TOKYO, Oct 11, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - National University Corporation OITA UNIVERSITY ("Oita University") and Hitachi High-Tech Corporation ("Hitachi High-Tech") today announced that we have started conducting research ("this research") into predicting and extendingthe life of electrocatalysts used in polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFC), utilizing Hitachi High-Tech’s technology that uses AI to perform image analysis. We will be giving a joint presentation on the contents of this research at The Chemical Society of Japan Autumn Event 14th CSJ Chemistry Festa 2024, which will be held at Tower Hall, Funabori (Tokyo) from October 22 to 25, 2024.Kinumoto Laboratory at the Faculty of Science and Technology of Oita University is involved in research initiatives using the Identical Location Field Emission-Scanning Electron Microscope (IL-FE-SEM)*1 of Oita university's proprietary technology to figure out the degradation mechanism of PEFC electrocatalysts and develop robust PEFC.This research is part of the Green Technologies for Excellence (GteX)*2 project of the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST).Hitachi High-Tech develops, manufactures, and sells electron microscopes, so has a wealth of expertise in the analysis of observation images, also solves problems faced by customers using informatics technologies, Materials Informatics (MI) and Process Informatics (PI)*3. Hitachi High-Tech has drawn on these strengths and combined them with AI and SEM image analysis technologies to provide support for Oita University’s PEFC research and development.Including with this research, Oita University and Hitachi High-Tech aim to continue working to accelerate efforts to develop longer-lasting PEFC going forward and contribute to solving social issues such as by achieving carbon neutrality and a decarbonized society.BackgroundPEFC are a type of fuel cell that use polymer materials as the electrolyte*4 to generate electricity (energy) by causing chemical reactions between hydrogen and oxygen at two electrodes. Fuel cells of all kinds are increasingly used as a form of sustainable energy that can reduce CO2 emissions and, among those, PEFC are also used in everyday applications such as vehicle and household power sources. As the achievement of carbon neutrality becomes recognized as a key issue facing society, it is predicted that PEFC will become increasingly necessary. To that end, however, PEFC in their current state need to be higher durability, with higher output, and lower in cost. This research aims to shed light on the mechanism behind the degradation of electrocatalysts, which is the utmost important issue in prolonging PEFC life, by using AI technology to analyze FE-SEM observation images and make more efficient analysis based on quantitative data possible.Overview of this ResearchThis research used Oita University's IL-FE-SEM technology and Hitachi High-Tech's AI- powered image analysistechnology to study electrocatalyst durability and surface degradation through accelerated degradation tests in which a pulse voltage is repeatedly applied to the PEFC electrocatalysts.*5In order to figure out the deterioration mechanism, in which there is a reduction in the electrochemical surface area (ECSA)*6 of the electrocatalytic platinum particles, Oita University is using IL-FE-SEM technology to visually inspectand analyze the platinum particles in observation images. However, although it is possible to use IL-FE-SEM technology to acquire a large volume of observation images, this has its problems in that there is a tremendous workload involved in analyzing all of the observation images due to there being hundreds of platinum particles present in each individual image. To resolve this problem, Hitachi High-Tech provided AI-driven image analysis technology to streamline the task of image analysis. Specifically, AI image analysis was used to detect*7 platinum particles present in each test. After the particles were detected in the images that had been taken, changes in the status of the particles (their disappearance, aggregation, or formation) could be tracked and the particle count automatically determined.Going forward, the researchers will continue to work to improve particle detection accuracy and make advancements in figuring out the degradation mechanism of more efficient PEFC, as both Oita University and Hitachi High Tech will push ahead and continue to work together to develop long-lasting PEFC. They will also contribute to the cultivation ofdata scientists with a grounding in chemistry by working together with the students of Oita University on pushing this analysis forward.This research is being performed through technical collaboration with Hitachi Co., Ltd. (“Hitachi”), and the presentation at CSJ Chemistry Festa 2024 is planned to be performed jointly by Oita University, Hitachi High-Tech, and Hitachi.Related Information- CSJ Chemistry Festa 2024 https://festa.csj.jp/2024/index.html (Japanese only)- The date and time of the presentation on this research: Wednesday, October 23, 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM within the Festa plan, student poster presentations*8.- Presentation topic: “Analysis of Degradation of Pt/C Electrocatalysts for PEFC using Identical Location FE-SEM Observation and AI Image Analysis”(1) Identical Location Field Emission-Scanning Electron Microscope (IL-FE-SEM): It refers to the observation of a fixed-point using FE-SEM and is a technology independently developed by Oita University. Observing a fixed-point can be used effectively in research tracking and figuring out changes in physical matter.(2) Green Technologies for Excellence (GteX): A project by JST for supporting R&D and personnel development at universities, National Research and Development Agencies and similar institutions with the aim of continually creating new technologies targeted toward achieving GX (green transformation).(3) Materials Informatics (MI) and Process Informatics (PI): Initiatives to make materials development more efficient by using informatics techniques that leverage statistical analysis and other such methodologies. MI is often used to predict material properties or for design purposes, while PI is often used to streamline the production process.(4) Electrolytes: A substance used to move ions between electrodes and facilitate an electrochemical reaction.(5) Durability testing using an accelerated degradation test (ADT). ADT rapidly evaluates fuel cell durability by applying a constant potential pulse to a sample. FE-SEM was used to image the same location on the catalyst surface to study the degradation in the cathode catalyst surface occurring over repeated tests.(6) Electrochemical surface area: It refers to the surface area over which the reaction occurs, and it serves as an important metric when evaluating the performanceof catalysts and electrode materials. The larger the electrochemical surface area, the higher the electrochemical reaction efficiency.(7) Detected particles using semantic segmentation. Semantic segmentation assigns labels to each and every pixel in an image, enabling a precise level of detection even across wide image areas.(8) Student poster presentations: A student poster session will be held with the objective of encouraging discussion between students and industry, academia, and government representatives.About Hitachi High-TechHitachi High-Tech, headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is engaged in activities in a broad range of fields, including manufacture and sales of clinical analyzers, biotechnology products, radiation therapy systems, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, analytical instruments, and analysis equipment. Also, we provide high value-added solutions in industrial fields such as mobility, connected, environment and energy, etc. Through business based on our core Observation, Measurement and Analysis technologies, we will contribute to the realization of a sustainable society by solving social issues.The company's consolidated revenues for FY2023 were approx. JPY 670.4 billion. For further information, visit https://www.hitachi-hightech.com/global/en/About Oita UniversityOita University has a Faculty of Education, Faculty of Economics, Faculty of Medicine, Faculty of Science andTechnology, and Faculty of Welfare and Health Science. The university's Basic Policy state that it strives to “foster people rich in creativity, social abilities, and humanity through education and research in the humanities, the social sciences, and the natural sciences. In addition, it will actively contribute to peace and development in the world. It will play an active role in promoting human welfare and creating new culture.” This initiative is being conducted at theFaculty of Science and Technology, where research and development targeted at achieving carbon neutrality is conducted, including research into fuel cells.Contact:Takumi SenbaMaterial Solution Dept., Supply Chain Resilience Div.,Supply Chain Platform Business Group, Hitachi High-Tech CorporationEmail : mi-info.aj.ml@hitachi-hightech.com/ Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Oct 11, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - NEC Security, Ltd., an NEC Group company, has been commissioned by Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications to conduct cybersecurity capacity building exercises for Pacific island countries. Exercises were first conducted in Fiji for seven days from October 2 to 10, 2024, with 29 cybersecurity practitioners from government agencies and critical infrastructure operators from 13 countries participating. Additional training is scheduled to take place in the United States territory of Guam in February 2025.In recent years, international cooperation is indispensable for ensuring the success of cybersecurity measures that are implemented across national borders. In order to reduce cybersecurity risks for the entire world, it is important to support the building of cybersecurity capabilities in developing countries, including the Indo-Pacific region, which occupies an important geographical position.Since the opening of the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC)(1) in 2018, NEC has supported the project’s operations through initiatives that include the coordination of approximately 30 cyber exercises for ASEAN member countries. Utilizing this knowledge, instructors and tutors from NEC Security, a cybersecurity specialist, are providing training tailored to the current state and needs of cybersecurity in Pacific island countries. Specifically, after participants conduct more than one month of online pre-study, NEC Security’s program includes five days of incident response training in the event of a cyberattack, thereby contributing to the building of practical cybersecurity capabilities.SummaryDate, time and place: - 1st Session: October 2, 2024 ~ October 10, 2024, Fiji- 2nd Session: February 2025, Guam, USATarget Audience: - Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Tonga, Nauru, Tuvalu, Federated States of Micronesia, Palau, Marshall Islands, Kiribati, Cook Islands- Cybersecurity practitioners serving government officials and critical infrastructure operatorsOrganizer: Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and CommunicationsContents of the event: - 1 month or more of online pre-study- Incident response training, review of pre-learning and desktop exercises- Cyber exercise using CYDER(2) (5 days hands-on)Going forward, NEC and NEC Security will continue to contribute to the improvement of cybersecurity capabilities by providing cyber defense exercises, products and services to government agencies and critical infrastructure companies internationally.Under the value-delivery model “NEC BluStellar”(3), NEC is transforming business models with cutting-edge technologies to help solve challenges for customers and society.(1) The ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) was opened by Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications in September 2018 to promote the development of cybersecurity human resources for ASEAN member countries.(2) The Cyber Defense Exercise with Recurrence (CYDER) is a hands-on, practical cyber defense exercise conducted by Japan’s National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT) for information system personnel from national administrative agencies, local governments, independent administrative agencies, and critical infrastructure operators.(3) NEC provides end-to-end services for digital transformation (DX) through the "NEC BluStellar" value-delivery model. NEC BluStellar transforms business models to address social and business challenges by applying diverse industry insights and world-leading technological expertise to the entire DX process, from customer strategy consultation through implementation.About NEC CorporationNEC Corporation has established itself as a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies while promoting the brand statement of “Orchestrating a brighter world.” NEC enables businesses and communities to adapt to rapid changes taking place in both society and the market as it provides for the social values of safety, security, fairness and efficiency to promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. For more information, visit NEC at https://www.nec.com. Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Oct 10, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC), MC Retail Energy Co., Ltd. (MC Retail Energy), Kaluza Japan and Mitsubishi Corporation (MC) are pleased to announce our official commencement of an electric-vehicle (EV) smart-charging service leveraging connected technologies. The commercial viability of this business, which is the first of its kind in Japan1, was verified during a proof of concept (PoC2) that began in February 2024. The objectives of the PoC were to refine both the level of service provided and precision of the app used by its customers.Features of this ServiceThis service makes it possible for owners of MMC's Outlander PHEVs3 to directly control the charging of their vehicles from an advanced energy software platform provided by Kaluza Japan via MMC's connected systems4. It offers customers a new EV-charging experience, as it can optimize charging in line with electricity prices. The service will be made available through subscriptions to MC Retail Energy's EV smart-charging plans for households. Benefits to Customers:- Daily Smart ChargingSimply by connecting their Outlander PHEVs to their home charging stations and using the smartphone app to set the time they intend to next use their vehicles, customers can instruct the system to automatically control when their vehicles are charged. They do not need to purchase any special equipment or follow any complicated procedures.- Points System Based on Use of Controlled Charging (electricity discounts)Some of the cost savings realized by using this service to optimize charging via MC Retail Energy's smart-charging plans will be returned to the customer in the form of electricity-bill discounts.Benefits to Society:- Effective Use of Renewable Energies (renewables)Electricity prices fluctuate based on power generation and demand, and they tend to be lower when a lot of electricity is generated by renewables. As this system factors those prices into the timing of its controlled EV charging, it will make an indirect contribution to using renewables more effectively.- Efficient "Peak-hour" ShiftsBy controlling charging, this service will also help to shift the hours of peak electricity loads to facilitate more efficient operation of Japan's energy grid, which will lessen the burden on society when costs are incurred in upgrading or expanding that infrastructure.For more information, visit www.mitsubishicorp.com/jp/en/pr/archive/2024/html/0000054825.html.Inquiry Recipient:Mitsubishi CorporationTelephone:+81-3-3210-2171 Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Oct 10, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Lexus brings new enhancements to the LX and introduces the LX 700h, featuring the brand's newly developed hybrid system, which was announced on October 10th. A phased rollout across various regions is scheduled to begin in late 2024.Since its founding in 1989, Lexus has consistently upheld a spirit of innovation, continually striving to provide customers with new technologies and value. With the aim of achieving a carbon-neutral society and the desire to enrich automotive lifestyles with one's car, we will continue to provide a diverse range of options to meet the needs of customers around the world.The LX is a flagship SUV based on the concept of "effortless and refined driving on any road around the world." It combines driving performance that can handle any road in the world, while still providing the signature refined comfort of a Lexus. It is now beloved by customers in over 50 countries across the globe.At the same time, it was also the only model in the Lexus lineup that did not have an electrified vehicle option.Introducing the LX 700h, Lexus has developed a new parallel hybrid system that prioritizes preserving the "reliability," "durability," and "off-road performance" that the LX series has cultivated over generations, even amidst the shift to electrification. By utilizing motor torque to achieve the signature Lexus driving experience, annual CO2 emissions across all global vehicles will be significantly reduced, further improving environmental performance.Lexus has further refined its distinctive Lexus Driving Signature by enhancing the core fundamentals, including the engine model. The "engaging driving dialogue" that reacts instantly to driver inputs has been further refined while the vehicle has been upgraded with the latest Lexus Safety System + (LSS+) for enhanced safety and peace of mind.To further meet the diverse needs of our global customers, we have added the new OVERTRAIL series. With the early launch of the GX and NX OVERTRAIL models, we will continue to expand the lineup of the LEXUS OVERTRAIL PROJECT.Takami Yokoo, Lexus International Chief EngineerIn 2021, the LX underwent a full model change based on the concept of "effortless and refined driving on any road," earning widespread acclaim from customers worldwide, for which we are sincerely grateful. However, it posed a challenge within the Lexus lineup, as it remained the only model without an electrified option―despite our commitment to achieving a carbon-neutral society. For those of us who have been deeply involved with the LX over the years, electrifying it for use in demanding global environments seemed both an immense challenge and a long-held aspiration.During development, we were determined in our commitment not to compromise the reliability, durability, and off-road performance that has defined previous LX models, even with electrification. Our goal was to ensure safe, reliable operation, allowing customers to return home safely, while preserving the true Lexus driving experience. The solution we reached, as a unified development team, was the development of a new parallel hybrid system along with upgrades to the GA-F platform.Three years after the release of the gasoline and diesel models, we have further refined the Lexus Driving Signature, while enhancing both safety and comfort features. Our extensive ongoing driving flavor refinements have been fully integrated into the HEV models, elevating the "engaging driving dialogue" with the car. With updates to the electronic platform and the latest enhancements to LSS+, we have introduced improvements that make driving even more effortless and refined. We invite you to experience the new LX, thoughtfully crafted with the passion and dedication of our development team, as we embrace the next chapter of electrification with the HEV models.For more information, visit https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/lexus/41628808.html. Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

Special Exhibition: TV Anime Pokémon 1st anniversary event to be held!TOKYO, Oct 10, 2024 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The anime exhibition hub, Anime Tokyo Station, which leverages Japanese anime content loved by fans worldwide, has welcomed over 100,000 visitors from Japan and abroad since its opening in October last year.This facility serves as a launch point into the world of anime, where travelers visiting Tokyo from all over the world, specialists, children, and adults alike can gather and enjoy discovering both past masterpieces and the latest popular series.To commemorate its 1st anniversary, a special exhibition for the globally popular TV anime Pokémon will be held. Through displays featuring iconic scenes broadcasted on TV, visitors can relive Pokémon's vibrant history. Additionally, there will be an interactive corner where the two protagonists from "Liko and Roy Channel" come to life and react to visitors.Furthermore, at the end of October, the facility will host a "1st Anniversary Event" featuring the popular voice actors Miina Tominaga and Ryūsei Nakao.Please visit Anime Tokyo Station and indulge yourself in the allure of anime.Symbolic artistic installation on the 1st floor of AnimeInquiries regarding this press releasePublic Relations Office of "Anime Tokyo Station" (Kyodo PR)Contact person: Miri YasudaE-mail: animetokyo-pr@kyodo-pr.co.jp TV Anime Pokémon Special Exhibition- Exhibition OverviewThe new series of the currently airing TV anime Pokémon features a dual protagonist format, centering on a young girl, Liko, and a young boy, Roy, and began airing in April 2023. On Friday, October 11th, a new chapter, "Rayquaza Rising," will commence. This special exhibition will present the world of the TV anime Pokémon and trace the journey of Liko and Roy’s adventures thus far.- Main Exhibition Contents・ ExhibitsOriginal drawings of iconic scenes, panels of the main characters and Pokémon, Liko's pendant, and the ancient Poké Ball, among other items.・ Photo SpotsPhoto spots where visitors can take pictures with characters and Pokémon, including face cutout panels.・ "Liko and Roy Channel" Experience CornerAn interactive experience corner where Liko and Roy react to visitors.- Exhibition PeriodFrom October 26 (Sat), 2024, to February 2 (Sun), 20251st Anniversary Event(1) Date & Time: October 31 (Thu), 2024, 5:00 p.m.–6:30 p.m. (tentative)(2) Venue: Anime Tokyo Station, 1st Floor (Tokyu Building East Building No. 5, 2-25-5 Minami-Ikebukuro, Toshima Ward)(3) Panels:Miina Tominaga (voice actor)Ryūsei Nakao (voice actor)(4) Overview:Talk show and special segments by the panels, congratulatory messages from the voice actors, etc.(5) Participant Application Overview:- Number of participants: 50 (by lottery)- Application period: From October 4 (Fri), 2024, to October 20 (Sun), 2024- Application method: Please apply via the dedicated application form.Please refer to the official Anime Tokyo Station website for more details and applications.*Panels and content are subject to change without notice. Thank you for your understanding. Overview of the Facility- Name: Anime Tokyo Station (abbreviation: Anime Tokyo)- Location: Tokyu Building East Building No.5, 1-2F above ground, B1F below ground (2-25-5, Minami-Ikebukuro, Toshima Ward, Tokyo) *4-minute walk from Ikebukuro Station- Hours: 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. (last admission by 6:45 p.m.)- Closed: Mondays *If Monday is a holiday, the museum will be open on Monday and closed the following day. Also closed on New Year holidays, temporary closures, etc. *Please check the official website before visiting.- Admission: Free- Official website: https://animetokyo.jp/en/Press release: https://www.acnnewswire.com/docs/files/20241010.pdf Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.