A. W. Zularisam

Bio: A. W. Zularisam is an academic researcher from Universiti Malaysia Pahang. The author has contributed to research in topics: Biogas & Microbial fuel cell. The author has an hindex of 15, co-authored 80 publications receiving 756 citations.

Microbial fuel cell is emerging as a versatile technology: a review on its possible applications, challenges and strategies to improve the performances

Abstract: ummary Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are emerging as a versatile renewable energy technology. This is particularly because of the multidimensional applications of this eco-friendly technology. The technology depends on the electroactive bacteria, popularly known as exoelectrogens, to simultaneously produce electric power and treat wastewater. Electrode modifications with nanomaterials such as gold nanoparticles and iron oxide nanoparticles or pretreatment methods such as sonication and autoclave sterilization have shown promising results in enhancing MFC performance for electricity generation and wastewater treatment. The MFC technology has been also investigated for the removal of various heavy metals and toxic elements, and to detect the presence of toxic elements in wastewater. In addition, the MFCs can be modified into microbial electrolysis cells to generate hydrogen energy from various organic matters. This article provides a comprehensive and state-of-the-art review of possible applications of the MFC technology. This also points out the various challenges that limit MFC performance. Finally, this article identifies the strategies to improve MFC performance for different applications. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Highlights State-of-the-art information on major applications of MFCs and strategies to improve them is provided in this article. The basic principles of all the applications are thoroughly discussed. The obstacles that limit the technology to use in real-world applications are reported. Many approaches such as electrode modification and genetic engineering can be utilized to improve MFC performances.

Quorum sensing based membrane biofouling control for water treatment: A review

Abstract: Exploring novel biological strategies to mitigate membrane biofouling is of significant value in order to allow sustainable performance of membrane systems for water and wastewater treatment. Quorum sensing (QS) is a bacterial communication process that involves small diffusible signalling molecules, which activate the expression of myriad genes that control a diverse array of phenotypes such as bioluminescence, virulence, biofilm formation and sporulation. Since QS is often associated with biofilm formation, inhibition of QS should be a promising strategy to control membrane biofouling. Recently, a revolutionary application of bacterial QS has been as a novel strategy for the mitigation of biofouling in membrane systems. In this review an attempt is made to correlate membrane biofouling with QS activity. Moreover, recent trends in membrane biofouling control based on QS are presented and the mechanisms by which different agents mitigate membrane biofouling based on QS are discussed. The potential impact of QS-based methods of biofilm control is assessed. Lastly, brief conclusions and future research challenges in membrane biofouling control based on QS are highlighted.

The Design and Analysis of Experiments

Abstract: THE DESIGN AND ANALYSIS OF EXPERIMENTS. By Oscar Kempthorne. New York, John Wiley and Sons, Inc., 1952. 631 pp. $8.50. This book by a teacher of statistics (as well as a consultant for \"experimenters\") is a comprehensive study of the philosophical background for the statistical design of experiment. It is necessary to have some facility with algebraic notation and manipulation to be able to use the volume intelligently. The problems are presented from the theoretical point of view, without such practical examples as would be helpful for those not acquainted with mathematics. The mathematical justification for the techniques is given. As a somewhat advanced treatment of the design and analysis of experiments, this volume will be interesting and helpful for many who approach statistics theoretically as well as practically. With emphasis on the \"why,\" and with description given broadly, the author relates the subject matter to the general theory of statistics and to the general problem of experimental inference. MARGARET J. ROBERTSON

Spinels: Controlled Preparation, Oxygen Reduction/Evolution Reaction Application, and Beyond

Abstract: Spinels with the formula of AB2O4 (where A and B are metal ions) and the properties of magnetism, optics, electricity, and catalysis have taken significant roles in applications of data storage, biotechnology, electronics, laser, sensor, conversion reaction, and energy storage/conversion, which largely depend on their precise structures and compositions. In this review, various spinels with controlled preparations and their applications in oxygen reduction/evolution reaction (ORR/OER) and beyond are summarized. First, the composition and structure of spinels are introduced. Then, recent advances in the preparation of spinels with solid-, solution-, and vapor-phase methods are summarized, and new methods are particularly highlighted. The physicochemical characteristics of spinels such as their compositions, structures, morphologies, defects, and substrates have been rationally regulated through various approaches. This regulation can yield spinels with improved ORR/OER catalytic activities, which can furth...

Flavonoids and Other Phenolic Compounds from Medicinal Plants for Pharmaceutical and Medical Aspects: An Overview.

Abstract: Phenolic compounds as well as flavonoids are well-known as antioxidant and many other important bioactive agents that have long been interested due to their benefits for human health, curing and preventing many diseases. This review attempts to demonstrate an overview of flavonoids and other phenolic compounds as the interesting alternative sources for pharmaceutical and medicinal applications. The examples of these phytochemicals from several medicinal plants are also illustrated, and their potential applications in pharmaceutical and medical aspects, especially for health promoting e.g., antioxidant effects, antibacterial effect, anti-cancer effect, cardioprotective effects, immune system promoting and anti-inflammatory effects, skin protective effect from UV radiation and so forth are highlighted.

Lead toxicity: Health hazards, influence on food Chain, and sustainable remediation approaches

Abstract: Lead (Pb) toxicity has been a subject of interest for environmental scientists due to its toxic effect on plants, animals, and humans. An increase in several Pb related industrial activities and use of Pb containing products such as agrochemicals, oil and paint, mining, etc. can lead to Pb contamination in the environment and thereby, can enter the food chain. Being one of the most toxic heavy metals, Pb ingestion via the food chain has proven to be a potential health hazard for plants and humans. The current review aims to summarize the research updates on Pb toxicity and its effects on plants, soil, and human health. Relevant literature from the past 20 years encompassing comprehensive details on Pb toxicity has been considered with key issues such as i) Pb bioavailability in soil, ii) Pb biomagnification, and iii) Pb- remediation, which has been addressed in detail through physical, chemical, and biological lenses. In the review, among different Pb-remediation approaches, we have highlighted certain advanced approaches such as microbial assisted phytoremediation which could possibly minimize the Pb load from the resources in a sustainable manner and would be a viable option to ensure a safe food production system.