Discover insights from thousands of peer-reviewed papers on microbial electrochemical systems
A. Timmis, N. Townsend, C. Gale et al.
European Heart Journal · 2019
AIMS The 2019 report from the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Atlas provides a contemporary analysis of cardiovascular disease (CVD) statistics across 56 member countries, with particular emphasis on international inequalities in disease burden and healthcare delivery together with estimates of progress towards meeting 2025 World Health Organization (WHO) non-communicable disease targets. METHODS AND RESULTS In this report, contemporary CVD statistics are presented for member countries of the ESC. The statistics are drawn from the ESC Atlas which is a repository of CVD data from a variety of sources including the WHO, the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, and the World Bank. The Atlas also includes novel ESC sponsored data on human and capital infrastructure and cardiovascular healthcare delivery obtained by annual survey of the national societies of ESC member countries. Across ESC member countries, the prevalence of obesity (body mass index ≥30 kg/m2) and diabetes has increased two- to three-fold during the last 30 years making the WHO 2025 target to halt rises in these risk factors unlikely to be achieved. More encouraging have been variable declines in hypertension, smoking, and alcohol consumption but on current trends only the reduction in smoking from 28% to 21% during the last 20 years appears sufficient for the WHO target to be achieved. The median age-standardized prevalence of major risk factors was higher in middle-income compared with high-income ESC member countries for hypertension {23.8% [interquartile range (IQR) 22.5-23.1%] vs. 15.7% (IQR 14.5-21.1%)}, diabetes [7.7% (IQR 7.1-10.1%) vs. 5.6% (IQR 4.8-7.0%)], and among males smoking [43.8% (IQR 37.4-48.0%) vs. 26.0% (IQR 20.9-31.7%)] although among females smoking was less common in middle-income countries [8.7% (IQR 3.0-10.8) vs. 16.7% (IQR 13.9-19.7%)]. There were associated inequalities in disease burden with disability-adjusted life years per 100 000 people due to CVD over three times as high in middle-income [7160 (IQR 5655-8115)] compared with high-income [2235 (IQR 1896-3602)] countries. Cardiovascular disease mortality was also higher in middle-income countries where it accounted for a greater proportion of potential years of life lost compared with high-income countries in both females (43% vs. 28%) and males (39% vs. 28%). Despite the inequalities in disease burden across ESC member countries, survey data from the National Cardiac Societies of the ESC showed that middle-income member countries remain severely under-resourced compared with high-income countries in terms of cardiological person-power and technological infrastructure. Under-resourcing in middle-income countries is associated with a severe procedural deficit compared with high-income countries in terms of coronary intervention, device implantation and cardiac surgical procedures. CONCLUSION A seemingly inexorable rise in the prevalence of obesity and diabetes currently provides the greatest challenge to achieving further reductions in CVD burden across ESC member countries. Additional challenges are provided by inequalities in disease burden that now require intensification of policy initiatives in order to reduce population risk and prioritize cardiovascular healthcare delivery, particularly in the middle-income countries of the ESC where need is greatest.
J. Dawson, Y. Béjot, L. Christensen et al.
European Stroke Journal · 2022
Recurrent stroke affects 9% to 15% of people within 1 year. This European Stroke Organisation (ESO) guideline provides evidence-based recommendations on pharmacological management of blood pressure (BP), diabetes mellitus, lipid levels and antiplatelet therapy for the prevention of recurrent stroke and other important outcomes in people with ischaemic stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA). It does not cover interventions for specific causes of stroke, including anticoagulation for cardioembolic stroke, which are addressed in other guidelines. This guideline was developed through ESO standard operating procedures and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology. The working group identified clinical questions, selected outcomes, performed systematic reviews, with meta-analyses where appropriate, and made evidence-based recommendations, with expert consensus statements where evidence was insufficient to support a recommendation. To reduce the long-term risk of recurrent stroke or other important outcomes after ischaemic stroke or TIA, we recommend: BP lowering treatment to a target of <130/80 mmHg, except in subgroups at increased risk of harm; HMGCoA-reductase inhibitors (statins) and targeting a low density lipoprotein level of <1.8 mmol/l (70 mg/dl); avoidance of dual antiplatelet therapy with aspirin and clopidogrel after the first 90 days; to not give direct oral anticoagulant drugs (DOACs) for embolic stroke of undetermined source and to consider pioglitazone in people with diabetes or insulin resistance, after careful consideration of potential risks. In addition to the evidence-based recommendations, all or the majority of working group members supported: out-of-office BP monitoring; use of combination treatment for BP control; consideration of ezetimibe or PCSK9 inhibitors when lipid targets are not achieved; consideration of use of low-dose DOACs in addition to an antiplatelet in selected groups of people with coronary or peripheral artery disease and aiming for an HbA1c level of <53 mmol/mol (7%) in people with diabetes mellitus. These guidelines aim to standardise long-term pharmacological treatment to reduce the burden of recurrent stroke in Europe.
L. Bartalena, G. Kahaly, L. Baldeschi et al.
European Journal of Endocrinology · 2021
Graves' orbitopathy (GO) is the main extrathyroidal manifestation of Graves' disease (GD). Choice of treatment should be based on assessment of clinical activity and severity of GO. Early referral to specialized centers is fundamental for most patients with GO. Risk factors include smoking, thyroid dysfunction, high serum level of thyrotropin receptor antibodies, radioactive iodine (RAI) treatment, and hypercholesterolemia. In mild and active GO, control of risk factors, local treatments and selenium (selenium-deficient areas) are usually sufficient; if RAI treatment is selected to manage GD, low-dose oral prednisone prophylaxis is needed, especially if risk factors coexist. For both active moderate-to-severe and sight threatening GO, antithyroid drugs are preferred when managing Graves' hyperthyroidism. In moderate-to-severe and active GO, intravenous (iv) glucocorticoids are more effective and better tolerated than oral glucocorticoids. Based on current evidence and efficacy/safety profile, costs and reimbursement, drug availability, long-term effectiveness and patient choice after extensive counselling, a combination of iv methylprednisolone and mycophenolate sodium is recommended as first-line treatment. A cumulative dose of 4.5 grams (g) of iv methylprednisolone in 12 weekly infusions is the optimal regimen. Alternatively, higher cumulative doses not exceeding 8 g can be used as monotherapy in most severe cases and constant/inconstant diplopia. Second-line treatments for moderate-to-severe and active GO include: a) a second course of iv methylprednisolone (7.5 g) subsequent to careful ophthalmic and biochemical evaluation, b) oral prednisone/prednisolone combined with either cyclosporine or azathioprine; c) orbital radiotherapy combined with oral or iv glucocorticoids, d) teprotumumab; e) rituximab and f) tocilizumab. Sight threatening GO is treated with several high single doses of iv methylprednisolone per week and, if unresponsive, with urgent orbital decompression. Rehabilitative surgery (orbital decompression, squint and eyelid surgery) is indicated for inactive residual GO manifestations.
Y. Stede, A. Stoicescu, Giusi Amore et al.
EFSA Journal · 2018
Abstract This report of the European Food Safety Authority and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control presents the results of zoonoses monitoring activities carried out in 2017 in 37 European countries (28 Member States (MS) and nine non‐MS). Campylobacteriosis was the commonest reported zoonosis and its EU trend for confirmed human cases increasing since 2008 stabilised during 2013–2017. The decreasing EU trend for confirmed human salmonellosis cases since 2008 ended during 2013–2017, and the proportion of human Salmonella Enteritidis cases increased, mostly due to one MS starting to report serotype data. Sixteen MS met all Salmonella reduction targets for poultry, whereas 12 MS failed meeting at least one. The EU flock prevalence of target Salmonella serovars in breeding hens, laying hens, broilers and fattening turkeys decreased or remained stable compared to 2016, and slightly increased in breeding turkeys. Salmonella results on pig carcases and target Salmonella serovar results for poultry from competent authorities tended to be generally higher compared to those from food business operators. The notification rate of human listeriosis further increased in 2017, despite Listeria seldom exceeding the EU food safety limit in ready‐to‐eat food. The decreasing EU trend for confirmed yersiniosis cases since 2008 stabilised during 2013–2017. The number of confirmed shiga toxin‐producing Escherichia coli (STEC) infections in humans was stable. A total of 5,079 food‐borne (including waterborne) outbreaks were reported. Salmonella was the commonest detected agent with S. Enteritidis causing one out of seven outbreaks, followed by other bacteria, bacterial toxins and viruses. The agent was unknown in 37.6% of all outbreaks. Salmonella in eggs and Salmonella in meat and meat products were the highest risk agent/food pairs. The report further summarises trends and sources for bovine tuberculosis, Brucella, Trichinella, Echinococcus, Toxoplasma, rabies, Coxiella burnetii (Q fever), West Nile virus and tularaemia.
E. Berge, W. Whiteley, H. Audebert et al.
European Stroke Journal · 2021
Intravenous thrombolysis is the only approved systemic reperfusion treatment for patients with acute ischaemic stroke. These European Stroke Organisation (ESO) guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations to assist physicians in their clinical decisions with regard to intravenous thrombolysis for acute ischaemic stroke. These guidelines were developed based on the ESO standard operating procedure and followed the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology. The working group identified relevant clinical questions, performed systematic reviews and meta-analyses of the literature, assessed the quality of the available evidence, and wrote recommendations. Expert consensus statements were provided if not enough evidence was available to provide recommendations based on the GRADE approach. We found high quality evidence to recommend intravenous thrombolysis with alteplase to improve functional outcome in patients with acute ischemic stroke within 4.5 h after symptom onset. We also found high quality evidence to recommend intravenous thrombolysis with alteplase in patients with acute ischaemic stroke on awakening from sleep, who were last seen well more than 4.5 h earlier, who have MRI DWI-FLAIR mismatch, and for whom mechanical thrombectomy is not planned. These guidelines provide further recommendations regarding patient subgroups, late time windows, imaging selection strategies, relative and absolute contraindications to alteplase, and tenecteplase. Intravenous thrombolysis remains a cornerstone of acute stroke management. Appropriate patient selection and timely treatment are crucial. Further randomized controlled clinical trials are needed to inform clinical decision-making with regard to tenecteplase and the use of intravenous thrombolysis before mechanical thrombectomy in patients with large vessel occlusion.
A. Both Engel, Aziz Cherifi, M. Bechelany et al.
ChemPlusChem · 2015
Invited for this month's cover are collaborating researchers from the DM3 group at the European Membrane Institute of Montpellier, France. The cover picture shows an artistic view of the bioelectrochemical production of sustainable electricity. Laccase enzymes immobilized on aligned electrospun carbon fibers can efficiently reduce dissolved oxygen, and be used in the cathode compartment of an electrical biogenerator. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/cplu.201402324.
R. Hochstrat, T. Wintgens, P. Corvini
Water Intelligence Online · 2015
The European project MINOTAURUS explored innovative bio-processes to eliminate emerging and classic organic pollutants. These bio-processes are all based on the concept of immobilization of biocatalysts (microorganisms and enzymes) and encompass bioaugmentation, enzyme technology, rhizoremediation with halophytes, and a bioelectrochemical remediation process. The immobilization-based technologies are applied as engineered ex situ treatment systems as well as natural systems in situ for the bioremediation of groundwater, wastewater and soil. The selection and application of tailored physico-chemical, molecularbiological and ecotoxicological monitoring tools combined with a rational understanding of engineering, enzymology and microbial physiology is a pertinent approach to open the black-box of the selected technologies. Reliable process monitoring constitutes the basis for developing and refining biodegradation kinetics models, which in turn improve the predictability of performances to be achieved with technologies. Immobilised Biocatalysts for Bioremediation of Groundwater and Wastewater delivers insight into the concepts and performance of a series of remediation approaches. A key strength of this book is to deliver results from lab-scale through to piloting at different European reference sites. It further suggests frameworks for structuring and making evidence-based decisions for the most appropriate bioremediation measures. This title belongs to European Water Research Series ISBN: 9781780406466 (eBook) ISBN: 9781780406459 (Print)
Mengwei Yuan, Matthew J. Kummer, Shelley D. Minteer
Chemistry – A European Journal · 2019
Abstract Atmospheric CO 2 is a cheap and abundant source of carbon for synthetic applications. However, the stability of CO 2 makes its conversion to other carbon compounds difficult and has prompted the extensive development of CO 2 reduction catalysts. Bioelectrocatalysts are generally more selective, highly efficient, can operate under mild conditions, and use electricity as the sole reducing agent. Improving the communication between an electrode and a bioelectrocatalyst remains a significant area of development. Through the examples of CO 2 reduction catalyzed by electroactive enzymes and whole cells, recent advancements in this area are compared and contrasted.
A. Deeke, T. Sleutels, H. Hamelers et al.
Environmental Science & Technology · 2012
We developed an integrated system for storage of renewable electricity in a microbial fuel cell (MFC). The system contained a capacitive electrode that was inserted into the anodic compartment of an MFC to form a capacitive bioanode. This capacitive bioanode was compared with a noncapacitive bioanode on the basis of performance and storage capacity. The performance and storage capacity were investigated during polarization curves and charge-discharge experiments. During polarization curves the capacitive electrode reached a maximum current density of 1.02 ± 0.04 A/m(2), whereas the noncapacitive electrode reached a current density output of only 0.79 ± 0.03 A/m(2). During the charge-discharge experiment with 5 min of charging and 20 min of discharging, the capacitive electrode was able to store a total of 22,831 C/m(2), whereas the noncapacitive electrode was only able to store 12,195 C/m(2). Regarding the charge recovery of each electrode, the capacitive electrode was able to recover 52.9% more charge during each charge-discharge experiment compared with the noncapacitive electrode. The capacitive electrode outperformed the noncapacitive electrode throughout each charge-discharge experiment. With a capacitive electrode it is possible to use the MFC simultaneously for production and storage of renewable electricity.
Xuejie Deng, Yu Li, Hao Liu et al.
Sustainability · 2021
Microbial induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) is a new geotechnical engineering technology used to strengthen soils and other materials. Although it is considered to be environmentally friendly, there is a lack of quantitative data and objective evaluation to support conclusions about its environmental impact. In this paper, the energy consumption and carbon emissions of MICP technology are quantitatively analyzed by using the life cycle assessment (LCA) method. The environmental effects of MICP technology are evaluated from the perspectives of resource consumption and environmental impact. The results show that for each tonne of calcium carbonate produced by MICP technology, 1.8 t standard coal is consumed and 3.4 t CO2 is produced, among which 80.4% of the carbon emissions and 96% of the energy consumption come from raw materials. Comparing using MICP with cement, lime, and sintered brick, the current MICP application process consumes less non-renewable resources but has a greater environmental impact. The major environmental impact that MICP has is the production of smoke and ash, with secondary impacts being global warming, photochemical ozone creation, acidification, and eutrophication. In five potential application scenarios of MICP, including concrete, sintered brick, lime mortar, mine cemented backfill, and foundation reinforcement, the carbon emissions of MICP are 3 to 7 times greater than the emissions of traditional technologies. The energy consumption is 15 to 23 times. Based on the energy consumption and carbon emissions characteristics of MICP technology at the current condition, suggestions are given for the future research of MICP.
C. Manyi-Loh, S. Mamphweli, E. Meyer et al.
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health · 2013
With an ever increasing population rate; a vast array of biomass wastes rich in organic and inorganic nutrients as well as pathogenic microorganisms will result from the diversified human, industrial and agricultural activities. Anaerobic digestion is applauded as one of the best ways to properly handle and manage these wastes. Animal wastes have been recognized as suitable substrates for anaerobic digestion process, a natural biological process in which complex organic materials are broken down into simpler molecules in the absence of oxygen by the concerted activities of four sets of metabolically linked microorganisms. This process occurs in an airtight chamber (biodigester) via four stages represented by hydrolytic, acidogenic, acetogenic and methanogenic microorganisms. The microbial population and structure can be identified by the combined use of culture-based, microscopic and molecular techniques. Overall, the process is affected by bio-digester design, operational factors and manure characteristics. The purpose of anaerobic digestion is the production of a renewable energy source (biogas) and an odor free nutrient-rich fertilizer. Conversely, if animal wastes are accidentally found in the environment, it can cause a drastic chain of environmental and public health complications.
Jafar Ali, Aaqib Sohail, Lei Wang et al.
Energies · 2018
Microbial electrochemical technologies provide sustainable wastewater treatment and energy production. Despite significant improvements in the power output of microbial fuel cells (MFCs), this technology is still far from practical applications. Extracting electrical energy and harvesting valuable products by electroactive bacteria (EAB) in bioelectrochemical systems (BESs) has emerged as an innovative approach to address energy and environmental challenges. Thus, maximizing power output and resource recovery is highly desirable for sustainable systems. Insights into the electrode-microbe interactions may help to optimize the performance of BESs for envisioned applications, and further validation by bioelectrochemical techniques is a prerequisite to completely understand the electro-microbiology. This review summarizes various extracellular electron transfer mechanisms involved in BESs. The significant role of characterization techniques in the advancement of the electro-microbiology field is discussed. Finally, diverse applications of BESs, such as resource recovery, and contributions to the pursuit of a more sustainable society are also highlighted.
Yu-Hsuan Hung, Tzu-Yin Liu, Han‐Yi Chen
ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering · 2019
Microbial fuel cell (MFC) is a sustainable technology that can produce electrons using microbes. However, low power density and high cost are the two major issues that hamper the development of MFCs. In this study, we demonstrated that renewable coffee waste-derived activated carbons (CWACs) can serve as anode materials in Escherichia coli system-based MFCs. By modifying the CWAC pore size, we achieved a power density of 3927 mW m–2, which was higher than that of commercial activated carbon (975 mW m–2). The enhanced power density of the CWAC was attributed to its high conductivity and suitable pore size distribution, which led to fast electron transfer and bacterial adhesion. Furthermore, the long-term performance of the MFC with the CWAC anode was investigated; it continuously functioned for more than 100 h at a power density of 2000 mW m–2 without any further nutrient resupply. These results indicate that CWAC is a promising anode material for renewable and sustainable energy systems that could signifi...
M. Koller
The EuroBiotech Journal · 2023
Abstract Background: Current threats connected to the ongoing depletion of fossil resources and elevated levels of greenhouse gases accelerating climate change and global warming provoke a renaissance of biotechnological production of various organic bulk chemicals, which, particularly during the second half of the 20th century, were almost exclusively produced from fossil resources via chemosynthetic processes. Scope: Besides the manufacture of bioethanol, a product obtained by microbial fermentation, biogenic production of solvents and energy carriers like acetone, isopropanol, 2,3-butanediol, or 1-butanol, hence, processes known since the beginning of the last century, experiences now a substantial revival. Summary of new synthesis and conclusions reached in the review: The review illustrates how to produce these products by resorting to fossil raw materials instead of petrochemical production processes, and how this can be accomplished by the cultivation of anaerobic organisms, namely facultatively anaerobic yeasts and bacteria (production of ethanol or 2,3-butanediol), and strictly anaerobic Clostridia (1-butanol, acetone, or isopropanol) on renewable resources. Moreover, novel methods for producing biodiesel-like methyl-esters of aerobically produced bacterial polyhydroxyalkanoate biopolyester building blocks combine the synthesis of microbial biopolyesters from wastewater with the progress of innovative renewable energy carriers. The biochemical background, the current state of research and development, and the status of industrialization of these processes are reviewed. Conclusion: Challenges to make these bioprocesses, based on inexpensive renewable resources, competitive with or even superior to petrochemical production routes in terms of sustainability, scalability, and economic feasibility still exist: however, they can be overcome by the concerted action of various scientific disciplines.
C. Charcosset
Membranes for Clean and Renewable Power Applications · 2014
Abstract: Membrane processes and renewable energy systems have been extensively developed in recent years to offer a very large range of applications. This chapter gives three examples: renewable energy source used to supply energy to a membrane desalination plant; membrane processes for the production of biofuels and biogas; and a microbial fuel cell which consists of an anode and a cathode chamber separated by a proton exchange membrane. Perspectives, benefits and limitations are discussed.
J. Nduko, S. Taguchi
Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology · 2021
Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are naturally occurring biopolymers produced by microorganisms. PHAs have become attractive research biomaterials in the past few decades owing to their extensive potential industrial applications, especially as sustainable alternatives to the fossil fuel feedstock-derived products such as plastics. Among the biopolymers are the bioplastics and oligomers produced from the fermentation of renewable plant biomass. Bioplastics are intracellularly accumulated by microorganisms as carbon and energy reserves. The bioplastics, however, can also be produced through a biochemistry process that combines fermentative secretory production of monomers and/or oligomers and chemical synthesis to generate a repertoire of biopolymers. PHAs are particularly biodegradable and biocompatible, making them a part of today’s commercial polymer industry. Their physicochemical properties that are similar to those of petrochemical-based plastics render them potential renewable plastic replacements. The design of efficient tractable processes using renewable biomass holds key to enhance their usage and adoption. In 2008, a lactate-polymerizing enzyme was developed to create new category of polyester, lactic acid (LA)–based polymer and related polymers. This review aims to introduce different strategies including metabolic and enzyme engineering to produce LA-based biopolymers and related oligomers that can act as precursors for catalytic synthesis of polylactic acid. As the cost of PHA production is prohibitive, the review emphasizes attempts to use the inexpensive plant biomass as substrates for LA-based polymer and oligomer production. Future prospects and challenges in LA-based polymer and oligomer production are also highlighted.
Jiyuan Lee, C. Ng, P. K. Lo et al.
Energy Sources, Part A: Recovery, Utilization, and Environmental Effects · 2019
ABSTRACT This study designed to enhance the energy recovery by the microbial fuel cell (MFC) fed with palm oil mill effluent. The maximum voltage output of 267.1 ± 5.5 mV and power density of 344.3 ± 8.6 mW/m2 were obtained with MFC operated at sludge retention times of 70 days, 1.25 gCOD/L/day organic loading rate, 7 g/L of activated carbon with an average particle size of 60.232 µm. It also had the relatively lower internal resistance and biogas yield at 156 Ω and 111.5 ± 11.4 mL/gCOD, respectively. It also had the highest coulombic efficiency (CE) at 3.06 ± 0.61% and the COD removal efficiency amounted to 91.90 ± 0.44%.
Kechrist Obileke, N. Nwokolo, G. Makaka et al.
Energy & Environment · 2020
The authors reviewed the future prospects and previous studies on anaerobic digestion technology for biogas production and highlight the solutions to problems relating to construction and maintenance of biogas digesters, which can now be accessed in a single paper. It is the aim of the review to provide insight into the use, process and application of anaerobic digestion as an appropriate technology for biogas production from peer reviewed literature. Recent studies have shown that the microbial communities and metabolic pathways involves in anaerobic digestion are influenced by temperature. Their metabolic activities increase significantly with increase in temperature. Therefore, the findings of the review reveal that temperature is a major parameter for biogas production due to its influence on metabolic activities involved in anaerobic digestion. Hence, there is the need for insulation as well as external heating to maintain temperature stability and to avoid temperature fluctuations. More also, the anaerobic digestion technology for production of biogas is a viable option that can supplement as well as reduce the usage of non-renewable energy sources such as fossil fuel. The detailed information addressed in this study would increase biogas energy mix as well as mitigating climate change. Therefore, the study recommends the use of biogas as a clean energy for the purpose of power generation, cooking and heating.
V. Gadhamshetty, Namita Shrestha, J. Kilduff
Journal of Professional Issues in Engineering Education and Practice · 2016
AbstractThe National Academy of Engineering has called for the reinvention of engineering education by exposing students to the iterative process of designing, predicting performance, building, and testing; incorporating research into engineering education; and introducing interdisciplinary learning in the undergraduate environment. Here we describe a novel effort to integrate an undergraduate research project into the problem-based design environment of a second-year introduction to engineering design course at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, providing a design and research experience early in the curriculum. The project-based environment allows students to learn technical communication (technical writing and oral presentations) and teamwork (including conflict management and team coordination) in parallel. Approximately 600 sophomores from different science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines take the course, working in multidisciplinary teams to address a complex challenge fa...
Virendra K. Singh, Akanksha Saxena, Asha Gupta et al.
International Journal of Renewable Energy Technology · 2017
Energy crisis in the world is increasing on a yearly basis due to depletion of reserved fossil fuels as well as continued increase in the prices. There is an urgent need to identify an alternate fuel or a renewable source for energy production. Hence, microbial fuel cells (MFCs) can play an important major role in producing bioelectricity using various organic and biodegradable waste. The traditional MFCs consisted of anode and cathode compartments. MFCs are of two types single chambered and double chambered. Micro-organisms actively use organic substrate for their metabolism, and the bioelectricity generated. Apart from the bioelectricity production, MFCs has many applications like in wastewater treatment, in biosensor, in bio-hydrogen production, in bio-methane production etc. Besides the advantages of this technology, MFCs have some limitations such as low voltage, power and current density. To overcome these limitations, the different components of MFC such as electrodes and proton exchange membrane modified to explore the other possible practical options. Besides that, this research update describes the improvement and advancement of MFCs with their advantageous and futuristic application with different parameters affecting the bioelectricity production.
Muhammad Zia Ur Rahman, R. Liaquat, M. Rizwan et al.
Fractal and Fractional · 2022
The focus on renewable energy is increasing globally to lessen reliance on conventional sources and fossil fuels. For renewable energy systems to work at their best and produce the desired results, precise feedback control is required. Microbial electrochemical cells (MEC) are a relatively new technology for renewable energy. In this study, we design and implement a model-based robust controller for a continuous MEC reactor. We compare its performance with those of traditional methods involving a proportional integral derivative (PID), H-infinity (H∞) controller and PID controller tuned by intelligent genetic algorithms. Recently, a dynamic model of a MEC continuous reactor was proposed, which describes the complex dynamics of MEC through a set of nonlinear differential equations. Until now, no model-based control approaches for MEC have been proposed. For optimal and robust output control of a continuous-reactor MEC system, we linearize the model to state a linear time-invariant (LTI) state-space representation at the nominal operating point. The LTI model is used to design four different types of controllers. The designed controllers and systems are simulated, and their performances are evaluated and compared for various operating conditions. Our findings show that a structured linear fractional transformation (LFT)-based H∞ control approach is much better than the other approaches against various performance parameters. The study provides numerous possibilities for control applications of continuous MEC reactor processes.
M. Azuma, Yoshihiro Ojima
Current Topics in Biochemical Engineering · 2018
In this chapter, we focus on microbial fuel cells (MFCs) that convert the energy from organic matters into electrical energy using microorganisms. MFCs are greatly expected to be used as a relatively low-cost and safe device for generating renewable energy using waste biomass as a raw material. At present, however, it has not reached the desired practical application because of the low-power generation; hence, improvements on fuel cell efficiency, such as electrode materials, are still being examined. Here, we focus on the microorganisms that can be used as catalysts and play a central role in improving the efficiency of the fuel cells. Several kinds of microbial catalysts are used in MFCs. For example, Shewanella oneidensis has been well studied, and as known, since S. oneidensis transports the electrons generated within the cell to the surface layer, it does not require a mediator to pass the electrons from the cells to the electrode. Furthermore, Escherichia coli and Saccharomyces cerevisiae , a model organism for MFCs, are also used. The improvements of such microbial catalysts have also been proceeding actively. Here, we elaborated on the principle of MFCs as well as the current situation and latest research on the catalyst development.
Lisa Marie Schmitz, Nicolai Kreitli, Lisa Obermaier et al.
bioRxiv (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory) · 2024
Meeting a surging demand for superior micronutrient-rich protein sources and finding production practices that are less detrimental to the climate will be critical challenges of the 21st century. New technologies are needed to decouple food production from land use. Our group previously proposed a two-stage Power-to-Protein technology to produce microbial protein from renewable electric power and CO2. Two stages were operated in series: (1) Clostridium ljungdahlii in Stage A to utilize H2 to reduce CO2 into acetate; and (2) Saccharomyces cerevisiae in Stage B to utilize O2 and produce microbial protein from acetate. Renewable energy would power water electrolysis to produce H2 and O2. A disadvantage of C. ljungdahlii in Stage A is the need to continuously feed vitamins to sustain growth and acid production. Changing to the more robust thermophilic acetogen Thermoanaerobacter kivui avoids providing any vitamins. Additionally, S. cerevisiae produces folate when grown with acetate as a sole carbon source under aerobic conditions. A total folate concentration of 6.7 mg per 100 g biomass with an average biomass concentration of 3 g L-1 in Stage B is achieved. The developed Power-to-Vitamin system enables folate production from renewable power and CO2 with zero or negative net-carbon emissions.
Chun Fu, A. A. Shah, Mohammed Alissa et al.
Journal of Applied Entomology · 2024
Insect gut microbes represent a rich source of enzymes and metabolic pathways that can be harnessed to advance renewable energy production. This review explores the potential of insect gut microbiota in the context of biomass degradation and biofuel production. Insects, particularly wood‐feeding species like termites and beetles, harbour complex microbial communities in their guts that efficiently break down lignocellulosic materials into simple sugars. These sugars can then be fermented into biofuels such as ethanol and methane. Recent research has focused on identifying key microbial species and enzymes involved in this process, as well as on engineering these microbes to enhance their efficiency and substrate specificity. Additionally, the ecological roles of these microbes in insect digestion and their potential for biotechnological applications beyond biofuel production are discussed. Overall, understanding and harnessing insect gut microbes holds great promise for advancing sustainable and renewable energy solutions.
Mohammad Faisal Umar, M. Rafatullah, Syed Zaghum Abbas et al.
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health · 2021
Anthropogenic activities are largely responsible for the vast amounts of pollutants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, cyanides, phenols, metal derivatives, sulphides, and other chemicals in wastewater. The excess benzene, toluene and xylene (BTX) can cause severe toxicity to living organisms in wastewater. A novel approach to mitigate this problem is the benthic microbial fuel cell (BMFC) setup to produce renewable energy and bio-remediate wastewater aromatic hydrocarbons. Several mechanisms of electrogens have been utilized for the bioremediation of BTX through BMFCs. In the future, BMFCs may be significant for chemical and petrochemical industry wastewater treatment. The distinct factors are considered to evaluate the performance of BMFCs, such as pollutant removal efficiency, power density, and current density, which are discussed by using operating parameters such as, pH, temperature and internal resistance. To further upgrade the BMFC technology, this review summarizes prototype electrode materials, the bioremediation of BTX, and their applications.
D. Lima, Li Li, G. Appleby
Energies · 2024
The global trend towards sustainable development has included the implementation of renewable energy recovery technologies in municipal wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). WWTPs are energy-intensive consumers with high operational costs and often are dependent from the electricity supplied by the main grid. In this context, the integration of renewable energy recovery technologies into WWTPs emerges as an environment-friendly strategy that enhances energy efficiency, sustainability and reduces energy operating costs. Renewable energy recovery technologies, such as anaerobic digestion, microbial fuel cells, and sludge gasification, can offer multiple benefits for a WWTP. Anaerobic digestion is the most widely adopted technology due to its efficiency in treating sewage sludge and its ability to generate biogas—a valuable renewable energy source. The use of biogas can offset the energy demands of the wastewater treatment process, potentially leading to energy self-sufficiency for the WWTP and a reduction in reliance from the electricity supply from the main grid. Similarly, microbial fuel cells harness the electrochemical activity of bacteria to produce electricity directly from wastewater, presenting a promising alternative for low-energy processes for sustainable power generation. Gasification of sewage sludge is a promising technology for managing municipal sewage sludge, offering key advantages, especially by generating a renewable energy production (sludge is converted into syngas), which further decreases the sludge volume and operating costs with sludge management, helps to eliminate odour associated with sewage sludge, and effectively destroys the pathogens. Adoption of renewable energy sources in WWTPs can be a great alternative to overcome issues of high operating costs and high dependency of electricity from the main grid, but their successful integration requires addressing challenges such as technological maturity, economic feasibility, and regulatory frameworks. This study aims to comprehensively explore the significance of different renewable energy technologies in municipal WWTPs, including site-specific and non-site-specific sources, evaluating their impact on sustainability, energy efficiency, and overall operational effectiveness. This review also highlights some studies in which different strategies were adopted to generate extra revenue and/or reduce operating costs. Through a comprehensive review of current practices and emerging technologies, this study underscores the transformative potential of these innovations in advancing low-emission wastewater management.
A. Worku, D. W. Ayele, Deva Brinda Deepak et al.
Advanced Energy and Sustainability Research · 2024
Currently, fossil fuels play a major role in meeting the world's energy demand. Fossil fuels, in contrast, threaten the planet's ecosystems and biological processes, contribute to global warming, and result in unfavorable climatic shifts. These energy sources are also finite and will eventually deplete. Thus, energy transition, which is the key from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, is regarded as an essential course of action for decarbonizing the global economy and reducing the catastrophic and irreversible effects of climate change. Thereby using/consuming green hydrogen energy is a vital solution to meet the world's challenges. Subsequently, the pros and cons of several hydrogen generation methods, such as the conversion of fossil fuels, biomass, water electrolysis, microbial fermentation, and photocatalysis, are then compared and outlined in terms of their technologies, economies, consumption of energy, environmental aspects, and costs. Currently, the chemical industry uses green hydrogen (H2) primarily to produce green emerging fuels methanol and ammonia (NH3), which are regarded as alternate sources of energy. Finally, the current state of energy demands, recent developments in renewable energy sources, and the potential of hydrogen as a future fuel are outlined. Moreover, the discussion concludes with predicted opportunities and challenges.
Simon Jegan Porphy Jegathese, Mohammed Farid
Journal of Renewable Energy · 2014
Algae are believed to be a good source of renewable energy because of its rapid growth rate and its ability to be cultivated in waste water or waste land. Several companies and government agencies are making efforts to reduce capital cost and operating costs and make algae fuel production commercially viable. Algae are the fastest growing plant and theoretically have the potential to produce more oil or biomass per acre when compared to other crops and plants. However, the energy efficiency ratio and carbon and water footprint for algal based biofuels still need to be evaluated in order to fully understand the environmental impact of algal derived biofuels.
Carlos F. M. Coimbra
Journal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy · 2022
Renewable energy resourcing and forecasting are enabling technologies for low-cost integration of increasingly higher market penetration of low-carbon power generation into the grid. The “Best Practices in Renewable Energy Resourcing and Integration” Special Collection Issue in the Journal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy covers best practices in solar and wind forecasting for renewable energy integration and includes datasets for testing, development, and for the augmented reproducibility of methods and results. This Special Collection focuses on manuscripts containing methodologies that substantially advance the state-of-the-art in renewable resourcing and forecasting.
Subiyanto, Azah Mohamed, M. A. Hannan
Journal of Renewable Energy · 2013
Photovoltaic (PV) system is one of the promising renewable energy technologies. Although the energy conversion efficiency of the system is still low, but it has the advantage that the operating cost is free, very low maintenance and pollution-free. Maximum power point tracking (MPPT) is a significant part of PV systems. This paper presents a novel intelligent MPPT controller for PV systems. For the MPPT algorithm, an optimized fuzzy logic controller (FLC) using the Hopfield neural network is proposed. It utilizes an automatically tuned FLC membership function instead of the trial-and-error approach. The MPPT algorithm is implemented in a new variant of coupled inductor soft switching boost converter with high voltage gain to increase the converter output from the PV panel. The applied switching technique, which includes passive and active regenerative snubber circuits, reduces the insulated gate bipolar transistor switching losses. The proposed MPPT algorithm is implemented using the dSPACE DS1104 platform software on a DS1104 board controller. The prototype MPPT controller is tested using an agilent solar array simulator together with a 3 kW real PV panel. Experimental test results show that the proposed boost converter produces higher output voltages and gives better efficiency (90%) than the conventional boost converter with an RCD snubber, which gives 81% efficiency. The prototype MPPT controller is also found to be capable of tracking power from the 3 kW PV array about 2.4 times more than that without using the MPPT controller.
Marcelinus Christwardana, Satrio Kuntolaksono, Athanasia Amanda Septevani et al.
International Journal of Renewable Energy Development · 2024
Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are an innovative method that generates sustainable electricity by exploiting the metabolic processes of microorganisms. The membrane that divides the anode and cathode chambers is an important component of MFCs. Commercially available membranes, such as Nafion, are both costly, not sustainable, and harmful to the environment. In this study, a low-cost alternative membrane for MFCs based on a starch-carrageenan blend (SCB-LCM) was synthesized. The SCB-LCM membrane was created by combining starch and carrageenan and demonstrated a high dehydration rate of 98.87 % over six hours. SEM analysis revealed a smooth surface morphology with no pores on the membrane surface. The performance of SCB-LCM membrane-based MFCs was evaluated and compared to that of other membranes, including Nafion 117 and Nafion 212. All membranes tested over 25 hours lost significant weight, with SCB-LCM losing the least. The maximum power density (MPD) of the SCB-LCM MFCs was 15.77 ± 4.34 mW/m2, indicating comparable performance to commercial membranes. Moreover, the cost-to-power ratio for MFCs employing SCB-LCM was the lowest (0.03 USD.m2/mW) when compared to other membranes, indicating that SCB-LCM might be a viable and cost-effective alternative to Nafion in MFCs. These SCB-LCM findings lay the groundwork for future research into low-cost and sustainable membrane for MFC technologies.
Glenn Paula P Constantino, Justine Mae C. Dolot, Kristopher Ray Simbulan Pamintuan
International Journal of Renewable Energy Development · 2023
The prevalence of non-renewable energy has always been a problem for the environment that needs a long-term solution. Plant-Microbial Fuel Cells (PMFCs) are promising bioelectrochemical systems that can utilize plant rhizodeposition to generate clean electricity on-site, without harming the plants, paving the way for simultaneous agriculture and power generation. However, one of the biggest hurdles in large-scale PMFC application is the diffused nature of power generation without a clear path to consolidate or amplify the small power of individual cells. In this study, stacking configurations of 3D-printed PMFCs are investigated to determine the amplification potential of bioelectricity. The PMFCs designed in this study are made of 3D-printed electrodes, printed from 1.75 mm Proto-pasta (ProtoPlant, USA) conductive PLA filament, and a terracotta membrane acting as the separator. Six cells were constructed with the electrodes designed to tightly fit with the ceramic separator when assembled. An agriculturally important plant (S. Melongena) was utilized as the model plant for testing purposes. Stacking of cells in series had resulted in severe voltage loss while stacking of cells in parallel preserved the voltage and current of the cells. Cumulative stacking verified the increasing voltage losses as more cells are connected in series, while voltage and current were generally supported well as more cells were connected in parallel. Combination stacks were also investigated, but while 2 sets of 3 cells in parallel stacked in series generated proportionately larger power and power density compared to individual cells, the drop in current density suggests that pure parallel stacks are still more attractive for scaling up, at least for the proposed stake design in this study. The results of this study indicated that the scale up of PMFC technology is possible in field applications to continuously generate electricity while growing edible plants.
Ahmad Murtaza Ershad
Journal of Renewable Energy · 2017
Renewable energy resources could play a vital role in the sustainable economic, social, and environmental development of Afghanistan. Heavy reliance of rural households on firewood, rising costs of fossil fuels, outdoor and indoor air pollution, and climate change are some of the challenges that can be addressed by diversifying our power production fuel inputs and adopting renewable energy technologies. In order to deploy and scale up renewable energy technologies and improve access to sustainable energy, clear policies and targets and dedicated institutions are crucial. Fortunately, Afghan government with the support of international community is setting ambitious targets for the renewable energy sector and is encouraging national and international investors to take part in the generation, transmission, and distribution of renewable energy especially electricity through Power Purchase Agreements or very cheap land leases. Thus, the objectives of this report are (I) to review the existing institutions in the field of renewable energy, (II) to review renewable energy policies and targets in Afghanistan, and (III) to identify institutional and policy gaps and recommend solutions.
Atieh Zabihallahpoor, Mostafa Rahimnejad, Farid Talebnia
RSC Advances · 2015
SMFCs are a bioelectricity production technology for low power applications. Recent advances in SMFCs are investigated to enhance their performance. Power improvement and organic matter reduction in SMFCs enlarge their range of applications.
Diane Pamela Entienza Palmero, Kristopher Ray Simbulan Pamintuan
International Journal of Renewable Energy Development · 2023
Plant-Microbial Fuel Cell (PMFC) is an emerging technology that converts plant waste into electrical energy through rhizodeposition, offering a renewable and sustainable source of energy. Deviating from the traditional PMFC configurations, additive manufacturing was utilized to create intricate and efficient designs using polymer-carbon composites. Concerning the agricultural sector, the effect of 3D-printed PMFCs on the growth and biomass distribution of Phaseolus lunatus and Ipomoea aquatica was determined. The experiment showed that electrostimulation promoted the average daily leaf number and plant height of both polarized plants, which were statistically proven to be greater than the control (α = 0.05), by energizing the flow of ions in the soil, boosting nutrient uptake and metabolism. It also stimulated the growth of roots, increasing the root dry mass of polarized plants by 155.44% and 66.30% for I. aquatica and P. Lunatus against their non-polarized counterpart. Due to the biofilm formation on the anode surface, the number of root nodules of the polarized P. lunatus was 51.30% higher than the control, while the protein content in the PMFC setup was 42.22% and 8.26% higher than the control for I. aquatica and P. lunatus, respectively. The voltage readings resemble the plants' average growth rate, and the polarization studies showed that the optimum external resistances in the I. aquatica- and P. lunatus-powered PMFC were 4.7 kΩ and 10 kΩ, respectively. Due to other prevailing pathways of organic carbon consumption, such as methanogenesis, the effect of polarization on the organic carbon content in soil is currently inconclusive and requires further study.
Yuanyuan Cao, Jianming Yao, Jun Li et al.
Journal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy · 2013
To reuse kitchen garbage for microbial oils, increase the liquid yield, and reduce the production cost, response surface methodology based on Box-Behnken design was employed to identify the optimum conditions for microbial oils production from kitchen garbage by the Geotrichum robustum G9 strain. Experimental results showed that the theoretical maximum lipid yield of 9.89 g/l was obtained with the following optimum conditions: time at 7.55 days, pH at 6.16, and temperature at 28 °C, when the lipid yield could reach 20 kg per ton of kitchen garbage. Analysis results on fatty acids composition and relative content by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry showed that the lipid in strain G9 cultured by kitchen garbage was mainly composed of 16-carbon and 18-carbon fatty acids. Such compositional features were similar to plant oil, the widely used feedstock for biodiesel at present. Kitchen garbage could be considered as ideal substrate for the G. robustum G9 strain for biodiesel production. The utilization of kitchen garbage for microbial oils production could reduce cost as well as reduce pollution.
Muhamad Izzuddin Bin Zamli, M. H. Maziati Akmal, Farah B Ahmad et al.
International Journal of Renewable Energy Development · 2022
In this study, chitosan thin film derived from Aspergillus oryzae cell walls was fabricated and characterised. First, the chitosan from the fungal biomass was extracted (0.18 g/g) with 52.25% of degree of deacetylation obtained through Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Subsequently, several parameters of the chitosan thin film fabrication were optimised, including chitosan solution volume and drying temperature. Resultantly, the highest mechanical quality factor (3.22±0.012), the lowest dissipation factor (0.327±0.0003) and the best tensile strength (13.35±0.045 MPa) were obtained when pure chitosan was dissolved in 35 ml of 0.25 M formic acid and dried at 60 ˚C. In addition, the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis presented a fine chitosan agglomerate distributed in the formic acid. The optimised fabricated, fungal-derived chitosan thin film was validated, recording a mechanical quality factor of 3.68 and dissipation factor of 0.248; both values were comparable to the synthetic polymer, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) thin film. Thus, fungal-derived chitosan thin film can potentially be used as a piezoelectric material.
Samuel J. King, Ante Jerkovic, Louise J. Brown et al.
Microbial Biotechnology · 2022
Summary Hydrogen is a clean alternative to fossil fuels. It has applications for electricity generation and transportation and is used for the manufacturing of ammonia and steel. However, today, H 2 is almost exclusively produced from coal and natural gas. As such, methods to produce H 2 that do not use fossil fuels need to be developed and adopted. The biological manufacturing of H 2 may be one promising solution as this process is clean and renewable. Hydrogen is produced biologically via enzymes called hydrogenases. There are three classes of hydrogenases namely [FeFe], [NiFe] and [Fe] hydrogenases. The [FeFe] hydrogenase HydA1 from the model unicellular algae Chlamydomonas reinhardtii has been studied extensively and belongs to the A1 subclass of [FeFe] hydrogenases that have the highest turnover frequencies amongst hydrogenases (21,000 ± 12,000 H 2 s −1 for Ca HydA from Clostridium acetobutyliticum ). Yet to date, limitations in C. reinhardtii H 2 production pathways have hampered commercial scale implementation, in part due to O 2 sensitivity of hydrogenases and competing metabolic pathways, resulting in low H 2 production efficiency. Here, we describe key processes in the biogenesis of HydA1 and H 2 production pathways in C. reinhardtii . We also summarize recent advancements of algal H 2 production using synthetic biology and describe valuable tools such as high‐throughput screening (HTS) assays to accelerate the process of engineering algae for commercial biological H 2 production.
Xinhui Wang, Hongyang Ren
Journal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy · 2014
Lipid accumulation in Rhodotorula glutinis CICC 31643 using sugar cane molasses as carbon source was studied. In the bath cultivation, the optimal sugar concentration and initial medium pH was 20% (w/w) and 6.0, respectively. The low C/N ratio (25 and 20) was more suitable for cell growth, while high C/N ratio (100 and 50) was more suitable for oil production. The C/N ratio 100 was the most beneficial for oil production of R. glutinis CICC 31643 with a notable lipid accumulation of 44.5% (w/w). 7.93 g/l lipid production was obtained during the fed-bath cultivation, whereas 6.31 g/l lipid production was obtained during the bath cultivation. Fatty acids produced by R. glutinis CICC 31643 were composed of oleic (C18:1), palmitic (C16:0), and stearic acid (C18:0) and the palmitic and oleic acid dominated the total of the fatty acids. It is suggested that the lipid production could be suitable for the production of good quality biodiesel.
Yumechris Amekan
International Journal of Renewable Energy Development · 2020
An essential component in sustainable energy development is the production of bioenergy from waste. The most successful bioenergy technology worldwide is anaerobic digestion (AD), which is a microbially-mediated process of organic feedstock conversion into energy-rich compounds (volatile fatty acids (VFA) and biogas) for renewable energy generation. AD is deployed in a range of situations including systems for on-farm energy recovery from animal and plant waste to the processing of food and municipal solid waste (with the additional benefit of land-fill reduction).Anaerobic digesters rely on a diverse microbial community working syntrophycally through a series of interrelated biochemical processes.Each stage in anaerobic digestion is carried out by different microbial groups. Thus, to optimise energy recovery from the AD process, the microbial community must have stable performance over time, balancing the various metabolic functions and taxonomic community composition in digesters. Complicating this balance, it has been found that the presence of ammonia, sulphate, and hydrogen sulphide in substantial concentrations often cause failure in the AD process. Thus, these substances cause adverse shifts in microbial community composition and/or inhibit bacterial growth, that influencing AD performance. ©2020. CBIORE-IJRED. All rights reserved