carriers photo-generated in detection materials and inject them into LED to emit visible light. This IR-DDD can achieve the direct up-conversion from IR ray to visible light, showing the considerable potential in night-vision application. This paper attempts a review of its working principle and current research progresses.

Self-Regulation and the Income-Achievement Gap

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Evans, Gary W.; Rosenbaum, Jennifer

2008-01-01

The pervasive income-related achievement gap among children has been partially explained by parental investments. Wealthier parents provide more cognitively enriched environments (e.g., books, informal learning opportunities such as music lessons) and converse more with their children relative to low-income parents. However parental investment…

Costs Associated With Intravenous Darbepoetin Versus Epoetin Therapy in Hemodialysis Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

PubMed Central

Woodland, Andrea L.; Murphy, Sean W.; Curtis, Bryan M.; Barrett, Brendan J.

2017-01-01

Background: Anemia of chronic kidney disease is associated with adverse outcomes and a reduced quality of life. Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) have improved anemia management, and 2 agents are available in Canada, epoetin alfa (EPO) and darbepoetin alfa (DA). EPO and DA are considered equally effective in achieving target hemoglobin (Hb), but it is not clear whether there is a cost difference. There have been few head-to-head comparisons; most published studies are observational switch studies. Objective: To compare the cost of DA and EPO and to determine the dose conversion ratio over a 12-month period. Design: Randomized controlled trial. Setting: Canadian outpatient hemodialysis center. Patients: Eligible patients were adult hemodialysis patients requiring ESA therapy. Measurements: The primary outcome was ESA cost (Can$) per patient over 12 months. Secondary outcomes included the dose conversion ratio, deviation from target ranges in anemia indices, iron dose and cost, and time and number of dose changes. Methods: An open-label randomized controlled trial of intravenous (IV) DA versus EPO was conducted in 50 hemodialysis patients. Participants underwent a minimum 6-week run-in phase followed by a 12-month active study phase. ESA and iron were dosed using a study algorithm. Results: The median cost was $4179 (interquartile range [IQR]: $2416-$5955) for EPO and $2303 (IQR: $1178-$4219) for DA with a difference of $1876 (P = .02). The dose conversion ratio was 280:1 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 197-362:1) at the end of the run-in phase, 360:1 (95% CI: 262-457:1) at the 3-month point of the active phase, and 382:1 (95% CI: 235-529:1) at the 6-month point of the active phase. There were no significant differences between the 2 groups in weekly iron dose, Hb, serum ferritin, or transferrin saturation. The number of dose changes and the time to Hb stability were similar. Limitations: Results may not be generalizable to hemodialysis units without algorithm-based anemia management, with subcutaneous ESA administration, or to the nondialysis chronic kidney disease population. The effective conversion ratio between EPO and DA is known to increase at higher doses; the Hb targets used in the study were slightly higher than those recommended today so it is possible that the doses used were also higher. Because of this, the cost savings estimated for DA could differ somewhat from the savings realizable in current practice. Conclusions: In this study of hemodialysis patients with comparable anemia management, IV DA cost $1876 less per year per patient than IV EPO. The dose conversion ratio was greater than 350:1 by the 3-month point. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02817555). PMID:28717516

Coherent Microwave-to-Optical Conversion via Six-Wave Mixing in Rydberg Atoms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Jingshan; Vogt, Thibault; Gross, Christian; Jaksch, Dieter; Kiffner, Martin; Li, Wenhui

2018-03-01

We present an experimental demonstration of converting a microwave field to an optical field via frequency mixing in a cloud of cold 87Rb atoms, where the microwave field strongly couples to an electric dipole transition between Rydberg states. We show that the conversion allows the phase information of the microwave field to be coherently transferred to the optical field. With the current energy level scheme and experimental geometry, we achieve a photon-conversion efficiency of ˜0.3 % at low microwave intensities and a broad conversion bandwidth of more than 4 MHz. Theoretical simulations agree well with the experimental data, and they indicate that near-unit efficiency is possible in future experiments.

Coal pump development phase 3

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kushida, R. O.; Sankur, V. D.; Gerbracht, F. G.; Mahajan, V.

1980-01-01

Techniques for achieving continuous coal sprays were studied. Coazial injection with gas and pressure atomization were studied. Coal particles, upon cooling, were found to be porous and fragile. Reactivity tests on the extruded coal showed overall conversion to gases and liquids unchanged from that of the raw coal. The potentials for applications of the coal pump to eight coal conversion processes were examined.

Process simulation and comparison of biological conversion of syngas and hydrogen in biogas plants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Awais Salman, Chaudhary; Schwede, Sebastian; Thorin, Eva; Yan, Jinyue

2017-11-01

Organic waste is a good source of clean energy. However, different fractions of waste have to be utilized efficiently. One way is to find pathways to convert waste into useful products via various available processes (gasification, pyrolysis anaerobic digestion, etc.) and integrate them to increase the combined efficiency of the process. The syngas and hydrogen produced from the thermal conversion of biomass can be upgraded to biomethane via biological methanation. The current study presents the simulation model to predict the amount of biomethane produced by injecting the hydrogen and syngas. Hydrogen injection is modelled both in-situ and ex-situ while for syngas solely the ex-situ case has been studied. The results showed that 85% of the hydrogen conversion was achieved for the ex-situ reactor while 81% conversion rate was achieved for the in-situ reactor. The syngas could be converted completely in the bio-reactor. However, the addition of syngas resulted in an increase of carbon dioxide. Simulation of biomethanation of gas addition showed a biomethane concentration of 87% while for hydrogen addition an increase of 74% and 80% for in-situ and ex-situ addition respectively.

Energy conversion in isothermal nonlinear irreversible processes - struggling for higher efficiency

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ebeling, W.; Feistel, R.

2017-06-01

First we discuss some early work of Ulrike Feudel on structure formation in nonlinear reactions including ions and the efficiency of the conversion of chemical into electrical energy. Then we give some survey about isothermal energy conversion from chemical to higher forms of energy like mechanical, electrical and ecological energy. Isothermal means here that there are no temperature gradients within the model systems. We consider examples of energy conversion in several natural processes and in some devices like fuel cells. Further, as an example, we study analytically the dynamics and efficiency of a simple "active circuit" converting chemical into electrical energy and driving currents which is roughly modeling fuel cells. Finally we investigate an analogous ecological system of Lotka-Volterra type consisting of an "active species" consuming some passive "chemical food". We show analytically for both these models that the efficiency increases with the load, reaches values higher then 50 percent in a narrow regime of optimal load and goes beyond some maximal load abruptly to zero.

Bioethanol production from ball milled bagasse using an on-site produced fungal enzyme cocktail and xylose-fermenting Pichia stipitis.

PubMed

Buaban, Benchaporn; Inoue, Hiroyuki; Yano, Shinichi; Tanapongpipat, Sutipa; Ruanglek, Vasimon; Champreda, Verawat; Pichyangkura, Rath; Rengpipat, Sirirat; Eurwilaichitr, Lily

2010-07-01

Sugarcane bagasse is one of the most promising agricultural by-products for conversion to biofuels. Here, ethanol fermentation from bagasse has been achieved using an integrated process combining mechanical pretreatment by ball milling, with enzymatic hydrolysis and fermentation. Ball milling for 2 h was sufficient for nearly complete cellulose structural transformation to an accessible amorphous form. The pretreated cellulosic residues were hydrolyzed by a crude enzyme preparation from Penicillium chrysogenum BCC4504 containing cellulase activity combined with Aspergillus flavus BCC7179 preparation containing complementary beta-glucosidase activity. Saccharification yields of 84.0% and 70.4% for glucose and xylose, respectively, were obtained after hydrolysis at 45 degrees C, pH 5 for 72 h, which were slightly higher than those obtained with a commercial enzyme mixture containing Acremonium cellulase and Optimash BG. A high conversion yield of undetoxified pretreated bagasse (5%, w/v) hydrolysate to ethanol was attained by separate hydrolysis and fermentation processes using Pichia stipitis BCC15191, at pH 5.5, 30 degrees C for 24 h resulting in an ethanol concentration of 8.4 g/l, corresponding to a conversion yield of 0.29 g ethanol/g available fermentable sugars. Comparable ethanol conversion efficiency was obtained by a simultaneous saccharification and fermentation process which led to production of 8.0 g/l ethanol after 72 h fermentation under the same conditions. This study thus demonstrated the potential use of a simple integrated process with minimal environmental impact with the use of promising alternative on-site enzymes and yeast for the production of ethanol from this potent lignocellulosic biomass. 2009. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Forest carbon emissions from cropland expansion in the Brazilian Cerrado biome

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Noojipady, Praveen; Morton, C. Douglas; Macedo, N. Marcia; Victoria, C. Daniel; Huang, Chengquan; Gibbs, K. Holly; Edson Bolfe, L.

2017-02-01

Land use, land use change, and forestry accounted for two-thirds of Brazil’s greenhouse gas emissions profile in 2005. Amazon deforestation has declined by more than 80% over the past decade, yet Brazil’s forests extend beyond the Amazon biome. Rapid expansion of cropland in the neighboring Cerrado biome has the potential to undermine climate mitigation efforts if emissions from dry forest and woodland conversion negate some of the benefits of avoided Amazon deforestation. Here, we used satellite data on cropland expansion, forest cover, and vegetation carbon stocks to estimate annual gross forest carbon emissions from cropland expansion in the Cerrado biome. Nearly half of the Cerrado met Brazil’s definition of forest cover in 2000 (≥0.5 ha with ≥10% canopy cover). In areas of established crop production, conversion of both forest and non-forest Cerrado formations for cropland declined during 2003-2013. However, forest carbon emissions from cropland expansion increased over the past decade in Matopiba, a new frontier of agricultural production that includes portions of Maranhão, Tocantins, Piauí, and Bahia states. Gross carbon emissions from cropland expansion in the Cerrado averaged 16.28 Tg C yr-1 between 2003 and 2013, with forest-to-cropland conversion accounting for 29% of emissions. The fraction of forest carbon emissions from Matopiba was much higher; between 2010-2013, large-scale cropland conversion in Matopiba contributed 45% of total Cerrado forest carbon emissions. Carbon emissions from Cerrado-to-cropland transitions offset 5%-7% of the avoided emissions from reduced Amazon deforestation rates during 2011-2013. Comprehensive national estimates of forest carbon fluxes, including all biomes, are critical to detect cross-biome leakage within countries and achieve climate mitigation targets to reduce emissions from land use, land use change, and forestry.

Advanced laser architectures for high power eyesafe illuminators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baranova, N.; Pati, B.; Stebbins, K.; Bystryak, I.; Rayno, M.; Ezzo, K.; DePriest, C.

2018-02-01

Q-Peak has demonstrated a novel pulsed eyesafe laser architecture operating with >50 mJ pulse energies at Pulse Repetition Frequencies (PRFs) as high as 320 Hz. The design leverages an Optical Parametric Oscillator (OPO) and Optical Parametric Amplifier (OPA) geometry, which provides the unique capability for high power in a comparatively compact package, while also offering the potential for additional eyesafe power scaling. The laser consists of a Commercial Off-the-Shelf (COTS) Q-switched front-end seed laser to produce pulse-widths around 10 ns at 1.06-μm, which is then followed by a pair of Multi-Pass Amplifier (MPA) architectures (comprised of side-pumped, multi-pass Nd:YAG slabs with a compact diode-pump-array imaging system), and finally involving two sequential nonlinear optical conversion architectures for transfer into the eyesafe regime. The initial seed beam is first amplified through the MPA, and then split into parallel optical paths. An OPO provides effective nonlinear conversion on one optical path, while a second MPA further amplifies the 1.06-μm beam for use in pumping an OPA on the second optical path. These paths are then recombined prior to seeding the OPA. Each nonlinear conversion subsystem utilizes Potassium Titanyl Arsenate (KTA) for effective nonlinear conversion with lower risk to optical damage. This laser architecture efficiently produces pulse energies of >50 mJ in the eyesafe band at PRFs as high as 320 Hz, and has been designed to fit within a volume of 4,500 in3 (0.074 m3 ). We will discuss theoretical and experimental details of the nonlinear optical system for achieving higher eyesafe powers.

Development of a two photon/laser induced fluorescence technique for the detection of atmospheric OH radicals

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bradshaw, John

1990-01-01

The development of a new mid-IR laser source was the primary goal. Backward propagating stimulated D2 Raman frequency down conversion of a commercially available 1.06 micron Nd:YAG laser was shown to generate an efficient source of 1.56 micron radiation with near diffraction limited beam quality. The efficient generation of a 2.9 micron laser source was also achieved using backward propagating CH4 Raman frequency down conversion of the 1.56 micron pump. Slightly higher efficiencies were obtained for frequency down conversion of the 1.06 micron Nd:YAG using the H2 Raman shift yielding a near diffraction limited source in the 200 mJ range at 1.9 micron. Similar conversion efficiencies are anticipated as a result of extending the wavelength coverage of recently available Ti:sapphire pulse laser to not only cover the 740 to 860 nm fundamental wavelength range but also the .95 to 1.15 and 1.06 to 1.33 micron range using D2 and H2, respectively. The anticipated sensitivity of a TP-LIF OH sensor using this mid-IR source would give signal limited detection of 1.4 x 10(exp 5) OH/cu cm under boundary layer conditions and 5.5 x 10(exp 4) OH/cu cm under free troposphere sampling conditions for a five minute signal integration period. This level of performance coupled with the techniques non-perturbing nature and freedom from both interferences and background would allow reliable tropospheric OH measurement to be obtained under virtually any ambient condition of current interest, including interstitial and sampling.

Conversion in laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery: impact on short- and long-term outcome.

PubMed

Scheidbach, Hubert; Garlipp, Benjamin; Oberländer, Henrik; Adolf, Daniela; Köckerling, Ferdinand; Lippert, Hans

2011-12-01

Despite the well-documented safety and effectiveness of laparoscopic colorectal surgery in curative intention, the role of conversion and its impact on short- and long-term outcome after resection of a carcinoma are unclear and continue to give rise to controversial discussion. Within the framework of a prospective, multicenter observational study (Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery Study Group), into which a total of 5,863 patients from 69 hospitals were recruited over a period of 10 years, a subgroup of all patients who had undergone curative resection was analyzed with regard to the effects of conversion. Of the 1409 patients who had undergone curative resection for colorectal carcinoma, conversion had to be performed in 80 (5.7%) cases for the most diverse reasons. The duration of surgery (median: 183 vs. 241 minutes; P<.001) was significantly longer in the conversion group. Perioperatively, significant disadvantages were noted in converted patients in terms of intraoperative blood loss (median: 243 vs. 573 mL, P<.001), need for perioperative blood transfusion (10.8% vs. 33.8%; P<.001), and resumption of bowel movement (median: after 3 vs. 4 days; P<.001). With regard to postoperative morbidity, significant disadvantages were observed in converted patients, in particular in terms of specific surgical complications, including a higher rate of anastomotic insufficiency (5.0% vs. 13.8%; P=.003) and a higher reoperation rate (4.9% vs. 15.0%; P=.001). In the long term, conversion was associated with lower overall survival, but not with poorer disease-free survival. Significantly higher postoperative morbidity was observed in patients after conversion, in particular in terms of specific surgical complications. In addition, conversion is associated with overall lower survival but not with poorer disease-free survival.

Wireless multi-level terahertz amplitude modulator using active metamaterial-based spatial light modulation.

PubMed

Rout, Saroj; Sonkusale, Sameer

2016-06-27

The ever increasing demand for bandwidth in wireless communication systems will inevitably lead to the extension of operating frequencies toward the terahertz (THz) band known as the 'THz gap'. Towards closing this gap, we present a multi-level amplitude shift keying (ASK) terahertz wireless communication system using terahertz spatial light modulators (SLM) instead of traditional voltage mode modulation, achieving higher spectral efficiency for high speed communication. The fundamental principle behind this higher efficiency is the conversion of a noisy voltage domain signal to a noise-free binary spatial pattern for effective amplitude modulation of a free-space THz carrier wave. Spatial modulation is achieved using an an active metamaterial array embedded with pseudomorphic high-electron mobility (pHEMT) designed in a consumer-grade galium-arsenide (GaAs) integrated circuit process which enables electronic control of its THz transmissivity. Each array is assembled as individually controllable tiles for transmissive terahertz spatial modulation. Using the experimental data from our metamaterial based modulator, we show that a four-level ASK digital communication system has two orders of magnitude improvement in symbol error rate (SER) for a degradation of 20 dB in transmit signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) using spatial light modulation compared to voltage controlled modulation.

Failed heart rate control with oral metoprolol prior to coronary CT angiography: effect of additional intravenous metoprolol on heart rate, image quality and radiation dose.

PubMed

Jiménez-Juan, Laura; Nguyen, Elsie T; Wintersperger, Bernd J; Moshonov, Hadas; Crean, Andrew M; Deva, Djeven P; Paul, Narinder S; Torres, Felipe S

2013-01-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of intravenous (i.v.) metoprolol after a suboptimal heart rate (HR) response to oral metoprolol (75-150 mg) on HR control, image quality (IQ) and radiation dose during coronary CTA using 320-MDCT. Fifty-three consecutive patients who failed to achieve a target HR of < 60 bpm after an oral dose of metoprolol and required supplementary i.v. metoprolol (5-20 mg) prior to coronary CTA were evaluated. Patients with HR < 60 bpm during image acquisition were defined as responders (R) and those with HR ≥ 60 bpm as non-responders (NR). Two observers assessed IQ using a 3-point scale (1-2, diagnostic and 3, non-diagnostic). Effective dose (ED) was estimated using dose-length product and a 0.014 mSV/mGy.cm conversion factor. Baseline characteristics and HR on arrival were similar in the two groups. 58% of patients didn't achieve the target HR after receiving i.v. metoprolol (NR). R had a significantly higher HR reduction after oral (mean HR 63.9 ± 4.5 bpm vs. 69.6 ± 5.6 bpm) (p < 0.005) and i.v. (mean HR 55.4 ± 3.9 bpm vs. 67.4 ± 5.3 bpm) (p < 0.005) doses of metoprolol. Studies from NR showed a significantly higher ED in comparison to R (8.0 ± 2.9 vs. 6.1 ± 2.2 mSv) (p = 0.016) and a significantly higher proportion of non-diagnostic coronary segments (9.2 vs. 2.5%) (p < 0.001). 58% of patients who do not achieve a HR of <60 bpm prior to coronary CTA with oral fail to respond to additional i.v. metoprolol and have studies with higher radiation dose and worse image quality.

Auger Up-Conversion of Low-Intensity Infrared Light in Engineered Quantum Dots

DOE PAGES

Makarov, Nikolay S.; Lin, Qianglu; Pietryga, Jeffrey M.; ...

2016-11-29

One source of efficiency losses in photovoltaic cells is their transparency toward solar photons with energies below the band gap of the absorbing layer. This loss can be reduced using a process of up-conversion whereby two or more sub-band-gap photons generate a single above-gap exciton. Traditional approaches to up-conversion, such as nonlinear two-photon absorption (2PA) or triplet fusion, suffer from low efficiency at solar light intensities, a narrow absorption bandwidth, nonoptimal absorption energies, and difficulties for implementing in practical devices. We show that these deficiencies can be alleviated using the effect of Auger up-conversion in thick-shell PbSe/CdSe quantum dots. Thismore » process relies on Auger recombination whereby two low-energy, core-based excitons are converted into a single higher-energy, shell-based exciton. When compared to their monocomponent counterparts, the tailored PbSe/CdSe heterostructures feature enhanced absorption cross-sections, a higher efficiency of the “productive” Auger pathway involving re-excitation of a hole, and longer lifetimes of both core- and shell-localized excitons. These features lead to effective up-conversion cross-sections that are more than 6 orders of magnitude higher than for standard nonlinear 2PA, which allows for efficient up-conversion of continuous wave infrared light at intensities as low as a few watts per square centimeter.« less

Hydroprocessing of rubber seed oil to renewable fuels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tran, Tan Viet; Phung, Minh Tri

2017-09-01

Hydroprocessing of rubber seed oil (RSO) with various types of alumina-silica support catalyst was conducted at 400°C and a hydrogen partial pressure of 3.0 MPa in 3 hours. The effects of the alumina-silica and metal doping on alumina-silica on the conversion, and distribution of oil fraction products (initial boiling point (IBP) to 80°C, from 80-200°C, from 200-360°C and higher than 360°C boiling point) were investigated. Compared to the results obtained when using Mo@Al2O3-SiO2, hydroprocessing of RSO resulted in a higher conversion and much higher yield of the light fraction (BP <230°C). Both alumina-silica catalysts led to an improved conversion as well as a higher light fraction yield. Results show that hydroprocessing of RSO with metal doping on alumina-silica support was more efficient than that only Al2O3-SiO2.

A double-blind, randomized comparative study to investigate the morphine to hydromorphone conversion ratio in Japanese cancer patients

PubMed Central

Inoue, Satoshi; Saito, Yoji; Tsuneto, Satoru; Aruga, Etsuko; Ogata, Takeshi; Uemori, Mitsutoshi

2018-01-01

Abstract Objective To confirm the morphine to hydromorphone conversion ratio for hydromorphone (DS-7113b) immediate-release tablets in cancer patients who achieved pain control with oral morphine. Methods This was a multicenter, active-controlled, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, comparative study (July 2013 to December 2014) at 39 Japanese sites. Seventy-one patients (aged >20 years) who had achieved pain control with morphine 60 mg/day and 90 mg/day were randomly allocated 1:1 to hydromorphone immediate-release tablets at a dose converted at a hydromorphone:morphine ratio of 1:5 or 1:8, respectively, and treated for up to 5 days. The efficacy was evaluated as the pain control ratio. Results The pain control ratio in the full analysis set was 83.3% (25/30) in the conversion ratio 1:5 group and 95.0% (38/40) in the conversion ratio 1:8 group, and both groups demonstrated highly successful pain control. The incidence of adverse events was 46.7% (14/30) in the conversion ratio 1:5 group and 58.5% (24/41) in the 1:8 group; the difference was not clinically relevant. Frequently observed adverse events (incidence ≥5%) were nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, somnolence and dyspnea. Conclusions A high pain control ratio was maintained by a switch at either conversion ratio, and no notable difference was observed in the incidence of adverse events. A switch from morphine to hydromorphone is effective at a dose converted at ratios of 1:5 and 1:8. PMID:29635632

Does engagement predict research use? An analysis of The Conversation Annual Survey 2016.

PubMed

Zardo, Pauline; Barnett, Adrian G; Suzor, Nicolas; Cahill, Tim

2018-01-01

The impact of research on the world beyond academia has increasingly become an area of focus in research performance assessments internationally. Impact assessment is expected to incentivise researchers to increase engagement with industry, government and the public more broadly. Increased engagement is in turn expected to increase translation of research so decision-makers can use research to inform development of policies, programs, practices, processes, products, and other mechanisms, through which impact can be realised. However, research has shown that various factors affect research use, and evidence on 'what works' to increase decision-makers' use of research is limited. The Conversation is an open access research communication platform, published under Creative Commons licence, which translates research into news articles to engage a general audience, aiming to improve understanding of current issues and complex social problems. To identify factors that predict use of academic research and expertise reported in The Conversation, regression analyses were performed using The Conversation Australia 2016 Annual Survey data. A broad range of factors predicted use, with engagement actions being the most common. Interestingly, different types of engagement actions predicted different types of use. This suggests that to achieve impact through increased engagement, a deeper understanding of how and why different engagement actions elicit different types of use is needed. Findings also indicate The Conversation is overcoming some of the most commonly identified barriers to the use of research: access, relevance, actionable outcomes, and timeliness. As such, The Conversation offers an effective model for providing access to and communicating research in a way that enables use, a necessary precursor to achieving research impact.

Functionalized NbS2 as cathode for Li- and Na-ion batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Jiajie; Alshareef, Husam N.; Schwingenschlögl, Udo

2017-07-01

Cathodes of Li- and Na-ion batteries usually have capacities <200 mAh/g, significantly less than the anodes. Two-dimensional materials can overcome this limitation but suffer from low voltages. In this context, we investigate NbS2 functionalized by O, F, and Cl as a cathode material by first-principles calculations, considering both the conversion and intercalation mechanisms. NbS2O2 shows a higher voltage than NbS2 for both Li and Na, but the voltage decreases drastically for increasing ion coverage. Even higher voltages and favorable dependences on the ion coverage are achieved by F and Cl functionalization. We obtain NbS2F2 and NbS2Cl2 energy densities of 1223 mW h/g and 823 mW h/g for lithiation and 1086 mW h/g and 835 mW h/g for sodiation, respectively. These values are higher than those for most state-of-the-art cathode materials ( ˜600 mW h/g). In addition, low diffusion barriers enable high cycling rates.

Efficient Vacuum-Deposited Ternary Organic Solar Cells with Broad Absorption, Energy Transfer, and Enhanced Hole Mobility.

PubMed

Shim, Hyun-Sub; Moon, Chang-Ki; Kim, Jihun; Wang, Chun-Kai; Sim, Bomi; Lin, Francis; Wong, Ken-Tsung; Seo, Yongsok; Kim, Jang-Joo

2016-01-20

The use of multiple donors in an active layer is an effective way to boost the efficiency of organic solar cells by broadening their absorption window. Here, we report an efficient vacuum-deposited ternary organic photovoltaic (OPV) using two donors, 2-((2-(5-(4-(diphenylamino)phenyl)thieno[3,2-b]thiophen-2-yl)thiazol-5-yl)methylene)malononitrile (DTTz) for visible absorption and 2-((7-(5-(dip-tolylamino)thiophen-2-yl)benzo[c]-[1,2,5]thiadiazol-4-yl)methylene)malononitrile (DTDCTB) for near-infrared absorption, codeposited with C70 in the ternary layer. The ternary device achieved a power conversion efficiency of 8.02%, which is 23% higher than that of binary OPVs. This enhancement is the result of incorporating two donors with complementary absorption covering wavelengths of 350 to 900 nm with higher hole mobility in the ternary layer than that of binary layers consisting of one donor and C70, combined with energy transfer from the donor with lower hole mobility (DTTz) to that with higher mobility (DTDCTB). This structure fulfills all the requirements for efficient ternary OPVs.

Biodegradation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) by laccase from Trametes versicolor covalently immobilized on amino-functionalized SBA-15.

PubMed

Bautista, Luis Fernando; Morales, Gabriel; Sanz, Raquel

2015-10-01

A covalent immobilization method based on glutaraldehyde and amino-functionalized SBA-15 supports has been successfully applied to covalently and stably immobilize laccase from Trametes versicolor. The resultant biocatalysts displayed high incorporation yields of enzyme and led to excellent biodegradation rates of selected HPAs models, i.e. naphthalene, phenanthrene and anthracene, in water. The nature of the hydrocarbon chain accompanying the amino group has been shown as determinant for the immobilization as well as for the activity and reusability of the materials. Thus, alkyl moieties displayed higher enzyme loadings than phenyl moieties, being more adequate the larger n-butyl tethering residue likely due to its higher mobility. Using the aminobutyl-based laccase-SBA-15, 82%, 73%, and 55% conversion of naphthalene, phenanthrene and anthracene, respectively, were achieved after 48 h, very close to the values obtained with free laccase under the same reaction conditions. On the other hand, aminopropyl-based laccase-SBA-15 biocatalysts displayed the best reusability properties, retaining higher activity after four repeated uses than the corresponding aminobutyl-based materials. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Cost reduction and feedstock diversity for sulfuric acid-free ethanol cooking of lignocellulosic biomass as a pretreatment to enzymatic saccharification.

PubMed

Teramoto, Yoshikuni; Lee, Seung-Hwan; Endo, Takashi

2009-10-01

We have previously demonstrated that a sulfuric acid-free ethanol (EtOH) cooking treatment enhances the enzymatic digestibility of eucalyptus wood and bagasse flour. In the present study, a reconfigured process that achieves similar performance was developed by identifying possible cost-competitive pretreatments that provide high cellulose-to-glucose conversion during subsequent enzymatic hydrolysis. The series of reconfigurations reduced EtOH usage in the pretreatment by more than 80% in comparison with our previous research. Higher initial pressures and intensive size reduction of the starting material are not required. The reconfigured process was applied to rice straw and Douglas fir, in order to confirm the feasibility of feedstock diversity.

Scaling submillimeter single-cycle transients toward megavolts per centimeter field strength via optical rectification in the organic crystal OH1.

PubMed

Ruchert, Clemens; Vicario, Carlo; Hauri, Christoph P

2012-03-01

We present the generation of high-power single-cycle terahertz (THz) pulses in the organic salt crystal 2-[3-(4-hydroxystyryl)-5.5-dimethylcyclohex-2-enylidene]malononitrile or OH1. Broadband THz radiation with a central frequency of 1.5 THz (λ(c)=200 μm) and high electric field strength of 440 kV/cm is produced by optical rectification driven by the signal of a powerful femtosecond optical parametric amplifier. A 1.5% pump to THz energy conversion efficiency is reported, and pulse energy stability better than 1% RMS is achieved. An approach toward the realization of higher field strength is discussed. © 2012 Optical Society of America

Heat exchanger-ingot casting/slicing process, phase 1: Silicon sheet growth development for the large area silicon sheet task of the low cost silicon solar array project

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schmid, F.; Khattak, C. P.

1977-01-01

A controlled growth, heat-flow and cool-down process is described that yielded silicon with a high degree of single crystallinity. Even when the seed melted out, very large grains formed. Solar cell samples made from cast material yielded conversion efficiency of over 9%. Representative characterizations of grown silicon demonstrated a dislocation density of less than 100/sq cm and a minority carrier diffusion length of 31 micron. The source of silicon carbide in silicon ingots was identified to be from graphite retainers in contact with silica crucibles. Higher growth rates were achieved with the use of a graphite plug at the bottom of the silica crucible.

Light engineering for bifacial transparent perovskite solar cells with high performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Liguo; Zhao, Erling; Yang, Shuzhang; Wang, Likun; Li, Yanqiang; Zhao, Yingyuan; Ma, Tingli

2017-11-01

Bifacial transparent perovskite solar cells (BTPSCs) were designed to harvest more solar energy and ensure higher efficiency than conventional PSCs. A series of BTPSCs was successfully prepared using transparent ultrathin Au electrodes with different thicknesses. The transmittance and resistance of Au electrodes played a major role in achieving photo-to-electricity conversion efficiency (PCE). Engineering the light-harvesting ability of the fabricated BTPSCs led to the highest PCE of 14.74%. Reflecting-light intensity and illumination angle were further observed to be the key factors affecting PCE. These BTPSCs could be applied on building integration of photovoltaics (PVs), such as semitransparent PV windows or venetian blinds. Another alternative application is to use these BTPSCs as the wings of unmanned aerial vehicles.

Convergent optical wired and wireless long-reach access network using high spectral-efficient modulation.

PubMed

Chow, C W; Lin, Y H

2012-04-09

To provide broadband services in a single and low cost perform, the convergent optical wired and wireless access network is promising. Here, we propose and demonstrate a convergent optical wired and wireless long-reach access networks based on orthogonal wavelength division multiplexing (WDM). Both the baseband signal and the radio-over-fiber (ROF) signal are multiplexed and de-multiplexed in optical domain, hence it is simple and the operation speed is not limited by the electronic bottleneck caused by the digital signal processing (DSP). Error-free de-multiplexing and down-conversion can be achieved for all the signals after 60 km (long-reach) fiber transmission. The scalability of the system for higher bit-rate (60 GHz) is also simulated and discussed.

Zirconia and Pyrochlore Oxides for Thermal Barrier Coatings in Gas Turbine Engines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fergus, Jeffrey W.

2014-06-01

One of the important applications of yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) is as a thermal barrier coating for gas turbine engines. While YSZ performs well in this function, the need for increased operating temperatures to achieve higher energy conversion efficiencies, requires the development of improved materials. To meet this challenge, some rare-earth zirconates that form the cubic fluorite-derived pyrochlore structure are being developed for use in thermal barrier coatings due to their low thermal conductivity, excellent chemical stability, and other suitable properties. In this paper, the thermal conductivities of current and prospective oxides for use in thermal barrier coatings are reviewed. The factors affecting the variations and differences in the thermal conductivities and the degradation behaviors of these materials are discussed.

Strong Field-Induced Frequency Conversion of Laser Radiation in Plasma Plumes: Recent Achievements

PubMed Central

Ganeev, R. A.

2013-01-01

New findings in plasma harmonics studies using strong laser fields are reviewed. We discuss recent achievements in the growth of the efficiency of coherent extreme ultraviolet (XUV) radiation sources based on frequency conversion of the ultrashort pulses in the laser-produced plasmas, which allowed for the spectral and structural studies of matter through the high-order harmonic generation (HHG) spectroscopy. These studies showed that plasma HHG can open new opportunities in many unexpected areas of laser-matter interaction. Besides being considered as an alternative method for generation of coherent XUV radiation, it can be used as a powerful tool for various spectroscopic and analytical applications. PMID:23864818

Highly Controlled Codeposition Rate of Organolead Halide Perovskite by Laser Evaporation Method.

PubMed

Miyadera, Tetsuhiko; Sugita, Takeshi; Tampo, Hitoshi; Matsubara, Koji; Chikamatsu, Masayuki

2016-10-05

Organolead-halide perovskites can be promising materials for next-generation solar cells because of its high power conversion efficiency. The method of precise fabrication is required because both solution-process and vacuum-process fabrication of the perovskite have problems of controllability and reproducibility. Vacuum deposition process was expected to achieve precise control; however, vaporization of amine compound significantly degrades the controllability of deposition rate. Here we achieved the reduction of the vaporization by implementing the laser evaporation system for the codeposition of perovskite. Locally irradiated continuous-wave lasers on the source materials realized the reduced vaporization of CH 3 NH 3 I. The deposition rate was stabilized for several hours by adjusting the duty ratio of modulated laser based on proportional-integral control. Organic-photovoltaic-type perovskite solar cells were fabricated by codeposition of PbI 2 and CH 3 NH 3 I. A power-conversion efficiency of 16.0% with reduced hysteresis was achieved.

A 1.2-V CMOS front-end for LTE direct conversion SAW-less receiver

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Riyan, Wang; Jiwei, Huang; Zhengping, Li; Weifeng, Zhang; Longyue, Zeng

2012-03-01

A CMOS RF front-end for the long-term evolution (LTE) direct conversion receiver is presented. With a low noise transconductance amplifier (LNA), current commutating passive mixer and transimpedance operational amplifier (TIA), the RF front-end structure enables high-integration, high linearity and simple frequency planning for LTE multi-band applications. Large variable gain is achieved using current-steering transconductance stages. A current commutating passive mixer with 25% duty-cycle LO improves gain, noise and linearity. A direct coupled current-input filter (DCF) is employed to suppress the out-of-band interferer. Fabricated in a 0.13-μm CMOS process, the RF front-end achieves a 45 dB conversion voltage gain, 2.7 dB NF, -7 dBm IIP3, and +60 dBm IIP2 with calibration from 2.3 to 2.7 GHz. The total RF front end with divider draws 40 mA from a single 1.2-V supply.

A field-shaping multi-well avalanche detector for direct conversion amorphous selenium

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Goldan, A. H.; Zhao, W.

2013-01-15

Purpose: A practical detector structure is proposed to achieve stable avalanche multiplication gain in direct-conversion amorphous selenium radiation detectors. Methods: The detector structure is referred to as a field-shaping multi-well avalanche detector. Stable avalanche multiplication gain is achieved by eliminating field hot spots using high-density avalanche wells with insulated walls and field-shaping inside each well. Results: The authors demonstrate the impact of high-density insulated wells and field-shaping to eliminate the formation of both field hot spots in the avalanche region and high fields at the metal-semiconductor interface. Results show a semi-Gaussian field distribution inside each well using the field-shaping electrodes,more » and the electric field at the metal-semiconductor interface can be one order-of-magnitude lower than the peak value where avalanche occurs. Conclusions: This is the first attempt to design a practical direct-conversion amorphous selenium detector with avalanche gain.« less

Intensification of steam explosion and structural intricacies impacting sugar recovery.

PubMed

Gaur, Ruchi; Semwal, Surbhi; Raj, Tirath; Yadav Lamba, Bhawna; Ramu, E; Gupta, Ravi P; Kumar, Ravindra; Puri, Suresh K

2017-10-01

Dilute acid (DA) pretreatment at pilot level failed for cotton stalk (CS) due to the technical issues posed by its inherent nature. Reasonable glucan conversion has been reported via two-stage pretreatment but adds on to the process cost. Proposed herewith is a single-stage steam explosion (SE) process preceded by water extraction resulting in high sugar recovery from CS. Raising the extraction temperature to 80°C increased the glucan conversion from 37.9 to 52.4%. Further improvement up to 68.4% was achieved when DA was incorporated during the room temperature extraction. LC-MS revealed the formation of xylo-oligomers limiting the glucan conversion in proportion to the length of xylo-oligomers. Varying extraction conditions induced structural alterations in biomass after SE evident by compositional analysis, Infrared Spectroscopy, X-Ray Diffraction and Scanning Electron Microscopy. Overall glucose recovery, i.e. 75.8-76.7% with and without DA extraction respectively was achieved. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

CARBON DIOXIDE FIXATION.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

FUJITA,E.

2000-01-12

Solar carbon dioxide fixation offers the possibility of a renewable source of chemicals and fuels in the future. Its realization rests on future advances in the efficiency of solar energy collection and development of suitable catalysts for CO{sub 2} conversion. Recent achievements in the efficiency of solar energy conversion and in catalysis suggest that this approach holds a great deal of promise for contributing to future needs for fuels and chemicals.

Cascade upgrading of γ-valerolactone to biofuels.

PubMed

Yan, Kai; Lafleur, Todd; Wu, Xu; Chai, Jiajue; Wu, Guosheng; Xie, Xianmei

2015-04-25

Cascade upgrading of γ-valerolactone (GVL), produced from renewable cellulosic biomass, with selective conversion to biofuels pentyl valerate (PV) and pentane in one pot using a bifunctional Pd/HY catalyst is described. Excellent catalytic performance (over 99% conversion of GVL, 60.6% yield of PV and 22.9% yield of pentane) was achieved in one step. These biofuels can be targeted for gasoline and jet fuel applications.

Highly efficient and bendable organic solar cells using a three-dimensional transparent conducting electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Wei; Bae, Tae-Sung; Park, Yeon Hyun; Kim, Dong Ho; Lee, Sunghun; Min, Guanghui; Lee, Gun-Hwan; Song, Myungkwan; Yun, Jungheum

2014-05-01

A three-dimensional (3D) transparent conducting electrode, consisting of a quasi-periodic array of discrete indium-tin-oxide (ITO) nanoparticles superimposed on a highly conducting oxide-metal-oxide multilayer using ITO and silver oxide (AgOx) as oxide and metal layers, respectively, is synthesized on a polymer substrate and used as an anode in highly flexible organic solar cells (OSCs). The 3D electrode is fabricated using vacuum sputtering sequences to achieve self-assembly of distinct ITO nanoparticles on a continuous ITO-AgOx-ITO multilayer at room-temperature without applying conventional high-temperature vapour-liquid-solid growth, solution-based nanoparticle coating, or complicated nanopatterning techniques. Since the 3D electrode enhances the hole-extraction rate in OSCs owing to its high surface area and low effective series resistance for hole transport, OSCs based on this 3D electrode exhibit a power conversion efficiency that is 11-22% higher than that achievable in OSCs by means of conventional planar ITO film-type electrodes. A record high efficiency of 6.74% can be achieved in a bendable OSC fabricated on a poly(ethylene terephthalate) substrate.A three-dimensional (3D) transparent conducting electrode, consisting of a quasi-periodic array of discrete indium-tin-oxide (ITO) nanoparticles superimposed on a highly conducting oxide-metal-oxide multilayer using ITO and silver oxide (AgOx) as oxide and metal layers, respectively, is synthesized on a polymer substrate and used as an anode in highly flexible organic solar cells (OSCs). The 3D electrode is fabricated using vacuum sputtering sequences to achieve self-assembly of distinct ITO nanoparticles on a continuous ITO-AgOx-ITO multilayer at room-temperature without applying conventional high-temperature vapour-liquid-solid growth, solution-based nanoparticle coating, or complicated nanopatterning techniques. Since the 3D electrode enhances the hole-extraction rate in OSCs owing to its high surface area and low effective series resistance for hole transport, OSCs based on this 3D electrode exhibit a power conversion efficiency that is 11-22% higher than that achievable in OSCs by means of conventional planar ITO film-type electrodes. A record high efficiency of 6.74% can be achieved in a bendable OSC fabricated on a poly(ethylene terephthalate) substrate. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: FE-SEM images of Ar plasma-treated PET surfaces, curve deconvolution of XPS Ag 3d5/2 spectra, refractive indices and extinction coefficients of the Ag and AgOx (O/Ag = 10 at%), changes in the specular reflections of the IAOI-NPA and IAI-NPA electrodes for different O/Ag atomic ratios and thicknesses of the AgOx layer, and comparisons between the Jsc values determined from simulated AM 1.5G illumination and IPCE spectra. See DOI: 10.1039/c3nr06755f

Influence of oxalate ligand functionalization on Co/ZSM-5 activity in Fischer Tropsch synthesis and hydrodeoxygenation of oleic acid into hydrocarbon fuels.

PubMed

Ayodele, Olumide Bolarinwa

2017-08-30

Achieving high degree of active metal dispersions at the highest possible metal loading and high reducibility of the metal remains a challenge in Fischer Tropsch synthesis (FTS) as well as in hydrogeoxygenation (HDO).This study therefore reports the influence of oxalic acid (OxA) functionalization on the metal dispersion, reducibility and activity of Co supported ZSM-5 catalyst in FTS and HDO of oleic acid into paraffin biofuel. The Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) results showed that cobalt oxalate supported ZSM-5 catalyst (CoOx/ZSM-5) synthesized from the incorporation of freshly prepared cobalt oxalate complex into ZSM-5 displayed increase in surface area, pore volume and average pore size while the nonfunctionalized cobalt supported on ZSM-5 (Co/ZSM-5) catalyst showed reduction in those properties. Furthermore, both XRD and XPS confirmed the presence of Co° formed from the decomposition of CoOx during calcination of CoOx/ZSM-5 under inert atmosphere. The HRTEM showed that Co species average particle sizes were smaller in CoOx/ZSM-5 than in Co/ZSM-5, and in addition, CoOx/ZSM-5 shows a clear higher degree of active metal dispersion. The FTS result showed that at CO conversion over Co/ZSM-5 and CoOx/ZSM-5 catalysts were 74.28% and 94.23% and their selectivity to C 5+ HC production were 63.15% and 75.4%, respectively at 4 h TOS. The HDO result also showed that the CoOx/ZSM-5 has higher OA conversion of 92% compared to 59% over Co/ZSM-5. In addition CoOx/ZSM-5 showed higher HDO and isomerization activities compared to Co/ZSM-5.

Differences in psychopathology and behavioral characteristics of patients affected by conversion motor disorder and organic dystonia.

PubMed

Pastore, Adriana; Pierri, Grazia; Fabio, Giada; Ferramosca, Silvia; Gigante, Angelo; Superbo, Maria; Pellicciari, Roberta; Margari, Francesco

2018-01-01

Typically, the diagnosis of conversion motor disorder (CMD) is achieved by the exclusion of a wide range of organic illnesses rather than by applying positive criteria. New diagnostic criteria are highly needed in this scenario. The main aim of this study was to explore the use of behavioral features as an inclusion criterion for CMD, taking into account the relationship of the patients with physicians, and comparing the results with those from patients affected by organic dystonia (OD). Patients from the outpatient Movement Disorder Service were assigned to either the CMD or the OD group based on Fahn and Williams criteria. Differences in sociodemographics, disease history, psychopathology, and degree of satisfaction about care received were assessed. Patient-neurologist agreement about the etiological nature of the disorder was also assessed using the k -statistic. A logistic regression analysis estimated the discordance status as a predictor to case/control status. In this study, 31 CMD and 31 OD patients were included. CMD patients showed a longer illness life span, involvement of more body regions, higher comorbidity with anxiety, depression, and borderline personality disorder, as well as higher negative opinions about physicians' delivering of proper care. Contrary to our expectations, CMD disagreement with neurologists about the etiological nature of the disorder was not statistically significant. Additional analysis showed that having at least one personality disorder was statistically associated with the discordance status. This study suggests that CMD patients show higher conflicting behavior toward physicians. Contrary to our expectations, they show awareness of their psychological needs, suggesting a possible lack of recognition of psychological distress in the neurological setting.

Differences in psychopathology and behavioral characteristics of patients affected by conversion motor disorder and organic dystonia

PubMed Central

Pastore, Adriana; Pierri, Grazia; Fabio, Giada; Ferramosca, Silvia; Gigante, Angelo; Superbo, Maria; Pellicciari, Roberta; Margari, Francesco

2018-01-01

Purpose Typically, the diagnosis of conversion motor disorder (CMD) is achieved by the exclusion of a wide range of organic illnesses rather than by applying positive criteria. New diagnostic criteria are highly needed in this scenario. The main aim of this study was to explore the use of behavioral features as an inclusion criterion for CMD, taking into account the relationship of the patients with physicians, and comparing the results with those from patients affected by organic dystonia (OD). Patients and methods Patients from the outpatient Movement Disorder Service were assigned to either the CMD or the OD group based on Fahn and Williams criteria. Differences in sociodemographics, disease history, psychopathology, and degree of satisfaction about care received were assessed. Patient–neurologist agreement about the etiological nature of the disorder was also assessed using the k-statistic. A logistic regression analysis estimated the discordance status as a predictor to case/control status. Results In this study, 31 CMD and 31 OD patients were included. CMD patients showed a longer illness life span, involvement of more body regions, higher comorbidity with anxiety, depression, and borderline personality disorder, as well as higher negative opinions about physicians’ delivering of proper care. Contrary to our expectations, CMD disagreement with neurologists about the etiological nature of the disorder was not statistically significant. Additional analysis showed that having at least one personality disorder was statistically associated with the discordance status. Conclusion This study suggests that CMD patients show higher conflicting behavior toward physicians. Contrary to our expectations, they show awareness of their psychological needs, suggesting a possible lack of recognition of psychological distress in the neurological setting. PMID:29849460

Risk factors for conversion from unipolar psychotic depression to bipolar disorder.

PubMed

Østergaard, Søren Dinesen; Straszek, Sune; Petrides, Georgios; Skadhede, Søren; Jensen, Signe Olrik Wallenstein; Munk-Jørgensen, Povl; Nielsen, Jimmi

2014-03-01

Patients with unipolar psychotic depression (PD) are at high risk of developing bipolar disorder (BD). This conversion has important implications for the choice of treatment. This study, therefore, aimed to identify risk factors associated with diagnostic conversion from PD to BD. We conducted a population-based, historical prospective cohort study by merging data from Danish registers. Patients assigned an ICD-10 diagnosis of PD between 1 January 1995 and 31 December 2007 were identified in the Danish Central Psychiatric Research Register and were followed until the development of BD, death, loss to follow-up, or 31 December 2007. Potential risk factors for conversion to BD, also defined through various Danish registers, were tested in multiple logistic regression analyses with risk expressed as adjusted odds ratios (AOR). We identified 8,588 patients with PD, of whom 609 (7.1%) developed BD during follow-up. The following characteristics were significantly associated with diagnostic conversion from PD to BD: early onset of PD [AOR = 0.99 (per year of increasing age), p = 0.044], recurrent depression [AOR = 1.02 (per episode), p = 0.036], living alone (AOR = 1.29, p = 0.007), receiving a disability pension (AOR = 1.55, p < 0.001), and the highest educational level being a technical education (AOR = 1.55, p < 0.001), short-cycle higher education (AOR = 2.65, p < 0.001), or medium-cycle higher education (AOR = 1.75, p < 0.001). Diagnostic conversion to BD was prevalent among patients with PD. The following characteristics were significantly associated with this conversion: early onset of PD, recurrent depression, living alone, receiving a disability pension, and the highest educational level being a technical education, short-cycle higher education, or medium-cycle higher education. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Wet air oxidation and catalytic wet air oxidation for dyes degradation.

PubMed

Ovejero, Gabriel; Sotelo, José Luis; Rodríguez, Araceli; Vallet, Ana; García, Juan

2011-11-01

Textile industry produces wastewater which contributes to water pollution since it utilizes a lot of chemicals. Preliminary studies show that the wastewater from textile industries contains grease, wax, surfactant, and dyes. The objective of this study was to determine the treatment efficiency of the nickel catalysts supported on hydrotalcites in three-dye model compounds and two types of wastewater. Hydrotalcites were employed to prepare supported nickel catalysts by wetness impregnation technique. Metal loadings from 1 to 10 wt% were tested. Catalysts were characterized by several techniques. They were tested in a catalytic wet air oxidation of three dyes and two wastewaters with different origins. It could be observed that the higher the metal content, the lower the BET area, possibly due to sintering of Ni and the consequent blocking of the pores by the metal. In addition, metallic dispersion was also higher when the metal content was lower. Dye conversion was more than 95% for every catalyst showing no differences with the nickel content. A high degree of dye conversion was achieved. Wet air oxidation (WAO) and catalytic wet air oxidation (CWAO) processes have been proved to be extremely efficient in TOC removal for wastewaters. The CWAO process can be used to remove dyes from wastewater. Three different dyes were tested showing satisfactory results in all of them. TOC degradation and dye removal in the presence of the catalyst were effective. Also, the HTNi catalyst is very active for organic matter and toxicity removal in wastewaters.

TiO2 micro-flowers composed of nanotubes and their application to dye-sensitized solar cells.

PubMed

Kim, Woong-Rae; Park, Hun; Choi, Won-Youl

2014-02-24

TiO2 micro-flowers were made to bloom on Ti foil by the anodic oxidation of Ti-protruding dots with a cylindrical shape. Arrays of the Ti-protruding dots were prepared by photolithography, which consisted of coating the photoresists, attaching a patterned mask, illuminating with UV light, etching the Ti surface by reactive ion etching (RIE), and stripping the photoresist on the Ti foil. The procedure for the blooming of the TiO2 micro-flowers was analyzed by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) as the anodizing time was increased. Photoelectrodes of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs) were fabricated using TiO2 micro-flowers. Bare TiO2 nanotube arrays were used for reference samples. The short-circuit current (Jsc) and the power conversion efficiency of the DSCs based on the TiO2 micro-flowers were 4.340 mA/cm2 and 1.517%, respectively. These values of DSCs based on TiO2 micro-flowers were higher than those of bare samples. The TiO2 micro-flowers had a larger surface area for dye adsorption compared to bare TiO2 nanotube arrays, resulting in improved Jsc characteristics. The structure of the TiO2 micro-flowers allowed it to adsorb dyes very effectively, also demonstrating the potential to achieve higher power conversion efficiency levels for DSCs compared to a bare TiO2 nanotube array structure and the conventional TiO2 nanoparticle structure.

TiO2 micro-flowers composed of nanotubes and their application to dye-sensitized solar cells

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

TiO2 micro-flowers were made to bloom on Ti foil by the anodic oxidation of Ti-protruding dots with a cylindrical shape. Arrays of the Ti-protruding dots were prepared by photolithography, which consisted of coating the photoresists, attaching a patterned mask, illuminating with UV light, etching the Ti surface by reactive ion etching (RIE), and stripping the photoresist on the Ti foil. The procedure for the blooming of the TiO2 micro-flowers was analyzed by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) as the anodizing time was increased. Photoelectrodes of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs) were fabricated using TiO2 micro-flowers. Bare TiO2 nanotube arrays were used for reference samples. The short-circuit current (Jsc) and the power conversion efficiency of the DSCs based on the TiO2 micro-flowers were 4.340 mA/cm2 and 1.517%, respectively. These values of DSCs based on TiO2 micro-flowers were higher than those of bare samples. The TiO2 micro-flowers had a larger surface area for dye adsorption compared to bare TiO2 nanotube arrays, resulting in improved Jsc characteristics. The structure of the TiO2 micro-flowers allowed it to adsorb dyes very effectively, also demonstrating the potential to achieve higher power conversion efficiency levels for DSCs compared to a bare TiO2 nanotube array structure and the conventional TiO2 nanoparticle structure. PMID:24565201

TiO2 micro-flowers composed of nanotubes and their application to dye-sensitized solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Woong-Rae; Park, Hun; Choi, Won-Youl

2014-02-01

TiO2 micro-flowers were made to bloom on Ti foil by the anodic oxidation of Ti-protruding dots with a cylindrical shape. Arrays of the Ti-protruding dots were prepared by photolithography, which consisted of coating the photoresists, attaching a patterned mask, illuminating with UV light, etching the Ti surface by reactive ion etching (RIE), and stripping the photoresist on the Ti foil. The procedure for the blooming of the TiO2 micro-flowers was analyzed by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) as the anodizing time was increased. Photoelectrodes of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs) were fabricated using TiO2 micro-flowers. Bare TiO2 nanotube arrays were used for reference samples. The short-circuit current ( J sc) and the power conversion efficiency of the DSCs based on the TiO2 micro-flowers were 4.340 mA/cm2 and 1.517%, respectively. These values of DSCs based on TiO2 micro-flowers were higher than those of bare samples. The TiO2 micro-flowers had a larger surface area for dye adsorption compared to bare TiO2 nanotube arrays, resulting in improved J sc characteristics. The structure of the TiO2 micro-flowers allowed it to adsorb dyes very effectively, also demonstrating the potential to achieve higher power conversion efficiency levels for DSCs compared to a bare TiO2 nanotube array structure and the conventional TiO2 nanoparticle structure.

A systematic approach to baseline assessment of nursing documentation and enterprise-wide prioritization for electronic conversion.

PubMed

Dykes, Patricia C; Spurr, Cindy; Gallagher, Joan; Li, Qi; Ives Erickson, Jeanette

2006-01-01

An important challenge associated with making the transition from paper to electronic documentation systems is achieving consensus regarding priorities for electronic conversion across diverse groups. In our work we focus on applying a systematic approach to evaluating the baseline state of nursing documentation across a large healthcare system and establishing a unified vision for electronic conversion. A review of the current state of nursing documentation across PHS was conducted using structured tools. Data from this assessment was employed to facilitate an evidence-based approach to decision-making regarding conversion to electronic documentation at local and PHS levels. In this paper we present highlights of the assessment process and the outcomes of this multi-site collaboration.

Novel, Integrated Reactor / Power Conversion System (LMR-AMTEC)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pablo Rubiolo, Principal Investigator

2003-03-21

The main features of this project were the development of a long life (up to 10 years) Liquid Metal Reactor (LMR) and a static conversion subsystem comprising an Alkali Metal Thermal-to-Electric (AMTEC) topping cycle and a ThermoElectric (TE) Bottom cycle. Various coupling options of the LMR with the energy conversion subsystem were explored and, base in the performances found in this analysis, an Indirect Coupling (IC) between the LMR and the AMTEC/TE converters with Alkali Metal Boilers (AMB) was chosen as the reference design. The performance model of the fully integrated sodium-and potassium-AMTEC/TE converters shows that a combined conversion efficiencymore » in excess of 30% could be achieved by the plant. (B204)« less

Laser source with high pulse energy at 3-5 μm and 8-12 μm based on nonlinear conversion in ZnGeP2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lippert, Espen; Fonnum, Helge; Haakestad, Magnus W.

2014-10-01

We present a high energy infrared laser source where a Tm:fiber laser is used to pump a high-energy 2-μm cryogenically cooled Ho:YLF laser. We have achieved 550 mJ of output energy at 2.05 μm, and through non-linear conversion in ZnGeP2 generated 200 mJ in the 3-5-μm range. Using a numerical simulation tool we have also investigated a setup which should generate more than 70 mJ in the 8-12-μm range. The conversion stage uses a master-oscillator-power-amplifier architecture to enable high conversion efficiency and good beam quality.

LASER RADIATION CHARACTERISTICS (BRIEF COMMUNICATIONS): Conversion of KrCl and XeCl laser radiation to the visible spectral range by stimulated Raman scattering in lead vapor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Evtushenko, Gennadii S.; Mel'chenko, S. V.; Panchenko, Aleksei N.; Tarasenko, Viktor F.

1990-04-01

Conversion of KrCl and XeCl laser radiation by stimulated Raman scattering was achieved in lead vapor. The KrCl laser radiation was converted into three lines in the visible region at λ = 406, 590, and 723 nm by transitions from both the ground and first excited levels of the lead atom. The conversion efficiency of XeCl laser radiation of low spatial coherence was found to be limited by the activation of a competing nonlinear process.

Highly Efficient and Uniform 1 cm2 Perovskite Solar Cells with an Electrochemically Deposited NiOx Hole-Extraction Layer.

PubMed

Park, Ik Jae; Kang, Gyeongho; Park, Min Ah; Kim, Ju Seong; Seo, Se Won; Kim, Dong Hoe; Zhu, Kai; Park, Taiho; Kim, Jin Young

2017-06-22

Given that the highest certified conversion efficiency of the organic-inorganic perovskite solar cell (PSC) already exceeds 22 %, which is even higher than that of the polycrystalline silicon solar cell, the significance of new scalable processes that can be utilized for preparing large-area devices and their commercialization is rapidly increasing. From this perspective, the electrodeposition method is one of the most suitable processes for preparing large-area devices because it is an already commercialized process with proven controllability and scalability. Here, a highly uniform NiO x layer prepared by electrochemical deposition is reported as an efficient hole-extraction layer of a p-i-n-type planar PSC with a large active area of >1 cm 2 . It is demonstrated that the increased surface roughness of the NiO x layer, achieved by controlling the deposition current density, facilitates the hole extraction at the interface between perovskite and NiO x , and thus increases the fill factor and the conversion efficiency. The electrochemically deposited NiO x layer also exhibits extremely uniform thickness and morphology, leading to highly efficient and uniform large-area PSCs. As a result, the p-i-n-type planar PSC with an area of 1.084 cm 2 exhibits a stable conversion efficiency of 17.0 % (19.2 % for 0.1 cm 2 ) without showing hysteresis effects. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Highly Efficient and Uniform 1 cm 2 Perovskite Solar Cells with an Electrochemically Deposited NiO x Hole-Extraction Layer

DOE PAGES

Park, Ik Jae; Kang, Gyeongho; Park, Min Ah; ...

2017-05-10

Here, given that the highest certified conversion efficiency of the organic-inorganic perovskite solar cell (PSC) already exceeds 22%, which is even higher than that of the polycrystalline silicon solar cell, the significance of new scalable processes that can be utilized for preparing large-area devices and their commercialization is rapidly increasing. From this perspective, the electrodeposition method is one of the most suitable processes for preparing large-area devices because it is an already commercialized process with proven controllability and scalability. Here, a highly uniform NiO x layer prepared by electrochemical deposition is reported as an efficient hole-extraction layer of a p-i-n-typemore » planar PSC with a large active area of >1 cm 2. It is demonstrated that the increased surface roughness of the NiO x layer, achieved by controlling the deposition current density, facilitates the hole extraction at the interface between perovskite and NiO x, and thus increases the fill factor and the conversion efficiency. The electrochemically deposited NiO x layer also exhibits extremely uniform thickness and morphology, leading to highly efficient and uniform large-area PSCs. As a result, the p-i-n-type planar PSC with an area of 1.084 cm 2 exhibits a stable conversion efficiency of 17.0% (19.2% for 0.1 cm 2) without showing hysteresis effects.« less

General method for simultaneous optimization of light trapping and carrier collection in an ultra-thin film organic photovoltaic cell

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tsai, Cheng-Chia, E-mail: ct2443@columbia.edu; Grote, Richard R.; Beck, Jonathan H.

2014-07-14

We describe a general method for maximizing the short-circuit current in thin planar organic photovoltaic (OPV) heterojunction cells by simultaneous optimization of light absorption and carrier collection. Based on the experimentally obtained complex refractive indices of the OPV materials and the thickness-dependence of the internal quantum efficiency of the OPV active layer, we analyze the potential benefits of light trapping strategies for maximizing the overall power conversion efficiency of the cell. This approach provides a general strategy for optimizing the power conversion efficiency of a wide range of OPV structures. In particular, as an experimental trial system, the approach ismore » applied here to a ultra-thin film solar cell with a SubPc/C{sub 60} photovoltaic structure. Using a patterned indium tin oxide (ITO) top contact, the numerically optimized designs achieve short-circuit currents of 0.790 and 0.980 mA/cm{sup 2} for 30 nm and 45 nm SubPc/C{sub 60} heterojunction layer thicknesses, respectively. These values correspond to a power conversion efficiency enhancement of 78% for the 30 nm thick cell, but only of 32% for a 45 nm thick cell, for which the overall photocurrent is actually higher. Applied to other material systems, the general optimization method can elucidate if light trapping strategies can improve a given cell architecture.« less

High coupling efficiency of foam spherical hohlraum driven by 2ω laser light

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yao-Hua; Lan, Ke; Zheng, Wanguo; Campbell, E. M.

2018-02-01

The majority of solid state laser facilities built for laser fusion research irradiate targets with third harmonic light (0.35 μm) up-converted from the fundamental Nd wavelength at 1.05 μm. The motivation for this choice of wavelength is improved laser-plasma coupling. Significant disadvantages to this choice of wavelength are the reduced damage threshold of optical components and the efficiency of energy conversion to third harmonic light. Both these issues are significantly improved if second harmonic (0.53 μm) radiation is used, but theory and experiments have shown lower optical to x-ray energy conversion efficiency and increased levels of laser-plasma instabilities, resulting in reduced laser-target coupling. In this letter, we propose to use a 0.53 μm laser for the laser ignition facilities and use a low density foam wall to increase the coupling efficiency from the laser to the capsule and present two-dimensional radiation-hydrodynamic simulations of 0.53 μm laser light irradiating an octahedral-spherical hohlraum with a low density foam wall. The simulations show that the reduced optical depth of the foam wall leads to an increased laser-light conversion into thermal x-rays and about 10% higher radiation flux on the capsule than that achieved with 0.35 μm light irradiating a solid density wall commonly used in laser indirect drive fusion research. The details of the simulations and their implications and suggestions for wavelength scaling coupled with innovative hohlraum designs will be discussed.

Valorization of starchy, cellulosic, and sugary food waste into hydroxymethylfurfural by one-pot catalysis.

PubMed

Yu, Iris K M; Tsang, Daniel C W; Yip, Alex C K; Chen, Season S; Ok, Yong Sik; Poon, Chi Sun

2017-10-01

This study aimed to produce a high-value platform chemical, hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), from food waste and evaluate the catalytic performance of trivalent and tetravalent metals such as AlCl 3 , CrCl 3 , FeCl 3 , Zr(O)Cl 2 , and SnCl 4 for one-pot conversion. Starchy food waste, e.g., cooked rice and penne produced 4.0-8.1 wt% HMF and 46.0-64.8 wt% glucose over SnCl 4 after microwave heating at 140 °C for 20 min. This indicated that starch hydrolysis was effectively catalyzed but subsequent glucose isomerization was rate-limited during food waste valorization, which could be enhanced by 40-min reaction to achieve 22.7 wt% HMF from cooked rice. Sugary food waste, e.g., kiwifruit and watermelon, yielded up to 13 wt% HMF over Sn catalyst, which mainly resulted from naturally present fructose. Yet, organic acids in fruits may hinder Fe-catalyzed dehydration by competing for the Lewis sites. In contrast, conversion of raw mixed vegetables as cellulosic food waste was limited by marginal hydrolysis at the studied conditions (120-160 °C and 20-40 min). It is interesting to note that tetravalent metals enabled HMF production at a lower temperature and shorter time, while trivalent metals could achieve a higher HMF selectivity at an elevated temperature. Further studies on kinetics, thermodynamics, and reaction pathways of food waste valorization are recommended. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Numerical simulations: Toward the design of 27.6% efficient four-terminal semi-transparent perovskite/SiC passivated rear contact silicon tandem solar cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pandey, Rahul; Chaujar, Rishu

2016-12-01

In this work, a novel four-terminal perovskite/SiC-based rear contact silicon tandem solar cell device has been proposed and simulated to achieve 27.6% power conversion efficiency (PCE) under single AM1.5 illumination. 20.9% efficient semitransparent perovskite top subcell has been used for perovskite/silicon tandem architecture. The tandem structure of perovskite-silicon solar cells is a promising method to achieve efficient solar energy conversion at low cost. In the four-terminal tandem configuration, the cells are connected independently and hence avoids the need for current matching between top and bottom subcell, thus giving greater design flexibility. The simulation analysis shows, PCE of 27.6% and 22.4% with 300 μm and 10 μm thick rear contact Si bottom subcell, respectively. This is a substantial improvement comparing to transparent perovskite solar cell and c-Si solar cell operated individually. The impact of perovskite layer thickness, monomolecular, bimolecular, and trimolecular recombination have also been obtained on the performance of perovskite top subcell. Reported PCEs of 27.6% and 22.4% are 1.25 times and 1.42 times higher as compared to experimentally available efficiencies of 22.1% and 15.7% in 300 μm and 10 μm thick stand-alone silicon solar cell devices, respectively. The presence of SiC significantly suppressed the interface recombination in bottom silicon subcell. Detailed realistic technology computer aided design (TCAD) analysis has been performed to predict the behaviour of the device.

Giant Magnetoelectric Energy Conversion Utilizing Inter-Ferroelectric Phase Transformations in Ferroics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Finkel, Peter; Staruch, Margo

Phase transition-based electromechanical transduction permits achieving a non-resonant broadband mechanical energy conversion see (Finkel et al Actuators, 5 [1] 2. (2015)) , the idea is based on generation high energy density per cycle , at least 100x of magnitude larger than linear piezoelectric type generators in stress biased [011]cut relaxor ferroelectric Pb(In1/2Nb1/2)O3-Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-PbTiO3 (PIN-PMN-PT) single crystal can generate reversible strain >0.35% at remarkably low fields (0.1 MV/m) for tens of millions of cycles. Recently we demonstrated that large strain and polarization rotation can be generated for over 40 x 106cycles with little fatigue by realization of reversible ferroelectric-ferroelectric phase transition in [011] cut PIN-PMN-PT relaxor ferroelectric single crystal while sweeping through the transition with a low applied electric field <0.18 MV/m under mechanical stress. This methodology was extended in the present work to propose magnetoelectric (ME) composite hybrid system comprised of highly magnetostrictive alloymFe81.4Ga18.6 (Galfenol), and lead indium niobate-lead magnesium niobate-lead titanate (PIN-PMN-PT) domain engineered relaxor ferroelectric single crystal. A small time-varying magnetic field applied to this system causes the magnetostrictive element to expand, and the resulting stress forces the phase change in the relaxor ferroelectric single crystal. ME coupling coefficient was fond to achieve 80 V/cm Oe near the FR-FO phase transition that is at least 100X of magnitude higher than any currently reported values.

AMTEC: Current status and vision

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Levy, G.C.; Hunt, T.K.; Sievers, R.K.

1997-12-31

The recent history of alkali metal thermal-to-electric conversion (AMTEC) has been tantalizing as technical advances have struck down most of the remaining barriers for realization of practical applications. AMTEC has always offered promise with its inherently noise-free, vibration-free, and high efficiency operation. Today`s AMTEC cells are also compact, lightweight and reliable, achieving near 20% conversion efficiency. Pathways have been defined that should lead to efficiencies of 30% or higher within two years. Prototype AMTEC devices are being built today for applications ranging from powering deep space probes (100--150 W) to residential appliance cogeneration (350--500 W) to remote and portable powermore » units (10--500 W). Multi-kilowatt systems may be only two years away. Current designs have power densities of 100--200 W/kg. Where is AMTEC technology at the start of the new millennium? Performance will exceed the numbers given above with the power capacity reaching 10 kW or more. These high power systems will also provide 100 volts or more when desired. Some AMTEC devices may be designed to operate at input temperatures well below that required today (800--900 C), providing more flexibility on the choice of heat source. Realization of industrial and consumer applications for AMTEDC will depend on manufacturing economies achieved through simplification of cell fabrication and high volume production. Advanced Modular Power Systems, Inc. is developing AMTEC manufacturing technology which may lead to costs under $25/watt within two years and under $1/watt eventually. At this cost, AMTEC devices will find broad consumer, and industrial applications.« less

Two-step frequency conversion for connecting distant quantum memories by transmission through an optical fiber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tamura, Shuhei; Ikeda, Kohei; Okamura, Kotaro; Yoshii, Kazumichi; Hong, Feng-Lei; Horikiri, Tomoyuki; Kosaka, Hideo

2018-06-01

Long-distance quantum communication requires entanglement between distant quantum memories. For this purpose, photon transmission is necessary to connect the distant memories. Here, for the first time, we develop a two-step frequency conversion process (from a visible wavelength to a telecommunication wavelength and back) involving the use of independent two-frequency conversion media where the target quantum memories are nitrogen-vacancy centers in diamonds (with an emission/absorption wavelength of 637.2 nm), and experimentally characterize the performance of this process acting on light from an attenuated CW laser. A total conversion efficiency of approximately 7% is achieved. The noise generated in the frequency conversion processes is measured, and the signal-to-noise ratio is estimated for a single photon signal emitted by a nitrogen-vacancy (NV) center. The developed frequency conversion system has future applications via transmission through a long optical fiber channel at a telecommunication wavelength for a quantum repeater network.

Process Parameters for Successful Synthesis of Carbon Nanotubes by Chemical Vapor Deposition: Implications for Chemical Mechanisms and Life-cycle Assessment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xue, Ke

Manufacturing of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) via chemical vapor deposition (CVD) calls for thermal treatment associated with gas-phase rearrangement and catalyst deposition to achieve high cost efficiency and limited influence on environmental impact. Taking advantage of higher degree of structure control and economical efficiency, catalytic chemical vapor deposition (CCVD) has currently become the most prevailing synthesis approach for the synthesis of large-scale pure CNTs in past years. Because the synthesis process of CNTs dominates the potential ecotoxic impacts, materials consumption, energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions should be further limited to efficiently reduce life cycle ecotoxicity of carbon naotubes. However, efforts to reduce energy and material requirements in synthesis of CNTs by CCVD are hindered by a lack of mechanistic understanding. In this thesis, the effect of operating parameters, especially the temperature, carbon source concentration, and residence time on the synthesis were studied to improve the production efficiency in a different angle. Thus, implications on the choice of operating parameters could be provided to help the synthesis of carbon nanotubes. Here, we investigated the typical operating parameters in conditions that have yielded successful CNT production in the published academic literature of over seventy articles. The data were filtered by quality of the resultant product and deemed either "successful" or "unsuccessful" according to the authors. Furthermore, growth rate data were tabulated and used as performance metric for the process whenever possible. The data provided us an opportunity to prompt possible and common methods for practioners in the synthesis of CNTs and motivate routes to achieve energy and material minimization. The statistical analysis revealed that methane and ethylene often rely on thermal conversion process to form direct carbon precursor; further, methane and ethylene could not be the direct CNT precursors by themselves. Acetylene does not show an additional energy demand or thermal conversion in the synthesis, and it could be the direct CNT precursors by itself; or at least, it would be most easily to get access to carbon nanotube growth while minimizing synthesis temperature. In detail, methane employs more energy demand (Tavg=883°C) than ethylene (Tavg=766°C), which in turn demands more energy than acetylene (Tavg=710°C) to successfully synthesize carbon nanotubes. The distinction in energy demand could be the result of kinetic energy requirements by the thermal conversion process of methane and ethylene to form direct CNT precursors, and methane employs the highest activation demand among three hydrocarbons. Thus, these results support the hypothesis that methane and ethylene could be thermally converted to form acetylene before CNT incorporation. In addition, methane and ethylene show the demand for hydrogen in thermal conversion process before CNT incorporation; whereas, hydrogen does not contribute to the synthesis via acetylene before CNT incorporation, except the reduction of catalyst. At relatively low hydrogen concentration, this work suggests that hydrogen prompts growth of carbon nanotubes via methane and ethylene, probably by reducing the catalysts or participating thermal reactions. In addition, "polymerization-like formation mechanism" could be supported by the higher growth rate of CNTs via ethylene than acetylene. There could be an optimum residence time to maintain a relatively higher growth rate. At too low residence time, carbon source could not be accumulated, causing a waste of material; while too high residence time may cause the limitation of carbon source supplement and accumulation of byproducts. At last, high concentration of carbon source and hydrogen could cause more energy consumption, while it helps to achieve a high growth rate, due to the more presence of direct carbon precursor.

Ridge Waveguide Structures in Magnesium-Doped Lithium Niobate

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Himmer, Phillip; Battle, Philip; Suckow, William; Switzer, Greg

2011-01-01

This work proposes to establish the feasibility of fabricating isolated ridge waveguides in 5% MgO:LN. Ridge waveguides in MgO:LN will significantly improve power handling and conversion efficiency, increase photonic component integration, and be well suited to spacebased applications. The key innovation in this effort is to combine recently available large, high-photorefractive-damage-threshold, z-cut 5% MgO:LN with novel ridge fabrication techniques to achieve high-optical power, low-cost, high-volume manufacturing of frequency conversion structures. The proposed ridge waveguide structure should maintain the characteristics of the periodically poled bulk substrate, allowing for the efficient frequency conversion typical of waveguides and the high optical damage threshold and long lifetimes typical of the 5% doped bulk substrate. The low cost and large area of 5% MgO:LN wafers, and the improved performance of the proposed ridge waveguide structure, will enhance existing measurement capabilities as well as reduce the resources required to achieve high-performance specifications. The purpose of the ridge waveguides in MgO:LN is to provide platform technology that will improve optical power handling and conversion efficiency compared to existing waveguide technology. The proposed ridge waveguide is produced using standard microfabrication techniques. The approach is enabled by recent advances in inductively coupled plasma etchers and chemical mechanical planarization techniques. In conjunction with wafer bonding, this fabrication methodology can be used to create arbitrarily shaped waveguides allowing complex optical circuits to be engineered in nonlinear optical materials such as magnesium doped lithium niobate. Researchers here have identified NLO (nonlinear optical) ridge waveguide structures as having suitable value to be the leading frequency conversion structures. Its value is based on having the low-cost fabrication necessary to satisfy the challenging pricing requirements as well as achieve the power handling and other specifications in a suitably compact package.

Improving the photovoltaic performance of perovskite solar cells with acetate

PubMed Central

Zhao, Qian; Li, G. R.; Song, Jian; Zhao, Yulong; Qiang, Yinghuai; Gao, X. P.

2016-01-01

In an all-solid-state perovskite solar cell, methylammonium lead halide film is in charge of generating photo-excited electrons, thus its quality can directly influence the final photovoltaic performance of the solar cell. This paper accentuates a very simple chemical approach to improving the quality of a perovskite film with a suitable amount of acetic acid. With introduction of acetate ions, a homogeneous, continual and hole-free perovskite film comprised of high-crystallinity grains is obtained. UV-visible spectra, steady-state and time-resolved photoluminescence (PL) spectra reveal that the obtained perovskite film under the optimized conditions shows a higher light absorption, more efficient electron transport, and faster electron extraction to the adjoining electron transport layer. The features result in the optimized perovskite film can provide an improved short-circuit current. The corresponding solar cells with a planar configuration achieves an improved power conversion efficiency of 13.80%, and the highest power conversion efficiency in the photovoltaic measurements is up to 14.71%. The results not only provide a simple approach to optimizing perovskite films but also present a novel angle of view on fabricating high-performance perovskite solar cells. PMID:27934924

Improving the photovoltaic performance of perovskite solar cells with acetate.

PubMed

Zhao, Qian; Li, G R; Song, Jian; Zhao, Yulong; Qiang, Yinghuai; Gao, X P

2016-12-09

In an all-solid-state perovskite solar cell, methylammonium lead halide film is in charge of generating photo-excited electrons, thus its quality can directly influence the final photovoltaic performance of the solar cell. This paper accentuates a very simple chemical approach to improving the quality of a perovskite film with a suitable amount of acetic acid. With introduction of acetate ions, a homogeneous, continual and hole-free perovskite film comprised of high-crystallinity grains is obtained. UV-visible spectra, steady-state and time-resolved photoluminescence (PL) spectra reveal that the obtained perovskite film under the optimized conditions shows a higher light absorption, more efficient electron transport, and faster electron extraction to the adjoining electron transport layer. The features result in the optimized perovskite film can provide an improved short-circuit current. The corresponding solar cells with a planar configuration achieves an improved power conversion efficiency of 13.80%, and the highest power conversion efficiency in the photovoltaic measurements is up to 14.71%. The results not only provide a simple approach to optimizing perovskite films but also present a novel angle of view on fabricating high-performance perovskite solar cells.

Optical digital to analog conversion performance analysis for indoor set-up conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dobesch, Aleš; Alves, Luis Nero; Wilfert, Otakar; Ribeiro, Carlos Gaspar

2017-10-01

In visible light communication (VLC) the optical digital to analog conversion (ODAC) approach was proposed as a suitable driving technique able to overcome light-emitting diode's (LED) non-linear characteristic. This concept is analogous to an electrical digital-to-analog converter (EDAC). In other words, digital bits are binary weighted to represent an analog signal. The method supports elementary on-off based modulations able to exploit the essence of LED's non-linear characteristic allowing simultaneous lighting and communication. In the ODAC concept the reconstruction error does not simply rely upon the converter bit depth as in case of EDAC. It rather depends on communication system set-up and geometrical relation between emitter and receiver as well. The paper describes simulation results presenting the ODAC's error performance taking into account: the optical channel, the LED's half power angle (HPA) and the receiver field of view (FOV). The set-up under consideration examines indoor conditions for a square room with 4 m length and 3 m height, operating with one dominant wavelength (blue) and having walls with a reflection coefficient of 0.8. The achieved results reveal that reconstruction error increases for higher data rates as a result of interference due to multipath propagation.

Hydrogen and lipid production from starch wastewater by co-culture of anaerobic sludge and oleaginous microalgae with simultaneous COD, nitrogen and phosphorus removal.

PubMed

Ren, Hong-Yu; Liu, Bing-Feng; Kong, Fanying; Zhao, Lei; Ren, Nanqi

2015-11-15

Anaerobic sludge (AS) and microalgae were co-cultured to enhance the energy conversion and nutrients removal from starch wastewater. Mixed ratio, starch concentration and initial pH played critical roles on the hydrogen and lipid production of the co-culture system. The maximum hydrogen production of 1508.3 mL L(-1) and total lipid concentration of 0.36 g L(-1) were obtained under the optimized mixed ratio (algae:AS) of 30:1, starch concentration of 6 g L(-1) and initial pH of 8. The main soluble metabolites in dark fermentation were acetate and butyrate, most of which can be consumed in co-cultivation. When sweet potato starch wastewater was used as the substrate, the highest COD, TN and TP removal and energy conversion efficiencies reached 80.5%, 88.7%, 80.1% and 34.2%, which were 176%, 178%, 200% and 119% higher than that of the control group (dark fermentation), respectively. This research provided a novel approach and achieved efficient simultaneous energy recovery and nutrients removal from starch wastewater by the co-culture system. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Single-step production of the simvastatin precursor monacolin J by engineering of an industrial strain of Aspergillus terreus.

PubMed

Huang, Xuenian; Liang, Yajing; Yang, Yong; Lu, Xuefeng

2017-07-01

Monacolin J is a key precursor for the synthesis of simvastatin (Zocor), an important drug for treating hypercholesterolemia. Industrially, monacolin J is manufactured through alkaline hydrolysis of lovastatin, a fungal polyketide produced by Aspergillus terreus. Multistep chemical processes for the conversion of lovastatin to simvastatin are laborious, cost expensive and environmentally unfriendly. A biocatalysis process for monacolin J conversion to simvastatin has been developed. However, direct bioproduction of monacolin J has not yet been achieved. Here, we identified a lovastatin hydrolase from Penicillium chrysogenum, which displays a 232-fold higher catalytic efficiency for the in vitro hydrolysis of lovastatin compared to a previously patented hydrolase, but no activity for simvastatin. Furthermore, we showed that an industrial A. terreus strain heterologously expressing this lovastatin hydrolase can produce monacolin J through single-step fermentation with high efficiency, approximately 95% of the biosynthesized lovastatin was hydrolyzed to monacolin J. Our results demonstrate a simple and green technical route for the production of monacolin J, which makes complete bioproduction of the cholesterol-lowering drug simvastatin feasible and promising. Copyright © 2017 International Metabolic Engineering Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Design of dual-diameter nanoholes for efficient solar-light harvesting

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

A dual-diameter nanohole (DNH) photovoltaic system is proposed, where a top (bottom) layer with large (small) nanoholes is used to improve the absorption for the short-wavelength (long-wavelength) solar incidence, leading to a broadband light absorption enhancement. Through three-dimensional finite-element simulation, the core device parameters, including the lattice constant, nanohole diameters, and nanohole depths, are engineered in order to realize the best light-matter coupling between nanostructured silicon and solar spectrum. The designed bare DNH system exhibits an outstanding absorption capability with a photocurrent density (under perfect internal quantum process) predicted to be 27.93 mA/cm2, which is 17.39%, 26.17%, and over 100% higher than the best single-nanohole (SNH) system, SNH system with an identical Si volume, and equivalent planar configuration, respectively. Considering the fabrication feasibility, a modified DNH system with an anti-reflection coating and back silver reflector is examined by simulating both optical absorption and carrier transport in a coupled way in frequency and three-dimensional spatial domains, achieving a light-conversion efficiency of 13.72%. PACS 85.60.-q; Optoelectronic device; 84.60.Jt; Photovoltaic conversion PMID:25258605

The effect of photopolymerization on the degree of conversion, polymerization kinetic, biaxial flexure strength, and modulus of self-adhesive resin cements.

PubMed

Aguiar, Thaiane R; de Oliveira, Michele; Arrais, César A G; Ambrosano, Glaucia M B; Rueggeberg, Frederick; Giannini, Marcelo

2015-02-01

Understanding the effect of the degree of conversion on the mechanical properties of auto- and dual-polymerizing self-adhesive resin cements leads to a better estimation of their performance in different clinical scenarios. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of photopolymerization on the degree of conversion (DC) and polymerization kinetic of 4 dual-polymerized resin cements, 20 minutes after mixing, and its effects on the mechanical properties (biaxial flexural strength [FS] and modulus [FM]) after short-term aging. Conventional (RelyX ARC and Clearfil Esthetic Cement) and self-adhesive resin cements (RelyX Unicem and Clearfil SA Cement) were applied to a Fourier infrared spectrometer to assess the DC (n=5) under the following 3 polymerization conditions: direct light exposure (dual-polymerizing mode), exposure through the prepolymerized disk, or autopolymerizing. The polymerization kinetic was recorded for 20 minutes. Then, disk-shaped specimens (n=11) were prepared to evaluate the effect of polymerization on the FS and FM in both extreme polymerization conditions (dual-polymerizing or autopolymerizing). Data were statistically analyzed by 2-way repeated measure ANOVA (DC) and by 2-way ANOVA (FS and FM), followed by the Tukey-Kramer post hoc test (α=.05). Autopolymerizing groups exhibited reduced DC means, whereas intermediate values were observed when resin cements were polymerized through the disk. All groups exhibited higher DC at the end of 20 minutes. The polymerization kinetic revealed a rising curve, and materials, when directly photopolymerized, reached a plateau immediately after light exposure. Regarding the flexural biaxial testing, most of the resin cements were affected by polymerization mode and differences among groups were product dependent. The resin cements achieved immediate higher DC and mechanical properties when photopolymerized. The total absence of photoactivation may still impair their mechanical properties even after short-term aging. Copyright © 2015 Editorial Council for the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Makarov, Nikolay S.; Lin, Qianglu; Pietryga, Jeffrey M.

One source of efficiency losses in photovoltaic cells is their transparency toward solar photons with energies below the band gap of the absorbing layer. This loss can be reduced using a process of up-conversion whereby two or more sub-band-gap photons generate a single above-gap exciton. Traditional approaches to up-conversion, such as nonlinear two-photon absorption (2PA) or triplet fusion, suffer from low efficiency at solar light intensities, a narrow absorption bandwidth, nonoptimal absorption energies, and difficulties for implementing in practical devices. We show that these deficiencies can be alleviated using the effect of Auger up-conversion in thick-shell PbSe/CdSe quantum dots. Thismore » process relies on Auger recombination whereby two low-energy, core-based excitons are converted into a single higher-energy, shell-based exciton. When compared to their monocomponent counterparts, the tailored PbSe/CdSe heterostructures feature enhanced absorption cross-sections, a higher efficiency of the “productive” Auger pathway involving re-excitation of a hole, and longer lifetimes of both core- and shell-localized excitons. These features lead to effective up-conversion cross-sections that are more than 6 orders of magnitude higher than for standard nonlinear 2PA, which allows for efficient up-conversion of continuous wave infrared light at intensities as low as a few watts per square centimeter.« less

Investigation of Saturation Effects in Ceramic Phosphors for Laser Lighting

PubMed Central

Krasnoshchoka, Anastasiia; Dam-Hansen, Carsten; Corell, Dennis Dan; Petersen, Paul Michael

2017-01-01

We report observations of saturation effects in a Ce:LuAG and Eu-doped nitride ceramic phosphor for conversion of blue laser light for white light generation. The luminous flux from the phosphors material increases linearly with the input power until saturation effects limit the conversion. It is shown that the temperature of the phosphor layer influences the saturation power level and the conversion efficiency. It is also shown that the correlated color temperature (CCT), phosphor conversion efficiency and color rendering index (CRI) are dependent both on the incident power and spot size diameter of the illumination. A phosphor conversion efficiency up to 140.8 lm/W with CRI of 89.4 was achieved. The saturation in a ceramic phosphor, when illuminated by high intensity laser diodes, is estimated to play the main role in limiting the available luminance from laser-based lighting systems. PMID:29292770

Topological energy conversion through the bulk or the boundary of driven systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peng, Yang; Refael, Gil

2018-04-01

Combining physical and synthetic dimensions allows a controllable realization and manipulation of high-dimensional topological states. In our work, we introduce two quasiperiodically driven one-dimensional systems which enable tunable topological energy conversion between different driving sources. Using three drives, we realize a four-dimensional quantum Hall state which allows energy conversion between two of the drives within the bulk of the one-dimensional system. With only two drives, we achieve energy conversion between the two at the edge of the chain. Both effects are a manifestation of the effective axion electrodynamics in a three-dimensional time-reversal-invariant topological insulator. Furthermore, we explore the effects of disorder and commensurability of the driving frequencies, and show the phenomena are robust. We propose two experimental platforms, based on semiconductor heterostructures and ultracold atoms in optical lattices, in order to observe the topological energy conversion.

Fluidized-bed technology enabling the integration of high temperature solar receiver CSP systems with steam and advanced power cycles

DOE PAGES

Sakadjian, B.; Hu, S.; Maryamchik, M.; ...

2015-06-05

Solar Particle Receivers (SPR) are under development to drive concentrating solar plants (CSP) towards higher operating temperatures to support higher efficiency power conversion cycles. The novel high temperature SPR-based CSP system uses solid particles as the heat transfer medium (HTM) in place of the more conventional fluids such as molten salt or steam used in current state-of-the-art CSP plants. The solar particle receiver (SPR) is designed to heat the HTM to temperatures of 800 °C or higher which is well above the operating temperatures of nitrate-based molten salt thermal energy storage (TES) systems. The solid particles also help overcome somemore » of the other challenges associated with molten salt-based systems such as freezing, instability and degradation. The higher operating temperatures and use of low cost HTM and higher efficiency power cycles are geared towards reducing costs associated with CSP systems. This paper describes the SPR-based CSP system with a focus on the fluidized-bed (FB) heat exchanger and its integration with various power cycles. Furthermore, the SPR technology provides a potential pathway to achieving the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) target of $0.06/kWh that has been set by the U.S. Department of Energy's SunShot initiative.« less

Fluidized-bed technology enabling the integration of high temperature solar receiver CSP systems with steam and advanced power cycles

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sakadjian, B.; Hu, S.; Maryamchik, M.

Solar Particle Receivers (SPR) are under development to drive concentrating solar plants (CSP) towards higher operating temperatures to support higher efficiency power conversion cycles. The novel high temperature SPR-based CSP system uses solid particles as the heat transfer medium (HTM) in place of the more conventional fluids such as molten salt or steam used in current state-of-the-art CSP plants. The solar particle receiver (SPR) is designed to heat the HTM to temperatures of 800 °C or higher which is well above the operating temperatures of nitrate-based molten salt thermal energy storage (TES) systems. The solid particles also help overcome somemore » of the other challenges associated with molten salt-based systems such as freezing, instability and degradation. The higher operating temperatures and use of low cost HTM and higher efficiency power cycles are geared towards reducing costs associated with CSP systems. This paper describes the SPR-based CSP system with a focus on the fluidized-bed (FB) heat exchanger and its integration with various power cycles. Furthermore, the SPR technology provides a potential pathway to achieving the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) target of $0.06/kWh that has been set by the U.S. Department of Energy's SunShot initiative.« less

Electrochemical enhancement of nitric oxide removal from simulated lean-burn engine exhaust via solid oxide fuel cells.

PubMed

Huang, Ta-Jen; Wu, Chung-Ying; Lin, Yu-Hsien

2011-07-01

A solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) unit is constructed with Ni-YSZ as the anode, YSZ as the electrolyte, and La(0.6)Sr(0.4)CoO(3)-Ce(0.9)Gd(0.1)O(1.95) as the cathode. The SOFC operation is performed at 600 °C with a cathode gas simulating the lean-burn engine exhaust and at various fixed voltage, at open-circuit voltage, and with an inert gas flowing over the anode side, respectively. Electrochemical enhancement of NO decomposition occurs when an operating voltage is generated; higher O(2) concentration leads to higher enhancement. Smaller NO concentration results in larger NO conversion. Higher operating voltage and higher O(2) concentration can lead to both higher NO conversion and lower fuel consumption. The molar rate of the consumption of the anode fuel can be very much smaller than that of NO to N(2) conversion. This makes the anode fuel consumed in the SOFC-DeNO(x) process to be much less than the equivalent amount of ammonia consumed in the urea-based selective catalytic reduction process. Additionally, the NO conversion increases with the addition of propylene and SO(2) into the cathode gas. These are beneficial for the application of the SOFC-DeNO(x) technology on treating diesel and other lean-burn engine exhausts.

Sequential EMT-MET induces neuronal conversion through Sox2

PubMed Central

He, Songwei; Chen, Jinlong; Zhang, Yixin; Zhang, Mengdan; Yang, Xiao; Li, Yuan; Sun, Hao; Lin, Lilong; Fan, Ke; Liang, Lining; Feng, Chengqian; Wang, Fuhui; Zhang, Xiao; Guo, Yiping; Pei, Duanqing; Zheng, Hui

2017-01-01

Direct neuronal conversion can be achieved with combinations of small-molecule compounds and growth factors. Here, by studying the first or induction phase of the neuronal conversion induced by defined 5C medium, we show that the Sox2-mediated switch from early epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) to late mesenchymal–epithelial transition (MET) within a high proliferation context is essential and sufficient for the conversion from mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) to TuJ+ cells. At the early stage, insulin and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF)-induced cell proliferation, early EMT, the up-regulation of Stat3 and Sox2, and the subsequent activation of neuron projection. Up-regulated Sox2 then induced MET and directed cells towards a neuronal fate at the late stage. Inhibiting either stage of this sequential EMT-MET impaired the conversion. In addition, Sox2 could replace sequential EMT-MET to induce a similar conversion within a high proliferation context, and its functions were confirmed with other neuronal conversion protocols and MEFs reprogramming. Therefore, the critical roles of the sequential EMT-MET were implicated in direct cell fate conversion in addition to reprogramming, embryonic development and cancer progression. PMID:28580167

Alexithymia in patients with conversion disorder.

PubMed

Gulpek, Demet; Kelemence Kaplan, Figen; Kesebir, Sermin; Bora, Ozlem

2014-07-01

In the recent years, it has been observed that alexithymia is not specified for the psychosomatic disorders. It is known that alexithymia is observed frequently in various psychiatric disorders especially in the somatoform disorders. The aim of this study is to evaluate alexithymia in the patients with the conversion disorder. The study was performed in the Psychiatry Outpatients Clinics of the Izmir Atatürk Training and Research Hospital and Erenköy Psychiatry Education and Research Hospital. A total of 93 cases-47 outpatients who were diagnosed with conversion disorder according to the DSM-IV criteria and 46 age, gender and educational level matched healthy controls-were included in the study. All the cases were assessed by a Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV and were evaluated with a questionnaire (which included demographics and clinical data), the Toronto Alexithymia Scale and the Somatosensory Amplification Scale. When the two groups were compared, the Toronto Alexithymia Scale scores (except "externally oriented thinking" subscale) and the Somatosensory Amplification Scale score of the conversion disorder group were statistically significantly higher than the control group. The number of the alexithymic cases of the patient group was significantly higher than the control group's. The level of alexithymia in conversion disorder patients, without any other psychiatric disorder, is higher than that of the healthy controls. During the evaluation of the psychological state of patients with conversion disorder, it could be useful to keep in mind the probability of them having alexithymia to determine the type of suitable therapy.

Reconfigurable high-speed optical fibre networks: Optical wavelength conversion and switching using VCSELs to eliminate channel collisions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boiyo, Duncan Kiboi; Chabata, T. V.; Kipnoo, E. K. Rotich; Gamatham, R. R. G.; Leitch, A. W. R.; Gibbon, T. B.

2017-01-01

We experimentally provide an alternative solution to channel collisions through up-wavelength conversion and switching by using vertical cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs). This has been achieved by utilizing purely optical wavelength conversion on VCSELs at the low attenuation, 1550 nm transmission window. The corresponding transmission and bit error-rate (BER) performance evaluation is also presented. In this paper, two 1550 nm VCSELs with 50-150 GHz channel spacing are modulated with a 10 Gb/s NRZ PRBS 27-1 data and their interferences investigated. A channel interference penalty range of 0.15-1.63 dB is incurred for 150-50 GHz channel spacing without transmission. To avoid channel collisions and to minimize high interference penalties, the transmitting VCSEL with data is injected into the side-mode of a slave VCSEL to obtain a new up converted wavelength. A 16 dB extinction ratio of the incoming wavelength is achieved when a 15 dBm transmitting beam is injected into the side-mode of a -4.5 dBm slave VCSEL. At 8.5 Gb/s, a 1.1 dB conversion and a 0.5 dB transmission penalties are realized when the converted wavelength is transmitted over a 24.7 km G.655 fibre. This work offers a low-cost, effective wavelength conversion and channel switching to reduce channel collision probability by reconfiguring channels at the node of networks.

Enantioselective synthesis of (R)-phenylephrine by Serratia marcescens BCRC10948 cells that homologously express SM_SDR.

PubMed

Kuan, Yi-Chia; Xu, Yue-Bin; Wang, Wen-Ching; Yang, Ming-Te

2018-03-01

A short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase from Serratia marcescens BCRC10948, SM_SDR, has been cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli for the bioconversion of 1-(3-hydroxyphenyl)-2-(methylamino) ethanone (HPMAE) to (R)-phenylephrine[(R)-PE]. However, only 5.11mM (R)-PE was obtained from 10mM HPMAE after a 9h conversion in the previous report. To improve the biocatalytic efficiency, the homologous expression of the SM_SDR in S. marcescens BCRC10948 was achieved using the T5 promoter for expression. By using 2% glycerol as carbon source, we found that 8.00±0.15mM of (R)-PE with more than 99% enantiomeric excess was produced from 10mM HPMAE after 12h conversion at 30°C and pH 7.0. More importantly, by using 50mM HPMAE as the substrate, 23.78±0.84mM of (R)-PE was produced after a 12h conversion with the productivity and the conversion yield of 1.98mmol (R)-PE/lh and 47.50%, respectively. The recombinant S. marcescens cells could be recycled 6 times for the production of (R)-PE, and the bioconversion efficiency remained at 85% when compared to that at the first cycle. Our data indicated that a high conversion efficiency of HPMAE to (R)-PE could be achieved using S. marcescens BCRC10948 cells that homologously express the SM_SDR. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Massachusetts Lowell low speed wind tunnel (LSWT) test section

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anderson, Erik William

The alumina and hybrid alumina-silica FT catalyst were prepared by one-step solgel/oil-drop methods using metal-nitrate-solutions (method-I), and nanoparticle-metaloxides (method-2). The nanoparticle-metal-oxides did not participate in solubility equilibria in contrast to metal nitrate in method-1 causing no metal ion seepage; therefore, method-2 yields higher XRF metal loading efficiency than method-1. The thermal analysis confirmed that the metal loading by method-1 and method-2 involved two different pathways. Method-1 involves solubility equilibria in the conversion of metal-nitrate to metal- hydroxide and finally to metal-oxide, while in method-2 nanoparticle-metal-oxide remained intact during sol-gel-oil-drop and calcination steps. The alumina supported catalysts were dominated by gamma-alumina PXRD peaks in alumina catalysts while amorphous alumino-silicate phase was the bulk of hybrid alumina-silica catalysts. The presence of cobalt oxides (CoO, Co3O4) and iron oxides (FeO, Fe2O3) phases are confirmed in the catalysts prepared by method-1 and method-2. The PXRD analysis indicated weak peak intensities in catalysts with 5 wt. % total metal loading. PXRD pattern confirmed alloy formation in the bimetallic catalysts (CoFe2O4) on alumina support phase gamma-A12 O3. The surface area and pore diameter of hybrid alumina-silica granules (301 - 372 m2/g and 7.3 nm) showed better values than the alumina granules (251 - 256 m2/g and 6.5 nm). The support pore diameter of both types of granules is within the mesoporous range (1 - 50 nm). The morphology of all the catalysts is preserved upon metal loading and heat treatments. The surface characteristics of the sol-gel-oil-drop method prepared catalysts indicate there was no significant pore blockage of the support below 10 wt % total metal loading. The CO conversion of the FT catalysts was measured to screen catalytic active metals and determine the optimum temperatures of the FT reaction for the alumina catalysts. The alumina FT catalysts showed an optimum reaction temperature of 250 °C. Hydrocarbon production and CO conversion of alumina and hybrid alumina-silica FT catalysts were investigated. Among monometallic alumina catalysts, Co(5%) showed a higher CO conversion. The incorporation of Fe to Co increased CO conversion and hydrocarbon production. Increased Fe content in the bimetallic catalysts prepared by combined method-1&2, decreased CO conversion and hydrocarbon production, and increased CO 2 production. The bimetallic nano-Co(2.5%)nano-Fe(2.5%) prepared by method-2 alone showed higher CO conversion comparable to the Co(4%)nano-Fe(l %). Hybrid alumina-silica FT catalysts showed a higher CO conversion than the alumina FT catalysts due to better surface characteristics. The monometallic catalysts showed higher selectivity to C1-C4 hydrocarbon than bimetallic. The bimetallic alumina FT catalysts prepared by method-2 showed slightly higher C5+ selectivity compared to the higher Co catalysts prepared by combined method- I &2. The Ru promotion showed a significant effect on the CO conversion and 11 product distribution of the monometallic catalysts. There was no significant effect on the CO conversion on the (Co-Fe) bimetallic catalysts, but hydrocarbon production slightly increased when promoted by 0.5 wt.% Ru.

Synthesis, characterization, and activity of Co/Fe alumina/silica supported Ft catalysts and the study of promoter effect of ruthenium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Esumike, Sunday Azubike

The alumina and hybrid alumina-silica FT catalyst were prepared by one-step solgel/oil-drop methods using metal-nitrate-solutions (method-I), and nanoparticle-metaloxides (method-2). The nanoparticle-metal-oxides did not participate in solubility equilibria in contrast to metal nitrate in method-1 causing no metal ion seepage; therefore, method-2 yields higher XRF metal loading efficiency than method-1. The thermal analysis confirmed that the metal loading by method-1 and method-2 involved two different pathways. Method-1 involves solubility equilibria in the conversion of metal-nitrate to metal- hydroxide and finally to metal-oxide, while in method-2 nanoparticle-metal-oxide remained intact during sol-gel-oil-drop and calcination steps. The alumina supported catalysts were dominated by gamma-alumina PXRD peaks in alumina catalysts while amorphous alumino-silicate phase was the bulk of hybrid alumina-silica catalysts. The presence of cobalt oxides (CoO, Co3O4) and iron oxides (FeO, Fe2O3) phases are confirmed in the catalysts prepared by method-1 and method-2. The PXRD analysis indicated weak peak intensities in catalysts with 5 wt. % total metal loading. PXRD pattern confirmed alloy formation in the bimetallic catalysts (CoFe2O4) on alumina support phase gamma-A12 O3. The surface area and pore diameter of hybrid alumina-silica granules (301 - 372 m2/g and 7.3 nm) showed better values than the alumina granules (251 - 256 m2/g and 6.5 nm). The support pore diameter of both types of granules is within the mesoporous range (1 - 50 nm). The morphology of all the catalysts is preserved upon metal loading and heat treatments. The surface characteristics of the sol-gel-oil-drop method prepared catalysts indicate there was no significant pore blockage of the support below 10 wt % total metal loading. The CO conversion of the FT catalysts was measured to screen catalytic active metals and determine the optimum temperatures of the FT reaction for the alumina catalysts. The alumina FT catalysts showed an optimum reaction temperature of 250 °C. Hydrocarbon production and CO conversion of alumina and hybrid alumina-silica FT catalysts were investigated. Among monometallic alumina catalysts, Co(5%) showed a higher CO conversion. The incorporation of Fe to Co increased CO conversion and hydrocarbon production. Increased Fe content in the bimetallic catalysts prepared by combined method-1&2, decreased CO conversion and hydrocarbon production, and increased CO 2 production. The bimetallic nano-Co(2.5%)nano-Fe(2.5%) prepared by method-2 alone showed higher CO conversion comparable to the Co(4%)nano-Fe(l %). Hybrid alumina-silica FT catalysts showed a higher CO conversion than the alumina FT catalysts due to better surface characteristics. The monometallic catalysts showed higher selectivity to C1-C4 hydrocarbon than bimetallic. The bimetallic alumina FT catalysts prepared by method-2 showed slightly higher C5+ selectivity compared to the higher Co catalysts prepared by combined method- I &2. The Ru promotion showed a significant effect on the CO conversion and 11 product distribution of the monometallic catalysts. There was no significant effect on the CO conversion on the (Co-Fe) bimetallic catalysts, but hydrocarbon production slightly increased when promoted by 0.5 wt.% Ru.

Perovskite nanocomposites as effective CO2-splitting agents in a cyclic redox scheme

PubMed Central

Zhang, Junshe; Haribal, Vasudev; Li, Fanxing

2017-01-01

We report iron-containing mixed-oxide nanocomposites as highly effective redox materials for thermochemical CO2 splitting and methane partial oxidation in a cyclic redox scheme, where methane was introduced as an oxygen “sink” to promote the reduction of the redox materials followed by reoxidation through CO2 splitting. Up to 96% syngas selectivity in the methane partial oxidation step and close to complete conversion of CO2 to CO in the CO2-splitting step were achieved at 900° to 980°C with good redox stability. The productivity and production rate of CO in the CO2-splitting step were about seven times higher than those in state-of-the-art solar-thermal CO2-splitting processes, which are carried out at significantly higher temperatures. The proposed approach can potentially be applied for acetic acid synthesis with up to 84% reduction in CO2 emission when compared to state-of-the-art processes. PMID:28875171

Effect of pretreatment severity in continuous steam explosion on enzymatic conversion of wheat straw: Evidence from kinetic analysis of hydrolysis time courses.

PubMed

Monschein, Mareike; Nidetzky, Bernd

2016-01-01

Focusing on continuous steam explosion, the influence of pretreatment severity due to varied acid loading on hydrolysis of wheat straw by Trichoderma reesei cellulases was investigated based on kinetic evaluation of the saccharification of each pretreated substrate. Using semi-empirical descriptors of the hydrolysis time course, key characteristics of saccharification efficiency were captured in a quantifiable fashion. Not only hydrolysis rates per se, but also the transition point of their bi-phasic decline was crucial for high saccharification degree. After 48h the highest saccharification was achieved for substrate pretreated at relatively low severity (1.2% acid). Higher severity increased enzyme binding to wheat straw, but reduced the specific hydrolysis rates. Higher affinity of the lignocellulosic material for cellulases does not necessarily result in increased saccharification, probably because of lignin modifications occurring at high pretreatment severities. At comparable severity, continuous pretreatment produced a substrate more susceptible to enzymatic hydrolysis than the batch process. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Enhanced conversion efficiency in wide-bandgap GaNP solar cells

DOE PAGES

Sukrittanon, Supanee; Liu, Ren; Ro, Yun Goo; ...

2015-10-12

In this study, we demonstrate –2.05 eV dilute nitride GaNP solar cells on GaP substrates for potential use as the top junction in dual-junction integrated cells on Si. By adding a small amount of N into indirect-bandgap GaP, GaNP has several extremely important attributes: a direct-bandgap that is also tunable, and easily attained lattice-match with Si. Our best GaNP solar cell ([N] –1.8%, E g –2.05 eV) achieves an efficiency of 7.9%, even in the absence of a window layer. This GaNP solar cell's efficiency is 3× higher than the most efficient GaP solar cell to date and higher thanmore » other solar cells with similar direct bandgap (InGaP, GaAsP). Through a systematic study of the structural, electrical, and optical properties of the device, efficient broadband optical absorption and enhanced solar cell performance are demonstrated.« less

Low pressure CO₂ hydrogenation to methanol over gold nanoparticles activated on a CeO x/TiO₂ interface

DOE PAGES

Yang, Xiaofang; Boscoboinik, J. Anibal; Kattel, Shyam; ...

2015-07-28

Capture and recycling of CO 2 into valuable chemicals such as alcohols could help mitigate its emissions into the atmosphere. Due to its inert nature, the activation of CO 2 is a critical step in improving the overall reaction kinetics during its chemical conversion. Although pure gold is an inert noble metal and cannot catalyze hydrogenation reactions, it can be activated when deposited as nanoparticles on the appropriate oxide support. In this combined experimental and theoretical study, it is shown that an electronic polarization at the metal-oxide interface of Au nanoparticles anchored and stabilized on a CeO x/TiO 2 substratemore » generates active centers for CO 2 adsorption and its low pressure hydrogenation, leading to a higher selectivity towards methanol. As a result, this study illustrates the importance of localized electronic properties and structure in catalysis for achieving higher alcohol selectivity from CO 2 hydrogenation.« less

Enhancing ethanol production from thermophilic and mesophilic solid digestate using ozone combined with aqueous ammonia pretreatment.

PubMed

Wang, Dianlong; Xi, Jiang; Ai, Ping; Yu, Liang; Zhai, Hong; Yan, Shuiping; Zhang, Yanlin

2016-05-01

Pretreatment with ozone combined with aqueous ammonia was used to recover residual organic carbon from recalcitrant solid digestate for ethanol production after anaerobic digestion (AD) of rice straw. Methane yield of AD at mesophilic and thermophilic conditions, and ethanol production of solid digestate were investigated. The results showed that the methane yield at thermophilic temperature was 72.2% higher than that at mesophilic temperature under the same conditions of 24days and 17% solid concentration. And also the ethanol production efficiency of solid digestate after thermophilic process was 24.3% higher than that of solid digestate after mesophilic process. In this study, the optimal conditions for integrated methane and ethanol processes were determined as 55°C, 17% solid concentration and 24days. 58.6% of glucose conversion, 142.8g/kg of methane yield and 65.2g/kg of ethanol yield were achieved, and the highest net energy balance was calculated as 6416kJ/kg. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Metal Amorphous Nanocomposite (MANC) Alloy Cores with Spatially Tuned Permeability for Advanced Power Magnetics Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Byerly, K.; Ohodnicki, P. R.; Moon, S. R.; Leary, A. M.; Keylin, V.; McHenry, M. E.; Simizu, S.; Beddingfield, R.; Yu, Y.; Feichter, G.; Noebe, R.; Bowman, R.; Bhattacharya, S.

2018-04-01

Metal amorphous nanocomposite (MANC) alloys are an emerging class of soft magnetic materials showing promise for a range of inductive components targeted for higher power density and higher efficiency power conversion applications including inductors, transformers, and rotating electrical machinery. Magnetization reversal mechanisms within these alloys are typically determined by composition optimization as well as controlled annealing treatments to generate a nanocomposite structure composed of nanocrystals embedded in an amorphous precursor. Here we demonstrate the concept of spatially varying the permeability within a given component for optimization of performance by using the strain annealing process. The concept is realized experimentally through the smoothing of the flux profile from the inner to outer core radius achieved by a monotonic variation in tension during the strain annealing process. Great potential exists for an extension of this concept to a wide range of other power magnetic components and more complex spatially varying permeability profiles through advances in strain annealing techniques and controls.

Metal Amorphous Nanocomposite (MANC) Alloy Cores with Spatially Tuned Permeability for Advanced Power Magnetics Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Byerly, K.; Ohodnicki, P. R.; Moon, S. R.; Leary, A. M.; Keylin, V.; McHenry, M. E.; Simizu, S.; Beddingfield, R.; Yu, Y.; Feichter, G.; Noebe, R.; Bowman, R.; Bhattacharya, S.

2018-06-01

Metal amorphous nanocomposite (MANC) alloys are an emerging class of soft magnetic materials showing promise for a range of inductive components targeted for higher power density and higher efficiency power conversion applications including inductors, transformers, and rotating electrical machinery. Magnetization reversal mechanisms within these alloys are typically determined by composition optimization as well as controlled annealing treatments to generate a nanocomposite structure composed of nanocrystals embedded in an amorphous precursor. Here we demonstrate the concept of spatially varying the permeability within a given component for optimization of performance by using the strain annealing process. The concept is realized experimentally through the smoothing of the flux profile from the inner to outer core radius achieved by a monotonic variation in tension during the strain annealing process. Great potential exists for an extension of this concept to a wide range of other power magnetic components and more complex spatially varying permeability profiles through advances in strain annealing techniques and controls.

Bioconversion of paper mill sludge to bioethanol in the presence of accelerants or hydrogen peroxide pretreatment.

PubMed

Gurram, Raghu Nandan; Al-Shannag, Mohammad; Lecher, Nicholas Joshua; Duncan, Shona M; Singsaas, Eric Lawrence; Alkasrawi, Malek

2015-09-01

In this study we investigated the technical feasibility of convert paper mill sludge into fuel ethanol. This involved the removal of mineral fillers by using either chemical pretreatment or mechanical fractionation to determine their effects on cellulose hydrolysis and fermentation to ethanol. In addition, we studied the effect of cationic polyelectrolyte (as accelerant) addition and hydrogen peroxide pretreatment on enzymatic hydrolysis and fermentation. We present results showing that removing the fillers content (ash and calcium carbonate) from the paper mill sludge increases the enzymatic hydrolysis performance dramatically with higher cellulose conversion at faster rates. The addition of accelerant and hydrogen peroxide pretreatment further improved the hydrolysis yields by 16% and 25% (g glucose / g cellulose), respectively with the de-ashed sludge. The fermentation process of produced sugars achieved up to 95% of the maximum theoretical ethanol yield and higher ethanol productivities within 9h of fermentation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Set-shifting and its relation to clinical and personality variables in full recovery of anorexia nervosa.

PubMed

Lindner, Susanne E; Fichter, Manfred M; Quadflieg, Norbert

2014-07-01

First, this study aimed to explore whether set-shifting is inefficient after full recovery of anorexia nervosa (recAN). Second, this study wanted to explore the relation of set-shifting to clinical and personality variables. A total of 100 recAN women were compared with 100 healthy women. Set-shifting was assessed with Berg's Card Sorting Test. Expert interviews yielded assessments for the inclusion/exclusion criteria, self-ratings for clinical and personality variables. Compared with the healthy control group, the recAN participants achieved fewer categories, showed more perseverations and spent less time for shifting set. Perfectionism is correlated with set-shifting but in converse directions in the two groups. Our study supports the findings of inefficiencies in set-shifting after full recovery from AN. Higher perfectionism in the recAN group is associated with better set-shifting ability, whereas higher perfectionism in the healthy control group is related to worse set-shifting ability. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.

Simulations of radiation-damaged 3D detectors for the Super-LHC

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pennicard, D.; Pellegrini, G.; Fleta, C.; Bates, R.; O'Shea, V.; Parkes, C.; Tartoni, N.

2008-07-01

Future high-luminosity colliders, such as the Super-LHC at CERN, will require pixel detectors capable of withstanding extremely high radiation damage. In this article, the performances of various 3D detector structures are simulated with up to 1×1016 1 MeV- neq/cm2 radiation damage. The simulations show that 3D detectors have higher collection efficiency and lower depletion voltages than planar detectors due to their small electrode spacing. When designing a 3D detector with a large pixel size, such as an ATLAS sensor, different electrode column layouts are possible. Using a small number of n+ readout electrodes per pixel leads to higher depletion voltages and lower collection efficiency, due to the larger electrode spacing. Conversely, using more electrodes increases both the insensitive volume occupied by the electrode columns and the capacitive noise. Overall, the best performance after 1×1016 1 MeV- neq/cm2 damage is achieved by using 4-6 n+ electrodes per pixel.

Newly isolated Penicillium oxalicum A592-4B secretes enzymes that degrade milled rice straw with high efficiency.

PubMed

Aoyama, Akihisa; Kurane, Ryuichiro; Matsuura, Akira; Nagai, Kazuo

2015-01-01

An enzyme producing micro-organism, which can directly saccharify rice straw that has only been crushed without undergoing the current acid or alkaline pretreatment, was found. From the homology with the ITS, 28S rDNA sequence, the strain named A592-4B was identified as Penicillium oxalicum. Activities of the A592-4B enzymes and commercial enzyme preparations were compared by Novozymes Cellic CTec2 and Genencore GC220. In the present experimental condition, activity of A592-4B enzymes was 2.6 times higher than that of CTec2 for degrading milled rice straw. Furthermore, even when a quarter amount of A592-4B enzyme was applied to the rice straw, the conversion rate was still higher than that by CTec2. By utilizing A592-4B enzymes, improved lignocellulose degradation yields can be achieved without pre-treatment of the substrates; thus, contributing to cost reduction as well as reducing environmental burden.

Internal reforming of methane in solid oxide fuel cell systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peters, R.; Dahl, R.; Klüttgen, U.; Palm, C.; Stolten, D.

Internal reforming is an attractive option offering a significant cost reduction, higher efficiencies and faster load response of a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) power plant. However, complete internal reforming may lead to several problems which can be avoided with partial pre-reforming of natural gas. In order to achieve high total plant efficiency associated with low energy consumption and low investment costs, a process concept has been developed based on all the components of the SOFC system. In the case of anode gas recycling an internal steam circuit exists. This has the advantage that there is no need for an external steam generator and the steam concentration in the anode gas is reduced. However, anode gas recycling has to be proven by experiments in a pre-reformer and for internal reforming. The addition of carbon dioxide clearly shows a decrease in catalyst activity, while for temperatures higher than 1000 K hydrogen leads to an increase of the measured methane conversion rates.

Quantitative investigations of xylose and arabinose substituents in hydroxypropylated and hydroxyvinylethylated arabinoxylans.

PubMed

Lorenz, Dominic; Knöpfle, Anna; Akil, Youssef; Saake, Bodo

2017-11-01

The chemical structures obtained by the modification of arabinoxylans with the cyclic carbonates propylene carbonate (PC) and 4-vinyl-1,3-dioxolan-2-one (VEC) with varying degrees of substitution were investigated. Therefore, a new analytical method was developed that is based on a microwave-assisted hydrolysis of the polysaccharides with trifluoroacetic acid and the reductive amination with 2-aminobenzoic acid. The peak assignment was achieved by HPLC-MS and the carbohydrate derivatives were quantified by HPLC-fluorescence. The obtained maximum molar substitution of PC-derivatized xylan (X HP ) was 1.8; the molar substitution of VEC-derivatized xylan (X HVE ) was 2.3. Investigations of xylose and arabinose based mono- and disubstituted derivatives revealed a preferred reaction of the cyclic carbonates with arabinose. Conversion rates were up to 2.4 times higher for monosubstitution and up to 3.0 times for disubstitution compared to xylose. Furthermore, the reaction with VEC was preferred due to higher reactivity of the newly introduced side chains. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Biomimicry Promotes the Efficiency of a 10-Step Sequential Enzymatic Reaction on Nanoparticles, Converting Glucose to Lactate.

PubMed

Mukai, Chinatsu; Gao, Lizeng; Nelson, Jacquelyn L; Lata, James P; Cohen, Roy; Wu, Lauren; Hinchman, Meleana M; Bergkvist, Magnus; Sherwood, Robert W; Zhang, Sheng; Travis, Alexander J

2017-01-02

For nanobiotechnology to achieve its potential, complex organic-inorganic systems must grow to utilize the sequential functions of multiple biological components. Critical challenges exist: immobilizing enzymes can block substrate-binding sites or prohibit conformational changes, substrate composition can interfere with activity, and multistep reactions risk diffusion of intermediates. As a result, the most complex tethered reaction reported involves only 3 enzymes. Inspired by the oriented immobilization of glycolytic enzymes on the fibrous sheath of mammalian sperm, here we show a complex reaction of 10 enzymes tethered to nanoparticles. Although individual enzyme efficiency was higher in solution, the efficacy of the 10-step pathway measured by conversion of glucose to lactate was significantly higher when tethered. To our knowledge, this is the most complex organic-inorganic system described, and it shows that tethered, multi-step biological pathways can be reconstituted in hybrid systems to carry out functions such as energy production or delivery of molecular cargo. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Biomimicry promotes the efficiency of a 10-step sequential enzymatic reaction on nanoparticles, converting glucose to lactate

PubMed Central

Mukai, Chinatsu; Gao, Lizeng; Nelson, Jacquelyn L.; Lata, James P.; Cohen, Roy; Wu, Lauren; Hinchman, Meleana M.; Bergkvist, Magnus; Sherwood, Robert W.; Zhang, Sheng; Travis, Alexander J.

2016-01-01

For nanobiotechnology to achieve its potential, complex organic-inorganic systems must grow to utilize the sequential functions of multiple biological components. Critical challenges exist: immobilizing enzymes can block substrate-binding sites or prohibit conformational changes, substrate composition can interfere with activity, and multistep reactions risk diffusion of intermediates. As a result, the most complex tethered reaction reported involves only 3 enzymes. Inspired by the oriented immobilization of glycolytic enzymes on the fibrous sheath of mammalian sperm, here we show a complex reaction of 10 enzymes tethered to nanoparticles. Although individual enzyme efficiency was higher in solution, the efficacy of the 10-step pathway measured by conversion of glucose to lactate was significantly higher when tethered. To our knowledge, this is the most complex organic-inorganic system described, and it shows that tethered, multi-step biological pathways can be reconstituted in hybrid systems to carry out functions such as energy production or delivery of molecular cargo. PMID:27901298

Improving Student Attitude and Achievement in Reading through Daily Reading Practice and Teacher Intervention Strategies.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Barrett, Karen; Kreiser, Diane

This report describes a program designed to develop positive attitudes toward reading and to improve achievement in third and fourth grade students in two Midwestern communities. Teachers' observations and conversations with parents and students indicated students did not receive essential reading practice time to improve skills. Analysis of…

Non-phase-matched enhancement of second-harmonic generation in multilayer nonlinear structures with internal reflections.

PubMed

Centini, Marco; D'Aguanno, Giuseppe; Sciscione, Letizia; Sibilia, Concita; Bertolotti, Mario; Scalora, Michael; Bloemer, Mark J

2004-08-15

Traditional notions of second-harmonic generation rely on phase matching or quasi phase matching to achieve good conversion efficiencies. We present an entirely new concept for efficient second-harmonic generation that is based on the interference of counterpropagating waves in multilayer structures. Conversion efficiencies are an order of magnitude larger than with phase-matched second-harmonic generation in similar multilayer structures.

"Integration was a Solution to Segregation, but Integration does not Address Quality Education": A Conversation about School Desegregation with Dr. Michael A. Middleton

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Diem, Sarah; Brooks, Jeffrey

2013-01-01

We conclude this special issue reflecting back on the history of desegregation and questioning how we move forward in trying to achieve racially integrated school settings. The epilogue includes a conversation with Dr. Michael A. Middleton, Deputy Chancellor of the University of Missouri-Columbia. Dr. Middleton is an expert in civil rights and…

High-power 671  nm laser by second-harmonic generation with 93% efficiency in an external ring cavity.

PubMed

Cui, Xing-Yang; Shen, Qi; Yan, Mei-Chen; Zeng, Chao; Yuan, Tao; Zhang, Wen-Zhuo; Yao, Xing-Can; Peng, Cheng-Zhi; Jiang, Xiao; Chen, Yu-Ao; Pan, Jian-Wei

2018-04-15

Second-harmonic generation (SHG) is useful for obtaining single-frequency continuous-wave laser sources at various wavelengths for applications ranging from biology to fundamental physics. Using an external power-enhancement cavity is an effective approach to improve the frequency conversion efficiency. However, thermal effects limit the efficiency, particularly, in high-power operation. Therefore, reducing thermal effects is important when designing a cavity. This Letter reports the use of an external ring cavity for SHG, yielding a 5.2 W, 671 nm laser light with a conversion efficiency of 93.8±0.8% which, to the best of our knowledge, is a new record of conversion efficiency for an external ring cavity. It is achieved using a 10 mm length periodically poled potassium titanyl phosphate crystal and a 65 μm radius beam waist in the cavity so as to minimize thermal dephasing and thermal lensing. Furthermore, a method is developed to determine a conversion efficiency more accurately based on measuring the pump depletion using a photodiode detector and a maximum pump depletion up to 97% is recorded. In this method, the uncertainty is much less than that achieved in a common method by direct measuring with a power meter.

Analyses of conversion efficiency in high-speed clock recovery based on Mach-Zehnder modulator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dong, H.; Sun, H.; Zhu, G.; Dutta, N. K.

2006-09-01

In this paper, detailed analyses of the conversion efficiency in high-speed clock recovery based on Mach-Zehnder (MZ) modulator has been carried out. The theoretical results show the conversion efficiency changes with RF driving power and the mixing order. For high order clock recovery, the cascaded MZ modulator provides higher conversion efficiency. A study of clock recovery at 160 Gb/s using the cascaded MZ modulator has been carried out. The experimental results agree with the results of the analysis.

Fuel cell systems program plan, FY 1990

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

1989-10-01

A principal goal of the Office of Fossil Energy is to increase the utilization of domestic fuels in an environmentally benign manner, through the development and transfer to the private sector of advanced energy conversion technology. Successful efforts to achieve this goal contribute to the stability and reliability of reasonably priced energy supplies, enhance the competitiveness of domestic fuels and energy technologies in domestic and international markets, and contribute to the development of cost effective strategies for control of acid rain and global warming. Several advanced energy conversion technologies are now under development by DOE which can help to achieve these objectives. Fuel cells are among those technologies. This report briefly describes fuel cell technology and the program plan of U.S. DOE fuel cell program.

Effects of acid impregnated steam explosion process on xylose recovery and enzymatic conversion of cellulose in corncob.

PubMed

Fan, Xiaoguang; Cheng, Gang; Zhang, Hongjia; Li, Menghua; Wang, Shizeng; Yuan, Qipeng

2014-12-19

Corncob residue is a cellulose-rich byproduct obtained from industrial xylose production via dilute acid hydrolysis processes. Enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose in acid hydrolysis residue of corncob (AHRC) is often less efficient without further pretreatment. In this work, the process characteristics of acid impregnated steam explosion were studied in conjunction with a dilute acid process, and their effects on physiochemical changes and enzymatic saccharification of corncob residue were compared. With the acid impregnated steam explosion process, both higher xylose recovery and higher cellulose conversion were obtained. The maximum conversion of cellulose in acid impregnated steam explosion residue of corncob (ASERC) reached 85.3%, which was 1.6 times higher than that of AHRC. Biomass compositional analysis showed similar cellulose and lignin content in ASERC and AHRC. XRD analysis demonstrated comparable crystallinity of ASERC and AHRC. The improved enzymatic hydrolysis efficiency was attributed to higher porosity in ASERC, measured by mercury porosimetry. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Manipulation of visible-light polarization with dendritic cell-cluster metasurfaces.

PubMed

Fang, Zhen-Hua; Chen, Huan; An, Di; Luo, Chun-Rong; Zhao, Xiao-Peng

2018-06-26

Cross-polarization conversion plays an important role in visible light manipulation. Metasurface with asymmetric structure can be used to achieve polarization conversion of linearly polarized light. Based on this, we design a quasi-periodic dendritic metasurface model composed of asymmetric dendritic cells. The simulation indicates that the asymmetric dendritic structure can vertically rotate the polarization direction of the linear polarization wave in visible light. Silver dendritic cell-cluster metasurface samples were prepared by the bottom-up electrochemical deposition. It experimentally proved that they could realize the cross - polarization conversion in visible light. Cross-polarized propagating light is deflected into anomalous refraction channels. Dendritic cell-cluster metasurface with asymmetric quasi-periodic structure conveys significance in cross-polarization conversion research and features extensive practical application prospect and development potential.

Open conversion during minimally invasive radical prostatectomy: impact on perioperative complications and predictors from national data.

PubMed

Sharma, Vidit; Meeks, Joshua J

2014-12-01

Despite the increased use of minimally invasive radical prostatectomy, open conversion may occur due to surgical complications, surgeon inexperience or failure to progress. We used nationally representative data to quantify the impact of open conversion compared to nonconverted minimally invasive radical prostatectomy and open radical prostatectomy, and identify predictors of open conversion. Years 2004 to 2010 of the Nationwide Inpatient Sample were queried for patients who underwent radical prostatectomy to analyze the association of open conversion during minimally invasive radical prostatectomy with Clavien complications. Multivariate regression models yielded significant predictors of open conversion. From 2004 to 2010, 134,398 (95% CI 111,509-157,287) minimally invasive radical prostatectomies were performed with a 1.8% (95% CI 1.4-2.1) open conversion rate, translating to 2,360 (95% CI 2,001-2,720) conversions. Open conversion cases had a longer length of stay (4.17 vs 1.71 days, p <0.001) and higher hospital charges ($51,049 vs $37,418, p <0.001) than nonconverted cases. Of open conversion cases 45.2% experienced a complication vs 7.2% and 12.9% of minimally invasive radical prostatectomy and open radical prostatectomy cases, respectively (p <0.001). After adjusting for age and comorbidities, open conversion was associated with significantly increased odds of a Clavien grade 1, 2, 3 and 4 complication compared to nonconverted minimally invasive radical prostatectomy and open radical prostatectomy (OR range 2.913 to 15.670, p <0.001). Significant multivariate predictors of open conversion were obesity (OR 1.916), adhesions (OR 3.060), anemia (OR 5.692) and surgeon volume for minimally invasive radical prostatectomy less than 25 cases per year (OR 7.376) (all p <0.01). Open conversion during minimally invasive radical prostatectomy is associated with a higher than expected increase in complications compared to open radical prostatectomy and minimally invasive radical prostatectomy after adjusting for age and comorbidities. External validation of predictors of open conversion may prove useful in minimizing open conversion during minimally invasive radical prostatectomy. Copyright © 2014 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The effect of peer interactions on Newtonian thinking in secondary physics: What are they saying? How does it help?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Crowe, Jacalyn

Many studies in the field of Physics Education Research (PER) have demonstrated that courses which include a component of interaction among peers achieve significantly higher gains in conceptual understanding. Few of those studies have closely examined the content of those interactions and the role that they play in achieving those gains. This study evaluates the role of peer interaction in children's understanding of Newtonian physics and analyzes the characteristics of peer interaction that are conducive to better learning. The current study took place in a suburban public high school, in a college-preparatory, introductory course in physics. One hundred and seventy eight students were randomly placed in the eight classes participating in the study. Two of the classes were randomly chosen to constitute the treatment group and were taught by the principal investigator. The remaining six classes were taught by five other instructors in the department and served as a control or comparison group. One class session of each instructor was videotaped to assess how class time was typically utilized. In all classes, students used the same textbook, and completed the same problem sets and laboratory investigations. Students in the treatment group participated in peer instruction activities, approximately twice per week, over the course of the semester. Results showed a significant effect of treatment on achievement from pre- to post-test, based on scores on the Force and Motion Conceptual Evaluation (FMCE). Employing peer instruction methods did not require additional instructional time overall. Analysis of classroom videotapes demonstrated that a greater portion of class time is dedicated to active student discussion in classes where peer instruction methods are employed. Conversational data revealed that, in peer discussions, students were routinely involved in conversational mechanisms such as articulating their own thinking, questioning, and explanation. Each of these behaviors is believed to support improved conceptual understanding. Correlating the quantity of total comments and number of substantive comments to achievement on the FMCE post-test produced mixed results, with some significant positive correlations and other positive but non-significant ones. Failure to reach significance for these correlations may have resulted from the small sample size. A focus on changes in students' conceptions about force and motion, as identified by analysis of clusters of FMCE questions, revealed significant differences in changes in those conceptions between the treatment and control groups. Anecdotal evidence from transcripts supports the assertion that, in their conversations, students routinely articulated and discussed their own ideas about these relationships. In conclusion, the study provided evidence that peer instruction methods are an effective and efficient method of supporting improved conceptual understanding for students in a first course in mechanics, but no specific factors present in the discussions could be identified as playing a role for every student. Instead, different aspects of the discussions' format and content may have contributed to the overall achievement of students participating in the discussions.

Effect of Previous Abdominal Surgery on Laparoscopic Liver Resection: Analysis of Feasibility and Risk Factors for Conversion.

PubMed

Cipriani, Federica; Ratti, Francesca; Fiorentini, Guido; Catena, Marco; Paganelli, Michele; Aldrighetti, Luca

2018-03-28

Previous abdominal surgery has traditionally been considered an additional element of difficulty to later laparoscopic procedures. The aim of the study is to analyze the effect of previous surgery on the feasibility and safety of laparoscopic liver resection (LLR), and its role as a risk factor for conversion. After matching, 349 LLR in patients known for previous abdominal surgery (PS group) were compared with 349 LLR on patients with a virgin abdomen (NPS group). Subgroup analysis included 161 patients with previous upper abdominal surgery (UPS subgroup). Feasibility and safety were evaluated in terms of conversion rate, reasons for conversion and outcomes, and risk factors for conversion assessed via uni/multivariable analysis. Conversion rate was 9.4%, and higher for PS patients compared with NPS patients (13.7% versus 5.1%, P = .021). Difficult adhesiolysis resulted the commonest reason for conversion in PS group (5.7%). However, operative time (P = .840), blood loss (P = .270), transfusion (P = .650), morbidity rate (P = .578), hospital stay (P = .780), and R1 rate (P = .130) were comparable between PS and NPS group. Subgroup analysis confirmed higher conversion rates for UPS patients (23%) compared with both NPS (P = .015) and PS patients (P = .041). Previous surgery emerged as independent risk factor for conversion (P = .033), alongside the postero-superior location and major hepatectomy. LLR are feasible in case of previous surgery and proved to be safe and maintain the benefits of LLR carried out in standard settings. However, a history of surgery should be considered a risk factor for conversion.

Unravelling biocomplexity of electroactive biofilms for producing hydrogen from biomass

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lewis, Alex J.; Campa, Maria F.; Hazen, Terry C.

Nature recruits various types of microbes to transform its waste products into reusable building blocks. In order to develop engineered systems to enable humans to generate useful products from complex sources such as biomass, a better understanding of the synergy between microbial species is necessary. Here we investigate a bioelectrochemical system for conversion of a complex biomass-derived pyrolysis stream into hydrogen via microbial electrolysis. Interaction between the exoelectrogens and fermentative organisms is key in this process. Comparing bioelectroconversion of a switchgrass-derived bio-oil aqueous phase (BOAP) with a model exoelectrogenic substrate, acetic acid, we demonstrate that fermentative breakdown of BOAP tomore » acetate is the limiting step in the syntophic conversion process. The anode microbial community displayed simultaneous conversion of sugar derivatives, phenolic compounds, carboxylic acids, etc. present in BOAP, but at differing rates through division of labor and syntrophic exchange. Maximum removal for BOAP reached 43 mg COD/h vs. 59 mg COD/h for pure acetic acid. Furthermore, maximum hydrogen production for BOAP reached 11 L/L-d vs. 35 L/L-day for pure acetic acid. Coulombic efficiency for both substrates was >80%. Unpoising of the anode haulted exoelectrogenesis and allowed fermentative processes to proceed resulting in acetic acid accumulation at the rate of 8.4 mg/h. Coupled to the simultaneous conversion of compounds present within BOAP, these results support the division of labor and syntrophic interactions suggested here. The hydrogen productivity is the highest achieved to date for a biomass-derived stream. The exoelectrogenic rates achieved signify that commercial feasibility can be achieved if fermentative rates can be improved.« less

Unravelling biocomplexity of electroactive biofilms for producing hydrogen from biomass

DOE PAGES

Lewis, Alex J.; Campa, Maria F.; Hazen, Terry C.; ...

2017-07-11

Nature recruits various types of microbes to transform its waste products into reusable building blocks. In order to develop engineered systems to enable humans to generate useful products from complex sources such as biomass, a better understanding of the synergy between microbial species is necessary. Here we investigate a bioelectrochemical system for conversion of a complex biomass-derived pyrolysis stream into hydrogen via microbial electrolysis. Interaction between the exoelectrogens and fermentative organisms is key in this process. Comparing bioelectroconversion of a switchgrass-derived bio-oil aqueous phase (BOAP) with a model exoelectrogenic substrate, acetic acid, we demonstrate that fermentative breakdown of BOAP tomore » acetate is the limiting step in the syntophic conversion process. The anode microbial community displayed simultaneous conversion of sugar derivatives, phenolic compounds, carboxylic acids, etc. present in BOAP, but at differing rates through division of labor and syntrophic exchange. Maximum removal for BOAP reached 43 mg COD/h vs. 59 mg COD/h for pure acetic acid. Furthermore, maximum hydrogen production for BOAP reached 11 L/L-d vs. 35 L/L-day for pure acetic acid. Coulombic efficiency for both substrates was >80%. Unpoising of the anode haulted exoelectrogenesis and allowed fermentative processes to proceed resulting in acetic acid accumulation at the rate of 8.4 mg/h. Coupled to the simultaneous conversion of compounds present within BOAP, these results support the division of labor and syntrophic interactions suggested here. The hydrogen productivity is the highest achieved to date for a biomass-derived stream. The exoelectrogenic rates achieved signify that commercial feasibility can be achieved if fermentative rates can be improved.« less

Risk Factors of On-Pump Conversion during Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Graft

PubMed Central

Yoon, Sung Sil; Bang, Jung Hee; Jeong, Sang Seok; Jeong, Jae Hwa; Woo, Jong Soo

2017-01-01

Background Off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCABG) procedures can avoid the complications of an on-pump bypass. However, some cases unexpectedly require conversion to cardiopulmonary bypass during OPCABG. The risk factors associated with a sudden need for cardiopulmonary bypass were analyzed. Methods This retrospective study included 283 subjects scheduled for OPCABG from 2001 to 2010. These were divided into an OPCABG group and an on-pump conversion group. Preoperative, operative, and postoperative variables were compared between the 2 groups. Results Of the 283 patients scheduled for OPCABG, 47 (16%) were switched to on-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). The mortality of the both the OPCABG and on-pump conversion groups was not significantly different. The major risk factors for conversion to on-pump CABG were congestive heart failure (CHF) (odds ratio [OR], 3.5; p=0.029), ejection fraction (EF) <35% (OR, 4.4; p=0.012), and preoperative beta-blocker (BB) administration (OR, 0.3; p=0.007). The use of intraoperative (p=0.007) and postoperative (p=0.021) inotropics was significantly higher in the conversion group. The amount of postoperative drainage (p<0.001) and transfusion (p<0.001) also was significantly higher in the conversion group. There were no significant differences in stroke or cardiovascular complications between the groups over the course of short-term and long-term follow-up. Conclusion Patients who undergo OPCABG and have CHF or a lower EF (<35%) are more likely to undergo on-pump conversion, while preoperative BB administration could help prevent conversions from OPCABG to on-pump CABG. PMID:29124027

Temperament and character traits in patients with conversion disorder and their relations with dissociation.

PubMed

Sarisoy, Gökhan; Kaçar, Ö Mer Faruk; Öztürk, Arif; Yilman, Tuba; Mor, Sema; Özturan, Deniz Deniz; Yazici, Neslihan; Gümüş, Kübra

2015-12-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate temperament and character traits in patients with conversion disorder and the relation of these traits with dissociative symptoms. Sixty patients (60) diagnosed with conversion disorder according to DSM-IV-TR and 60 healthy volunteers were included in the study. All participants' temperament and character traits were determined using Cloninger's Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI). Patients with conversion disorder were divided into two subgroups using the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES), dissociative (n=30, 50%) and non-dissociative (n=30, 50%). The two conversion disorder subgroups were compared with the control group in terms of temperament and character traits. Correlation analysis was also performed between TCI and DES scores in the entire conversion group. Novelty seeking (NS) scores were lower in both the dissociative and non-dissociative groups compared to the control group. Harm avoidance (HA) scores were higher in the dissociative group than in the control group. Reward dependence (RD) scores were lower in the dissociative group than in the non-dissociative and control group. Self-directedness (SD) scores were lower in the dissociative group than in the control group. Self-transcendence (ST) scores were higher in the dissociative group than in the non-dissociative group. DES scores were negatively correlated with RD and SD scores in the entire conversion group and positively correlated with ST scores. Low NS temperament traits may be associated with conversion disorder. High HA and low RD temperament traits and low SD and high ST character traits may be associated with pathological dissociation in patients with conversion disorder.

High resolution time-to-space conversion of sub-picosecond pulses at 1.55µm by non-degenerate SFG in PPLN crystal.

PubMed

Shayovitz, Dror; Herrmann, Harald; Sohler, Wolfgang; Ricken, Raimund; Silberhorn, Christine; Marom, Dan M

2012-11-19

We demonstrate high resolution and increased efficiency background-free time-to-space conversion using spectrally resolved non-degenerate and collinear SFG in a bulk PPLN crystal. A serial-to-parallel resolution factor of 95 and a time window of 42 ps were achieved. A 60-fold increase in conversion efficiency slope compared with our previous work using a BBO crystal [D. Shayovitz and D. M. Marom, Opt. Lett. 36, 1957 (2011)] was recorded. Finally the measured 40 GHz narrow linewidth of the output SFG signal implies the possibility to extract phase information by employing coherent detection techniques.

Enhanced second-harmonic generation from resonant GaAs gratings.

PubMed

de Ceglia, D; D'Aguanno, G; Mattiucci, N; Vincenti, M A; Scalora, M

2011-03-01

We theoretically study second harmonic generation in nonlinear, GaAs gratings. We find large enhancement of conversion efficiency when the pump field excites the guided mode resonances of the grating. Under these circumstances the spectrum near the pump wavelength displays sharp resonances characterized by dramatic enhancements of local fields and favorable conditions for second-harmonic generation, even in regimes of strong linear absorption at the harmonic wavelength. In particular, in a GaAs grating pumped at 1064 nm, we predict second-harmonic conversion efficiencies approximately 5 orders of magnitude larger than conversion rates achievable in either bulk or etalon structures of the same material.

Experimental demonstration of laser to x-ray conversion enhancements with low density gold targets

DOE PAGES

Shang, Wanli; Yang, Jiamin; Zhang, Wenhai; ...

2016-02-12

The enhancement of laser to x-ray conversion efficiencies using low density gold targets [W. L. Shang, J. M. Yang, and Y. S. Dong, Appl. Phys. Lett. 102, 094105 (2013)] is demonstrated. Laser to x-ray conversion efficiencies with 6.3% and 12% increases are achieved with target densities of 1 and 0.25 g/cm 3, when compared with that of a solid gold target (19.3 g/cm 3). Experimental data and numerical simulations are in good agreement. Lastly, the enhancement is caused by larger x-ray emission zone lengths formed in low density targets, which is in agreement with the simulation results.

Experimental demonstration of laser to x-ray conversion enhancements with low density gold targets

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Shang, Wanli; Yang, Jiamin; Zhang, Wenhai

The enhancement of laser to x-ray conversion efficiencies using low density gold targets [W. L. Shang, J. M. Yang, and Y. S. Dong, Appl. Phys. Lett. 102, 094105 (2013)] is demonstrated. Laser to x-ray conversion efficiencies with 6.3% and 12% increases are achieved with target densities of 1 and 0.25 g/cm 3, when compared with that of a solid gold target (19.3 g/cm 3). Experimental data and numerical simulations are in good agreement. Lastly, the enhancement is caused by larger x-ray emission zone lengths formed in low density targets, which is in agreement with the simulation results.

High-Efficiency Photovoltaic System Using Partially-Connected DC-DC Converter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uno, Masatoshi; Kukita, Akio; Tanaka, Koji

Power conversion electronics for photovoltaic (PV) systems are desired to operate as efficiently as possible to exploit the power generated by PV modules. This paper proposes a novel PV system in which a dc-dc converter is partially connected to series-connected PV modules. The proposed system achieves high power-conversion efficiency by reducing the passing power and input/output voltages of the converter. The theoretical operating principle was experimentally validated. Resultant efficiency performances of the proposed and conventional systems demonstrated that the proposed system was more efficient in terms of power conversion though the identical converter was used for the both systems.

Energy Conversion Alternatives Study (ECAS), General Electric Phase 1. Volume 1: Executive summary. [using coal or coal derived fuels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Corman, J. C.

1976-01-01

A data base for the comparison of advanced energy conversion systems for utility applications using coal or coal-derived fuels was developed. Estimates of power plant performance (efficiency), capital cost, cost of electricity, natural resource requirements, and environmental intrusion characteristics were made for ten advanced conversion systems. Emphasis was on the energy conversion system in the context of a base loaded utility power plant. All power plant concepts were premised on meeting emission standard requirements. A steam power plant (3500 psig, 1000 F) with a conventional coal-burning furnace-boiler was analyzed as a basis for comparison. Combined cycle gas/steam turbine system results indicated competitive efficiency and a lower cost of electricity compared to the reference steam plant. The Open-Cycle MHD system results indicated the potential for significantly higher efficiency than the reference steam plant but with a higher cost of electricity.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hu, Zhiming; Chen, Hui; Qu, Jianfei

Here, chlorinated benzothiadiazide based polymers with multiple chlorine atoms has been designed and synthesized for polymer solar cells with enhanced open circuit voltage up to 0.85 V. The chlorine substitution is found to significantly adjust the band gap of the polymers, and change polymer’s orientation from random morphology of chlorine free PBT4T-2OD, to mixed face-on packing of one chlorine substituted PCBT4T-2OD, and finally to edge-on of two chlorine substituted PCCBT4T-2OD. The optimized chlorinated polymer, PCBT4T-2OD with only one chlorine atom substituted on BT moiety, has been founded to achieve the highest power conversion efficiency up to 8.20% with PC 71BM,more » which is about 68% higher than that of its non-chlorine analogues.« less

High power telecommunication-compatible photoconductive terahertz emitters based on plasmonic nano-antenna arrays.

PubMed

Yardimci, Nezih Tolga; Lu, Hong; Jarrahi, Mona

2016-11-07

We present a high-power and broadband photoconductive terahertz emitter operating at telecommunication optical wavelengths, at which compact and high-performance fiber lasers are commercially available. The presented terahertz emitter utilizes an ErAs:InGaAs substrate to achieve high resistivity and short carrier lifetime characteristics required for robust operation at telecommunication optical wavelengths. It also uses a two-dimensional array of plasmonic nano-antennas to offer significantly higher optical-to-terahertz conversion efficiencies compared to the conventional photoconductive emitters, while maintaining broad operation bandwidths. We experimentally demonstrate pulsed terahertz radiation over 0.1-5 THz frequency range with the power levels as high as 300  μ W. This is the highest-reported terahertz radiation power from a photoconductive emitter operating at telecommunication optical wavelengths.

Low-temperature roll-to-roll coating procedure of dye-sensitized solar cell photoelectrodes on flexible polymer-based substrates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tinguely, Jean-Claude; Solarska, Renata; Braun, Artur; Graule, Thomas

2011-04-01

A new approach for the large-scale production of flexible photoelectrodes for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) is presented by roll-to-roll coating of a titanium dioxide nanodispersion containing the block copolymer 'Pluronic®' (PEOx-PPOy-PEOx, PEO: poly(ethylene oxide), PPO: poly(propylene oxide)). Functional DSSCs were assembled and the different coating procedures compared with respect to their solar power conversion efficiency. It is shown that the binder 'Pluronic' can be removed at processing temperatures as low as 140 °C, thus aiding achievement of sufficient adhesion to the ITO-PET support, higher porosity of the TiO2 layer and decreased crack appearance. Further optimization of this method is particularly promising when combined with other known low-temperature methods.

Zirconia and Pyrochlore Oxides for Thermal Barrier Coatings in Gas Turbine Engines

DOE PAGES

Fergus, Jeffrey W.

2014-04-12

One of the important applications of yttria stabilized zirconia is as a thermal barrier coating for gas turbine engines. While yttria stabilized zirconia performs well in this function, the need for increased operating temperatures to achieve higher energy conversion efficiencies, requires the development of improved materials. To meet this challenge, some rare-earth zirconates that form the cubic fluorite derived pyrochlore structure are being developed for use in thermal barrier coatings due to their low thermal conductivity, excellent chemical stability and other suitable properties. In this paper, the thermal conductivities of current and prospective oxides for use in thermal barrier coatingsmore » are reviewed. The factors affecting the variations and differences in the thermal conductivities and the degradation behaviors of these materials are discussed.« less

Generation of µW level plateau harmonics at high repetition rate.

PubMed

Hädrich, S; Krebs, M; Rothhardt, J; Carstens, H; Demmler, S; Limpert, J; Tünnermann, A

2011-09-26

The process of high harmonic generation allows for coherent transfer of infrared laser light to the extreme ultraviolet spectral range opening a variety of applications. The low conversion efficiency of this process calls for optimization or higher repetition rate intense ultrashort pulse lasers. Here we present state-of-the-art fiber laser systems for the generation of high harmonics up to 1 MHz repetition rate. We perform measurements of the average power with a calibrated spectrometer and achieved µW harmonics between 45 nm and 61 nm (H23-H17) at a repetition rate of 50 kHz. Additionally, we show the potential for few-cycle pulses at high average power and repetition rate that may enable water-window harmonics at unprecedented repetition rate. © 2011 Optical Society of America

High power telecommunication-compatible photoconductive terahertz emitters based on plasmonic nano-antenna arrays

PubMed Central

Yardimci, Nezih Tolga; Lu, Hong; Jarrahi, Mona

2016-01-01

We present a high-power and broadband photoconductive terahertz emitter operating at telecommunication optical wavelengths, at which compact and high-performance fiber lasers are commercially available. The presented terahertz emitter utilizes an ErAs:InGaAs substrate to achieve high resistivity and short carrier lifetime characteristics required for robust operation at telecommunication optical wavelengths. It also uses a two-dimensional array of plasmonic nano-antennas to offer significantly higher optical-to-terahertz conversion efficiencies compared to the conventional photoconductive emitters, while maintaining broad operation bandwidths. We experimentally demonstrate pulsed terahertz radiation over 0.1–5 THz frequency range with the power levels as high as 300 μW. This is the highest-reported terahertz radiation power from a photoconductive emitter operating at telecommunication optical wavelengths. PMID:27916999

Study on pyrolysis characteristics of lignocellulosic biomass impregnated with ammonia source.

PubMed

Li, Kai; Zhu, Changpeng; Zhang, Liqiang; Zhu, Xifeng

2016-06-01

The current study presents the pyrolysis characteristics of rice husk impregnated with different kinds of ammonia source (ammonium acetate, urea, ammonium sulfate and ammonium dihydrogen phosphate) in a fixed bed reactor. The introduction of ammonia source in pyrolysis process achieved the conversation from carbonyl compounds to nitrogenous heterocyclic compounds. The liquid product of urea-impregnated biomass has higher content of nitrogenous heterocyclic compounds (8.35%) and phenols (30.4%). For ammonium sulfate and ammonium dihydrogen phosphate-impregnated biomass, the quantity of compounds in liquid products reduces remarkably, and the gas products are rich in CO and H2. All the solid products of pyrolysis have great potential application in biochar-based fertilizer and activated carbon for their high N content. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A continuous-wave, widely tunable, intra-cavity, singly resonant, magnesium-doped, periodically poled lithium niobate optical parametric oscillator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Z. P.; Duan, Y. M.; Wu, K. R.; Zhang, G.; Zhu, H. Y.; Wang, X. L.; Chen, Y. H.; Xue, Z. Q.; Lin, Q.; Song, G. C.; Su, H.

2013-05-01

We report a continuous-wave (CW), intra-cavity singly resonant optical parametric oscillator (OPO), based on periodically poled MgO:LiNbO3 pumped by a diode-end-pumped CW Nd:YVO4 laser, and calculate the gain of optical parametric amplification as a function of pump beam waist (at 1064 nm) in the singly resonant OPO (SRO) cavity, to balance the mode-matching and the intensity for the higher gain of a signal wave in the operation of the SRO. In order to achieve maximum gain, we use a convex lens to limit the 1064 nm beam waist. In the experiment, a tunable signal output from 1492 to 1614 nm and an idler output from 3122 to 3709 nm are obtained. For an 808 nm pump power of 11.5 W, a maximum signal output power of up to 2.48 W at 1586 nm and an idler output power of 1.1 W at 3232 nm are achieved with a total optical-to-optical conversion efficiency of 31%.

Facile synthesis of palladium nanoparticles supported on multi-walled carbon nanotube for efficient hydrogenation of biomass-derived levulinic acid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, Kai; Lafleur, Todd; Liao, Jiayou

2013-09-01

Different loading of palladium (Pd) nanoparticles were successfully fabricated on multi-walled carbon nanotubes using Pd acetylacetonate as the precursor via a simple liquid impregnation method. The crystal phase, morphology, textural structure and the chemical state of the resulting Pd nanoparticles (Pd/CNT) catalysts were studied and the characterization results indicated that the uniform dispersion of small Pd nanoparticles with the size range of 1.0-4.5 nm was achieved. The synthesized Pd/CNT catalysts exhibited efficient performance for the catalytic hydrogenation of biomass-derived levulinic acid into biofuel γ-valerolactone. In comparison with the commercial 5 wt% Pd/C and the 5 wt% Pd/CNT catalyst prepared by Pd nitrate precursor, much higher activities were achieved, whereas the biofuel γ-valerolactone was highly produced with 56.3 % yield at 57.6 % conversion of levulinic acid on the 5 wt% Pd/CNT catalyst under mild conditions. The catalyst developed in this work may be a good candidate for the wide applications in the hydrogenation.

High-performance solar cells with induced crystallization of perovskite by an evenly distributed CdSe quantum dots seed-mediated underlayer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qi, Jiabin; Xiong, Hao; Wang, Gang; Xie, Huaqing; Jia, Wei; Zhang, Qinghong; Li, Yaogang; Wang, Hongzhi

2018-02-01

Crystallization and interface engineering of perovskite are the most important factors in achieving high-performance perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Herein, we construct an ultrathin CdSe quantum dots (QDs) underlayer via a solution-processable method, which acts as a seed-mediated layer for perfect perovskite film, with both uniform morphology and better absorption capacity. In addition, CdSe QDs and perovskites form a fully crystalline heterojunction, which is beneficial to minimizing the defect and trap densities. Then, an Ostwald ripening process is adopted to fabricate large-grain, pinhole-free perovskite thin film, by a simple methylammonium bromide treatment. Besides, the first principle is applied in calculating organic/inorganic hybrid perovskite, confirming that electrons can move even quicker and more effectively, as a result of our work. Due to these treatments, representing a very simple method to simultaneously control perovskite crystallization and optimize the interfaces in PSCs, a maximum power conversion efficiency of 15.68% is achieved, 35% higher than the PSC both without CdSe and MABr treatment (11.57%), indicating better performance.

Highly transparent and efficient counter electrode using SiO2/PEDOT-PSS composite for bifacial dye-sensitized solar cells.

PubMed

Song, Dandan; Li, Meicheng; Li, Yingfeng; Zhao, Xing; Jiang, Bing; Jiang, Yongjian

2014-05-28

A highly transparent and efficient counter electrode was facilely fabricated using SiO2/poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT-PSS) inorganic/organic composite and used in bifacial dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs). The optical properties of SiO2/PEDOT-PSS electrode can be tailored by the blending amount of SiO2 and film thickness, and the incorporation of SiO2 in PEDOT-PSS provides better transmission in the long wavelength range. Meanwhile, the SiO2/PEDOT-PSS counter electrode shows a better electrochemical catalytic activity than PEDOT-PSS electrode for triiodide reduction, and the role of SiO2 in the catalytic process is investigated. The bifacial DSC with SiO2/PEDOT-PSS counter electrode achieves a high power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 4.61% under rear-side irradiation, which is about 83% of that obtained under front-side irradiation. Furthermore, the PCE of bifacial DSC can be significantly increased by adding a reflector to achieve bifacial irradiation, which is 39% higher than that under conventional front-side irradiation.

PBL as a Tool for Integrating Autonomy into the Dental Curriculum.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Forrest, Alex S.; Walsh, Laurence J.; Isaacs, Geoff; Williams, Lesley M.

1998-01-01

Describes the conversion of a conventional didactic course in dental anatomy at the University of Queensland (Australia) into a course in problem-based learning and the resulting effects on learners' autonomy over the first three years of the new course, noting the extent of achievement of course goals, student achievement, and learning style…

Novel Integration of Perovskite Solar Cell and Supercapacitor Based on Carbon Electrode for Hybridizing Energy Conversion and Storage.

PubMed

Liu, Zhiyong; Zhong, Yan; Sun, Bo; Liu, Xingyue; Han, Jinghui; Shi, Tielin; Tang, Zirong; Liao, Guanglan

2017-07-12

Power packs integrating both photovoltaic parts and energy storage parts have gained great scientific and technological attention due to the increasing demand for green energy and the tendency for miniaturization and multifunctionalization in electronics industry. In this study, we demonstrate novel integration of perovskite solar cell and solid-state supercapacitor for power packs. The perovskite solar cell is integrated with the supercapacitor based on common carbon electrodes to hybridize photoelectric conversion and energy storage. The power pack achieves a voltage of 0.84 V when the supercapacitor is charged by the perovskite solar cell under the AM 1.5G white light illumination with a 0.071 cm 2 active area, reaching an energy storage proportion of 76% and an overall conversion efficiency of 5.26%. When the supercapacitor is precharged at 1.0 V, an instant overall output efficiency of 22.9% can be achieved if the perovskite solar cell and supercapacitor are connected in series, exhibiting great potential in the applications of solar energy storage and flexible electronics such as portable and wearable devices.

[Comparative study of polymerization shrinkage and related properties of flowable composites and an unfilled resin].

PubMed

Bukovinszky, Katalin; Molnár, Lilla; Bakó, József; Szalóki, Melinda; Hegedus, Csaba

2014-03-01

The polymerization shrinkage and shrinkage stress of dental composites are in the center of the interest of researchers and manufacturers. It is a great challenge to minimize this important property as low as possible. Many factors are related and are in complicated correlation with each other affecting the polymerization shrinkage. Polymerization shrinkage stress degree of conversion and elasticity has high importance from this aspect. Our aim was to study the polymerization shrinkage and related properties (modulus of elasticity, degree of conversion, shrinkage stress) of three flowable composite (Charisma Opal Flow, SDR, Filtek Ultimate) and an unfilled composite resin. Modulus of elasticity was measured using three point flexure tests on universal testing machine. The polymerization shrinkage stress was determined using bonded-disc technique. The degree of conversion measurements were performed by FT-IR spectroscopy. And the volumetric shrinkage was investigated using Archimedes principle and was measured on analytical balance with special additional equipment. The unfilled resin generally showed higher shrinkage (8,26%), shrinkage stress (0,8 MPa) and degree of conversion (38%), and presented the lowest modulus of elasticity (3047,02MPa). Highest values of unfilled resin correspond to the literature. The lack of fillers enlarges the shrinkage, and the shrinkage stress, but gives the higher flexibility and higher degree of conversion. Further investigations needs to be done to understand and reveal the differences between the composites.

Joint Dictionary Learning-Based Non-Negative Matrix Factorization for Voice Conversion to Improve Speech Intelligibility After Oral Surgery.

PubMed

Fu, Szu-Wei; Li, Pei-Chun; Lai, Ying-Hui; Yang, Cheng-Chien; Hsieh, Li-Chun; Tsao, Yu

2017-11-01

Objective: This paper focuses on machine learning based voice conversion (VC) techniques for improving the speech intelligibility of surgical patients who have had parts of their articulators removed. Because of the removal of parts of the articulator, a patient's speech may be distorted and difficult to understand. To overcome this problem, VC methods can be applied to convert the distorted speech such that it is clear and more intelligible. To design an effective VC method, two key points must be considered: 1) the amount of training data may be limited (because speaking for a long time is usually difficult for postoperative patients); 2) rapid conversion is desirable (for better communication). Methods: We propose a novel joint dictionary learning based non-negative matrix factorization (JD-NMF) algorithm. Compared to conventional VC techniques, JD-NMF can perform VC efficiently and effectively with only a small amount of training data. Results: The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed JD-NMF method not only achieves notably higher short-time objective intelligibility (STOI) scores (a standardized objective intelligibility evaluation metric) than those obtained using the original unconverted speech but is also significantly more efficient and effective than a conventional exemplar-based NMF VC method. Conclusion: The proposed JD-NMF method may outperform the state-of-the-art exemplar-based NMF VC method in terms of STOI scores under the desired scenario. Significance: We confirmed the advantages of the proposed joint training criterion for the NMF-based VC. Moreover, we verified that the proposed JD-NMF can effectively improve the speech intelligibility scores of oral surgery patients. Objective: This paper focuses on machine learning based voice conversion (VC) techniques for improving the speech intelligibility of surgical patients who have had parts of their articulators removed. Because of the removal of parts of the articulator, a patient's speech may be distorted and difficult to understand. To overcome this problem, VC methods can be applied to convert the distorted speech such that it is clear and more intelligible. To design an effective VC method, two key points must be considered: 1) the amount of training data may be limited (because speaking for a long time is usually difficult for postoperative patients); 2) rapid conversion is desirable (for better communication). Methods: We propose a novel joint dictionary learning based non-negative matrix factorization (JD-NMF) algorithm. Compared to conventional VC techniques, JD-NMF can perform VC efficiently and effectively with only a small amount of training data. Results: The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed JD-NMF method not only achieves notably higher short-time objective intelligibility (STOI) scores (a standardized objective intelligibility evaluation metric) than those obtained using the original unconverted speech but is also significantly more efficient and effective than a conventional exemplar-based NMF VC method. Conclusion: The proposed JD-NMF method may outperform the state-of-the-art exemplar-based NMF VC method in terms of STOI scores under the desired scenario. Significance: We confirmed the advantages of the proposed joint training criterion for the NMF-based VC. Moreover, we verified that the proposed JD-NMF can effectively improve the speech intelligibility scores of oral surgery patients.

Effective Charge Carrier Utilization in Photocatalytic Conversions.

PubMed

Zhang, Peng; Wang, Tuo; Chang, Xiaoxia; Gong, Jinlong

2016-05-17

Continuous efforts have been devoted to searching for sustainable energy resources to alleviate the upcoming energy crises. Among various types of new energy resources, solar energy has been considered as one of the most promising choices, since it is clean, sustainable, and safe. Moreover, solar energy is the most abundant renewable energy, with a total power of 173 000 terawatts striking Earth continuously. Conversion of solar energy into chemical energy, which could potentially provide continuous and flexible energy supplies, has been investigated extensively. However, the conversion efficiency is still relatively low since complicated physical, electrical, and chemical processes are involved. Therefore, carefully designed photocatalysts with a wide absorption range of solar illumination, a high conductivity for charge carriers, a small number of recombination centers, and fast surface reaction kinetics are required to achieve a high activity. This Account describes our recent efforts to enhance the utilization of charge carriers for semiconductor photocatalysts toward efficient solar-to-chemical energy conversion. During photocatalytic reactions, photogenerated electrons and holes are involved in complex processes to convert solar energy into chemical energy. The initial step is the generation of charge carriers in semiconductor photocatalysts, which could be enhanced by extending the light absorption range. Integration of plasmonic materials and introduction of self-dopants have been proved to be effective methods to improve the light absorption ability of photocatalysts to produce larger amounts of photogenerated charge carriers. Subsequently, the photogenerated electrons and holes migrate to the surface. Therefore, acceleration of the transport process can result in enhanced solar energy conversion efficiency. Different strategies such as morphology control and conductivity improvement have been demonstrated to achieve this goal. Fine-tuning of the morphology of nanostructured photocatalysts can reduce the migration distance of charge carriers. Improving the conductivity of photocatalysts by using graphitic materials can also improve the transport of charge carriers. Upon charge carrier migration, electrons and holes also tend to recombine. The suppression of recombination can be achieved by constructing heterojunctions that enhance charge separation in the photocatalysts. Surface states acting as recombination centers should also be removed to improve the photocatalytic efficiency. Moreover, surface reactions, which are the core chemical processes during the solar energy conversion, can be enhanced by applying cocatalysts as well as suppressing side reactions. All of these strategies have been proved to be essential for enhancing the activities of semiconductor photocatalysts. It is hoped that delicate manipulation of photogenerated charge carriers in semiconductor photocatalysts will hold the key to effective solar-to-chemical energy conversion.

Control of particle size by feed composition in the nanolatexes produced via monomer-starved semicontinuous emulsion copolymerization.

PubMed

Sajjadi, Shahriar

2015-05-01

Conventional batch and semicontinuous emulsion copolymerizations often produce large particles whose size cannot be easily correlated with the comonomer feed compositions, and are to some degree susceptible to composition drift. In contrast, we found that copolymer nanolatexes made via semicontinuous monomer-starved emulsion copolymerizations are featured with an average nanoparticle size being controlled by the feed composition, a high conversion achieved, and a high degree of particle composition uniformity. This was achieved because the rate of particle growth, during nucleation, was controlled by the rate of comonomer addition, and the copolymer composition, surfactant parking area on the particles, and nucleation efficiency determined by the comonomer feed composition. Two model systems, methyl methacrylate/styrene and vinyl acetate/butyl acrylate, with significant differences in water solubility were studied. Monomers were added to the aqueous solution of sodium dodecylsulfate and potassium persulfate at a low rate to achieve high instantaneous conversions. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Semiconductor-based Multilayer Selective Solar Absorber for Unconcentrated Solar Thermal Energy Conversion

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Thomas, Nathan H.; Chen, Zhen; Fan, Shanhui

Solar thermal energy conversion has attracted substantial renewed interest due to its applications in industrial heating, air conditioning, and electricity generation. Achieving stagnation temperatures exceeding 200 °C, pertinent to these technologies, with unconcentrated sunlight requires spectrally selective absorbers with exceptionally low emissivity in the thermal wavelength range and high visible absorptivity for the solar spectrum. In this Communication, we then report a semiconductor-based multilayer selective absorber that exploits the sharp drop in optical absorption at the bandgap energy to achieve a measured absorptance of 76% at solar wavelengths and a low emittance of approximately 5% at thermal wavelengths. In fieldmore » tests, we obtain a peak temperature of 225 °C, comparable to that achieved with state-of-the-art selective surfaces. Furthemore, with straightforward optimization to improve solar absorption, our work shows the potential for unconcentrated solar thermal systems to reach stagnation temperatures exceeding 300 °C, thereby eliminating the need for solar concentrators for mid-temperature solar applications such as supplying process heat« less

Semiconductor-based Multilayer Selective Solar Absorber for Unconcentrated Solar Thermal Energy Conversion

DOE PAGES

Thomas, Nathan H.; Chen, Zhen; Fan, Shanhui; ...

2017-07-13

Solar thermal energy conversion has attracted substantial renewed interest due to its applications in industrial heating, air conditioning, and electricity generation. Achieving stagnation temperatures exceeding 200 °C, pertinent to these technologies, with unconcentrated sunlight requires spectrally selective absorbers with exceptionally low emissivity in the thermal wavelength range and high visible absorptivity for the solar spectrum. In this Communication, we then report a semiconductor-based multilayer selective absorber that exploits the sharp drop in optical absorption at the bandgap energy to achieve a measured absorptance of 76% at solar wavelengths and a low emittance of approximately 5% at thermal wavelengths. In fieldmore » tests, we obtain a peak temperature of 225 °C, comparable to that achieved with state-of-the-art selective surfaces. Furthemore, with straightforward optimization to improve solar absorption, our work shows the potential for unconcentrated solar thermal systems to reach stagnation temperatures exceeding 300 °C, thereby eliminating the need for solar concentrators for mid-temperature solar applications such as supplying process heat« less

Semiconductor-based Multilayer Selective Solar Absorber for Unconcentrated Solar Thermal Energy Conversion.

PubMed

Thomas, Nathan H; Chen, Zhen; Fan, Shanhui; Minnich, Austin J

2017-07-13

Solar thermal energy conversion has attracted substantial renewed interest due to its applications in industrial heating, air conditioning, and electricity generation. Achieving stagnation temperatures exceeding 200 °C, pertinent to these technologies, with unconcentrated sunlight requires spectrally selective absorbers with exceptionally low emissivity in the thermal wavelength range and high visible absorptivity for the solar spectrum. In this Communication, we report a semiconductor-based multilayer selective absorber that exploits the sharp drop in optical absorption at the bandgap energy to achieve a measured absorptance of 76% at solar wavelengths and a low emittance of approximately 5% at thermal wavelengths. In field tests, we obtain a peak temperature of 225 °C, comparable to that achieved with state-of-the-art selective surfaces. With straightforward optimization to improve solar absorption, our work shows the potential for unconcentrated solar thermal systems to reach stagnation temperatures exceeding 300 °C, thereby eliminating the need for solar concentrators for mid-temperature solar applications such as supplying process heat.

Brillouin Selective Sideband Amplification of Microwave Photonic Signals

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yao, S.

1997-01-01

We introduce a powerful Brillouin selective sideband amplification technique and demonstrate its application for achieving gain in photonix signal up- and down- conversions in microwave photonic systems.

Effective conversion of biomass tar into fuel gases in a microwave reactor

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Anis, Samsudin, E-mail: samsudin-anis@yahoo.com; Zainal, Z. A., E-mail: mezainal@usm.my

2016-06-03

This work deals with conversion of naphthalene (C{sub 10}H{sub 8}) as a biomass tar model compound by means of thermal and catalytic treatments. A modified microwave oven with a maximum output power of 700 W was used as the experimental reactor. Experiments were performed in a wide temperature range of 450-1200°C at a predetermined residence time of 0.24-0.5 s. Dolomite and Y-zeolite were applied to convert naphthalene catalytically into useful gases. Experimental results on naphthalene conversion showed that conversion efficiency and yield of gases increased significantly with the increase of temperature. More than 90% naphthalene conversion efficiency was achieved bymore » thermal treatment at 1200°C and 0.5 s. Nevertheless, this treatment was unfavorable for fuel gases production. The main product of this treatment was soot. Catalytic treatment provided different results with that of thermal treatment in which fuel gases formation was found to be the important product of naphthalene conversion. At a high temperature of 900°C, dolomite had better conversion activity where almost 40 wt.% of naphthalene could be converted into hydrogen, methane and other hydrocarbon gases.« less

Interaction-focussed therapy for aphasia: Effects on communication and quality of life.

PubMed

Barnes, Scott; Nickels, Lyndsey

2017-07-06

This study examined the effects of an interaction-focussed therapy for aphasia, which involved both people with aphasia and their familiar conversation partners. It was hypothesised the interaction-focussed therapy would lead to positive changes in targeted conversation behaviours, and improved quality of life for participants with aphasia. Three people with chronic aphasia and three of their familiar conversation partners completed an 8-week interaction-focussed therapy programme. A series of single case multiple-baseline ABA experiments were conducted. Outcome measures focussed on changes in targeted behaviours between pre- and post-therapy conversation samples, and changes in quality of life. All participant dyads improved their conversations. Familiar conversation partners demonstrated significant changes in targeted behaviours, while only one participant with aphasia achieved significant improvements. There was little evidence of a positive impact on quality of life for participants with aphasia. Interaction-focussed therapy enhances everyday communication for people with aphasia and their conversation partners. However, the complex nature of learning in this intervention means that further, likely interdisciplinary work is required to better understand what mediates skill acquisition and therapeutic change and its psychosocial impact. This information is particularly important for optimising interaction-focussed therapy for people with aphasia.

Conversion gain and noise of niobium superconducting hot-electron-mixers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ekstrom, Hans; Karasik, Boris S.; Kollberg, Erik L.; Yngvesson, Sigfrid

1995-01-01

A study has been done of microwave mixing at 20 GHz using the nonlinear (power dependent) resistance of thin niobium strips in the resistive state. Our experiments give evidence that electron-heating is the main cause of the nonlinear phenomenon. Also a detailed phenomenological theory for the determination of conversion properties is presented. This theory is capable of predicting the frequency-conversion loss rather accurately for arbitrary bias by examining the I-V-characteristic. Knowing the electron temperature relaxation time, and using parameters derived from the I-V-characteristic also allows us to predict the -3 dB IF bandwidth. Experimental results are in excellent agreement with the theoretical predictions. The requirements on the mode of operation and on the film parameters for minimizing the conversion loss (and even achieving conversion gain) are discussed in some detail. Our measurements demonstrate an intrinsic conversion loss as low as 1 dB. The maximum IF frequency defined for -3 dB drop in conversion gain, is about 80 MHz. Noise measurements indicate a device output noise temperature of about 50 K and SSB mixer noise temperature below 250 K. This type of mixer is considered very promising for use in low-noise heterodyne receivers at THz frequencies.

How Online Peer-to-Peer Conversation Shapes the Effects of a Message About Healthy Sleep.

PubMed

Robbins, Rebecca; Niederdeppe, Jeff

2017-02-01

Conversation about health messages and campaigns is common, and message-related conversations are increasingly recognized as a consequential factor in shaping message effects. The evidence base is limited, however, about the conditions under which conversation may help or hinder health communication efforts. In this study, college students (N = 301) first watched a short sleep video and were randomly assigned to either talk with a partner in an online chat conversation or proceed directly to a short survey. Unknown to participants, the chat partner was a confederate coached to say positive things about sleep and the message ('positive' chat condition), negative things ('negative' chat condition), or unrelated things ('natural' chat condition). All respondents completed a short survey on beliefs about sleep, reactions to the message, and intentions to get adequate sleep. Respondents had greater intentions to engage in healthy sleep when they engaged in positive conversation following message exposure than when they engaged in negative conversation after the message (p < 0.001). Positive emotion experienced in response to the message and positive chat perceptions were significant predictors (p < 0.05) of intentions to achieve healthy sleep. Health message designers may benefit from understanding how messages are exchanged in peer-to-peer conversation to better predict and explain their effects.

How online peer-to-peer conversation shapes the effects of a message about healthy sleep

PubMed Central

Robbins, Rebecca; Niederdeppe, Jeff

2016-01-01

Conversation about health messages and campaigns is common, and message-related conversations are increasingly recognized as a consequential factor in shaping message effects. The evidence base is limited, however, about the conditions under which conversation may help or hinder health communication efforts. In this study, college students (N = 301) first watched a short sleep video and were randomly assigned to either talk with a partner in an online chat conversation or proceed directly to a short survey. Unknown to participants, the chat partner was a confederate coached to say positive things about sleep and the message (‘positive’ chat condition), negative things (‘negative’ chat condition), or unrelated things (‘natural’ chat condition). All respondents completed a short survey on beliefs about sleep, reactions to the message, and intentions to get adequate sleep. Respondents had greater intentions to engage in healthy sleep when they engaged in positive conversation following message exposure than when they engaged in negative conversation after the message (p < .001). Positive emotion experienced in response to the message and positive chat perceptions were significant predictors (p < .05) of intentions to achieve healthy sleep. Health message designers may benefit from understanding how messages are exchanged in peer-to-peer conversation to better predict and explain their effects. PMID:27492421

Ultra-wideband polarization conversion metasurface and its application cases for antenna radiation enhancement and scattering suppression.

PubMed

Zheng, Yuejun; Zhou, Yulong; Gao, Jun; Cao, Xiangyu; Yang, Huanhuan; Li, Sijia; Xu, Liming; Lan, Junxiang; Jidi, Liaori

2017-11-23

A double-layer complementary metasurface (MS) with ultra-wideband polarization conversion is presented. Then, we propose two application cases by applying the polarization conversion structures to aperture coupling patch antenna (ACPA). Due to the existence of air-filled gap of ACPA, air substrate and dielectric substrate are used to construct the double-layer MS. The polarization conversion bandwidth is broadened toward low-frequency range. Subsequently, two application cases of antenna are proposed and investigated. The simultaneous improvement of radiation and scattering performance of antenna is normally considered as a contradiction. Gratifyingly, the contradiction is addressed in these two application cases. According to different mechanism of scattering suppression (i.e., polarization conversion and phase cancellation), the polarization conversion structures are utilized to construct uniform and orthogonal arrangement configurations. And then, the configurations are integrated into ACPA and two different kinds of metasurface-based (MS-based) ACPA are formed. Radiation properties of the two MS-based ACPAs are improved by optimizing the uniform and orthogonal arrangement configurations. The measured results suggest that ultra-wideband polarization conversion properties of the MS are achieved and radiation enhancement and scattering suppression of the two MS-based ACPAs are obtained. These results demonstrate that we provide novel approach to design high-performance polarization conversion MS and MS-based devices.

Dynamic full-scalability conversion in scalable video coding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Dong Su; Bae, Tae Meon; Thang, Truong Cong; Ro, Yong Man

2007-02-01

For outstanding coding efficiency with scalability functions, SVC (Scalable Video Coding) is being standardized. SVC can support spatial, temporal and SNR scalability and these scalabilities are useful to provide a smooth video streaming service even in a time varying network such as a mobile environment. But current SVC is insufficient to support dynamic video conversion with scalability, thereby the adaptation of bitrate to meet a fluctuating network condition is limited. In this paper, we propose dynamic full-scalability conversion methods for QoS adaptive video streaming in SVC. To accomplish full scalability dynamic conversion, we develop corresponding bitstream extraction, encoding and decoding schemes. At the encoder, we insert the IDR NAL periodically to solve the problems of spatial scalability conversion. At the extractor, we analyze the SVC bitstream to get the information which enable dynamic extraction. Real time extraction is achieved by using this information. Finally, we develop the decoder so that it can manage the changing scalability. Experimental results showed that dynamic full-scalability conversion was verified and it was necessary for time varying network condition.

Tritium-field betacells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Walko, R.J.; Lincoln, R.C.; Baca, W.E.

1991-01-01

Betavoltaic power sources operate by converting the nuclear decay energy of beta-emitting radioisotopes into electricity. Since they are not chemically driven, they could operate at temperatures which would either be to hot or too cold for typical chemical batteries. Further, for long lived isotopes, they offer the possibility of multi-decade active lifetimes. Two approaches are being investigated: direct and indirect conversion. Direct conversion cells consist of semiconductor diodes similar to photovoltaic cells. Beta particle directly bombard these cells, generating electron-hole pairs in the semiconductor which are converted to useful power. Many using low power flux beta emitters, wide bandgap semiconductorsmore » are required to achieve useful conversion efficiencies. The combination of tritium, as the beta emitter, and gallium phosphide (GaP), as the semiconductor converter, was evaluated. Indirect conversion betacells first convert the beta energy to light with a phosphor, and then to electricity with photovoltaic cells. An indirect conversion power source using a tritium radioluminescent (RL) light is being investigated. Our analysis indicates that this approach has the potential for significant volume and cost savings over the direct conversion method. 7 refs., 11 figs.« less

Tritium-field betacells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Walko, R. J.; Lincoln, R. C.; Baca, W. E.; Goods, S. H.; Negley, G. H.

Betavoltaic power sources operate by converting the nuclear decay energy of beta-emitting radioisotopes into electricity. Since they are not chemically driven, they could operate at temperatures which would either be too hot or too cold for typical chemical batteries. Further, for long lived isotopes, they offer the possibility of multi-decade active lifetimes. Two approaches are being investigated: direct and indirect conversion. Direct conversion cells consist of semiconductor diodes similar to photovoltaic cells. Beta particle directly bombard these cells, generating electron-hole pairs in the semiconductor which are converted to useful power. When using low power flux beta emitters, wide bandgap semiconductors are required to achieve useful conversion efficiencies. The combination of tritium, as the beta emitter, and gallium phosphide (GaP), as the semiconductor converter, was evaluated. Indirect conversion betacells first convert the beta energy to light with a phosphor, and then to electricity with photovoltaic cells. An indirect conversion power source using a tritium radioluminescent (RL) light is being investigated. Our analysis indicates that this approach has the potential for significant volume and cost savings over the direct conversion method.

Two-step photon up-conversion solar cells

PubMed Central

Asahi, Shigeo; Teranishi, Haruyuki; Kusaki, Kazuki; Kaizu, Toshiyuki; Kita, Takashi

2017-01-01

Reducing the transmission loss for below-gap photons is a straightforward way to break the limit of the energy-conversion efficiency of solar cells (SCs). The up-conversion of below-gap photons is very promising for generating additional photocurrent. Here we propose a two-step photon up-conversion SC with a hetero-interface comprising different bandgaps of Al0.3Ga0.7As and GaAs. The below-gap photons for Al0.3Ga0.7As excite GaAs and generate electrons at the hetero-interface. The accumulated electrons at the hetero-interface are pumped upwards into the Al0.3Ga0.7As barrier by below-gap photons for GaAs. Efficient two-step photon up-conversion is achieved by introducing InAs quantum dots at the hetero-interface. We observe not only a dramatic increase in the additional photocurrent, which exceeds the reported values by approximately two orders of magnitude, but also an increase in the photovoltage. These results suggest that the two-step photon up-conversion SC has a high potential for implementation in the next-generation high-efficiency SCs. PMID:28382945

Sulfuric acid functional zirconium (or aluminum) incorporated mesoporous MCM-48 solid acid catalysts for alkylation of phenol with tert-butyl alcohol

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jiang, Tingshun, E-mail: tshjiang@mail.ujs.edu.cn; Cheng, Jinlian; Liu, Wangping

2014-10-15

Several zirconium (or aluminum) incorporated mesoporous MCM-48 solid acid catalysts (SO{sub 4}{sup 2−}/Zr-MCM-48 and SO{sub 4}{sup 2−}/Al-MCM-48) were prepared by the impregnation method and their physicochemical properties were characterized by means of XRD, FT-IR, TEM, NH{sub 3}-TPD and N{sub 2} physical adsorption. Also, the catalytic activities of these solid acid catalysts were evaluated by the alkylation of phenol with tert-butyl alcohol. The effect of weight hour space velocity (WHSV), reaction time and reaction temperature on catalytic properties was also studied. The results show that the SO{sub 4}{sup 2−}/Zr-MCM-48 and SO{sub 4}{sup 2−}/Al-MCM-48 still have good mesoporous structure and long rangemore » ordering. Compared with the Zr (or Al)–MCM-48 samples, SO{sub 4}{sup 2−}/Zr-MCM-48 and SO{sub 4}{sup 2−}/Al-MCM-48 solid acid catalysts have strong acidity and exhibit high activities in alkylation reaction of phenol with tert-butyl alcohol. The SO{sub 4}{sup 2−}/Zr-MCM-48-25 (molar ratio of Si/Zr=0.04) catalyst was found to be the most promising and gave the highest phenol conversion among all catalysts. A maximum phenol conversion of 91.6% with 4-tert-butyl phenol (4-TBP) selectivity of 81.8% was achieved when the molar ratio of tert-butyl alcohol:phenol is 2:1, reaction time is 2 h, the WHSV is 2 h{sup −1} and the reaction temperature is 140 °C. - Highlights: • Sulfuric acid functional mesoporous solid acid catalysts were prepared via impregnation method. • The alkylation of phenol with tert-butyl alcohol was carried out over these solid acid catalysts. • The catalytic activity of SO{sub 4}{sup 2−}/Zr-MCM-48-25 catalyst is much higher than that of the others. • A maximum phenol conversion of 91.6% was achieved under optimum reaction conditions for SO{sub 4}{sup 2−}/Zr-MCM-48-25.« less

Denitrifying sulfide removal process on high-salinity wastewaters in the presence of Halomonas sp.

PubMed

Liu, Chunshuang; Zhao, Dongfeng; Ma, Wenjuan; Guo, Yadong; Wang, Aijie; Wang, Qilin; Lee, Duu-Jong

2016-02-01

Biological conversion of sulfide, acetate, and nitrate to, respectively, elemental sulfur (S(0)), carbon dioxide, and nitrogen-containing gas (such as N2) at NaCl concentration of 35-70 g/L was achieved in an expanded granular sludge bed (EGSB) reactor. A C/N ratio of 1:1 was noted to achieve high sulfide removal and S(0) conversion rate at high salinity. The extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) quantities were increased with NaCl concentration, being 11.4-mg/g volatile-suspended solids at 70 mg/L NaCl. The denitrifying sulfide removal (DSR) consortium incorporated Thauera sp. and Halomonas sp. as the heterotrophs and Azoarcus sp. being the autotrophs at high salinity condition. Halomonas sp. correlates with the enhanced DSR performance at high salinity.

LSA silicon material task closed-cycle process development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roques, R. A.; Wakefield, G. F.; Blocher, J. M., Jr.; Browning, M. F.; Wilson, W.

1979-01-01

The initial effort on feasibility of the closed cycle process was begun with the design of the two major items of untested equipment, the silicon tetrachloride by product converter and the rotary drum reactor for deposition of silicon from trichlorosilane. The design criteria of the initial laboratory equipment included consideration of the reaction chemistry, thermodynamics, and other technical factors. Design and construction of the laboratory equipment was completed. Preliminary silicon tetrachloride conversion experiments confirmed the expected high yield of trichlorosilane, up to 98 percent of theoretical conversion. A preliminary solar-grade polysilicon cost estimate, including capital costs considered extremely conservative, of $6.91/kg supports the potential of this approach to achieve the cost goal. The closed cycle process appears to have a very likely potential to achieve LSA goals.

High-efficiency frequency doubling of continuous-wave laser light.

PubMed

Ast, Stefan; Nia, Ramon Moghadas; Schönbeck, Axel; Lastzka, Nico; Steinlechner, Jessica; Eberle, Tobias; Mehmet, Moritz; Steinlechner, Sebastian; Schnabel, Roman

2011-09-01

We report on the observation of high-efficiency frequency doubling of 1550 nm continuous-wave laser light in a nonlinear cavity containing a periodically poled potassium titanyl phosphate crystal (PPKTP). The fundamental field had a power of 1.10 W and was converted into 1.05 W at 775 nm, yielding a total external conversion efficiency of 95±1%. The latter value is based on the measured depletion of the fundamental field being consistent with the absolute values derived from numerical simulations. According to our model, the conversion efficiency achieved was limited by the nonperfect mode matching into the nonlinear cavity and by the nonperfect impedance matching for the maximum input power available. Our result shows that cavity-assisted frequency conversion based on PPKTP is well suited for low-decoherence frequency conversion of quantum states of light.

Values, achievement goals, and individual-oriented and social-oriented achievement motivations among Chinese and Indonesian secondary school students.

PubMed

Liem, Arief Darmanegara; Nie, Youyan

2008-10-01

This study examined how values related to achievement goals and individual-oriented and social-oriented achievement motivations among secondary school students in China (N = 355) and Indonesia (N = 356). Statistical comparisons showed the Chinese students endorsed more strongly than the Indonesian students on self-direction and hedonism values, individual-oriented achievement motivation, and mastery-approach goals. Conversely, the Indonesian students endorsed more strongly than their Chinese counterparts on security, conformity, tradition, universalism and achievement values, social-oriented achievement motivation, and performance-approach and mastery-avoidance goals. Values explained a significant amount of the variance in almost all of the dimensions of motivation. Etic and emic relationships between values and achievement motivations were found.

Interface Passivation Effects on the Photovoltaic Performance of Quantum Dot Sensitized Inverse Opal TiO₂ Solar Cells.

PubMed

Hori, Kanae; Zhang, Yaohong; Tusamalee, Pimsiri; Nakazawa, Naoki; Yoshihara, Yasuha; Wang, Ruixiang; Toyoda, Taro; Hayase, Shuzi; Shen, Qing

2018-06-25

Quantum dot (QD)-sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs) are expected to achieve higher energy conversion efficiency than traditional single-junction silicon solar cells due to the unique properties of QDs. An inverse opal (IO)-TiO₂ (IO-TiO₂) electrode is useful for QDSSCs because of its three-dimensional (3D) periodic nanostructures and better electrolyte penetration compared to the normal nanoparticles (NPs)-TiO₂ (NPs-TiO₂) electrode. We find that the open-circuit voltages V oc of the QDSSCs with IO-TiO₂ electrodes are higher than those of QDSSCs with NPs-TiO₂ electrodes. One important strategy for enhancing photovoltaic conversion efficiency of QDSSCs with IO-TiO₂ electrodes is surface passivation of photoanodes using wide-bandgap semiconducting materials. In this study, we have proposed surface passivation on IO-TiO₂ with ZnS coating before QD deposition. The efficiency of QDSSCs with IO-TiO₂ electrodes is largely improved (from 0.74% to 1.33%) because of the enhancements of V oc (from 0.65 V to 0.74 V) and fill factor ( FF ) (from 0.37 to 0.63). This result indicates that ZnS passivation can reduce the interfacial recombination at the IO-TiO₂/QDs and IO-TiO₂/electrolyte interfaces, for which two possible explanations can be considered. One is the decrease of recombination at IO-TiO₂/electrolyte interfaces, and the other one is the reduction of the back-electron injection from the TiO₂ electrode to QDs. All of the above results are effective for improving the photovoltaic properties of QDSSCs.

Methyl oleate deoxygenation for production of diesel fuel aliphatic hydrocarbons over Pd/SBA-15 catalysts

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Catalytic deoxygenation is a prominent process for production of renewable fuels from vegetable oil. In this work, deoxygenation of technical grade methyl oleate to diesel fuel aliphatic hydrocarbons (C15 – C18) is evaluated with several parameters including temperature, hydrogen pressure and reaction time in a stirred batch reactor over Pd/SBA-15 catalysts. Results Two different SBA-15 morphologies i.e. spherelike and necklacelike structures have been synthesize as supports for Pd active metal. It is found that Pd dispersion on necklacelike SBA-15 is higher than that of spherelike SBA-15. Notably, higher Pd dispersion on necklacelike SBA-15 provides significant deoxygenation efficiency as compared to Pd/SBA-15-spherelike. Results show that H2 pressures greatly determine the total ester conversion and selectivity to C15 – C18 aliphatic hydrocarbons. Total ester conversions with 55< selectivity to n-heptadecane are achieved using Pd/SBA-15-necklacelike at 270°C and 60 bar H2 pressure within 6 h reaction time. Gas phase study reveals that formation of C17 is generated via indirect decarbonylation when the reaction time is prolonged. Conclusions Pd/SBA-15-necklacelike catalyst exhibits good catalytic performance with high selectivity to diesellike aliphatic hydrocarbons (C15 – C18). The physicochemical properties of the Pd supported on different SBA-15 morphologies influence the deoxygenation activity of the catalysts. Furthermore, the reaction pathways are governed by the H2 pressure as well as reaction duration. PMID:24011181

Progress in p(+)n InP solar cells fabricated by thermal diffusion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Faur, Mircea; Faur, Maria; Flood, D. J.; Brinker, D. J.; Weinberg, I.; Fatemi, N. S.; Vargas-Aburto, Carlos; Goradia, C.; Goradia, Manju

1992-01-01

In SPRAT XI, we proposed that p(sup +)n diffused junction InP solar cells should exhibit a higher conversion efficiency than their n(sup +)p counterparts. This was mainly due to the fact that our p(sup +)n (Cd,S) cell structures consistently showed higher V (sub OC) values than our n(sup +)p (S,Cd) structures. The highest V(sub OC) obtained with the p(sup +)n (Cd,S) cell configuration was 860 mV, as compared to the highest V(sub OC) 840 mV obtained with the n(sup +)p (S,Cd) configuration (AMO, 25 C). In this work, we present the performance results of our most recent thermally diffused cells using the p(sup +)n (Cd,S) structure. We have been able to fabricate cells with V(sub OC) values approaching 880 mV. Our best cell with an unoptimized front contact grid design (GS greater than or equal to 10%) showed a conversion efficiency of 13.4% (AMO, 25 C) without an AR coating layer. The emitter surface was passivated by a -50A P rich oxide. Achievement of such high V(sub OC) values was primarily due to the fabrication of emitter surfaces, having EPD densities as low as 2E2 cm(sup -2) and N(sub a)N(sub d) of about 3E18 cm (sup -3). In addition, our preliminary investigation of p(sup +)n structures seem to suggest that Cd-doped emitter cells are more radiation resistant than Zn-doped emitter cells against both high energy electron and proton irradiation.

Development of orientation-patterned GaP grown on foreign substrates for QPM frequency conversion devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vangala, Shivashankar; Peterson, Rita; Snure, Michael; Tassev, Vladimir

2017-02-01

Thick hydride vapor phase epitaxially grown orientation-patterned gallium phosphide (OPGaP) is a leading material for quasi-phase matching (QPM) frequency conversion in the mid- and longwave infrared (IR). This is due to its negligible two-photon absorption (2PA) in the convenient pumping range 1 - 1.7 μm, compared with the 2PA of some traditional QPM materials, such as GaAs. In this paper, we describe homo- and heteroepitaxial growth techniques aimed to produce hundreds of microns thick OPGaP on: 1) OPGaAs templates fabricated using an improved wafer-fusion process; 2) OPGaAs templates fabricated by using a molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) for sublattice polarity inversion, but one with and one without MBE regrowth after the inversion. Some of the advantages of the heteroepitaxial growth of OPGaP on OPGaAs templates include: 1) achieving good domain fidelity as a result of the significantly higher OPGaAs template quality; 2) eliminating the needs of using the poor quality commercially available GaP in the production of thick OPGaP material, and 3) suppression of the additional absorption band between 2 - 4 μm (which is due to incorporation of n-type impurities) and, in general, improvement of the IR transmittance in the entire IR region. Combining the advantages of the two most promising nonlinear materials, GaAs and GaP, will accelerate the development of high power, broadly tunable laser sources in the IR which, in addition, will be offered with higher device quality and at a reasonably lower unit cost.

Estimating Effective Dose of Radiation From Pediatric Cardiac CT Angiography Using a 64-MDCT Scanner: New Conversion Factors Relating Dose-Length Product to Effective Dose.

PubMed

Trattner, Sigal; Chelliah, Anjali; Prinsen, Peter; Ruzal-Shapiro, Carrie B; Xu, Yanping; Jambawalikar, Sachin; Amurao, Maxwell; Einstein, Andrew J

2017-03-01

The purpose of this study is to determine the conversion factors that enable accurate estimation of the effective dose (ED) used for cardiac 64-MDCT angiography performed for children. Anthropomorphic phantoms representative of 1- and 10-year-old children, with 50 metal oxide semiconductor field-effect transistor dosimeters placed in organs, underwent scanning performed using a 64-MDCT scanner with different routine clinical cardiac scan modes and x-ray tube potentials. Organ doses were used to calculate the ED on the basis of weighting factors published in 1991 in International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) publication 60 and in 2007 in ICRP publication 103. The EDs and the scanner-reported dose-length products were used to determine conversion factors for each scan mode. The effect of infant heart rate on the ED and the conversion factors was also assessed. The mean conversion factors calculated using the current definition of ED that appeared in ICRP publication 103 were as follows: 0.099 mSv · mGy -1 · cm -1 , for the 1-year-old phantom, and 0.049 mSv · mGy -1 · cm -1 , for the 10-year-old phantom. These conversion factors were a mean of 37% higher than the corresponding conversion factors calculated using the older definition of ED that appeared in ICRP publication 60. Varying the heart rate did not influence the ED or the conversion factors. Conversion factors determined using the definition of ED in ICRP publication 103 and cardiac, rather than chest, scan coverage suggest that the radiation doses that children receive from cardiac CT performed using a contemporary 64-MDCT scanner are higher than the radiation doses previously reported when older chest conversion factors were used. Additional up-to-date pediatric cardiac CT conversion factors are required for use with other contemporary CT scanners and patients of different age ranges.

Insight into the role of facultative bacteria stimulated by micro-aeration in continuous bioreactors converting LCFA to methane.

PubMed

Duarte, Maria Salomé; Silva, Sérgio A; Salvador, Andreia F; Cavaleiro, Ana Júlia; Stams, Alfons J M; Alves, Maria Madalena; Pereira, Maria Alcina

2018-05-15

Conversion of unsaturated long chain fatty acids (LCFA) to methane in continuous bioreactors is not fully understood. Palmitate (C16:0) often accumulates during oleate (C18:1) biodegradation in methanogenic bioreactors, and the reason why this happens and which microorganisms catalyze this reaction remains unknown. Facultative anaerobic bacteria are frequently found in continuous reactors operated at high LCFA loads, but their function is unclear. To get more insight on the role of these bacteria, LCFA conversion was studied under microaerophilic conditions. For that, we compared bioreactors treating oleate-based wastewater (organic loading rates of 1 and 3 kg COD m-3 d-1), operated under different redox conditions (strictly anaerobic-AnR, -350 mV; microaerophilic-MaR, -250 mV). At the higher load, palmitate accumulated 7 times more in the MaR, where facultative anaerobes were more abundant, and only the biomass from this reactor could recover the methanogenic activity after a transient inhibition. In a second experiment, the abundance of facultative anaerobic bacteria, particularly Pseudomonas spp. (from which two strains were isolated), was strongly correlated (p<0.05) with palmitate-to-total LCFA percentage in the biofilm formed in a continuous plug flow reactor fed with very high loads of oleate. This work strongly suggests that micro-aeration stimulates the development of facultative bacteria that are critical for achieving LCFA conversion to methane in continuous bioreactors. Microbial networks and interactions of facultative and strict anaerobes in microbial communities should be considered in future studies.

Over production of fermentable sugar for bioethanol production from carbohydrate-rich Malaysian food waste via sequential acid-enzymatic hydrolysis pretreatment.

PubMed

Hafid, Halimatun Saadiah; Nor 'Aini, Abdul Rahman; Mokhtar, Mohd Noriznan; Talib, Ahmad Tarmezee; Baharuddin, Azhari Samsu; Umi Kalsom, Md Shah

2017-09-01

In Malaysia, the amount of food waste produced is estimated at approximately 70% of total municipal solid waste generated and characterised by high amount of carbohydrate polymers such as starch, cellulose, and sugars. Considering the beneficial organic fraction contained, its utilization as an alternative substrate specifically for bioethanol production has receiving more attention. However, the sustainable production of bioethanol from food waste is linked to the efficient pretreatment needed for higher production of fermentable sugar prior to fermentation. In this work, a modified sequential acid-enzymatic hydrolysis process has been developed to produce high concentration of fermentable sugars; glucose, sucrose, fructose and maltose. The process started with hydrothermal and dilute acid pretreatment by hydrochloric acid (HCl) and sulphuric acid (H 2 SO 4 ) which aim to degrade larger molecules of polysaccharide before accessible for further steps of enzymatic hydrolysis by glucoamylase. A kinetic model is proposed to perform an optimal hydrolysis for obtaining high fermentable sugars. The results suggested that a significant increase in fermentable sugar production (2.04-folds) with conversion efficiency of 86.8% was observed via sequential acid-enzymatic pretreatment as compared to dilute acid pretreatment (∼42.4% conversion efficiency). The bioethanol production by Saccharomyces cerevisiae utilizing fermentable sugar obtained shows ethanol yield of 0.42g/g with conversion efficiency of 85.38% based on the theoretical yield was achieved. The finding indicates that food waste can be considered as a promising substrate for bioethanol production. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Metallic-covalent bonding conversion and thermoelectric properties of Al-based icosahedral quasicrystals and approximants.

PubMed

Takagiwa, Yoshiki; Kimura, Kaoru

2014-08-01

In this article, we review the characteristic features of icosahedral cluster solids, metallic-covalent bonding conversion (MCBC), and the thermoelectric properties of Al-based icosahedral quasicrystals and approximants. MCBC is clearly distinguishable from and closely related to the well-known metal-insulator transition. This unique bonding conversion has been experimentally verified in 1/1-AlReSi and 1/0-Al 12 Re approximants by the maximum entropy method and Rietveld refinement for powder x-ray diffraction data, and is caused by a central atom inside the icosahedral clusters. This helps to understand pseudogap formation in the vicinity of the Fermi energy and establish a guiding principle for tuning the thermoelectric properties. From the electron density distribution analysis, rigid heavy clusters weakly bonded with glue atoms are observed in the 1/1-AlReSi approximant crystal, whose physical properties are close to icosahedral Al-Pd-TM (TM: Re, Mn) quasicrystals. They are considered to be an intermediate state among the three typical solids: metals, covalently bonded networks (semiconductor), and molecular solids. Using the above picture and detailed effective mass analysis, we propose a guiding principle of weakly bonded rigid heavy clusters to increase the thermoelectric figure of merit ( ZT ) by optimizing the bond strengths of intra- and inter-icosahedral clusters. Through element substitutions that mainly weaken the inter-cluster bonds, a dramatic increase of ZT from less than 0.01 to 0.26 was achieved. To further increase ZT , materials should form a real gap to obtain a higher Seebeck coefficient.

Opportunities to improve the conversion of food waste to lactate: Fine-tuning secondary factors.

PubMed

RedCorn, Raymond; Engelberth, Abigail S

2017-11-01

Extensive research has demonstrated the potential for bioconversion of food waste to lactate, with major emphasis on adjusting temperature, pH, and loading rate of the fermentation. Each of these factors has a significant effect on lactate production; however, additional secondary factors have received little attention. Here we investigate three additional factors where opportunities exist for process improvement: freezing of samples during storage, discontinuous pH control, and holdover of fermentation broth between fermentations. Freezing samples prior to fermentation was shown to reduce the production rate of lactate by 8%, indicating freeze-thaw should be avoided in experiments. Prior work indicated a trade-off in pH control strategies, where discontinuous pH control correlated with higher lactate accumulation while continuous pH control correlated with higher production rate. Here we demonstrate that continuous pH control can achieve both higher lactate accumulation and higher production rate. Finally, holding over fermentation broth was shown to be a simple method to improve production rate (by 18%) at high food waste loading rates (>140 g volatile solids L -1 ) but resulted in lower lactate accumulation (by 17%). The results inform continued process improvements within the waste treatment of food waste through fermentation to lactic acid.

What population factors influence the decision to donate blood?

PubMed

Hollingsworth, Bruce; Wildman, John

2004-02-01

Donations of blood in most of the developed world are by nonremunerated volunteers. As such factors, which impact upon the motivation of individuals to donate, are critical to achieving a stable supply, we analyze the factors, which influence the decision to donate. Using data on 130,356 [corrected] individuals from 1999 and 2000, we investigate which factors determine the proportion of blood donors in postcode areas. Variables analyzed include blood donation status and sociodemographic characteristics in order to provide information on donation decisions. We find the proportion of donors in an area is significantly increased by higher proportions of women aged 20-29 and 40-49, and of men aged 60-69. Conversely, a higher proportion of males aged 20-29 significantly reduces proportion of donors. Also, a higher proportion of individuals born overseas significantly reduces the proportion of blood donors in an area. To increase supplies, blood collection agencies should target specific groups. Young men and men and women aged 30-49 need to be encouraged to donate. Collection agencies also need to target individuals who are born overseas to participate in the process. Using these results to aid targeting should help to maintain the blood supply.