Power Bank Research Articles

A phone-based tobacco use cessation program for people living with HIV in Uganda and Zambia: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundNicotine replacement therapy (NRT) and short messaging service (SMS)-based tobacco cessation interventions have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing tobacco use in many populations, but evidence is needed on which tailored treatments are most efficacious in meeting the complex medical and psychosocial factors confronting people living with HIV (PLWH) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This paper describes the protocol of a study to test the efficacy of both NRT and a tailored SMS-based tobacco use cessation intervention among PLWH in Uganda and Zambia.MethodsIn a randomized controlled trial, 800 adult PLWH who use tobacco will be recruited by health care professionals at HIV treatment centers where they are receiving care. Participants will be randomized to one of the four study arms: (1) standard of care [SOC; brief clinician advice to quit combined with HIV education and information aimed at encouraging HIV treatment adherence (with no mention of tobacco) delivered via text messages]; (2) SOC + 12 weeks of NRT; (3) SOC + 6 weeks of SMS text messages to support quitting tobacco use (SMS); or (4) SOC + NRT + SMS. Participants will receive a cell phone and solar panel with power bank for charging the phone. The main outcome is cessation of tobacco use by study participants verified by urinary cotinine (< 15 ng/mL) at 6 months post-enrollment. As a secondary tobacco use outcome, we will measure 7-day point-prevalence abstinence (7 consecutive days of no tobacco use) measured by self-report and biochemically-verified at 4 weeks, 8 weeks, and 3 months post enrollment.DiscussionOur study will provide insight into the efficacy, feasibility and applicability of delivering tobacco cessation interventions through health care professionals combined with tailored tobacco cessation SMS text messaging in two countries with different tobacco use patterns, policy environments, and health care resources and provide needed information to providers and policymakers looking for cost-effective tobacco cessation interventions. The previously tested SMS-platform to be used in our study is uniquely positioned to be scaled in low- and middle-income countries worldwide, in which case evidence of even modest success in reducing the prevalence of tobacco consumption among PLWH could confer enormous health and economic benefits.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT05487807. Registered August 4, 2022, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/record/NCT05487807

Optimal generation expansion planning model for solar PV generation on Run of River-based hydro-based power system using binary genetic algorithm

Abstract This paper presents a binary genetic algorithm approach developed to solve the optimal generation expansion planning problem for solar photo-voltaic (PV) based Run of River (ROR) hydro generation systems. The results show that the methodology effectively solves mixed-integer, constrained nonlinear generation expansion problems. The model is then used to optimize the generation expansion problem for the electricity grid in the eastern region of Nepal, considering the under construction and planned solar PV and ROR-based hydropower plants. The optimal problem is formulated to determine the optimal number, location and type of power plant to fulfill the demand for the electricity grid of the eastern zone grid of Nepal. Results show that the total generation from the optimal sites combining hydro and solar sites is found to be about 26% of that of total energy in the Nepalese grid. However, the total demand in the system under consideration for the year is about 1352 GWh. With eliminating line losses, a surplus generation of about 1377 GWh has been found. This surplus can be used as power pooling with neighboring countries. The system has a surplus during the wet season but needs to be improved during the dry season. Hence, appropriate policies can be formulated for power banking and pooling to balance the demand–supply in the system.

Technology Biomechanic-Based Design of Knee Protector Generator for Portable Electricity Generation to Support Military Operations in the Field

Background: In the 5.0 era which depends on electrical energy, innovation is needed to overcome the limitations of batteries in electronic devices. An innovative device has been created that uses knee joint movement to produce renewable energy.Objective: Knee movements are converted into electrical energy through a special gearbox that rotates a generator, converting the energy to a power bank as a storage medium.Methods: This study used an experimental method.Result: This research produces 5.6 Watts of power, providing an eective solution for charging batteries in mobility conditions.Conclusion: By utilizing knee joint movements and biomechanical analysis, this tool can utilize dierences in force, angle and speed of movement to produce the required electricity.

Smart Mobile Power Bank: A Novel Grid-friendly Mobile Microgrid for Power Grid with High Penetration of Renewable Vehicles

Smart Mobile Power Bank: A Novel Grid-friendly Mobile Microgrid for Power Grid with High Penetration of Renewable Vehicles

Al-MOF-derived porous carbon-modified Pt/C catalyst for constructing a high-performance super fuel cell via an ORR + EDLC parallel-discharge mechanism.

In order to reduce the high polarization caused by the hysteresis effect of O2 diffusion and boost the power density of oxygen cathodes under a transient heavy load, an Al-MOF-derived porous carbon-modified Pt/C catalyst is proposed as a new capacitive ORR catalyst to construct super fuel cells (SFCs) via an ORR + EDLC dual-discharge parallel process. Herein, a capacitive porous carbon material (BTCC-2) with a large specific surface area (SSA) and high graphitization was synthesized via one-step carbonization of Al-MOFs (Al-BTC). After compounding BTCC-2 with commercial Pt/C catalysts, electrochemical tests were performed and revealed that the composite with 40% BTCC-2 provided the highest transient discharge performance. Moreover, the composite had a higher onset potential and limiting current density (5.236 mA cm-2) than Pt/C and a half-wave potential (0.833 V) comparable to that of Pt/C. The abundant pore structure and large surface of BTCC-2 greatly increased the interaction between oxygen and the catalyst surface. Besides, the contained BTCC-2 serve as a significant power bank to remarkably buffer and relieve the rapidly decreasing output voltage under an instant heavy load owing to the oxygen deficiencies in a Zn-air battery through the ORR + EDLC dual-parallel-discharge process. The proposed SFC design has potential as a universal method to solve the sluggish ORR process and provide high transient power density for fuel cell-driven vehicles.

Power on the Go: A Solution to Address Electric Vehicle Charging Challenges

In this article, we propose a novel solution to address the current challenges related to charging an Electric Vehicle (EV). The Power on the Go: Single-drop and Double-drop problems allow an EV to be charged at a convenient location, where a service vehicle (drone), which is launched from a nearby charging station, can bring a compatible power bank at the request of the driver through an app. The objective is to reduce the cumulative wait time between service requests and the start of charging. We present mathematical formulations and two order-first split-second-based heuristic approaches for both problems. While the mathematical formulations can generate optimal solutions for small instances in a reasonable amount of time, the heuristics are fast and perform very well, with gaps &lt; 5% for up to 20 node instances. Moreover, the formulations highlight the mean savings in wait time (29.37%) when the power bank can charge two EVs consecutively before a replacement is needed. The implications of the proposed model can be extensive, as we seek to overcome the availability and technological challenges of EV charging while advocating its adoption.

Handheld Crop Pest Sensor Using Binary Catalyst-Loaded Nano-SnO2 Particles for Oxidative Signal Amplification.

In agriculture, pest management is a major challenge. Crop releases volatiles in response to the pest; hence, sensing these volatile signals at a very early stage will ease pest management. Here, binary catalyst-loaded SnO2 nanoparticles of <5 nm were synthesized for the repeated capture and oxidation of the signature volatile and its products to amplify the chemoresistive signal to detect concentrations as low as ≈120 ppb. The sensitivity may be due to the presence of the elements in the Sn-Fe-Pt bond evidenced by extended X-ray absorption fine-structure spectroscopy (EXAFS) that captures and oxidize the volatile without escaping. This strong catalyst may oxidize nontarget volatiles and can cause false signals; hence, a molecular sieve filter has been coupled to ensure high selectivity for the detection ofTuta absolutainfestation in tomato. Finally, with the support of a mobile power bank, the optimized sensor has been assembled into a lightweight handheld device.

Solar energy harvesting-based built-in backpack charger

Abstract Developing renewable energy sources has gained considerable attention recently. Solar energy is the fastest-growing alternative renewable energy source. A solar energy harvesting-based built-in backpack charger is introduced here. The proposed system aims to utilise the surrounding solar energy and overcome the power limitations of batteries installed in mobile phones in cases where power sockets are unavailable. A 6 cm × 6 cm solar module is employed. Additionally, current, voltage, and power were measured under the two scenarios; the first scenario is when the electrical load is 100 Ω, and the second scenario is when the load is a power bank. The maximum harvested power noticed in the first scenario of the resistive load was 140 mW by the proposed system in the southeast direction from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Moreover, the top-generated output voltage and current in this scenario were 3.6 V and 36 mA. On the other hand, 55 mW was the top value for the second scenario of the power bank as a load in the flat direction with the highest generated output voltage and current of 4.1 V and 13 mA, whereas 4.27 V was the highest generated voltage in this scenario in the west direction.

Empowering Tourism: Shared Power Banks for Sustainable Tourism Development in North America

This paper explores the transformative role of shared power banks in North American tourism. As electronic devices become indispensable for travelers and sustainable tourism gains momentum, shared power banks emerge as a solution to address charging needs while fostering local economies and enriching visitor experiences. The study analyzes the economic and cultural impact of shared power banks. These devices not only generate revenue through rentals and advertising but also promote local products and cultural attractions, enhancing the overall tourist experience. A user behavior survey conducted by us highlights attitudes toward shared power banks. While adoption is growing, users appreciate the convenience and stress reduction they offer, despite concerns about cleanliness and security. Successful case studies from tourist destinations worldwide, like Hangzhou West Lake Scenic Area and Gallerian shopping mall in Sweden, demonstrate the positive effect of shared power banks on engagement and prolonged stays. The paper envisions the future of shared power banks, leveraging intelligent integration, digital services, mobile apps, and emerging tech to enhance user experiences and responsible travel behavior. Collaborative initiatives among authorities, enterprises, and service providers are vital for sustainable tourism progress. In summary, shared power banks present an innovative solution to bolster North American tourism by providing convenience, boosting local economies, and embracing sustainability. These devices are poised to reshape tourist destinations significantly.

Comprehensive Analysis on Power Factor Correction Circuit

With the development of industrial power electronics, the current era can be called the "world energy era". Energy has never been more important, especially with the growing demand for today's "green" energy sources. power factor correction circuits have become an integral part of most current AC voltage input power applications, whether it is automotive battery power, portable energy storage (such as power banks), traditional server power, or lighting systems. However, the basic principles of power factor correction converters are rarely described in detail. This paper will summarize and illustrate the basic principle of the power factor correction circuit, and first introduce the research background of power factor correction technology; At the same time, three operating modes of power factor correction circuit are analyzed: continuous on-mode (CCM), critical on-mode (CRM) and discontinuous on-mode (DCM), and their advantages and disadvantages are to be further discussed. In addition, the PFC converters with optimized topology and excellent performance will be introduced, and the application prospect and prospect of three-phase PFC converters will be presented.

Low-frequency electric fields at smartphone surface

Mobile phones, tablets, and other devices with capacitive touchscreens are ubiquitous in modern society. Consequently, the battery health of such devices along with the potential public health impacts of their typical use is of high importance. Here, we investigate the AC electric field present near the touchscreen surface during device charging. Using a Trifield TF2 meter for magnitude and a Faraday pickup coil for frequency, we study the AC electric field at the surface of an Apple iPhone 8 mobile phone in the 0–200 kHz range, well below the uplink/downlink bands used for cellular signals. We find the addition of the frequency content throughout this range and with integrated magnitude of the order of 500 V/m rms under certain phone charging conditions. Our findings suggest that the field is being generated by the lithium-ion battery. We note also that these AC electric fields are not present when the device is charged from a portable power bank.

Synergy scenario for renewable energy production, CO2 and H2 storage in the Baltic offshore structure

CO2 Capture, Transport, Use and Storage (CCUS) is one of the core technologies to mitigate climate change. New techno-economic and techno-ecological concept of a synergy of CO2 geological storage (CGS), CO2 use, hydrogen (H2) production from different eco-friendly renewable energy recovery technologies and underground H2 storage (UHS), which we call here Geological Power Bank (Geo-PB), in Cambrian Deimena Formation sandstones in different compartments of the E6 structure offshore Latvia is presented for the first time. A five-phase circular economy concept of E6 geological structure energy and CO2 storage hub was developed in this study. The workflow is techno-ecological, eco-friendly, self-supporting, cost-competitive, and economically feasible. It consists of (1) CO2 transport by ships to the rig, (2) CO2 injection for CGS and CO2 Plume Geothermal technology (CPG), (3) H2 production, (4) Geo-PB, and (5) H2 transport by the same ships to the customers. The concept is supporting a win8 situation - innovative elements of techno-ecological synergy in one site: (1) CGS, (2) CPG, (3) solar energy, (4) wind energy, (5) sea currents energy, (6) H2 production (7) Geo-PB and (8) H2 transport to consumers. The proposed cycle is closed, demonstrating the principles of circular economy, which will increase the total efficiency of the concept. CGS and CPG are planned in the E6-A compartment of the E6 geological structure with an average CO2 storage capacity of 365 Mt in an optimistic approach and Geo-PB is planned in E6-B with an H2 storage capacity of 119 kt.The Baltic offshore scenario is ambitious and innovative, proposed new technologies, synergy with renewable energy (geothermal, solar, wind and sea current), large storage capacity, including CO2 storage and use captured by a CCUS clusters of emission sources from energy production, cement industry and bio-emissions from Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. The concept aimed to decrease the artificial impact of climate change by avoiding CO2 emissions to the atmosphere and implementing circular economy principles. It will increase public and policymakers’ acceptance of new underground CO2 and energy storage technologies. The proposed synergy solution for CGS and energy storage projects will make such a business economically feasible and attractive for investors. Our study demonstrates a new era, the next generation of cost-competitive, self-supporting conceptual techno-ecological examples of a possible synergy of storage concepts with renewable energies combined using circular economy approaches.

PROVIDING AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE ORGANIZATION FOR TEACHING THE DISCIPLINE OF "DVZ TESTING" IN THE CONDITIONS OF APPLICATION OF DISTANCE EDUCATION

Acquaintance of specialists in the engine-building industry, scientists, teachers, doctoral students, graduate students and students of educational institutions with the almost 100-year history of teaching the discipline "Testing of internal combustion engines" was continued. The realities of the current years of teaching this discipline in the conditions of a full-scale military invasion of the Russian Federation into Ukraine by scientific and pedagogical workers who moved to another region of the country from their place of permanent residence and continue to work in the former institution of higher education are described. The experience of organizing online classes in synchronous mode regarding the distance course-resource "DVZ Testing" on the educational website of the National Academy of Sciences was shared. It is shown that the main criterion for evaluating any internal combustion engine development aimed at increasing the efficiency, energy or environmental qualities of engines is testing. At the same time, it is of great importance to organize the educational process in higher education in a distance form, and especially during the period of martial law, with the definition of a platform for conducting classes and ensuring the comprehensive use of available technical means of communication, Internet sites, messengers and existing applications to operating systems. It has been demonstrated that in case of any unexpected power outages, uninterrupted distance learning is guaranteed with the rational use of a backup autonomous generator, a portable charging station, and a power bank. At the same time, special attention should be paid to the selection and adjustment of the connection chains of the component elements to the created power supply system

Equipment that should be carried by a physician who goes to the earthquake region for emergency assistance during the winter season

In February 2023, two major earthquakes in Turkey affected 10 cities. We wanted to share our experience with the equipment that the first responders in the earthquake area should take with them, apart from medical supplies.The equipment required for patient care is as follows; stethoscope, trauma scissors, flashlight, and headlamp (for power outage situation), safety glasses, scrubs (spare), mask, medical gloves, regularly used drugs (such as decongestants, antibiotics, analgesics), battery, hospital ID, notepad, pen. Personal equipment that is not necessary for patient care is as follows; backpack (with name tag), power bank (to keep in touch), list of basic contact numbers, thermos (for tea and coffee), enough ready-made food to last at least three days (dry foods, energy, and protein bars, instant sachet soup, etc.), water bottle, fork, spoon, glass, garbage bag, whistle, work gloves, ear protection, sleeping bag and mat (tent if possible), personal hygiene items (soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, napkins).

AirQuality Lab-on-a-Drone: A Low-Cost 3D-Printed Analytical IoT Platform for Vertical Monitoring of Gaseous H2S.

The measurement of gaseous compounds in the atmosphere is a multichallenging task due to their low concentration range, long and latitudinal concentration variations, and the presence of sample interferents. Herein, we present a quadcopter drone deployed with a fully integrated 3D-printed analytical laboratory for H2S monitoring. Also, the analytical system makes part of the Internet of Things approach. The analytical method applied was based on the reaction between fluorescein mercuric acetate and H2S that led to fluorescence quenching. A 5 V micropump at a constant airflow of 50 mL min-1 was employed to deliver constant air into a flask containing 800 μL of the reagent. The analytical signal was obtained using a light-emitting diode and a miniaturized digital light detector. The method enabled the detection of H2S in the range from 15 to 200 ppbv, with a reproducibility of 5% for a sampling time of 10 min and an limit of detection of 9 ppbv. All devices were controlled using an Arduino powered by a small power bank, and the results were transmitted to a smartphone via Bluetooth. The proposed device resulted in a weight of 300 g and an overall cost of ∼50 USD. The platform was used to monitor the concentration of H2S in different intervals next to a wastewater treatment plant at ground and vertical levels. The ability to perform all analytical steps in the same device, the low-energy requirements, the low weight, and the attachment of data transmission modules offer new possibilities for drone-based analytical systems for air pollution monitoring.

Environmentalism in photovoltaics substitution, nationalism in photovoltaics rivalry and youth’s choice of solar power banks in Lanzhou

PurposeThis study aims to investigate how environmentalism in photovoltaic (PV) substitution and nationalism in PV rivalry with the USA are associated with the trade-offs made by young consumers in Lanzhou when selecting Chinese brand portable solar power banks.Design/methodology/approachIn this study, the choice-based conjoint survey was conducted to investigate mobile power bank consumers aged 18–28 in Lanzhou urban districts. A total of 2,004 valid questionnaires were collected and 1,813 sample was used in analyses. Logit and ordinary least squares regression models were run for empirical analyses.FindingsThe research results show that consumers tend to sacrifice certain levels of affordability for moderate technological capability, a reputable brand, better portability and advanced charging functions or sacrifice certain levels of technological capabilities for a moderate price. Consumers with stronger environmentalism in PV substitution tend to prioritize median price levels, larger battery capacity and better portability, while being less sensitive to brand and showing less preference for advanced charging functions. Consumers with stronger nationalism in PV rivalry tend to prioritize reasonably higher prices, bigger brands, enhanced portability, more solar panels and advanced charging functions.Practical implicationsThis research sheds light on consumer trade-offs between price, brand, portability, technological capability and charging function. It also explores how environmentalism and nationalism sentiments are associated with consumer decision-making. These insights carry valuable policy implications for fostering product innovation, supporting brand-building initiatives for small and medium-size enterprises, promoting market competition and preventing the weaponization of consumer nationalism.Originality/valueAs an emerging solar power product, the portable solar power bank holds significant potential for widespread adoption as a means to drive energy transition. Within the current context, two notable sentiments have surfaced: environmentalism, which pertains to the adoption of PV technology as a substitute for conventional energy sources and nationalism, which manifests in the PV rivalry between China and the USA. This research aims to investigate consumer preference related to this emerging product, specifically focusing on its relationship with these two sentiments.

Market structure and bank performance: A comprehensive picture of Vietnam

In the context of the fact that the structure of the Vietnamese banking market has undergone many fluctuations, which has had an impact on banking activities, and the fact that many related studies have been carried out, but the answer is still limited and inconsistent, it is necessary to study the impact of the market structure on banking operations in Vietnam. The paper comprehensively examines the impact of market structure on various aspects of bank performance in Vietnam. The study uses three measures of the structure of the banking industry, namely, the total market share of the largest banks, the squared market share of all banks according to the Herfindahl-Hirshchman index, and the Lerner index on market power (inverse bank competition), to ensure the results are not dependent on any specific measure. The paper applies the two-step system generalized method of moments estimator to conduct regression analysis for a sample of 30 banks from 2007 to 2021. All obtained estimates generally show positive effects on bank performance due to greater market power and higher banking concentration. Concretely, more market power and greater concentration improve bank asset quality, management efficiency, bank profitability, and lending capacity. Overall, the findings of this paper all support the bright side of less competition and more concentration, which is essential to derive policy implications related to supervising competitive environments and stimulating consolidated financial systems. AcknowledgmentThis study is part of Thi Mai Phuong Duong’s PhD dissertation at the Ho Chi Minh University of Banking under the supervision of Van Dan Dang.

Evaluating the Effectiveness of a Portable Wind Generator that Produces Electricity using Wind Flow from Moving Vehicles

While travelling with speedy vehicles like motorbikes, cars, buses, and trucks, a huge wind flow is seen to be flowing against the travel direction which inhibits huge renewable energy. In this study, the author constructed a portable wind generator through which this huge renewable energy/wind energy can be converted into effective and usable electric energy. As this is a light weighted, small and portable generator, it can be carried easily while travelling and can be installed/ fixed at suitable places of any speedy vehicles. And can get necessary electric power at the time of need. The electricity generated against the vehicle’s speeds of 20 kph, 30 kph, 40 kph, 50 kph and 60 kph is measured with the help of a multimeter, and an average 20v, 35v, 50v, 70v and 105v AC voltages are found respectively. This generated electric power can be stored in a battery or power bank through which various electronic apparatus like mobile phones, torch light etc. can be charged simultaneously or later.

Do creditor control rights impact corporate tax aggressiveness? Evidence from debt covenant violations

AbstractWe examine the effect of bank interventions on corporate tax aggressiveness via the lens of debt covenant violations. Using three identification strategies, we find that bank interventions have a negative effect on corporate tax aggressiveness. This effect is less pronounced for more financially constrained firms, firms with higher shareholder power and firms facing less powerful banks. Covenant‐violating firms compensate their reduced tax aggressiveness by reducing other expenditures, including capital expenditures and cash acquisitions. Our results suggest that creditors perceive aggressive tax activities as risky investment opportunities.

A value-based measure of market power for the participatory deposits of Islamic banks

Traditional earnings-based measures of market power cannot be applied to Islamic banks since depositors are investors and not creditors. We develop a new market power measure based on the capitalized value of a bank’s deposit funds’ management fees in which more powerful banks price deposits to create greater long-term value, whilst less powerful banks target short-term earnings or risk management goals. Applying panel VAR and two-step system GMM to international data from 1990 to 2022, we validate the measure by showing that deposit growth rates (Granger) cause market power and are the only significant determinant across all two-step system GMM model and sub-sample variants.