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• Environmental impacts of AD, Py, ADCo-Py and ADCo-INC were compared. • High environmental burden from pretreatment was mitigated by co-processing. • The most significant environmental burdens in each system were AP, ETP and GWP. • Co-processing of AD with Py demonstrated the highest environmental benefit. • Poor waste source separation can be partially mitigated by co-processing systems. This research conducted an environmental life cycle assessment (LCA) to evaluate an anaerobic digestion-co-pyrolysis (ADCo-Py) system in which pyrolysis was added to traditional food waste (FW) anaerobic digestion (AD) systems to treat the solid fraction and impurities separated from FW. The solid fraction, including impurities such as wooden chopsticks, plastics, eggshells, and bones, is usually incinerated, while pyrolysis can be a viable alternative to optimize FW treatment. The environmental impact of ADCo-Py was compared with stand-alone AD, pyrolysis, and ADCo-INC (AD with incineration of separated solids). The results indicated that both ADCo-Py (−1.726 kg CO 2 -Eq/kg FW) and ADCo-INC (−1.535 kg CO 2 -Eq/kg FW) outperform stand-alone AD (−0.855 kg CO 2 -Eq/kg FW) and pyrolysis (−0.181 kg CO 2 -Eq/kg FW) in mitigating global warming potential (GWP). Additionally, pretreatments were found to have the most significant influence on GWP, ecotoxicity potential (ETP), and acidification potential (AP). The two-step pretreatment in ADCo-Py, including the separation of solids and drying, significantly improved the environmental sustainability of the system when compared with standalone pyrolysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The utilization of integrated systems in livestock production has been implemented as a practice aimed at intensifying pasture area utilization while maintaining sustainable soil management to enhance total organic carbon (TOC) storage. However, the dynamics of organic carbon in the soil of integrated systems, involving the inclusion of legumes or tree components in pastures, are not fully understood. Our research assessed soils from pastures composed of grass-legume consortia (GLS), silvopastoral systems (SPS), and monoculture grass pastures (MP), comparing them to native forest soil (NF) in the Cerrado biome, at different evaluation depths: 0–5 cm, 5–10 cm, 10–20 cm, and 20–30 cm. The objective was to evaluate the potential of each system to store carbon in the soil in contrast to native forest soil by determining the labile carbon, water-soluble organic carbon, microbial biomass carbon, total carbon, total nitrogen, carbon management index, and soil carbon stock. No differences were observed for TOC and soil carbon stock between GLS and SPS, but both were demonstrated to be lesser than in the NF soil (p < 0.05). SPS, MP, and NF did not differ in terms of labile carbon, water-soluble carbon, and microbial biomass carbon content (p > 0.05), while GLS did not show similarity to NF in any of the analyzed variables (p < 0.05). Only the SPS achieved a CMI >100 in all soil depth ranges evaluated. Our study demonstrated that the association among labile carbon fractions dynamics and the relationship between CMI and soil biological attributes can be used as a proxy for TOC dynamics and indicators of a production system's potential to sequester carbon in the soil. Collectively, the studied variables indicate that the silvopastoral system exhibited greater potential for carbon recovery compared to the grass-legume integration system or monoculture grass pasture. • We assessed the effect of legumes or silvopastoral system on soil C. • The inclusion of trees into grasslands increases labile organic soil C. • Soil C stocks were least in integrated system compared to native vegetation and pasture monoculture. • The least soil C stocks and C fractions were observed in the grass-legume system. • The dynamics of labile C fractions can be used as a proxy of TOC dynamics in soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An integrated method coupling of heterogeneous and biological catalysis has proven effective for producing biopolymers using lignocellulosic urban solid waste as feedstock. Catalysts based on cheap and earth-abundant metals, such as Fe, Mg, Ca, or Zr with basic or acid properties, were used in the pre-treatment step, and phototrophic mixed cultures were chosen for the biological step. By changing catalysts composition, reaction temperature, and catalysts loading, high performance of the catalysts was achieved under the more optimal pre-treatment of lignocellulose waste, with a solid conversion up to 86%, enriching the solid phase in the lignin polymer. The biological conversion of the liquid effluent in a photobioreactor yielded high production of PHA (up to 36 wt% on a dry basis). The characteristics of the polymer were strongly dependent on liquid feed, the composition of which depended on the type of catalysts used in the previous step. A poof of the concept of a new biorefinery design has been presented in this work, showing that it is possible to enhance the advantages of two different disciplines, heterogeneous catalysis, and photoheterotrophic biotechnology. [Display omitted] • Coupling of heterogeneous catalysis and phototrophic mixed cultures treatment. • High conversions of lignocellulose towards acids is achieved by using mixed oxides based on Fe. • Phototrophic mixed cultures treatment is carried out resulting in high PHA production, up to 36 wt%. • A new biorefinery concept is proven to be effective for urban solid waste treatment. • High added-value products are obtained able to replace its homologs synthesized by fossil feedstocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anaerobic digestion (AD) is an effective and applicable technology for treating organic wastes to recover bioenergy, but it is limited by various drawbacks, such as long start-up time for establishing a stable process, the toxicity of accumulated volatile fatty acids and ammonia nitrogen to methanogens resulting in extremely low biogas productivities, and a large amount of impurities in biogas for upgrading thereafter with high cost. Microbial electrolysis cell (MEC) is a device developed for electrosynthesis from organic wastes by electroactive microorganisms, but MEC alone is not practical for production at large scales. When AD is integrated with MEC, not only can biogas production be enhanced substantially, but also upgrading of the biogas product performed in situ. In this critical review, the state-of-the-art progress in developing AD-MEC systems is commented, and fundamentals underlying methanogenesis and bioelectrochemical reactions, technological innovations with electrode materials and configurations, designs and applications of AD-MEC systems, and strategies for their enhancement, such as driving the MEC device by electricity that is generated by burning the biogas to improve their energy efficiencies, are specifically addressed. Moreover, perspectives and challenges for the scale up of AD-MEC systems are highlighted for in-depth studies in the future to further improve their performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most studies on the operation and planning of integrated systems have been based on the needs of public transport users without disabilities. However, people with disabilities face different challenges when riding public transport. This study adopts Weber's Law "Just Noticeable Difference" to investigate the travel time savings and transfer time desired by public transport users with disabilities when selecting a route with transfer (s). An online survey was undertaken in major cities around New Zealand. A total of 108 public transport users with disabilities who have traveled independently in the last five years participated. Results show a variation among the travel time savings required by different groups of users with disabilities when choosing transfers. Participants with multiple impairments were less willing to choose a transfer route (k=0.458), followed by participants with cognitive impairments (k=0.315). There is a negligible difference in willingness between participants with physical (k=0.255) and visual impairments (k=0.253). Findings from this study are expected to assist transport planners and public transport operators in reconsidering how they design integrated systems to ensure ease of transfers for people with disabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquaculture effluents are nutrient-rich water containing both inorganic and organic nutrients with a potential to replace chemical fertilizer applications under integrated agricultural systems. A field experiment was conducted to determine the effect of fish effluent as an irrigation water source on the growth, yield, and essential oil composition of sweet marjoram. A randomized complete block design was followed with three irrigation treatments and three replicates i.e. fertigation with chemical fertilizers (control), irrigation with effluents only (effluents), and mixed treatment with 50% effluent and 50% chemical fertilizers (mixed). Marjoram seedlings were transplanted, and two cuts were done at the flowering stage. Samples were analyzed for yield and essential oil. In the first cut, effluents recorded an average of 40.4 cm height and 30.2 branches. It also had significantly higher yields, reaching 12.5ton ha−1 and 2.8ton ha−1 for fresh and dry yields, respectively. For the second cut, mixed had the highest average number of branches (58.8) and average height (59.2 cm). It recorded the highest yields of 26.5ton ha−1 and 10.5ton ha−1 of fresh and dry yields, respectively. Similarly, mixed gave the highest oil content (0.98%), compared to the control (0.84%). Essential oil analysis showed six main constituents; terpinen-4-ol (27.11–32.38%), β-terpineol (9.84–17.22%), γ-terpinene (11.09–15.55%), α-terpinene (6.68–10.34%), sabinene (8.18–9.25%), and cis-sabinene hydrate (5.01–8.64%). The results, therefore, suggest that growing marjoram with a mixed treatment would give the best herbage yields and the highest essential oils with reduced environmental impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Along with a brief overview of literature data on energy storage technologies utilising hydrogen and metal hydrides, this article presents results of the related R&D activities carried out by the authors. The focus is put on proper selection of metal hydride materials on the basis of AB 5 - and AB 2 -type intermetallic compounds for hydrogen storage and compression applications, based on the analysis of PCT properties of the materials in systems with H 2 gas. The article also presents features of integrated energy storage systems utilising metal hydride hydrogen storage and compression, as well as their metal hydride based components developed at IPCP and HySA Systems. • Use of metal hydride storage and compression in hydrogen energy storage systems. • AB5- and AB2-type hydrides for hydrogen storage and compression applications. • Development of the energy storage systems and their metal hydride based components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clean fuels are the critical requirement for industrialized world to combat emission of greenhouse gas. Hydrogen is one of the cleanest fuels that generates water as a result of combustion. Production of hydrogen from renewable and nonpolluting resources is an imperative task for sustainable clean fuel production. Biological processes provide an opportunity to produce hydrogen from renewable and economical bio-resources like biomass and solar energy through various processes such as direct/indirect photolysis, photo-fermentation, dark-fermentation, and CO gas-fermentation. This paper provides a comprehensive review on biological hydrogen production including organisms, type of substrates and their concentrations, role of chemical addition, operation conditions such as temperature, pH, and agitation, as well as illumination systems in case of light dependent processes. Further discussions in this work comprise various configuration of integrated biological processes of photolysis, dark, and photo-fermentation such as two component and three-component systems. • Presentation of recent progresses on biological hydrogen production processes. • Discussion of challenges on applications of biological hydrogen routes. • Comparisons of various configurations of integrated biohydrogen generation systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global pursuit of sustainable development faces two critical challenges: the scarcity of clean water and the growing energy crisis. The integration of solar-powered hybrid systems that harness the photovoltaic effect and passive steam generation has emerged as a crucial strategy. While several thermally-localized multi-stage solar stills have been developed, they predominantly rely on ground-mounted designs. Herein, we present a groundbreaking integration concept that combines a floating solar panel with a five-stage membrane distillation (MD) device, enabling simultaneous clean water and electricity generation on water surfaces. Positioned on the reverse side of the photovoltaic (PV) cell, the Janus membrane-involved multi-stage architecture of the MD device passively cools the PV cell, captures and repurposes the waste heat and manages vaporization enthalpy recycling. Our research highlights the importance of optimizing heat and mass transport within each stage, boosting the photoelectronic and photothermal conversion of the whole system. As a result, the integrated system achieves an impressive water production rate of 4.14 kg m−2 h−1 while simultaneously maintaining a high electricity generation efficiency of 16.4 % under 1 sun, therefore maximizing the total solar energy conversion. The clean water production rate of 11.6 kg m−2 day−1 places our system among the best-performing solar stills operating under natural sunlight. This integrated system sets a pioneering example of clean water and electricity co-generation with minimized carbon footprint, extending the applicability of ground-mounted solar conversion systems to water bodies. [Display omitted] • Groundbreaking integration of photovoltaic cells and membranes in a monolithic floating system. • Pioneering use of Janus membranes for selected mass transfer. • Achieving high-efficiency simultaneous production of clean water and green electricity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Structural factors shape farmers' perceptions of integrated crop livestock systems. • Adopters perceived large advantages from adopting ICLS, while most non-adopters did not. • Supply chain and labor market limitations are perceived adoption barriers. • Perceived unsupportive regulations and preferences for existing traditions also impede adoption. • Improved credit, land tenure, infrastructure, and rural education may improve adoption. Abstract Sustainable intensification of existing global croplands and rangelands is a pressing challenge to reconcile competing demands on land systems for food production and conservation of natural ecosystems. In Brazil, the world's second-largest beef-producing country, intensification of pasture-based production systems is central to both improving livelihoods and reducing deforestation, since low-productivity, low-income cattle ranches occupy a majority of the agricultural land area. Integrated crop-livestock systems (ICLS) present a promising opportunity in the array of possible agricultural intensification strategies for Brazil because they have the potential to reclaim vast areas of degraded pastures while mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. Much of the previous research on ICLS, particularly in Brazil, has focused on agronomic and economic aspects. Here we examine local perspectives of ICLS to better illuminate what other concerns, besides agronomic and economic outcomes, might guide farmers' decisions to adopt this (and other) agricultural intensification strategies. We are particularly interested in the degree to which structural factors interact with personal experiences to shape information and values and farmers' understanding of the costs and benefits of adopting a new technology. Using semi-structured interviews with a diverse sample of producers in four states in the Brazilian Amazon, we find that existing adopters perceived ICLS as a beneficial strategy for increasing the economic value and competitiveness of their farm, while most non-adopters did not. Ranchers in particular perceived intensification as a necessity to maintain their livelihood amidst declining profits and increased environmental oversight. However, both adopters and non-adopters described numerous structural barriers that impeded greater adoption of ICLS in the region, including problems obtaining qualified labor, a lack of marketing options, poor infrastructure, an unsupportive regulatory environment, and in some regions, poorly drained soils. Furthermore, non-monetary motives, such as maintaining one's existing quality of life and traditions, often drove decisions regardless of expected profit-maximization pathways. This work underscores the need to employ a more diverse set of policy tools beyond credit subsidies to encourage adoption of sustainable intensification strategies, including education programs, payments for the ecosystem services, and improved transportation and supply chain infrastructure that can support intensification and help create a climate of innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This study focuses on the effective strategic management of electricity in South Africa. We applied a content analysis to the existing literature. The findings point out that various strategic management failures and the lack of an integrated approach have been a major stumbling block to energy supply sustainability in the country. The review process followed a purposeful search, selection, and review of publications with the literature on the most critical concerns. This paper recommends an integrated strategic management framework as an effective approach to achieving electricity supply sustainability in South Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic non-healing wounds are major healthcare challenges that affect a noticeable number of people; they exert a severe financial burden and are the leading cause of limb amputation. Although chronic wounds are locked in a persisting inflamed state, they are dynamic and proper therapy requires identifying abnormalities, administering proper drugs and growth factors, and modulating the conditions of the environment. In this review article, we discuss technologies that have been developed to actively monitor the wound environment. We also highlight drug delivery tools that have been integrated with bandages to facilitate precise temporal and spatial control over drug release and review automated or semi-automated systems that can respond to the wound environment. Highlights Wound healing technologies constitute a major commercial enterprise, with the market for products involved in wound closure exceeding US$15 billion and the market for skin scar prevention accounting for another $12 billion, but there are major differences among the wound care products used in clinical practice. Smart systems, devices with sensing, responding, or reporting functions, or a combination of these, can address many of the challenges associated with wound healing, particularly for chronic wounds. Smart systems may also promote better wound management, improving clinical outcomes by means such as detecting infections in a timely manner or providing alerts for patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquaponics is an integrated system in which the water containing fish waste is used as a nutrient source for plant production in a closed recirculation system. In this study, tilapia ( Oreochromis niloticus ) and pak choi ( Brassica chinensis ) culture was tested using two techniques: 1) Root floating (RAFT), and 2) Dynamic root floating (DRFT). Water quality parameters, total ammonia nitrogen, nitrate nitrogen, nitrite nitrogen and phosphate were measured. At the end of the experiment, fish and plants were weighed and the required electric power consumption was calculated. There was no significant difference observed between the effect of each treatment group on either tilapia or pak choi production. Tilapia productivity was 1.69 ± 0.22 kg/m3 and 1.71 ± 0.23 kg/m3 and pak choi yield was 7.43 ± 1.23kg/m2 and 7.32 ± 0.76 kg/m2 for the RAFT and DRFT, respectively. Water quality parameters were within the recommended range for the tilapia culture while pH and conductivity were out of range for the pak choi culture; nevertheless, plant production was good. Total ammonia nitrogen and nitrite nitrogen did not reach concentrations that could impede tilapia growth. The DRFT allows the elimination of active aeration in hydroponic systems for tilapia and pak choi production during most of the cycle, reducing the electric power consumption to 10.3% and electricity costs to 11.4% by using a nature-based solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CONTEXT Climate change presents challenges for livestock productivity and animal health. Thus, management strategies to mitigate the effects of the global temperature increase on livestock production have become progressively relevant. However, the use of integrated crop-livestock-forestry systems to optimize the beef cattle thermal balance has not been examined more deeply. The study aimed to evaluate the microclimate in a non-shaded pasture system (NS) and in an integrated crop-livestock-forestry system (ICLF) and its influence on thermoregulatory and endocrine responses of zebu and composite bulls, during different climatic seasons. The experiment was carried out in a tropical region, São Carlos-SP, Brazil (21°57′42″S, 47°50′28″W). Nelore (Bos indicus) and Canchim (5/8 Bos taurus x 3/8 Bos indicus) bulls were equally allocated in a non-shaded system (NS; n = 32) or in an integrated crop-livestock-forestry system (ICLF; n = 32). The animals were monthly evaluated and the data were analyzed using a GLM Model. Means were compared using Tukey test (P < 0.05). The ICLF system reduced the air temperature (−0.6 °C; P = 0.0010), the Black Globe Temperature and Humidity Index-BGHI (−3.8; P < 0.0001), and the Radiant Thermal Load (−104 W/m2; P < 0.0001) compared to the NS system. The infrared thermograms of NS bulls were characterized by higher temperatures on the surface of the back and in the trunk, during Autumn and Winter (P < 0.05). In addition, NS bulls presented higher respiratory rate (RR: 35.85 ± 0.88 vs 31.97 ± 0.88 breaths/min; P = 0.0210) and internal body temperature (BT: 39.54 ± 0.05 vs 39.35 ± 0.05 °C; P = 0.0057) during Autumn. There was a significant reduction in cortisol concentration (−12.13 ng/mL; P < 0.05) in both systems throughout the experiment. Nelore bulls had lower RR and BT, lower mean concentration of cortisol, and higher secretion of triiodothyronine than Canchim bulls. The ICLF system was effective in mitigating the microclimate of pastures due to the action of natural shading, providing greater thermal comfort, especially for composite animals, and favored the maintenance of homeothermy in the bulls. This thesis has provided a deeper insight into the physiological mechanisms involved in the thermoregulation of cattle raised in integrated crop-livestock-forestry systems. The insights gained from this study may be of assistance to indicate ICLF as a suitable option for increasing animal welfare in tropical climates. [Display omitted] • Afforested systems have been singled out as a possible solution for mitigating animal thermal stress. • We assessed the thermoregulation of beef bulls over 13 months. • The air temperature, the BGHI, and the thermal load were lower in the crop-livestock-forestry system. • Bulls in the crop-livestock-forestry system showed greater thermal comfort and lower heat stress biomarkers. • The Crop-livestock-forestry system may be a suitable option for increasing animal welfare in tropical climates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mixed production systems, in which producers have some combination of perennial and annual crops, livestock, and/or fisheries, are the most common form of farming in low- and medium-income countries, and they are increasingly of interest in high-income countries as an adaptive approach to climate change. Diversification in mixed systems can buffer against the risks climate change poses to food production systems through increased livelihood resilience, food security, and multiple ecosystem services. Mixed systems can provide near-term, local and regional resilience as well as contributing to sustained resilience in the global food system. Evidence and cases from mixed crop-livestock systems, agroforestry, and integrated aquatics systems demonstrate the technical, cultural, and socio-economic benefits, challenges and barriers to implementation. Support for mixed systems, including context-specific financial mechanisms, knowledge sharing, and markets, could help advance the adaptation and mitigation benefits of mixed systems. Failure to consider the place and context-specific dynamics in implementing these systems can lead to maladaptive outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a dynamic and two-dimensional model for a steam methane reforming process integrated with nuclear heat production is developed. The model is based on first principles and considers the conservation of mass, momentum and energy within the system. The model is multi-scale, considering both bulk gas effects as well as spatial differences within the catalyst particles. Very few model parameters need to be fit based on the design specifications reported in the literature. The resulting model fits the reported design conditions of two separate pilot-scale studies (ranging from 0.4 to 10 MW heat transfer duty). A sensitivity analysis indicated that disturbances in the helium feed conditions significantly affect the system, but the overall system performance only changes slightly even for the large changes in the value of the most uncertain parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The early promise of the impact of machine intelligence did not involve the partitioning of the nascent field of Artificial Intelligence. The founders of AI envisioned the notion of embedded intelligence as being conjoined between perception, reasoning and actuation. Yet over the years the fields of AI and Robotics drifted apart. Practitioners of AI focused on problems and algorithms abstracted from the real world. Roboticists, generally with a background in mechanical and electrical engineering, concentrated on sensori-motor functions. That divergence is slowly being bridged with the maturity of both fields and with the growing interest in autonomous systems. This special issue brings together the state of the art and practice of the emergent field of integrated AI and Robotics, and highlights the key areas along which this current evolution of machine intelligence is heading. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrated Systems (IS) have been identified as an efficient land-management strategy for restoring degraded areas worldwide, increasing crops and beef yields and providing technical potential for carbon (C) sequestration in soil and trees as an option for offsetting CH 4 and N 2 O emissions from cattle production. The aim of our study is to estimate the greenhouse gas (GHG) balance and the C footprint of beef cattle (fattening cycle) in three contrasting production scenarios on the Brachiaria pasture in Brazil—1) degraded pasture (DP), 2) managed pasture (MP), and 3) the crop-livestock-forest integrated system (CLFIS)—presenting new alternatives of land use as a GHG mitigation strategy. Area-scaled total GHG emissions were highest in MP (84,541 kg CO 2 eq ha −1 ), followed by CLFIS (64,519 kg CO 2 eq ha −1 ) and DP (8004 kg CO 2 eq ha −1 ) over a 10-yr period. Our results note that the highest C footprint of beef cattle was in the DP, 18.5 kg CO 2 eq per kg LW (live weight), followed by 12.6 kg CO 2 eq per kg LW in the CLFIS and 9.4 kg CO 2 eq per kg LW in the MP, without taking into account the technical potential for C sequestration in MP (soil C) and CLFIS (soil and Eucalyptus C). Considering the potential for soil C sequestration in the MP and CLFIS, the C footprint of beef cattle could be reduced to 7.6 and −28.1 kg CO 2 eq per kg LW in the MP and CLFIS, respectively. The conversion of the degraded pasture to a well-managed pasture and the introduction of CLFIS can reduce their associated GHG emissions in terms of kg CO 2 eq emitted per kg of cattle LW produced, increasing the production of meat, grains and timber. This reduction is primarily due to pasture improvement and increases in cattle yields and the provision of technical potential for C sinks in soil and biomass to offset cattle-related emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water recovery is an important aspect of the work of the desalination plant. In this paper, we discuss the prospects for high water recovery in two commonly used membrane desalination methods, reverse osmosis (RO) and electrodialysis (ED). Achieving high water recovery is limited, mainly because of the risk of sparingly soluble salts precipitation and, in the case of reverse osmosis, the osmotic pressure of the retentate. We discuss the scaling risk during membrane desalination and review the possible methods for increasing water recovery, such as application of antiscalants, integration of various separation methods, and modifications in the operation of membrane processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrated crop-livestock systems (iCL) are advocated as a promising strategy to increase agricultural production and rehabilitate degraded pastures while mitigating GHG emissions. Although iCL in Brazil has increased over the past few years, it still occupies a small share of the country’s total agricultural area. We investigate the determinants of iCL occurrence in Mato Grosso state, a globally important producer of beef cattle and grains that has experienced rapid land cover change and environmental degradation in recent decades. Our analysis encompasses two typical cases of iCL in Mato Grosso (the rotation of soy followed by pasture, and soy followed by maize and pasture) as well as biophysical, socioeconomic, and institutional factors observable at the household and/or municipality levels that may influence the wide-scale occurrence of iCL. Evidence at both scales suggests that knowledge and supply chain infrastructure play an important role in early occurrence of iCL, as they are more common in regions closer to iCL research stations and processing facilities of grains and cattle. On average iCL adopters are more educated and have better access to technical assistance and sector information than specialized farmers or ranchers. Most iCLs are concentrated near established soy areas and greater similarity exists between municipalities with iCL and soy-dominant municipalities vs. pasture-dominant municipalities. Our findings reveal the importance of specific conditions for iCL occurrence and iCL promotion in livestock-dominant regions. Incentives targeted at ranchers are crucial for the achievement of the Brazilian Government’s goal to restore degraded pastures through agricultural intensification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Methods of light harvesting are reviewed and evaluated. • Recent advances in this area are put into perspective. • The pros and cons as well as the prospect of each technology are discussed. Solar energy has been an attractive source of renewable energy because of its enormous magnitude and availability everywhere on Earth. The nature has been capturing and storing solar energy on Earth in the form of chemical energy via photosynthesis. Over millenniums, humans have used their creativity to harvest the energy. The creativity has evolved significantly in the past two decades, leading to major advances in solar technologies that have reduced the cost of solar power by more than 70% for the last ten years. These advances together with the public concern about the environmental consequences of using fossil fuels point to the shiny future of solar technologies. This article reviews advances in active solar technologies including photovoltaics, concentrated solar and solar heating, and put them into perspective. The pros and cons as well as the prospect of each technology are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the main global priorities nowadays is finding sustainable methods of increasing food production. However, profit maximization remains the primary purpose of every economic activity. The integration of aquaculture recirculating systems with different aquaponics techniques comes as a respond to both requirements that were mentioned above. The aim of present research is to make a comparative cost effectiveness analysis in two integrated aquaponics systems, where both deep water culture (DWC) and light expanded clay aggregate (LECA) substrate aquaponic techniques were applied. Four combinations of fish and plants species were used as follows: rainbow trout ( Oncorhynchus mykiss ) – spinach ( Spinacia oleracea ), stellate sturgeon ( Acipenser stellatus ) – spinach ( Spinacia oleracea ), stellate sturgeon ( Acipenser stellatus ) – mint ( Mentha piperita ) and stellate sturgeon ( Acipenser stellatus ) – tarragon ( Artemisa dracunculus L. ). Three production scales were used for the first two mentioned fish to plants combinations, as follows: 59crops/m 2 ; 48crops/m 2 and 39crops/m 2 . For each experiment, the cost analysis includes capital costs and operational costs. As main conclusions, we can point out that LECA substrate aquaponics technique requires a higher investment cost, comparing with DWC technique, but also had generated higher incomes, which led in the end to better economic indicators. The combination of fish to plants stellate sturgeon ( Acipenser stellatus ) – spinach ( Spinacia oleracea ), produced by applying LECA substrate aquaponics technique, had proved to be the most economic feasible, from all tested variants. It is recommended that alternative variants for power to be implemented, in order to minimize the electricity operational costs and therefore, to improve the profitability of tested facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we present the exergy analysis and design optimisation of an integrated molten carbonate fuel cell (MCFC) system for marine applications, considering waste heat recovery options for additional power production. High temperature fuel cells are attractive solutions for marine energy systems, as they can significantly reduce gaseous emissions, increase efficiency and facilitate the introduction of more environmentally-friendly fuels, like LNG and biofuels. We consider an already installed MCFC system onboard a sea-going vessel, which has many tightly integrated sub-systems and components: fuel delivery and pre-reforming, internal reforming sections, electrochemical conversion, catalytic burner, air supply and high temperature exhaust gas. The high temperature exhaust gasses offer significant potential for heat recovery that can be directed into both covering the system’s auxiliary heat requirements and power production. Therefore, an integrated systems approach is employed to accurately identify the true sources of losses in the various components and to optimise the overall system with respect to its energy efficiency, taking into account the various trade-offs and subject to several constraints. Here, we present a four-step approach: a. dynamic process models development of simple and combined-cycle MCFC system; b. MCFC components and system models calibration via onboard MCFC measurements; c. exergy analysis, and d. optimisation of the simple and combined-cycle systems with respect to their exergetic performance. Our methodology is based on the thermofluid and chemical reactions modelling of each component, via our in-house ship machinery systems modelling framework, DNVGL COSSMOS. For the major system components spatially distributed exergy balances are considered in order to capture the coupling of the local process phenomena and exergy destruction with component design characteristics. Exhaust heat recovery is considered using a steam turbine combined-cycle module integrated with the rest of the MCFC system. Both the simple and combined cycle MCFC systems are optimised with respect to their overall exergetic efficiency subject to design, technical, operational and space constraints. The exergy analysis identified and ranked the sources of exergy destruction and the subsequent optimisation yielded significant improvement potential for both systems. The simple MCFC system optimisation yielded an exergy efficiency improvement of 7% with 5% more power produced. Heat recovery in the combined cycle MCFC resulted in 40% more power produced, with a 60% overall exergy efficiency (relative increase of 45%). Both MCFC systems outperform conventional dual-fuel engines with respect to efficiency, having also a positive impact on CO 2 emissions with a relative reduction of about 30%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This short review summarizes our understanding and perspectives on FO and PRO processes and meaningful R&D in order to develop effective and sustainable FO and PRO technologies for water reuse and osmotic power generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Load and wind energy profiles are totally uncorrelated, therein lies the problem of variable energy sources. Managing load with increasing wind penetration may call for operational ranges that conventional systems cannot readily access. Storage technologies could allow tolerating the unsteadiness of renewable sources with smaller fossil fuel plants capacity. Pumped Hydro Storage (PHS) is a crucial technology for balancing large steam power plants and may become increasingly important for storing renewable energies. Hence capacity ranges of PHS as well as its dynamic response to renewable power variability, will become progressively relevant. An integrated system made of a wind farm, a PHS plant and a set of gas turbines (GTs), as programmable fossil fuel devices, to handle renewable variability and maximize renewable energy exploitation, is studied in this paper. A specific case study is analyzed: a wind farm with a nameplate capacity equal to that installed in Sardinia is considered. To match the power output requested by the region with the integrated systems different configurations of PHS plant will be investigated. The impact of reversible or separate Francis machines with constant or variable speed will be analyzed in order to minimize electric power output overproduction and GTs fuel consumptions. Minimum and maximum capacity range for reversible or separate machines will be considered. The aim of the study is the optimum sizing and design of a PHS unit in a hybrid wind-hydro-gas turbine power plant to match the load request. Results in terms of PHS operation, water height behavior in upper and lower reservoirs, GT units power output, natural gas consumed and electric power output overproduction will be presented for each analyzed case. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growth of cities in the 21st century has put more pressure on resources and conditions of urban life. There are several reasons why the health-care industry is the focus of this investigation. For instance, in the UK various studies point to the lack of failure of basic quality control procedures and misalignment between customer needs and provider services and duplication of logistics practices. The development of smart cities and big data present unprecedented challenges and opportunities for operations managers; they need to develop new tools and techniques for network planning and control. Our paper aims to make a contribution to big data and city operations theory by exploring how big data can lead to improvements in transport capacity sharing. We explore using Markov models the integration of big data with future city (health-care) transport sharing. A mathematical model was designed to illustrate how sharing transport load (and capacity) in a smart city can improve efficiencies in meeting demand for city services. The results from our analysis of 13 different sharing/demand scenarios are presented. A key finding is that the probability for system failure and performance variance tends to be highest in a scenario of high demand/zero sharing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The United States has pledged to develop a 100% carbon-free electric power system by 2035 and a net-zero-emissions economy by 2050. While important advancements have been made in the scale, performance, and economics of clean energy technologies, meeting the nation's ambitious goals will not only require their deployment at scale, but also additional innovation and effective integration of different solutions. Technological developments across the broad suite of low-carbon energy solutions are advancing rapidly, with ongoing innovations in renewable electricity generation, industrial processes, and energy-saving technologies and services, including LED lighting, induction heating, electric vehicles, energy storage solutions, and mobility as a service, plus smart devices, controls, and more efficient and smart buildings. Combining renewable electricity with biotic and abiotic pathways to produce chemicals, fuels, and materials promises to deliver new solutions. Grid-interactive buildings and communities, integrating transportation infrastructure and vehicles, are likely to be significant components of any zero-carbon energy strategy. Low-carbon industrial manufacturing will also make strong contributions to a net-zero economy. While the technical prospects appear promising, variations in the state of infrastructure, jurisdictional and social equity, pollution, economic and socio-cultural constraints, energy resource availability, and supply chain dynamics found in different locations present a range of challenges and demand customized solutions. This paper provides a critical review and offers new insights into the technical, infrastructure, analytic, political, and economic challenges faced in translating the nation's ambitious net-zero-emissions goals into feasible and reliable implementation action plans. • This manuscript brings together multiple experts view on the State of technologies, System level solutions, economics and scaling, for the United States to achieve bold decarbonization goals by 2050. • Key insights are offered on power system decarbonization, the role of hydrogen, storage, transportation, integrated energy systems, and material utilization and circularity. • Technologies, particularly wind and solar, are increasingly cost-effective, yet challenges remain regarding integration, social and political economy issues, and energy and environmental justice. • While the technical and economic factors are increasingly favorable, the US faces a number of non-technical challenges to rapidly scale clean energy technologies in order to achieve its ambitious goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optimal eco-efficient design of production processes guarantees sustainable and resource-efficient manufacturing systems. Within the scope of the European project “DAPhNE”, Fraunhofer IPA enables eco-efficient design with a new integrated system for the simulation and management of energy-intensive production systems as well as related key performance indicators (KPIs). The approach presented in this paper is based on a holistic production model and simulation system including dynamic KPIs with the focus on environmental, operational and economic aspects. A main objective of the developed system is to support the engineering and optimization phases to develop and maintain eco-efficient production systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An integrated crop-livestock system (ICLS), with summer grain cropping and winter grazing of cover crops, is an option for agricultural management in subtropical areas. Despite numerous studies evaluating ICLS, there have been limited investigations of soil acidity and lime application dynamics in such systems. Because grain producers resist introducing livestock into cultivation areas due to fear of negative impacts of grazing on soybean yields and lime movement thorough the soil profile, the objective of this research is to evaluate the impacts of surface lime reapplication on the amelioration of soil acidity attributes and the yield of soybean in a long-term integrated soybean-beef cattle system under no-till under varying grazing intensities. An experiment was established in 2001 for an ICLS on a Rhodic Hapludox soil. Crop succession consisted of soybean ( Glycine max ) cultivation during summer and a mix of black-oat ( Avena strigosa ) + Italian ryegrass ( Lolium multiflorum ) during winter. Treatments consisted of varying grazing intensities during winter: intensive grazing, moderate grazing, and no-grazing. Lime was applied to the surface of the entire area at the beginning of the experiment, and a reapplication was performed nine years later (May of 2010) in a sub-parcel scheme (with and without lime reapplication). Soil acidity attributes (pH, base saturation and aluminum saturation) were evaluated at 12, 18, 24, and 30 months after lime reapplication, and the soybean yields of the 2010/11, 2011/12, and 2012/13 seasons were measured. As previously observed for the first surface lime application performed in the same trial area, the present study demonstrated that ICLS, regardless of grazing intensity, did not inhibit soil improvement in deeper layers after surface lime reapplication. In fact, the presence of animals helps to ameliorate soil acidity in deeper layers, compared to non-grazed areas. The soybean yield was not correlated with the soil acidity attributes and was affected by lime reapplication only under intensive grazing and drought conditions. However, when summer rainfall was lower than the expected climatological normal, soybean yields were higher in non-grazed areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several Latin American cities are replacing their semi-deregulated and dispersed public transport services by integrated public transport systems to overcome quality of service issues and multiple negative externalities. Cities can choose to implement their reform quickly – like Santiago, Chile – or gradually, as has been the case in the Colombian cities of Cali, since 2003, and Bogotá, since 2008. This paper reviews the experience of these two cities in an effort to help in understanding the impacts and issues behind the gradual implementation of integrated public transport systems, as they advance in cities of the developing world. Particular attention is given to the pace of implementation. The two cities present significant progress, despite the complexity of the process and protracted, yet-to- be completed, execution. The two case studies indicate that a very gradual approach may result in difficulties, resulting from discontinuities in political leadership and weak institutional capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Municipal decision-makers struggle to reach effective solutions in asset management. The complexity of this issue increases when trying to consider more than one asset. This article proposes an approach that can optimize integrated decision-making for road, sewer, and water municipal assets. The proposed optimization is accomplished using risk assessment and a performance rating model. The model was tested on the infrastructure network of the city of Guelph and has resulted in a 36% risk dollar reduction under full integration. The model has also shown improved budget-savings when compared to the conventional silos approach. The findings aid municipal decision-makers in maximizing the benefits of their limited budgets, which will increase the number of infrastructure projects. Additionally, the results of the proposed model unveil more opportunities. Specifically, the use of more advanced computational methods along with exploring techniques that allow the user to consider multiple corridors within one repair scenario. • Novel approach for integrated infrastructure repair optimization. • Optimization via risk and performance-based assessments. • Integrating road, water, and sewer municipal infrastructure. • Provided 25% risk reduction in a real-life case study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Forage mass was higher in SPSs with up to 99 trees/ha compared to pasture monoculture. • Forage mass was less reduced in SPSs more than 28m spaced and east-west orientation. • No significant improvement was observed in the forage nutritive value in SPSs. • Total weight gain was higher in SPSs more than 28m spaced and with up to 99 trees/ha. • Total weight gain was reduced with north-south, but not in east-west row orientation. This study evaluated pasture traits and cattle performance in silvopastoral systems (SPSs) with Eucalyptus spp. and Urochloa spp. through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Systematic searches of databases, scientific journals and references of selected articles found 2,639 articles, of which 29 (120 comparisons) were selected. Comparisons were classified according to the covariates of distance between tree rows, number of trees/ha, tree planting orientation, system age and forage type. Data were submitted to meta-regression followed by subgroup analysis for covariates with a significant effect (P < 0.05) on the response. Data were analyzed in random effects models using mean difference and 95% confidence interval (P < 0.05). Forage mass (FM) was greater for SPSs with up to 99 trees/ha and lower for the other groups, compared to that for grass monoculture. Forage accumulation (FA) was also greater for SPSs with up to 99 trees/ha, but lower for SPSs with more than 300 trees/ha, compared to that for grass monoculture. FM was lower for SPSs of all spacings between tree rows and planting orientations, compared to that for grass monoculture, with the lowest being with smaller spacing and with north-south planting orientation. FA was lower for SPSs with up to 28m between tree rows, compared to that for grass monoculture, while that for SPSs with more than 28m did not differ. Neutral detergent fiber concentration was lower and crude protein greater for SPSs compared to grass monoculture, while lignin was greater and in vitro dry matter digestibility did not differ, which indicated no significant improvement in nutritive value in SPSs. Average daily gain was greater in SPSs with up to 99 trees/ha, and lower in those with more than 400 trees/ha, than in grass monoculture, with other subgroups not differing. Total weight gain per area (GHA) was lower in SPSs with less than 28m between tree rows or with more than 199 trees/ha, but greater in SPSs with more than 28m or with up to 99 trees/ha, compared to grass monoculture. GHA was lower in SPSs with a north-south orientation compared to grass monoculture, but those with an east-west orientation did not differ. The use of U. brizantha cv. Marandu and an east-west planting orientation are efficient strategies in maintaining FM, FA and GHA. GHA was greater in SPSs with more than 28m between tree rows and with up to 99 trees/ha, than in grass monoculture, which may facilitate the implementation of these SPSs in commercial farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding how the bioclimatic factors influence the animals homeothermy and behavior is essential to implement good practices for tropical livestock. Thus, the objective of this work was to study the effect of the incorporation of the arboreal component in pasture production systems in a tropical environment on thermal comfort and to analyze the influence of the integrated crop-livestock-forestry system on the behavior of beef cattle. The study was carried out in São Carlos-SP, Brazil, region of tropical altitude subtype, for 13 months. Sixty-four Nelore (Bos indicus) and Canchim (5/8 Bos taurus x 3/8 Bos indicus) non-castrated males (26 months; 358 kg LW) were allocated to production systems with pastures in full sun (Group FS; n = 32) or with forested pastures (Group ICLF; n = 32). The microclimate of the pastures was permanently monitored by weather stations. The behavior of the animals was assessed through an observational method in monthly campaigns and a continuous electronic monitoring method based on the use of an accelerometer and acoustic sensor coupled to collars. Higher means of the black globe temperature index were registered in the morning and the afternoon, with a very challenging condition for the animals during the spring and summers, especially for the Group FS. The observational results showed that animals in the Group FS grazed longer in the morning than animals in the Group ICL, mainly in the warmer seasons (P < 0.05). The animals in FS remained lying down longer than the animals kept in the ICLF system, during rumination or resting (P < 0.05). The animals in the Group ICLF preferred the use of shaded areas within the forested system and their frequency of visits to the drinking fountain was reduced in the morning (−55 %) and afternoon (−26 %) shifts. Electronic monitoring showed that animals, regardless of the production system, spent 38.4 % of their time resting, 32.6 % in displacement, and 29.0 % in rumination. The animals in FS had a higher displacement time at night and dawn, and less time resting at night (22:00 h and 23:00 h) and dawn (2:00 h to 6:00 h), which affected their circadian rhythm and restricted the time devoted to restorative effects of rest. Therefore, the use of the arboreal component proved to be beneficial for obtaining a more favorable microclimate for raising cattle on pasture, being useful for increasing animal thermal comfort and for the expression of behavioral attitudes favorable to the maintenance of homeothermy in a tropical environment. • Thermal comfort and behavior in afforested (ICLF) or non-forested (FS) pastures were studied. • Observational and electronic methods were used to describe beef cattle behavior. • ICLF allowed maximize the use of shaded areas for grazing, ruminating, or resting. • Animals on ICLF reduced the search for the drinking fountain and mineral mixture. • ICLF benefited microclimate and increased the thermal comfort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under integrated crop–livestock production system (ICLS), the animal acts as a catalyzer, modifying and accelerating fluxes by ingesting forage nutrients (grazing) and returning them to the soil as urine and dung in a continuous process whose magnitude and direction depend on grazing intensity. Thus, ICLS may change soil acidification processes and rates. The objective of this research was to verify the influence of grazing intensities on soil acidification through measurements of the soil chemical attributes in the soil profile and the efficiency of basic cation use in a soybean–beef cattle integration system nine years after surface liming under long-term no-till conditions in southern Brazil. An experiment established in 2001 in a Rhodic Hapludox with soybean (summer) and a mix of black oat + Italian ryegrass (winter) succession was used. Treatments consisted of different grazing intensities during the winter season: intensive grazing (IG), moderate grazing (MG), and no-grazing (NG). The experiment was set up in a randomized complete blocks design with three replicates. To evaluate soil chemical attributes, soil was sampled up to 40 cm, in May 2010, nine years after lime application. To quantify basic cations budgets and efficiencies, the inputs and outputs of calcium, magnesium, and potassium, as well as their initial and final exchangeable soil stocks were evaluated. Areas under grazed treatments, regardless of the intensity (IG or MG), presented lower soil acidification. Calcium and magnesium budgets were negative under NG and positive under MG. Potassium budgets were always negative, regardless of the management system, due to soybean grain harvest exportation and non-productive outputs. The soybean–beef cattle integrated system, with either IG or MG, was more efficient in calcium and magnesium utilization to produce protein; however, grazing does not affect potassium use efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Demonstrating integrated triboelectric nanogenerator energy harvesting systems that contain triboelectric nanogenerators, power management circuits, signal processing circuits, energy storage elements, and/or load circuits are core steps for practical applications of triboelectric nanogenerators. Through the design flow of such systems, theoretical simulation plays a critical role. In this manuscript, we provided a new theoretical simulation method for integrated triboelectric nanogenerator systems through integrating the equivalent circuit model of triboelectric nanogenerators into SPICE software. This new simulation method was validated by comparing its results with analytical solutions in some specific triboelectric nanogenerator systems. Finally, we employed this new simulator to analyze the performance of an integrated triboelectric nanogenerator system with a power management circuit. From the study of the influence of different circuit parameters, we outline the design strategy for such kind of triboelectric nanogenerator systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] No-tillage management under an integrated crop–livestock system alters soil P dynamics. [•] Total P increased in grazed and non-grazed treatments in the 20-cm layer during six years. [•] Grazing maintained similar P lability as no grazing. [•] Grazing led to deficit P budget but more efficient P use. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] • Membrane distillation operated without flux decay. • Extraction by TEHA and Aliquat 336 occurs by amine salts and ion pairs formation. • H 2 SO 4 and copper loading capacity: 203.6 mmol/L and 1,012 mg/L, respectively. • Economic viability was assessed by capital and operational expenditures. Membrane distillation (MD) and dispersive liquid–liquid extraction (d-LLE) were integrated for gold mining wastewater beneficiation and better use of natural resources. MD presented an average permeate flux of 5.51 ± 0.14 L/m2·h, without a significant flux decay (p < 0.001), and rejection efficiencies for acid and metallic species>98.7%. Five different extractants were studied for sulfuric acid recovery from MD concentrate. Considering the extraction and stripping efficiency, tris-2-ethylhexylamine (TEHA) was the most appropriate alternative for sulfuric acid extraction, requiring 2 stages of extraction and 1 of striping to achieve a recovery>95%. The endothermic nature of acid extraction contributed to the integration of d-LLE and MD, designating a proper destination for MD concentrate, a stream often forgotten while discussing membrane separation processes for wastewater treatment. Copper was then selectively recovered from the raffinate from acid extraction (β Cu/Fe = 4,274, β Cu/Al = 176, and β Cu/Mg = 1,262) by Lix 84-I. A single contact stage ensured that 99.3% of copper was recovered. Fourier-transform infrared spectra demonstrated that the acid extraction mechanisms involve amine salts formation, whereas copper is extracted by anion exchange processes. The economic assessment was favorable for water (US$/m3 0.23) and copper (US$/kg Cu 4.25) recovery, with prices lower than currently practiced for both commodities. For sulfuric acid, the operational expenditures corresponded to US$/kg H2SO4 0.423, slightly higher than its marketable price. Overall, the integrated system could be inserted in a perspective that departs from the linear focus of raw material utilization, prioritizing recycling and reuse processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Excess greenhouse gas emissions and the concomitant effect on global warming have become significant environmental, social and economic threats. In this context, the development of renewable, carbon-neutral and economically feasible biofuels is a driving force for innovation worldwide. A lot of effort has been put into developing biodiesel from microalgae. However, there are still a number of technological, market and policy barriers that are serious obstacles to the economic feasibility and competitiveness of such biofuels. Conversely, there are also a number of business opportunities if the production of such alternative biofuel becomes part of a larger integrated system following the Biorefinery strategy. In this case, other biofuels and chemical products of high added value are produced, contributing to an overall enhancement of the economic viability of the whole integrated system. Additionally, dual purpose microalgae–bacteria-based systems for treating wastewater and production of biofuels and chemical products significantly contribute to a substantial saving in the overall cost of microalgae biomass production. These types of systems could help to improve the competitiveness of biodiesel production from microalgae, according to some recent Life Cycle Analysis studies. Furthermore, they do not compete for fresh water resources for agricultural purposes and add value to treating the wastewater itself. This work reviews the most recent and relevant information about these types of dual purpose systems. Several aspects related to the treatment of municipal and animal wastewater with simultaneous recovery of microalgae with potential for biodiesel production are discussed. The use of pre-treated waste or anaerobic effluents from digested waste as nutrient additives for weak wastewater is reviewed. Isolation and screening of microalgae/cyanobacteria or their consortia from various wastewater streams, and studies related to population dynamics in mixed cultures, are highlighted as very relevant fields of research. The species selection may depend on various factors, such as the biomass and lipid productivity of each strain, the characteristics of the wastewater, the original habitat of the strain and the climatic conditions in the treatment plant, among others. Some alternative technologies aimed at harvesting biomass at a low cost, such as cell immobilization, biofilm formation, flocculation and bio-flocculation, are also reviewed. Finally, a Biorefinery design is presented that integrates the treatment of municipal wastewater with the recovery of oleaginous microalgae, together with the use of seawater supplemented with anaerobically digested piggery waste for cultivating Arthrospira (Spirulina) and producing biogas, biodiesel, hydrogen and other high added value products. Such strategies offer new opportunities for the cost-effective and competitive production of biofuels along with valuable non-fuel products. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Land and the use of land provide a key link between human activity and the natural environment. Traditionally, land has been a finite environmental resource. Land has been devoted to a variety of uses, such as food, for housing, as fibre and fodder. More recently, though, the discussion over the production of bioenergy crops for biofuels or for energy generation has put forward a new paradigm of land use. This paper reviews land use from the perspective of integrated systems, the new paradigm, and how it has evolved to make a contribution towards the reduction of greenhouse gases. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Automated electrochromic (EC) windows, advanced thermally improved window frames, and a dimmable lighting system were installed in a single, west-facing conference room in Washington DC. The EC windows were commercially available, tungsten-oxide switchable devices, modulated automatically between either fully clear or fully tinted transparent states to control solar gains, daylight, and discomfort glare. Occupants were permitted to manually override the automated EC controls. The system was monitored over a 15-month period under normal occupied conditions. The last six months were used in the analysis. Manual override data were analyzed to assess the EC control system design and user satisfaction with EC operations. Energy and comfort were evaluated using both monitored data and simulations. Of the 328 meetings that occurred over the six-month period, the automatic system was manually overridden on 14 or 4% of the meetings for reasons other than demonstration purposes. When overridden, occupants appeared to have switched the individual zones with deliberation, using a combination of clear and tinted zones and the interior Venetian blinds to produce the desired interior environment. Monitored weekday lighting energy savings were 91% compared to the existing lighting system, which was less efficient, had a higher illuminance setpoint, and no controls. Annual performance was estimated using EnergyPlus, where the existing condition met the ASHRAE 90.1-2007 prescriptive requirements except for a higher window U-value. Annual energy savings were 48% while peak demand savings were 35%. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Zero energy buildings (ZEB) and zero energy homes (ZEH) are a current hot topic globally for policy makers (what are the benefits and costs), designers (how do we design them), the construction industry (can we build them), marketing (will consumers buy them) and researchers (do they work and what are the implications). This paper presents initial findings from actual measured data from a 9 star (as built), off-ground detached family home constructed in south-east Queensland in 2008. The integrated systems approach to the design of the house is analysed in each of its three main goals: maximising the thermal performance of the building envelope, minimising energy demand whilst maintaining energy service levels, and implementing a multi-pronged low carbon approach to energy supply. The performance outcomes of each of these stages are evaluated against definitions of net zero carbon/net zero emissions (site and source) and net zero energy (onsite generation vs primary energy imports). The paper will conclude with a summary of the multiple benefits of combining very high efficiency building envelopes with diverse energy management strategies: a robustness, resilience, affordability and autonomy not generally seen in housing. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this work an integrated approach has been proposed to identify and schedule a rail transit corridor in a city which has a potential demand for a new rail based mass transit system besides the street transit system and existing rail-based system (if any). The motivation for the present study comes from the present Indian context where, because of recent initiatives of Central Urban Development Ministry, many Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) and transit agencies need to master plan new rail based systems in an optimum way and at the same time attempting to integrate them with other existing public transport (PT) modes. While aligning the new rail transit system, the primary focus of the integrated approach is to optimize the origin–destination (O–D) travel time of the user and at the same time attempting to minimize the operators’ cost. The proposed rail corridor identification model consists of three stages: public transport demand forecasting, creation of corridor link set, and optimization of rail corridor using Geographical Information System (GIS). The objective function for train scheduling model is fixed as minimization of sum of operating cost of trains (operator cost) and total waiting time cost of passengers boarding the train (user costs) subject to load factor and waiting time constraints. The dwell time of train at stations, which is usually considered constant, has been taken as a variable which depends on the actual number of passengers boarding and alighting the train. The model is applied on Thane municipal corporation (TMC) area, a major urban center of the Mumbai metropolitan region (MMR), India. The maximum peak hour ridership obtained on the identified corridor was found to be ideal for recommending light-rail transit system (LRT). The successful application of the model shows the capability of proposed model for a typical Indian city, which has potential demand for a new rail system. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We present our investigations into the direct laser writing of a novel germanium-containing hybrid sol–gel photosensitive material for optical applications at micro scale. We employ this material in the fabrication of photonic micro-structures, such as aspheric lenses and prisms; these are well-shaped and provided good optical performance. The material exhibits good transparency and structurability, and three-dimensional structures with sub-100nm resolution are achieved. We demonstrate the suitability of the direct laser writing method for the rapid production of custom shaped microoptical components. Since germanium glasses are widely used in fiber optics, the combination of direct laser writing with this specially designed, functional material opens an interesting way in fabricating structures for controlling light flow. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Daylight responsive dimming systems have been used in few buildings to date because they require improvements to improve reliability. The key underlying factor contributing to poor performance is the variability of the ratio of the photosensor signal to daylight workplane illuminance in accordance with sun position, sky condition, and fenestration condition. Therefore, this paper describes the integrated systems between automated roller shade systems and daylight responsive dimming systems with an improved closed-loop proportional control algorithm, and the relative performance of the integrated systems and single systems. The concept of the improved closed-loop proportional control algorithm for the integrated systems is to predict the varying correlation of photosensor signal to daylight workplane illuminance according to roller shade height and sky conditions for improvement of the system accuracy. In this study, the performance of the integrated systems with two improved closed-loop proportional control algorithms was compared with that of the current (modified) closed-loop proportional control algorithm. In the results, the average maintenance percentage and the average discrepancies of the target illuminance, as well as the average time under 90% of target illuminance for the integrated systems significantly improved in comparison with the current closed-loop proportional control algorithm for daylight responsive dimming systems as a single system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: An integrated system for hydrogen production via autothermal steam reforming of methanol and consequent power generation in a polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell has been developed and operated at C.P.E.R.I. The pilot plant comprises an autothermal reforming reactor to produce hydrogen, a preferential oxidation reactor (PROX) to reduce CO concentration below 50ppm and a PEM fuel cell for power generation. The present paper deals with the study of this system, both from an experimental and a theoretical point of view. The experimental work aims to: (a) examine the effect of the reforming temperature on methanol conversion and on the effluent stream concentration, (b) investigate the effect of reaction temperature and O2/CO ratio on the performance of the PROX reactor, and (c) evaluate the operation of a 10-cell PEM fuel cell, using pure hydrogen and air at three temperature levels. The experimental data are subsequently utilized for the validation of one-dimensional pseudo-homogeneous models that have been developed for the two reactors and also for the identification of the voltage–current characteristic curve of the PEM fuel cell. The validated models are then used to investigate the behavior and explore the interactions, both static and dynamic, among the various process subsystems. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Microfabrication techniques and, in particular, complementary-metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) technology have been used to devise chemo/biosensors [1-3] as well as bioelectronic microsystems [4-7]. Examples of micromachined bio- or chemosensors, such as cantilevers or micoelectrode arrays, will be shown, and the electrical interfacing of CMOS microelectronics with biological entities or electrogenic cells, i.e., cells that react upon electrical stimulation and, in turn, produce electrical signals (heart cells or neurons) are detailed. CMOS-based, fully integrated microelectrode arrays for bidirectional communication (stimulation and recording) with electrogenic cells are presented. These devices are capable of monitoring relevant electrophysiological responses of cells to electrical stimuli or to pharmacological agents with prospective applications in the field of bio-inspired information processing or pharmascreening. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] • Lists of critical-raw materials evidence the necessity for by-products recovery. • Resources recovery by pressure-driven membranes is a reality. • Energy requirements are the main limitation for ED, MD, and MCr. • Integrated and hybrid systems should contribute to raw materials supply. Facilities intended for industrial effluents treatment for only disposal are no longer interesting from an environmental and economical perspective. Rather than that, they started to be designed for by-products recovery as well. Stand-alone treatment units are often ineffective for that purpose, which led to researches that investigate integrated and hybrid treatments. It has been reviewed integrated membrane-based technologies intended for by-products recovery from industrial effluents in bench and full-scale applications. Consolidated technologies as ultra-, micro-, nanofiltration and reverse osmosis membrane have been combined with different biological and physicochemical technologies that allow for by-products recovery. It has been summarized the merits and demerits of their integration, in addition to recommendations to improve their efficiency. Besides the conventional membrane separation processes, emerging technologies as electrodialysis and membrane contactors (membrane scrubbers, membrane distillation, and membrane crystallizers) were summarized. Although considered emerging, they have a great potential to be further scale-up and combined with different processes. Aside from their performance in effluent treatment and by-product recovery, their economic viability has been discussed as well. Up-coming membrane modules combining different processes, markedly known for their small area requirement and performance improvement, were also presented. The current literature points out integrated/hybrid systems and effluents valorization as one of the alternatives to overcome the scarcity of the raw materials to be faced in a near future. However, advancements in membranes of greater resistance, lower costs, antifouling characteristics, and lower propensity for wetting would be of paramount importance to extend the application of these systems for effluents beneficiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Decision-making is often a complex task. There may be multiple criteria to be satisfied. The consequences of the available options will have different spatial and temporal distributions affecting different population groups and different generations. Decisions are also frequently made in a social context where perceptions can be as important as facts. In this complex environment, research into decision-making has two aspects: (a) understanding the decision process and (b) assisting the decision process. This paper is based on the premise that these are closely linked and that tools are possible which both help us to understand and provide support to decision-makers. A frequently requirement is determination of the trade-offs involved in complex decision situations. These are difficult to establish. Common approaches have used both stated preference and revealed preference techniques. The latter provides a better reflection of real decisions, primarily in market conditions, but does not have the level of experimental control available in hypothetical choice situations. Experimental economics has recently emerged to try to bridge this gap by providing for control of variables within a decision context made real by salient inducements. After review of these options, and the associated literature, we propose a series of linked developments in visualisation and modelling which will support: definition of non-dominated choice sets; interactive choice experiments which encompass spatial and temporal disaggregation; agent-based models to provide social context; and, visualisation to provide a greater sense of immersion in the decision context supported by more intuitive information. We have begun the integration of the necessary software into a virtual decision environment but this paper is focused on conceptual development. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Complex processes involve many process variables, and operators faced with the tasks of monitoring, control, and diagnosis of these processes often find it difficult to effectively monitor the process data, analyse current states, detect and diagnose process anomalies, or take appropriate actions to control the processes. The complexity can be rendered more manageable provided important underlying trends or events can be identified based on the operational data (Rengaswamy and Venkatasubramanian, 1992. An Integrated Framework for Process Monitoring, Diagnosis, and Control Using Knowledge-based Systems and Neural Networks. IFAC, Delaware, USA, pp. 49–54.). To assist plant operators, decision support systems that incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) and non-AI technologies have been adopted for the tasks of monitoring, control, and diagnosis. The support systems can be implemented based on the data-driven, analytical, and knowledge-based approach (Chiang et al., 2001. Fault Detection and Diagnosis in Industrial Systems. Springer, London, Great Britain). This paper presents a literature survey on intelligent systems for monitoring, control, and diagnosis of process systems. The main objectives of the survey are first, to introduce the data-driven, analytical, and knowledge-based approaches for developing solutions in intelligent support systems, and secondly, to present research efforts of four research groups that have done extensive work in integrating the three solutions approaches in building intelligent systems for monitoring, control and diagnosis. The four main research groups include the Laboratory of Intelligent Systems in Process Engineering (LISPE) at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the Laboratory for Intelligent Process Systems (LIPS) at Purdue University, the Intelligent Engineering Laboratory (IEL) at the University of Alberta, and the Department of Chemical Engineering at University of Leeds. The paper also gives some comparison of the integrated approaches, and suggests their strengths and weaknesses. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]