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Alternanthera philoxeroides and Hypophthalmichthys molitrix offer significant nutritional benefits. This study evaluates the proximate composition, amino acid profile, GC-MS analysis, FT-IR spectroscopy, SEM and EDX, and color values of edible paper sheets (EPSs) derived from Alternanthera philoxeroides incorporating different levels of Hypophthalmichthys molitrix flesh. The protein content in the EPSs varied based on fish flesh incorporation, peaking at 52.66% in Ap100/Hm300 (Non-boil). Protein and carbohydrate contents showed an inverse correlation across EPSs, with the highest carbohydrate content of 60.89% in sample Ap400/Hm0 (Boil). Lipid content was also found to correlate with H. molitrix flesh content in EPSs, ranging from 1.59% to 18.41%. Amino acid analysis identified 11 types, with methionine as the most prevalent, followed by leucine, phenylalanine, and lysine. GC-MS analysis revealed 51 bioactive compounds, including carbonic acid, hentriacontane, and various fatty acids. FT-IR analysis showed characteristic bonds, while color analysis displayed L* values ranging from 24.37 to 30.97. SEM analyses depicted the microstructure, surface view, and elemental composition of the EPSs, and EDX showed an abundance of Ca, N, K, O, C, Mg, Na, P, Cl, Mn, and Fe. Therefore, EPSs prepared from A. philoxeroides and H. molitrix could offer a promising approach for effectively utilizing aquatic biomass and providing both plant and animal nutrients to consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hibiscus cannabinus (kenaf) is an annual fiber crop grown in warm seasons and known for its remarkable productivity; it has been cultivated worldwide for thousands of years as a fiber source. While every part of the plant can be utilized for some purpose, its primary significance lies in the diverse applications of its cellulosic fiber. Kenaf features a blend of long bast and short core fibers, rendering it suitable for various industrial uses. Initially utilized for cordage and livestock feed, kenaf's applications have expanded over the last century to encompass its utilization as paper pulp, biocomposites, textiles, biomass energy, seed oil, filtration aids, industrial absorbents, and even as a component of potting medium or as a potential source of medicine. Although traditionally a niche crop, the discovery of its diverse applications positions kenaf for rapid expansion in production in the upcoming decades. This article aims to explore the manifold applications of kenaf, highlighting those with the greatest future potential and discussing those that hold promise for commercial-level application with additional research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Characterization of neutral sulphite semi-chemical black liquor (NSSCBL), sampled from paper manufacturing process that uses recycled fibers as primary feedstock, was carried out for potential bioenergy and biomaterial applications. Physico-chemical characteristics including inorganic elements content, thermogravimetric analysis, GC/MS, and FT-IR are presented. The black liquor of the recycled fibers in the manufacturing process revealed unique characteristics in terms of chemical composition profile compared to the black liquor originating from regular pulp and paper industries. The major findings include the presence of chemical compounds, from a non-plant origin, such as derivatives of hexanedioic acid in significant quantities. The favorable biofuel characteristics of this black liquor are: neutral pH, a higher volatile content, and HHV. The recycled paper NSSCBL can be a good candidate for biomaterial and biofuel applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, a paper-based glucose/air biofuel cell (BFC) was constructed and implemented for self-powered pesticide detection. Our developed paper-based chip relies on a hollow-channel to transport fluids rather than capillarity, which reduces analysis times as well as physical absorption. The gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were adapted to modify the paper fibers to fabricate the flexible conductive paper anode/cathode electrode (Au–PAE/CNT–PCE). Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) using 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) as a template were synthesized on Au–PAE for signal control. In the cathode, bilirubin oxidase (BOD) was used for the oxygen reduction reaction. Based on a competitive reaction between 2,4-D and glucose-oxidase-labeled 2,4-D (GOx-2,4-D), the amount of GOx immobilized on the bioanode can be simply tailored, thus a signal-off self-powered sensing platform was achieved for 2,4-D determination. Meanwhile, the coupling of the paper supercapacitor (PS) with the paper-based chip provides a simple route for signal amplification. Combined with a portable digital multi-meter detector, the amplified signal can be sensitively readout. Through rational design of the paper analytical device, the combination of BFC and PS provides a new prototype for constructing a low-cost, simple, portable, and sensitive self-powered biosensor lab-on-paper, which could be easily expanded in the field of clinical analysis and drug delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The EU has set the ambitious target of raising the share of EU energy consumption produced from renewable resources to 32% by 2030, with a target of climate neutrality by 2050. The aim of this paper is to assess the role of biomass usage in the context of these targets. The paper identifies the progress made between 2013 and 2022 by focusing on a selection of EU countries. The largest bioenergy increments of 130, 77, and 60 PJ were reported for Poland, Sweden, and the Netherlands. This study evaluates the crucial role of co-generation and heat in EU regions, with biomass usage between 55 and 80% of the combined heat and power (CHP) energy in Nordic countries. The future perspectives for bioenergy based on EU policies, biomass resources, and technical issues were addressed. The EU possesses around 9% of the global biomass supply, ensuring a certain level of biomass resource dependence. Thus, the biomass usage demand in energy production, non-energy sectors, and transport is expected to rise, leading to increments of 13–76% on biomass imports. It appears that bioenergy development is mostly limited by economic issues and uneven support for bioenergy in different EU countries as well as environmental issues. The study shows a promising and sustainable potential of bioenergy in the EU as a renewable energy source while minimizing negative impacts on the environment and the economy. By 2050, liquid biofuels are likely to be increasingly used in the transport sector. Non-energy sector usage of biomass is still in an early stage of development, except for the pulp and paper industry, and significant use of biomass in non-energy sectors seems unlikely in the near future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The state of Wisconsin has existing pulp mill infrastructure capable of converting wood into biofuel and value-added products such as lumber, pulp, and paper. Each day, pulp and paper mills produce a waste material that is commonly referred to as sludge. Sludge is typically sent to a landfill or concentrated for burning to produce steam. The primary material present in pulp and paper mill sludge is fiber, which is mostly cellulose. This study showed how to convert pulp mill waste to fermentable sugars using commercially available enzymes. Preliminary economic analysis has shown that sludge can be converted into a fermentable sugar with chemicals costing less than $0.10 per pound of sugar produced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper-based biofuel cells have the potential to serve as health monitoring devices for urinary glucose and volume by incorporating the fabricated electrodes into nursing diapers. In this study, we evaluate the output power and stability of a biofuel cell by combining 3D impedance measurement and admittance analysis. The 3D impedance-based analysis method can simultaneously detect changes in the overall electrode structure of the enzyme electrode and in the quantity of active enzymes and mediators on the electrode surface. The biofuel cell electrodes were fabricated via screen-printing, using polydimethylglycidyl (poly-GMA)- modified MgO-templated carbon (GMgOC) or poly-GMA-unmodified MgO-templated carbon (NMgOC). The enzymes used were flavin adenine dinucleotide-dependent glucose dehydrogenase and bilirubin oxidase, with Azure-A serving as the mediator. Admittance analysis was utilized to measure the enzyme activity and estimate the charge transfer resistance by extrapolating the spectra obtained through admittance analysis. The charge transfer resistances of both electrodes exhibited a greater stability for the GMgOC electrode. This can be attributed to the covalent immobilization of the enzyme and mediator on the electrode facilitated by GMgOC, effectively suppressing enzyme and mediator elution. The electric double-layer capacitance values of both electrodes indicated the overall stability of the electrode structure during the measurement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: To overcome declining markets and low-cost competition, Canadian pulp and paper (P&P) mills are considering the diversification of their product platform. Investing in bioenergy is emerging as a promising way to boost the sector. In this paper, we present a mathematical programming approach to evaluate the profitability of bioenergy investments in the case of a P&P mill, while assessing technical and associated economic risks. The mill, called the integrated forest biorefinery (IFBR), could produce a set of high-value bioproducts from biomass generated in the mill or supplied from outside. P&P activity generates residues, such as black liquor and pulp sludge, which could be used to produce bioenergy. P&P activity should then be well managed, by considering the possibility of temporarily stopping the production of P&P, while assuming the costs associated with the shutdowns. The objective is to develop a mathematically-based approach for investors and stakeholders, within the forest sector that aims to optimise the value creation network of the IFBR and to maximise the profitability of future investments in bioenergy, while optimising the existing P&P activity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A great interest has been arising about the production of fuels and advanced chemicals from renewable resources such as wooden biomass in the so-called biorefineries. Pulp and paper mills are often seen as the most obvious fundamental module of such industrial sites, because of the common feedstock and the chemical transformations that already occur in the process. In this paper the model of real Kraft pulp and paper mill is developed and optimized from energetic point of view using process integration techniques, in order to assess the potential for energy saving and to establish a starting point for future research on biorefinery sites. Improvements to the configurations of the multi-effect evaporator and of the steam cycle in the CHP system have been introduced, and three different levels of heat integration boundaries have been considered (multi-effect evaporator, mill sub-processes, and total site). Results indicate a significant potential for the decrease in thermal energy requirement and/or the increase in power production for the same pulp and paper production. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: As a significant fraction of municipal solid waste, waste paper is a potential source for producing bioethanol. In the present paper, bioethanol production from various waste papers (newspaper, office paper, cardboard and magazine) using an enzyme complex (Cellic Ctec 1) was evaluated from an economic standpoint. Four bases cases without pre-treatment and two state-of-the-art cases (including dilute acid pre-treatment for office paper and oxidative lime pre-treatment for newspaper) were constructed using laboratory experimental data, literature values, expert consultations and simulation using AspenPlus™. Several scenarios were also carried out to assess the sensitivity of various technology parameters (i.e. solids loading in saccharification, anaerobic digestion and fermentation efficiency, and sugar yields in pre-treatment). The sensitivity analysis suggested that the economic performance of bioethanol produced from waste paper could be improved significantly with an up to 25% reduction in minimum ethanol selling price (MESP) by increasing solids loading in saccharification and with a 6% reduction in MESP by enhancing fermentation efficiency. The comparison of the bioethanol selling price at pump (reference year 2009) and the petrol price showed bioethanol produced from newspaper, office paper and cardboard were economically competitive with petrol. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract This work investigates the use of biomass fly ash (BFA) and an alkaline effluent (AEF), both generated from the Kraft pulp industry, in the preparation of geopolymeric binders and mortars for construction applications. BFA replaced the metakaolin (MK) while the AEF substituted the distilled water used to dissolve NaOH pellets. The mix design aims to maximize the amount of both the wastes and to optimize the materials properties, such as workability and mechanical performance. At the same time, also the environmental impact decreases enhancing the materials' sustainability and facilitating the circular economy. For the previously optimized BFA/MK ratio (70/30 wt.%) several NaOH/Na 2 SiO 3 ratios and water to AEF substitutions were tested. The best performance was achieved for the alkaline activator having one part of NaOH and three parts of Na 2 SiO 3. According to the main results, the biologic AEF can totally replace the distilled water in the NaOH preparation. Thus will increase the sustainability of the novel materials. Subsequently, the optimized binder was used – with and without AEF - to manufacture mortars with various binder/aggregate ratios. It is concluded that the formulations with a binder/aggregate mass proportion of 1:3 showed the best mechanical performance (compressive strength surpassing 20 MPa, class M20) and the replacement of distilled water with AEF did not affect the specimens final properties, but enhance the materials sustainability. Furthermore, in the pursuit of sustainability, manufacture and curing were conducted at ambient conditions (20 °C, 65% RH), avoiding any external source of energy, involving simple, reproducible, and low-cost processes. Graphical abstract Image Highlights • Biomass alkaline effluent is used for the first time as geopolymer activator. • Biomass fly ash are used as main alumina-silicate source (70 wt.%). • Used industrial wastes are of biologic nature. • Manufacture is highly sustainable and reproducible. • Novel geopolymeric binders and mortars are suitable for structural applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Waste papers (newspaper, office paper, magazines and cardboard in this study) with 50–73% (w/w oven dry weight) carbohydrate contents have considerable potential as raw materials for bioethanol production. A particle size reduction step of wet blending prior to enzymatic hydrolysis of newspaper was found to increase the glucan conversion efficiency by up to 10%. High-solids loading hydrolysis at 15% (w/w) of four types of paper using two enzyme alternatives, Celluclast 1.5L supplemented with Novozyme 188 and Cellic Ctec 1 (Novozymes A/S, Demark), at various enzyme concentrations were successfully performed in a lab-scale overhead-stirred reactor. This work has identified the relative saccharification performance for the four types of paper and shows office paper and cardboard to be more suitable for producing bioethanol than newspaper or magazine paper. The experimental data were also very well described by a modified, simple three parameter glucan and xylan hydrolysis model. These findings provide the possibility for incorporating this validated kinetic model into process designs required for commercial scale bioethanol production from waste paper resources. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The pulp and paper industry faces several challenges linked to climate and environmental impact, resource efficiency, rising energy prices, increased competition for biomass resources, and declining demand for traditional printed paper products. However, these challenges also offer strategic opportunities for the industry to develop into a competitive, resource-efficient, and low-carbon industry in line with a biobased economy. Against this background, this paper aims to analyse current energy strategies in the pulp and paper industry in Sweden. Specifically, the paper analyses how companies combine continuous process efficiency to reduce energy costs with activities that could be developed into new energy-related products to increase revenue. Most of the analysed companies work to various degrees with both these strategies, employing methods that include improving energy efficiency, energy security, and energy conversion, as well as developing a wide range of biobased energy products. However, our study indicates that there is an untapped potential associated with energy product development, and we conclude that energy efficiency measures can free up resources, enabling the development of new energy products. Finally, several potential managerial outcomes and implications are outlined. • The paper analyses the energy strategies in the pulp and paper industry in Sweden. • Energy strategies focus both to improve energy efficiency and develop new energy-products. • The companies' energy strategies combined exploitation and exploration. • A number of managerial implications are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Certain paper industry wastes display high recycling potential. In this investigation, the feasibility of using green liquor dregs and biomass fly ash from the paper industry as filler in hot-mix asphalt (HMA) for road pavement construction is analysed. Particularly, the moisture damage resistance (i.e., water sensitivity) of an AC 22 base B50/70 G has been studied using the Indirect Tensile Strength Test at the Marshall mix design optimum asphalt content. The most important filler properties have been determined to study water resistance: filler water content, grain size distribution using light scattering analysis techniques, morphology using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), chemical and mineralogical composition using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques, detrimental fines content using the methylene blue test and the stiffening effect of the filler in the mastic by determining the ring and ball (R&B) softening temperature and the bitumen penetration grade. Additionally, the Rolling Bottle method and Boiling Water tests have been conducted to analyse the asphalt-aggregate bond. A control filler (i.e., commercial limestone filler) was used to compare the results. Also the mechanical properties (stiffness and resistance to the permanent deformation) of the mixtures were studied. As a result, it can be concluded that dregs have poor water resistance. Additionally, fly ash displayed inadequate water resistance for HMA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ample interest for more efficient utilization of bio-based residues has emerged in the Nordic pulp and paper (P&P) industry, which uses virgin wood as feedstock. Although different bioenergy retrofit technologies for production of liquid, solid, and gaseous bioenergy products have been applied in the existing P&P mills, the number of installations remains small. The lack of profound knowledge of existing bioenergy retrofits hinders the replication and market uptake of potential technologies. This review synthesises the existing knowledge of European installations and identifies the key drivers and barriers for implementation to foster the market uptake of potential technologies. The bioenergy retrofits were reviewed in terms of technical maturity, drivers, barriers and market potential. Based on this evaluation, common drivers and barriers towards wider market uptake were outlined from political, economic, social, technical, environmental, and legal perspective. Technologies already commercially applied include anaerobic fermentation of sludge, bark gasification, tall oil diesel and bioethanol production, whereas lignin extraction, biomethanol production, hydrothermal liquefaction and hydrothermal carbonization are being demonstrated or first applications are under construction. The findings of this review show that a stable flow of residues at P&P mills creates a solid base for retrofitting. New innovative bio-based products would allow widening the companies' product portfolios and creating new businesses. Also, European Union's (EU) legislation drives towards advanced biofuels production. Wider uptake of the retrofitting technologies requires overcoming the barriers related to uncertainty of economic feasibility and unestablished markets for new products rather than technical immaturity. • Bioenergy retrofits can widen the product portfolio of the pulp and paper industry. • Bioenergy retrofits in Europe were comprehensively reviewed for the first time. • Drivers and barriers for the market uptake were assessed from different perspectives. • Retrofits support the REDII targets for advanced biofuels in transport sector. • Utilization of residues for bioenergy products improves mills' resource efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fly ash (FA) and exhausted bed sands (sands wastes) that are generated in biomass burners for energy production are two of the wastes generated in the pulp and paper industry. The worldwide production of FA biomass is estimated at 10 million tons/year and is expected to increase. In this context, the present work aims to develop one-part alkali-activated materials with biomass FA (0–100 wt.% of the binder) and sands wastes (100 wt.% of the aggregate). FA from two different boilers, CA and CT, was characterized and the mortar's properties, in the fresh and hardened conditions, were evaluated. Overall, the incorporation of FA decreases the compressive strength of the specimens. However, values higher than 30 MPa are reached with 50 wt.% of FA incorporation. For CA and CT, the compressive strength of mortars with 28 days of curing was 59.2 MPa (0 wt.%), 56.9 and 57.0 MPa (25 wt.%), 34.9 and 46.8 MPa (50 wt.%), 20.5 and 13.5 MPa (75 wt.%), and 9.2 and 0.2 MPa (100 wt.%), respectively. The other evaluated characteristics (density, water absorption, leached components and freeze–thaw resistance) showed no significant differences, except for the specimen with 100 wt.% of CA. Therefore, this work proved that one-part geopolymeric materials with up to 90 wt.% of pulp and paper industrial residues (FA and sand) can be produced, thus reducing the carbon footprint associated with the construction sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In order to make 2nd-generation biofuels more competitive, high solid-matter content has to be reached. To progress towards this target, the mechanism for destructuring lignocellulose fibres in semidilute conditions has to be well understood, as this configuration shows the basic mechanism which limits transfers and efficiency. This study aims to delve deeply into the biophysical and transfer limitations occurring during enzymatic hydrolysis. A specific experimental set-up associating in-situ and ex-situ physical (rheometry, chord length analysis) and biochemical analysis was used to expand the knowledge of hydrolysis of extruded softwood paper pulp over 24 h under different substrate concentrations (1%–3%) and enzyme doses (Accellerase 1500, 5 and 25 FPU/g cellulose). Non-Newtonian behaviour associated with pronounced yield stress stand as the major factors limiting process efficiency. A critical time was deduced from viscosity evolution, and the existence of a unique, dimensionless viscosity-time curve was established, suggesting similar mechanisms for fibre degradation. In addition, chord length distribution allowed for the description of population evolution and was discussed in the light of in-situ viscosity and hydrolysis yield. Physical (viscosity, particle size) and biochemical (substrate) kinetics were modelled (second-order) and coefficients identified. A chronology of the encountered phenomenological limitations demonstrates the necessity of optimising bioprocesses by considering physical parameters. A reference feed rate is proposed in order to reach high solid loading under fed-batch strategy. Highlights • An in- & ex-situ multiscale approach was used to study the paper pulp hydrolysis. • The bio-physical and transfer limitations during hydrolysis were investigated. • A non-Newtonian behaviour was the major factor limiting process efficiency. • A unique dimensionless viscosity-time curve was identified. • A reference feed rate is proposed to reach high solid loading with fed-batch mode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the first time, a paper based enzymatic fuel cell is used as self-recharged supercapacitor. In this supercapacitive enzymatic fuel cell (SC-EFC), the supercapacitive features of the electrodes are exploited to demonstrate high power output under pulse operation. Glucose dehydrogenase-based anode and bilirubin oxidase-based cathode were assembled to a quasi-2D capillary-driven microfluidic system. Capillary flow guarantees the continuous supply of glucose, cofactor and electrolytes to the anodic enzyme and the gas-diffusional cathode design provides the passive supply of oxygen to the catalytic layer of the electrode. The paper-based cell was self-recharged under rest and discharged by high current pulses up to 4 mA cm −2 . The supercapacitive behavior and low equivalent series resistance of the cell permitted to achieve up to a maximum power of 0.87 mW cm −2 (10.6 mW) for pulses of 0.01 s at 4 mA cm −2 . This operation mode allowed the system to achieve at least one order of magnitude higher current/power generation compared to the steady state operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • New biocathode including BOD, 4-APA, and BP electrode (BP/4-APA/BOD is suggested. • The biocathode is prepared by electrografting method. • Membraneless paper type EBFCs using this biocathode are fabricated. • This paper type EBFC is well operated even in a condition of living body fluid. • OCV/MPD of this paper type EBFC are 0.612 ± 0.002 V/92.025 ± 0.892 μW cm−2. A new biocathode consisting of bilirubin oxidase (BOD), 4-aminophthalic acid (4-APA) and buckypaper (BP) electrode is suggested for enzymatic biofuel cells (EBFCs). Here, to enhance the electron transfer rate of BOD, electrografting method is imported. When this method and 4-APA are utilized, BP surface has negative charges by the polarity arrangement of 4-APA, forming BP/4-APA structure. With the modification of surface charge, T1 active site within BODs having positive charges are strongly bonded with the negative charges of BP/4-APA in neutral pH condition, while the orientation of T1 site is well aligned by electrostatic interaction. This treatment increases both reactivities of cathodic reaction and EBFC performance. To prove that, the performance of membraneless paper-type EBFCs using the new flexible BP/4-APA/BOD biocathode is investigated. According to the evaluations, their maximum power density and open circuit voltage are 92.025 ± 0.892 μW cm−2 and 0.612 ± 0.002 V with injection of 10 mM glucose which is a condition of living body fluid. Such performances are far better than those of other membraneless EBFCs and are large enough to be utilized as a power source of implantable devices for the human body. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The demand for biomass utilization is increasing because of the depletion of fossil resources that are non-renewable in nature. Lignin is the second most renewable organic carbon source, but currently it has limited scope for application in the chemical and fuel industries. Lignin is a side product of the paper and pulp, sugar, and 2G bioethanol industries. Many research groups are working on the value-addition of lignin. Among the lignin depolymerization methods, catalytic hydropyrolysis is gaining attention and is playing a crucial role in developing biorefinery. The hydropyrolysis of lignin was conducted at a higher temperature in the presence of H2. The hydropyrolysis of lignin results in the selective formation of non-oxygenated cyclic hydrocarbons in a shorter reaction time. It is possible to use the cyclic hydrocarbons directly as a fuel or they can be blended with conventional gasoline. This review focuses on the prior art of pyrolysis and hydropyrolysis of lignin. Possible products of lignin hydropyrolysis and suitable synthetic routes to obtain non-oxygenated cyclic hydrocarbons are also discussed. The influence of various process parameters, such as type of reactor, metal catalyst, nature of catalytic supports, reaction temperature, and H2 pressure are discussed with regard to the hydropyrolysis of lignin to achieve good selectivity of cyclic hydrocarbons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work addresses the development of a compact paper-based enzymatic microfluidic glucose/O 2 fuel cell that can operate using a very limited sample volume (≈35 µl) and explores the energy generated by glucose at concentrations typically found in blood samples at physiological conditions (pH 7.4). Carbon paper electrodes combined with a paper sample absorption substrate all contained within a plastic microfluidic casing are used to construct the paper-based fuel cell. The anode catalysts consist of glucose dehydrogenase and [Os(4,4′-dimethoxy-2,2′-bipyridine) 2 (poly-vinylimidazole) 10 Cl] + as mediator, while the cathode catalysts were bilirubin oxidase and [Os(2,2′-bipyridine) 2 (poly-vinylimidazole) 10 Cl] + as mediator. The fuel cell delivered a linear power output response to glucose over the range of 2.5–30 mM, with power densities ranging from 20 to 90 µW cm −2 . The quantification of the available electrical power as well as the energy density extracted from small synthetic samples allows planning potential uses of this energy to power different sensors and analysis devices in a wide variety of in-vitro applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The yield and kappa number of kraft pulps from tall wheatgrass, tall fescue, tall oatgrass, and Miscanthus were determined after pulping with 0.9% active alkali per 1% lignin content in raw materials. Fibre properties and test papers were also studied to evaluate the usefulness of these plants for papermaking. These results were compared with pulps prepared from birch and pine wood. Kraft pulps from the straws of grasses had yields similar to that of pulp from pine wood and lower kappa numbers than pulps from birch and pine wood. The tested pulps exhibited a favourable number of fibres in 1 g of pulp, and they resulted in papers with clearly differentiated properties from very resistant to rupture dense papers with very low air permeability, to less resistant to breaking more bulky papers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bioconversion of lignocellulosic biomass into monomeric sugars is a key economic difficulty hindering the profitable use of plant biomass as energy. The production of cellulase is a main factor in the cellulose hydrolysis. Among the main cellulase producers are the filamentous fungi. Therefore, many efforts have been made in obtaining new microorganisms with high cellulase secretion capacity. The cellulase secretory capacity of 28 isolates of Trichoderma was qualitatively and quantitatively evaluated. The detection of cellulolytic fungi was correlated with both Congo red and the dinitrosalicylic acid reagent methods. Based on qualitatively assays, sixteen of the isolates revealed carboxymethyl cellulose degradation ability, where the Trichoderma POS7 isolate showed the highest increase in filter paper activity, endo-1,4-ß-glucanases and ß-glucosidases activities (p<0.05) in a short incubation time. This isolate was molecularly identified as Trichoderma koningiopsis, based on internal transcribed spacer sequences. Our results provide new information and reveal new microorganism in the hydrolysis of cellulose material. The phylogenetic analysis revealed close positioning of T. koningiopsis clade with T. viride, T. viridescens and T. petersenii clades in a closely related group, in concordance with the current taxonomic classification of Trichoderma genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Densified biomass pellets using waste wood sawdust (S) as main materials and wrapping paper fiber (P) as “solid bridge”, named as P/S-BPs, was prepared by a hydraulic press powder pelletizer under room temperature and pressure lower than10MPa. The effects of the addition of P to S and the compressed pressure on the density, resiliency (R), abrasion resistance (AR), impact resistance index (IRI)) and the combustion behavior of the P/S-BPs were investigated. The results showed that the addition of P to S greatly reduced the negative effects of resiliencies on the densities and mechanical properties of P/S-BPs during storage. For example, P/S-BPs compressed at 6MPa in a P/S mass ratio of 1–3 showed the smooth surface and low resiliency of 10% with a high relaxed density of 1.08kgm−3. This is due to the strengthened interlocking bonds through fabricating “solid bridge” and increasing attracting force by adding P to resist the disruptive force created by elastic recovery even under low pressure. Combustion results showed that the addition of P decreased the soot index (SI) due to the lower devolatilization rate and burnout rate, and increased the HHV per unit volume because of its high relaxed density. Thus, compression of waste P and S in a P/S mass ratio of 1–3 at room temperature under 6MPa is a cost-effective process to produce densified sustainable bio-fuel from waste S and P as well as dispose them. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article presents a research which investigates the bioconversion of paper sludge (PS) into bioethanol by simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) using a PS based cellulase from Acremonium cellulolyticus and thermotolerant Saccharomyces cerevisiae TJ14. It is stated that using cellulase of PS origin minimized biofuel production costs, as the culture broth containing cellulase can be used directly. Results showed that ethanol concentration increased with increasing PS organic material (PSOM) concentration, up to 150 g/l. An increase in cellulase concentration or the yeast inoculum did not result in significant improvement in ethanol yield.

Lignocellulosic biomass (LB) is widely used in the field of renewable energy production because of its low price and easy availability. Many kinds of fuels from LB have been developed and are being used in our daily lives. The LB energy has become an indispensable part in the energy mix on account of its steady and sustainable supply. However, there are some neglected issues and misconceptions regarding its development and utilization, although it has numerous advantages over other energy sources. Firstly, its development and utilization can change the living environment of organisms and decrease biodiversity to some extent, relative to using other sources of energy. Secondly, it is not a completely carbon-neutralized fuel as has been claimed in some literature. Finally, its excessive exploitation can seriously damage the environment and biosystems. This editorial will give a brief discussion on some neglected issues and misconceptions during its development and utilization for its suitable exploitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: There is an extensively growing interest in using paper or paper-like substrates for batteries and other energy storage devices. Due to their intrinsic characteristics, paper (or paper-like) batteries show outstanding performance while retaining low cost, multifunctionality, versatility, flexibility and disposability. In this overview, we review recent achievements in paper (or paper-like) batteries as well as their applications. Various types of paper power devices are discussed including electrochemical batteries, biofuel cells, lithium-ion batteries, supercapacitors, and nanogenerators. Further scientific and technological challenges in this field are also discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The sugarcane industry has assumed an increasingly important role at a global level, with countries such as Brazil and India dominating the field. However, this causes environmental problems, since the industry produces large amounts of waste, such as sugarcane bagasse. This by-product, which is energetically partially recovered in sugar mills and in the pulp and paper industry, can make a significant contribution to the general use of biomass energy, if the usual disadvantages associated with products with low density and a high moisture content are overcome. From this perspective, thermochemical conversion technologies, especially torrefaction, are assumed to be capable of improving the fuel properties of this material, making it more appealing for potential export and use in far-off destinations. In this work, sugarcane samples were acquired, and the process of obtaining bagasse was simulated. Subsequently, the bagasse was dried and heat-treated at 200 and 300 °C to simulate the over-drying and torrefaction process. Afterward, product characterization was performed, including thermogravimetric analysis, elemental analysis, calorimetry, and energy densification. The results showed significant improvements in the energy content, from 18.17 to 33.36 MJ·kg−1 from dried bagasse to torrefied bagasse at 300 °C, showing that despite high mass loss, there is potential for a future value added chain for this waste form, since the increment in energy density could enhance its transportation and use in locations far off the production site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates online moisture measurement of biofuel employing a strip line cavity resonator at approximately 366 MHz, attached above and below the conveyor belt. An existing sensor design is modified for the factory assembly, and the correct operation has been tested prior to this paper with a small number of measurement points and collected reference samples (n = 67). The purpose is now to concentrate on the accuracy of the measurement and increase the number of measurement points (n = 367). The measurements were made in 5 different lots, and the thickness and moisture properties of the biomaterial mat were varied between minimum and maximum levels by adjusting the settings of the belt filter press that presses pulp slush into a mat. In order to further reduce inaccuracy, at the maximum one standard deviation was allowed from the average height of the equivalent water layer for each dataset, and consequently the number of samples was reduced to 235. A linear fit and a parabola fit were determined for thickness of the equivalent water layer vs. the relative resonant frequency shift: R2 = 0.82 and R2 = 0.78. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The MixAlco™ process biologically converts biomass to carboxylate salts that may be chemically converted to a wide variety of chemicals and fuels. This study looked at the viability of the following substrates: office paper, pineapple residue, Aloe vera rinds, wood molasses, sugar molasses, and glycerol. All agricultural substrates were initially tested to determine their carbohydrate and lignin content because lignin reduces substrate digestibility. Only pineapple residue had a high enough lignin content (18.3%) to necessitate pretreatment. Pineapple residue was treated with excess lime (300gkg−1 Ca(OH)2 on dry biomass, t =1h) and then neutralized with CO2, which reduced the lignin content to 4.89%. All substrates were anaerobically fermented in batch culture with marine microorganisms for 24 days. The acid concentrations (g mixed acid L−1) were Aloe vera (25.5), office paper (24.0), glycerol (22.6), pineapple residue (17.2), wood molasses (19.4) and sugar molasses (18.9). The conversions (g volatile solids digested g−1 volatile solids fed) were Aloe vera (0.59), office paper (0.50), glycerol (0.62), pineapple residue (0.52), wood molasses (0.42) and sugar molasses (0.82). The selectivities (g acetic acid equivalents g−1 VS digested) were Aloe vera (0.64), office paper (0.62), glycerol (0.51), pineapple residue (0.39), wood molasses (0.61) and sugar molasses (0.33). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Arctic melting is an effect of climate change; the use of fossil fuels in marine shipping emits large amounts of air emissions that impact climate change, and Arctic aquatic and human life. Swedish pulp and paper mills generate large amounts of waste and side streams that could be utilized. The production of forest-based biofuel may be a promising solution to achieve sustainable Arctic marine shipping. This review highlights the socio-economic impacts associated with the production of forest-based biofuel in Sweden, the related opportunities, challenges, knowledge gaps, and further need of research. From the economic perspective, it was found that the production and use of forest-based biofuel have short and long-term economic sustainability benefits: (a) short-term benefits, the use of the waste and side streams of the pulp and paper industry is a low-cost available feedstock, unlike first-generation biofuel from crops like corn forest-based biofuels neither require additional land use, water resources nor compete with food. (b) Long-term benefits: (i) the Swedish shipping sector depends on imported fossil fuels, these new biofuels can replace partly those imported fossil fuels that will reduce shipping costs, and generate economic benefits for local consumers. (ii) Usage of forest-based biofuels as blends with conventional fuels in existing engines will reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the Arctic shipping to the set limits in the region. (iii) One of the important socioeconomic impacts of forest-based biofuel production and use is the new job creation and employment opportunities that will impact the local communities and livelihoods of indigenous people in the area. From a societal perspective, stakeholder involvement is essential to address the sustainability challenges of biofuel production: EU policymakers need to encourage the production and use of biofuels by developing policies that promote biofuel use. Further studies are needed to develop more efficient and low-cost biofuel production routes, more investments in related research and development are required as well. Local indigenous communities must be involved in the decision-making process through surveys, local dialogues, and research studies. The production of forest-based biofuels has great potential and many social-economic impacts alongside the environmental benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Printable wearable lactate biosensors have attracted significant attention, and printable lactate biofuel cells have gained popularity as suitable power supplies for these sensors. However, realizing an appropriate power supply for the practical application of these sensors as wearable devices, it is necessary to improve the output of lactate biofuel cells. In this study, we fabricated a lactate biofuel cell that employed paper substrate using screen printing. The proposed paper-based biofuel cell (PBFC) features a novel electrode design that affords an open circuit voltage of approximately 3.4 V when using an array with six cells in series. Furthermore, a 6 × 6 array of the lactate biofuel cell, i.e., an array comprising six cells in series and six cells in parallel, yielded a power output of 4.3 mW. To the best of our knowledge, this output of the proposed design is higher than those of previously reported lactate biofuel cells. Arrays of the proposed cell were capable of driving a Bluetooth low-energy device for wireless transmission, without requiring a booster circuit. A commercially available activity meter could be driven for 1.5 h using artificial sweat to fuel a 6 × 6 array of the PBFCs. • Thin, wearable paper-based lactate biofuel cells fabricated via screen printing. • These cells yielded power outputs exceeding those of similar previous cells. • Arrays of these cells drove a Bluetooth low-energy device, without a booster circuit. • A commercially available activity meter could also be driven by these arrays. • The proposed cell design is expected to have widespread practical applicability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable power generation for portable electronic devices is of high interest due to increasing energy demands. Miniaturized biofuel cells are well-reported for this purpose where ubiquitous fluids, like glucose or lactate, can be leveraged. However, such biofuel cells need enzymes to complete the catalysis, leading to many prevalent issues like the longevity of enzymes, complicated immobilization, additional mediators etc. Therefore, non-enzymatic glucose biofuel cells (NEGBFCs) are gaining interest due to their cost-effectiveness, high repeatability and excellent stability. However, based on our best knowledge such glucose biofuel cells are not reported in microfluidic environment, and therefore their potential is not exploited. Realization of the functionality of such NEGBFCs in a microscale is crucial to replace them with their enzymatic counterparts. In this work, for the first time, a microfluidic non-enzymatic glucose biofuel cell (μNEGBFC) is developed on a paper-based platform using metallic catalysts. The catalysts for electrocatalytic energy generation is fabricated using electrodeposition method and their detailed physicochemical characterizations are done. The μNEGBFC is capable of producing a power density of 12.5 μW/cm2 with a stable potential of 410 mV. This green power output can be used to operate low-power micro-devices and lab-on-chip sensors in a more continual and viable manner. [Display omitted] • A simple, cost-effective electrodeposition technique was used for electrode fabrication. • Gold deposited anode and copper deposited cathode were used as electrodes. • A paper-based Microfluidic Non-Enzymatic Biofuel Cell (μNGBFC) was constructed. • The developed μNGBFC generated a power density of 12.5 μW/cm2. • The μNGBFC was capable of retaining 56% of the initial power after 72 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, eco-friendly and disposable paper-based membraneless microfluidic enzymatic fuel cells (EFCs) were developed without any mediators to reduce the toxicity and cost of EFCs. Glucose oxidase and laccase were immobilized on multi-walled carbon nanotube electrodes to catalyze the redox reaction of glucose and oxygen. Micromachining techniques well-suited for mass production were used to precisely fabricate micro-scale Y-shaped and cross-shaped EFCs. Experimental measurements showed that the concentration of glucose in the fuel solution affects the cell performance, which occurs because the flow speed of the fuel stream decreases as the concentration of glucose increases. The highest performance of power density (104.2 ± 3.35 μW cm−2) and current density (615.6 ± 3.14 μA cm−2) were obtained with the Y-shaped channel configuration at a glucose concentration of 100 mM. This performance is the best of all paper-based single EFCs reported to date. The new paper-based co-laminar flow mediatorless EFC exhibits strong potential to power miniaturized and portable on-site diagnostic devices. • The first mediatorless paper-based co-laminar flow enzymatic fuel cell was developed. • A glucose biofuel cell was micromachined to be precise and mass-producible. • The microchannel of the biofuel cell was designed with Y-shaped and cross-shaped structures. • Electrolyte flow speed decreased with the rise of glucose concentration in the electrolyte. • The proposed fuel cell shows better performance than enzymatic fuel cells with a mediator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Ex-situ catalytic pyrolysis of paper sludge was demonstrated in a pilot plant. • >99 wt% of minerals in the paper sludge are recovered. • The bio-oil with HHV of 40.9 MJ kg−1 is produced with a carbon yield of 21%. • The bio-based chemicals mainly contain paraffins, olefins, and aromatics. Paper sludge is a solid waste by-product abundantly produced in the paper industry and contains fine minerals and lignocellulosic biomass. In this contribution, the ex-situ catalytic fast pyrolysis of paper sludge with a high mineral content of ca. 71 wt% is reported for the first time and demonstrated in a pilot-scale unit (feeding rate of 11.3 kg h−1) using a granular Na 2 CO 3 /γ-Al 2 O 3 catalyst (loading of 650 g) to produce a high-grade bio-oil at a fast pyrolysis temperature of 475 ± 5 °C (pre-screened using a pyroprobe) and a catalytic upgrading temperature of 500 °C. Besides, > 99 wt% minerals in the paper sludge could be recovered, including paper fillers such as CaCO 3 (major) and talc. The bio-oil obtained at a carbon yield of 21 C.% has a low oxygen content of 3.2 wt%, a low total acidity number of 5.2 mg KOH g−1, low H 2 O content of 0.7 wt%, and a high higher heating value of 40.9 MJ kg−1. It consists of value-added bio-based chemicals such as paraffins, olefins, and low molecular weight aromatics. The results demonstrate that the use of paper sludge to recover minerals and to obtain fuels and chemicals using ex-situ catalytic pyrolysis is technically feasible at a pilot plant scale, which will be of importance for the development of future bio-based economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study is to analyze the economic viability of municipal household solid waste (organic matter + paper) for the production of gas, coke and biofuel through the pyrolysis and distillation process. The waste was collected in the city of Belém do Pará-Brazil and pretreated at the Federal University of Pará. The analyzed fraction (organic matter + paper) was subjected to the pretreatment of drying, crushing, and sieving and was subsequently subjected to proximate characterization and, finally, pyrolysis of the organic fraction (organic matter + paper) in a fixed bed reactor. Initially, it was necessary to review the literature, and with the yields obtained by pyrolysis of the fraction, economic feasibility analyses were carried out. The economic indicators for evaluating the most viable pyrolysis process were basic payback, discounted payback, net present value, internal rate of return, and profitability index, which are all financial metrics commonly used in investment analysis and decision making. These metrics provide valuable insights into the financial viability and attractiveness of investment projects. They are essential tools for assessing the feasibility and profitability of various ventures, helping decision-makers make informed choices in allocating resources. The analysis of the indicators showed the economic viability considering an analysis horizon of 10 years of materials based on organic material and paper. The breakeven point obtained was USD 0.96/dm3 and the minimum biofuel sales price found in this project was USD 1.30/dm3. The sensitivity research found that material costs (organic matter + paper), bio-oil yield, total project investment and electricity, respectively, are the variables that most affect the minimum biofuel sales price. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and aim. Prototheca is the only alga regarded as pathogenic. Much less frequently, infections can be also caused by Chlorella, which is a widely-known dietary supplement. Unlike Prothoteca algae, Chlorella contains chlorophyll and can be used in the production of biofuel as well as electric and thermal energy. The purpose of this review is to analyze cases of chlorella infection. Material and methods. The literature review was performed by analyzing research and review articles from the Pubmed and ScienceDirect databases published over the last 50 years. Analysis of literature. The first case of infection caused by Chlorella was reported in a lamb in 1973 and from then on infections in other species of mammals (mostly herbivorous), reptiles and fish have been observed. So far, two cases of chlorellosis in humans have been con- firmed, the last one in 2014 in Australia. Both infections were a result of a mechanical trauma in freshwater. In 2014 the patient developed aggressive Chlorella infection with necrosis of adipose tissue through bursa and into the paratenon of patellar tendon where it was necessary to perform debridement and bursectomy. It seems that in both cases negative pressure wound therapy brought about successful results. Conclusion. The studies on algae will open up perspectives for better prevention and treatment of infections caused by non-typical organisms such as Chlorella. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper uses the biomass of livestock, poultry manure and straw to study the resource utilization and integration technology by division and classification. The SPSS regression analysis and integration were applied to analyze the economic benefits of the base period (2018) and the audit period (2020). The analysis gives an opportunity in rural areas to reduce chemical fertilizers, pesticides, electricity and coal cost in planting, and this paper opens a novel window for utilizing renewable energy resources and reducing carbon dioxide emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Land-use change (LUC) estimated by economic models has sparked intense international debate. Models estimate how much LUC might be induced under prescribed scenarios and rely on assumptions to generate LUC values. It is critical to test and validate underlying assumptions with empirical evidence. Furthermore, this modeling approach cannot answer if any specific indirect effects are actually caused by biofuel policy. The best way to resolve questions of causation is via scientific methods. Kim and Dale attempt to address the question of if, rather than how much, market-induced land-use change is currently detectable based on the analysis of historic evidence, and in doing so, explore some modeling assumptions behind the drivers of change. Given that there is no accepted approach to estimate the global effects of biofuel policy on land-use change, it is critical to assess the actual effects of policies through careful analysis and interpretation of empirical data. Decision makers need a valid scientific basis for policy decisions on energy choices. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A conference on current research and educational programs in production of crops for bio-fuel was sponsored and organized by the EARTH University and the University of Florida in November, 2008. The meeting addressed current research on crops for bio-fuel production with discussions of research alternatives for future crop production systems, land use issues, ethics of food vs. fuel production, and carbon sequestration in environmentally sensitive tropical and sub-tropical regions of the Americas. The need and potential for development of graduate and undergraduate curricula and inter-institutional cooperation among educational institutions in the region were also discussed. Delegations from Belize, Brazil, Columbia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Honduras, Panama, The Dominican Republic, and the United States including ministers of Agriculture and Energy attended this meeting. Over a two-day period, four working groups provided a framework to facilitate networking, motivate task oriented creative thinking, and maintain a timely accomplishment of assigned duties in the context of the conference themes. Participants in the conference were assigned to one of four working groups, each following given topics: Agronomy, Environment, Socio-Economics and Education/Extension. It was the consensus of representatives of industry, academic and regulatory community assembled in Costa Rica that significant research, education and socio-economic information is needed to make production of bio-fuel crops sustainable. Agronomic research should include better crop selection based on local conditions, improved production techniques, pest and disease management, and mechanical cultivation and harvesting. Another conclusion was that tailoring of production systems to local soil characteristics and use of bio-fuel by-products to improve nutrient use efficiency and reduction of environmental impact on water quantity and quality is critical to sustainability of bio-fuel crop production. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Earlier work has shown that capturing the CO2 from flue gases in the recovery boiler at a market pulp mill can be a cost-effective way of reducing mill CO2 emissions. In this paper, it is investigated whether the same is valid for an integrated pulp and paper mill. Five configurations are compared, supplying the extra energy needed by a biofuel boiler, an NGCC, a heat pump or by reducing the steam demand at the mill in combination with a biofuel boiler or an NGCC. The configurations have been evaluated with energy market scenarios and the avoidance cost has been calculated. The NGCC configurations have the lowest avoidance costs in all scenarios and they also have the advantage of liberating biofuel for use in other parts of society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Once again Swedish forest industries are supposed to face a new threatening shortage of wood. Therefore, demonstration of new ideas of producing wood for pulp and fuels (heat, ethanol, hydrogen gas, dimethylether, electricity) in the most southern part of Sweden was very welcome. One example of new ideas is that some farmers planted hybrid poplars on abandoned farming land at Sångletorp (33ha), Johannesholm (15ha), Kadesjö (11ha) and Näsbyholm (2ha) in the southernmost part of Sweden in 1991. Some of these plantations were harvested in 2004, but some are still growing. The harvested wood had been used for pulp and fuel. The results of the harvest and of the plantations that are still growing are analysed here from an economic, ecologic and energy point of view. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

As an important sustainable source of biomass, lignocellulosic materials are highly recalcitrant to biotransformation, which limits their use and prevents economically viable conversion into value-added products. Ionic liquids (ILs) have emerged as attractive solvents for lignocellulosic biomass pretreatment in the production of biochemical feedstocks. In this work, a mixture of wood powder and waste paper was dissolved in the ionic liquid 1-allyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride ([AMIM]Cl). Composite films were made from the regenerated lignocellulosic materials in [AMIM]Cl by adjusting the ratio of the raw materials. The physical and mechanical properties of biomass composite films were determined by optical microscopy (OM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and tensile strength tests. The results indicated that lignocellulosic materials were dissolved in [AMIM]Cl by destroying interand intramolecular hydrogen bonds between lignocelluloses. With increasing waste paper cellulose content, the dissolution of the fir powder in [AMIM]Cl was accelerated, and the tensile strength and elongation at break of the composite films increased. The rate of dissolution initially rose rapidly with increasing content of waste paper cellulose content, but the rate leveled off when the content was above 40%. This research highlights new opportunities for biodegradable composite films made from waste biomass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Light limitation can affect the distribution of biota and nutrients in the ocean. Light absorption by colored detrital material (CDM) was included in a fully coupled Earth System Model using a new parameterization for shortwave attenuation. Two model runs were conducted, with and without light attenuation by CDM. In a global average sense, greater light limitation associated with CDM increased surface chlorophyll, biomass and nutrients together. These changes can be attributed to the movement of biological productivity higher up the water column, which increased surface chlorophyll and biomass while simultaneously decreasing total biomass. Meanwhile, the reduction in biomass resulted in greater nutrient availability throughout the water column. Similar results were found on a regional scale in an analysis of the oceans by biome. In coastal regions, surface chlorophyll increased by 35% while total integrated phytoplankton biomass diminished by 18 %. The largest relative increases in modeled surface chlorophyll and biomass in the open ocean were found in the equatorial biomes, while largest decreases in depth-integrated biomass and chlorophyll were found in the subpolar and polar biomes. This mismatch of surface and subsurface trends and their regional dependence was analyzed by comparing the competing factors of diminished light availability and increased nutrient availability on phytoplankton growth in the upper 200 m. Overall, increases in surface biomass were expected to accompany greater nutrient uptake and therefore diminish surface nutrients, but changes in light limitation decoupled trends between these two variables. Understanding changes in biological productivity requires both surface and depth-resolved information. Surface trends may be minimal or of the opposite sign to depth-integrated amounts, depending on the vertical structure of phytoplankton abundance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This note offers a glimpse of the author's PhD thesis on the Limits of Bioenergy, which was defended at Imperial College London in 2014. The thesis was also presented as a conference paper in the 59th Annual Meeting of the International Society for the Systems Sciences in Berlin, 2015, receiving the Sir Geoffrey Vickers Memorial Award. This research note gives a brief overview on the proposed complex systems approach to land use dynamics and constraints, as a contribution to the climate change debate. A full scientific article with the whole methodology and original results is already under publication process by the author and his colleagues. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Producers of biofuels for the EU market may use 'low ILUC-risk' certification as evidence that they have not deprived other economic sectors of feedstock material, and hence that indirect land use change (ILUC) emissions have been avoided. At present, the uptake of low ILUC-risk certification is limited to a handful of niche projects, as there is little commercial incentive for obtaining certification. This may be considered a missed opportunity, because low ILUC-risk farming methods offer a range of sustainability co-benefits beyond the mitigation of ILUC emissions. This paper examines the policy foundations of low ILUC-risk and develops policy recommendations that would aim to confer advantages to low ILUC-risk biofuels. Some weaknesses in the low ILUC-risk system's environmental safeguards are also highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper deals with the evaluation of the impact of newly developed biofuels together with a comparison with conventionally produced fuel, diesel, in terms of their impact on the technical and emission condition of a studied vehicle. The main energy and emission parameters of the internal combustion diesel engine were evaluated. For laboratory experiments, a discrete test method was used for comprehensive assessment, the procedure of which is described in the methodology of the paper together with a description of the measurement chain designed to achieve the determined results. The paper deals with the evaluation of the measured results of power, torque, consumption, and emissions such as CO2 and absorption coefficient. Among the technical parameters, the power and torque drop were observed for each biofuel. The decrease is attributed to lower values of calorific value, viscosity, and density. A positive effect was observed for the CO2 and absorption coefficient emission parameters, i.e., a decrease for each of the newly developed biofuels studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although there are some issues and concerns about the World Trade Organization dispute settlement system, it remains an effective tool for countries to find reasonable solutions for their trading problems. This paper aims to identify the mechanisms of the settlement process between WTO members and to provide a relevant review of the European Union's trade disputes, in particular for energy sector cases. For this purpose, the paper implies a conceptual and descriptive framework and a qualitative approach regarding the EU's trade disputes, especially for energy sector. The results show that the EU is one of the most frequent members in trade disputes, but most of them are concluded. At the same time, most of the cases in the energy sector remain in the consultation phase, the EU being complained by Argentina, Indonesia, Russia, China and Malaysia for sectors related to biodiesel, renewable energy generation and oil palm-based biofuels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lignocellulosic biomass is an important feedstock for the pulp and paper industry as well as emerging biofuel and biomaterial industries. However, the recalcitrance of the secondary cell wall to chemical or enzymatic degradation remains a major hurdle for efficient extraction of economically important biopolymers such as cellulose. It has been estimated that approximately 10–15% of about 27,000 protein-coding genes in the Arabidopsis genome are dedicated to cell wall development; however, only about 130 Arabidopsis genes thus far have experimental evidence validating cell wall function. While many genes have been implicated through co-expression analysis with known genes, a large number are broadly classified as proteins of unknown function (PUFs). Recently the functionality of some of these unknown proteins in cell wall development has been revealed using reverse genetic approaches. Given the large number of cell wall-related PUFs, how do we approach and subsequently prioritize the investigation of such unknown genes that may be essential to or influence plant cell wall development and structure? Here, we address the aforementioned question in two parts; we first identify the different kinds of PUFs based on known and predicted features such as protein domains. Knowledge of inherent features of PUFs may allow for functional inference and a concomitant link to biological context. Secondly, we discuss omics-based technologies and approaches that are helping identify and prioritize cell wall-related PUFs by functional association. In this way, hypothesis-driven experiments can be designed for functional elucidation of many proteins that remain missing links in our understanding of plant cell wall biosynthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]