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Shaw, P. |
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Dual action of reactive species as signal and stress agents in plasma medicine : combined computational and experimental research |
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Doctoral thesis |
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2021 |
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191 p. |
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Doctoral thesis; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT); Center for Oncological Research (CORE) |
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Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) generated by cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) can activate discrete signaling transduction pathways or disrupt redox cellular homeostasis, depending on their concentration. This makes that CAP possesses therapeutic potential towards wound healing, cancer, and other diseases. In order to effectively use CAP in the clinic, a clear understanding of the interaction of RONS with biomolecules (lipids, proteins and nucleic acids) from the atomic to the macro scale, and their biological significance, is needed. In this work, I have therefore studied the dual role of CAP-derived RONS, i.e., (i) in the signaling pathways involved in wound healing, and (ii) in their reaction with biomolecules to cause oxidation-mediated damage. I performed computer simulations to provide fundamental insight about the occurring processes that are difficult or even impossible to obtain experimentally. Furthermore, next to computational studies, I used both 2D and 3D tissue cultures. 3D model allows proliferation in a more physiologically relevant geometry that stimulates the production of extracellular matrix proteins. I investigated the treatment of human gingival fibroblasts with low doses of CAP-generated RONS. This treatment demonstrated that it can inhibit colony formation but does not induce cell death, induce the expression of metalloprotease proteins, induce extracellular matrix degradation, and promote cell migration, which could result in enhanced wound healing. In contrast, at high concentrations, RONS can disrupt the cell membrane integrity and induce cancer cell death through oxidative stress-mediated pathways. I discovered how oxidation of the cell membrane (lipid-peroxidation) can facilitate the access of a drug (Melittin) into cancer cells, and in this way, reduce the required therapeutic dose of Melittin in melanoma and breast cancer cells (demonstrated using in vitro, in ovo and in silico approaches). Furthermore, I studied how excessive lipid-oxidation in chemoresistant pancreatic cancer cells promotes ferroptotic cell death. This was due to the stimulation of the iron-dependent Fenton reaction by targeting a redox specific signaling network. However, upon oxidative stress, cells protect themselves via a sophisticated intracellular antioxidant system that involves the regulation of glutathione/glutathione peroxidase 4 (lipid repair enzyme). Cancer cells exhibited increased levels of intracellular RONS due to their hyper metabolism, leading to high expression of anti-oxidant systems. I therefore focus on the effect of reactive species on the intracellular anti-oxidant system and corresponding DNA damages in both temozolomide-sensitive as well as temozolomide-resistant glioblastoma spheroids, in a 3-dimensional tumor model with a more complex tumor microenvironment than cell monolayers. |
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UA @ admin @ c:irua:183751 |
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7828 |
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Cui, Z. |
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Experimental and theoretical study on SF6 degradation by packed-bed DBD plasma |
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Doctoral thesis |
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2021 |
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Doctoral thesis; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT) |
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Sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), as a man-made gas, is widely used in power industry, semiconductor industry and metal-processing industry. However, SF6 is a greenhouse gas and its global warming potential is 23500 times that of CO2. Besides, SF6 is very stable, with a lifetime in the atmosphere for more than one thousand years. Under natural conditions, only the ultraviolet light can make it slowly decomposed. Thus, the emission of SF6 has a great threat to the environment. In recent years, with the development of our national economy, the use of SF6 increased dramatically. And 90% of the SF6 emissions come from the power industry. In the meantime, the emission of SF6 exists a ‘hysteresis effect’, as many of the SF6-gas insulation equipment will retire in next decades, the emission of SF6 may increase sharply, and this may put great pressure on the environment. Therefore, it’s necessary to make efforts in controlling and treating the SF6 emission. Among the SF6 abatement technologies, the non-thermal plasma(NTP) represented by the dielectric barrier discharge(DBD) can effectively degrade SF6 and is suitable for large-scale industry applications. However, its energy efficiency still gets room for improvement and this kind of method has a defect that it’s hard to regulate the degradation by-products. Therefore, this paper proposed the combination of the packed bed reactor and the DBD technology to form a packed DBD discharge system for SF6 degradation, so that to further improve the energy efficiency and regulate the selectivity of by-products. By experiment and simulation research, the following innovations have been achieved: (1) Based on the packed bed DBD platform, the power parameter and gas-phase parameters of SF6 degradation were studied. It was found that the discharge process was significantly enhanced with the addition of packing particles, and the discharge energy efficiency was improved. The increase of input voltage can obviously increase the degradation rate, but reduces the energy efficiency. The increase of SF6 initial concentration and gas flow rate can improve the energy efficiency, but reduce the degradation rate. Therefore, both degradation rate and energy efficiency should be considered in deciding basic experimental conditions. (2) Active gases, such as O2, H2O and NH3, could effectively promote the degradation rate of SF6, and changed the product selectivity. In our packed bed DBD system, O2 and H2O have the optimal concentration conditions, which are 2% and 1%, respectively. The addition of O2 can promote the generation of S-O-F products, and inhibit the selectivity of SO2, while the addition of H2O had the opposite effects. In addition, the synergistic degradation of NH3 and SF6 will produce solid products, such as NH3HF, NH4HF2 and elemental S. For gaseous products, the increase of NH3 will lead to the generation of SO2 in the final degradation products and inhibit the generation of S-O-F products. (3) Different kinds of packing materials have great impacts on the degradation system in the discharge parameters, degradation rate and energy efficiency, as well as the products distribution. In the experiment, we compared the degradation results in three systems: glass beads packing, γ-Al2O3 packing and no-packing system. The packing of glass beads effectively improved the discharge voltage amplitude and discharge power, while had a limited effect on the equivalent capacitance of the dielectric. Besides, γ-Al2O3 packing had little effect on voltage amplitude, but obviously increased the equivalent capacitance of the dielectric. Furthermore, the degradation rate and energy efficiency in γ-Al2O3 system was higher than that of glass bead system. For products selectivity, γ-Al2O3 system was more desirable, where S-O-F type of product selectivity was suppressed and the SO2 selectivity increased significantly. By contrast, the glass beads system hardly affected the product selectivity. This results are presumably due to the relatively high dielectric constant of γ-Al2O3 particles and γ-Al2O3 itself may act as a reactant or a catalyst participating in the degradation reactions. (4) The size and status of the packing particles also have significant effects on the degradation process. The systems packed with 1, 2 and 4mm γ-Al2O3 particles for SF6 degradation were compared, and the 2mm system had the best performance, which may because the 2mm system had a good balance between the active contact area and the gas residence time. In addition, the packing pellets suffered from a hydration process slightly reduced the discharge parameters in the γ-Al2O3 packing system and significantly reduced the degradation rate was, which may because the H2O molecules pre-occupied the active sites on the γ-Al2O3 surface and reduced the discharge process. (5) Based on density functional theory (DFT), the degradation process of SF6 in the packed bed DBD system was studied at atomic scale. It was found that the SF6 can occur a physical adsorption at AlⅢ active sites on γ-Al2O3 surface. The activation barrier for the first degradation step of SF6 on γ-Al2O3 surface is much lower than in gas phase, which proved that the SF6 molecule is activated on the γ-Al2O3 surface. In addition, the plasma may affect the γ-Al2O3 surface to generate excess electrons or external electric fields. This two effects can change the adsorbed SF6 molecules from physical adsorption to chemisorption, together with an obvious stretching of S-F bonds, indicating that the plasma surface effects prmote the activation and decomposition of SF6 molecules. Furthermore, the stepwise degradation process of SF6 on γ-Al2O3 surface were investigated. The influence of radicals produced by plasma on the degradation process was analyzed. It was found that via Eley–Rideal (ER) reactions, high-energy radicals could effectively reduce the activation barriers and promote the surface reactions. Finally, the degradation mechanism of SF6 molecules in the packed bed plasma system was summarized, which may provide a theoretical basis for the study of harmless degradation of SF6. Keywords: SF6; Packed Bed DBD; Discharge Parameters; Products Analysis; Degradation Mechanism |
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UA @ admin @ c:irua:180819 |
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7946 |
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Gielis, J.; Shi, P.; Beirinckx, B.; Caratelli, D.; Ricci, P.E. |
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Lamé-Gielis curves in biology and geometry |
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P3 Proceeding |
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2021 |
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P3 Proceeding; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL) |
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UA @ admin @ c:irua:178828 |
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8145 |
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Zhu, W. |
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Microbial resource management for mainstream partial nitritation/anammox : strategies to enhance the nitrogen conversion efficiency |
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Doctoral thesis |
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2021 |
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207 p. |
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Doctoral thesis; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL) |
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This thesis provides three potential ways to enhance the nitrogen removal efficiency of mainstream partial nitritation/anammox (PN/A), a key technology to enable energy-positive sewage treatment. In Chapter 1, the typical technologies to promote nitrogen removal efficiency are summarized. In Chapters 2 and 3, the concept ‘winter bioaugmentation with stored summer surplus sludge’ is proposed. Applying that, a cost-effective sludge preservation strategy is required. Preserving PN/A biomass without cooling and redox adjustment proved to be the cost-effective strategy. The reactivation of these stored sludges was also tested in low-temperature systems (15 and 10℃). Respectively 56% and 41% of granules activity compared to pre-storage activity (after Arrhenius-based temperature correction) could be recovered within a month (41% and 32% for flocs activity). In the end, the stored AnAOB bioaugmentation was successfully validated in the lab (20℃). In Chapter 4, a return-sludge nursery concept, applying the sidestream nitritation and blending the resulting effluent with mainstream effluent to achieve an intermediate temperature and nitrogen concentrations, is proposed. That led to a 33 – 36% increase in nitrogen removal efficiency. Arrhenius’ expectations (10 ℃ higher temperature, θ = 1.09) could only explain 49-51% of the activity increase in the nursery reactor, pointing to the role of other factors, e.g., the ~400% elevated electrical conductivity (15-16%), the 56-335% higher effluent nitrogen concentrations (12-14%), and the synergy and unknown factors (20-23%). Thus, the return-sludge biostimulation approach could also enhance nitrogen efficiency in the mainstream. In Chapter 5, the N2O emissions, linked to three typical nitrite-oxidizing bacteria (NOB) suppression strategies (low dissolved oxygen (DO) level, free ammonia (FA), and free nitrous acids (FNA) treatments) were tested in a biofilm system. A low emerged DO level (~0.60 mg O2 L-1) was effective to suppress NOB activity and decrease N2O emissions, but NOB adaptation gradually appeared after 200 days. Further NOB inhibition was successfully achieved by periodical (3 hours per week) FA (~30 mg NH3-N L-1) or FNA (~3 mg HNO2-N L-1) treatments. The FA treatment promoted N2O production, while the FNA treatment had no effect. Thus, PN/A systems should be operated at relatively low DO levels with periodical FNA treatment. In Chapter 6, the major findings proposed and the main conclusions drawn in this thesis are outlined. Beyond that, the possible design of a mainstream PN/A configuration that combined all described three technologies is demonstrated. Overall, the novel insights from this thesis potential to improve nitrogen removal efficiency in the mainstream. |
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UA @ admin @ c:irua:184236 |
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8245 |
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Marchetti, A. |
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Novel insights and approaches for the analytical characterization of tangible cultural heritage objects |
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Doctoral thesis |
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2021 |
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333 p. |
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Doctoral thesis; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation) |
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Cultural heritage represents the vehicle of our cultural identity, handed over from past to future generations throughout human history. As a repository of fundamental cultural and social values, the preservation of all forms of cultural heritage is a responsibility of every society and of humankind as a whole. When it comes to tangible cultural heritage, preservation of heritage translates into preservation of objects and, therefore, of the materials they are constituted of. This crucial task relies heavily on the application of scientific analytical methods to answer material and conservation-related questions. The fundamental contribution of this analytical approach led, in the past decades, to an ever-deepening understanding of the factors governing the degradation of cultural heritage. However, the extreme complexity of the heritage object-environment system results in a massive research field, which inevitably presents relevant open questions. This is where the present PhD work comes into play, attempting to fill knowledge gaps in literature by starting from specific case studies and un-answered research questions. The multianalytical research conducted during this PhD unraveled fundamental information on the properties governing the reactivity and long-term behavior of different classes of materials, from α-brass in an indoor environment to artists’ pigments in the presence of light, moisture and soluble particulate matter (PM). The paramount importance of the synthesis conditions on the composition, physical properties and reactivity of heritage materials was also demonstrated, in particular for stable lead pyroantimonate and unstable Geranium lake artists’ pigments. Moreover, the study and characterization of specific heritage objects, namely a series of 16th century reliquary altarpieces and the painting L’Arlesienne, by Vincent Van Gogh, allowed to obtain relevant insights into their composition and on potential risks for their conservation. The challenging nature of the samples considered, created the perfect opportunity to test an innovative spectroscopic technique, optical photo-thermal IR (O-PTIR), for the characterization of heritage materials. Striking results were obtained, highlighting a great potential for the application of this non-destructive sub-micron molecular spectroscopy to the analysis of cultural heritage. Finally, in the last section of this work, strategies to implement the continuous monitoring of PM levels in indoor environmental quality studies were also considered, with a particular focus on the identification of environmental hazards for the collections housed in specific conservation environments (War Heritage Institute in Brussels and St. Martin’s church in Aalst, BE). |
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UA @ admin @ c:irua:177849 |
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8319 |
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Cong, S. |
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Numerical study on low-pressure hollow cathode argon arc plasma |
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Doctoral thesis |
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2021 |
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XIX, 126 p. |
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Doctoral thesis; Philosophy; Educational sciences; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT) |
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The low-pressure hollow cathode discharge made of a hollow circular tube and an anode is a type of simple structure discharge system. In particular, under the arc discharge mode, hollow cathodes have high plasma density and energy density with a wide range of adaptability of pressure and current. Low-pressure hollow cathode arc (HCA) discharges have been widely used as plasma sources in various fields such as manufacturing, vacuum welding, and aerospace since the 1960s. Despite the early experimental and applied researches on low-pressure HCA discharges, the basic theoretical study was relatively lagged much behind, resulting in many unanswered questions, such as the optimal discharge operating parameters, the power deposition inside the cathode, the causes of plasma instability, and how to effectively reduce cathode erosion and so on. Due to the special discharge structure of the hollow cathode, it is difficult to make an accurate experimental diagnosis, so a reasonable numerical simulation is an effective study method. However, up to now, there is still a lack of complete and effective numerical models which can evaluate various physical fields in the low-pressure hollow cathode discharges. To address the above problems and difficulties, a comprehensive and self-consistent 2D multi-physical coupling numerical model based on a commercial program of finite element method, the COMSOL Multiphysics, was provided in this paper. The model involves plasma transport, arc flow and heat transfer, and cathode thermal equilibrium, and can consider the effect of an applied magnetic field. The processes of secondary electron emission, thermal-field electron emission, ions and backflow high-energy electrons bombardment, and thermal radiation from the cathode surface are considered in the cathode thermal equilibrium process. Based on the above background, this paper works from the following aspects： In Chapter 1, the basic concepts of low-pressure HCA discharge including the hollow cathode effect, the basic characteristics, and operation modes were introduced firstly; Secondly, the application fields, development history, and overseas and domestic research status of hollow cathode discharge were reviewed; finally, the problems were presented and the research background was explained, and the research purpose of this paper was clarified. In Chapter 2, a complete and self-consistent numerical model of low-pressure hollow cathode discharge was proposed based on the fundamental theory and assumptions, and the set of control equations and boundary conditions in the model were elaborated. In addition, the electron energy distribution function, the collision processes, the solving tools of this model, and calculation schemes were introduced in detail. Finally, a validation example was given to test the rationality and applicability of the numerical model. In Chapter 3, the fundamental plasma properties of low-pressure hollow cathode arcs were investigated. Firstly, the ion Joule heating effect was studied. The results showed that the temperature distributions of the arc and cathode are only able to approach the experimental measurements after considering the ion Joule heating, which shows that the Joule heating of ions is crucial for the heating of the arc plasma. Secondly, by comparing the radial distribution of electron and ion density inside the cathode, the structure of the cathode sheath could be simulated well using this model. Finally, it was shown that the thermal radiation from the cathode surface is an important cooling mechanism of the cathode and only under higher surface emissivity can balance the larger heat flow given by the plasma to the cathode, and the temperature distribution of the cathode shows a non-monotonic increasing trend and is consistent with the profile of experimental measurement so that the so-called active zone is formed. In Chapter 4, the power deposition in the low-pressure HCA was studied in simulation. Two main aspects were considered: the power deposition into particles (both electrons and heavy particles) and the power deposition onto the cathode. It was found that the deposited power into particles increases with the rise of discharge current, but there is no effect on the total power deposition onto the cathode. In high-density plasmas, Coulomb collisions between electrons and ions also become very important, especially since a portion of the deposition energy on heavy particles comes mainly from the energy transfer from electrons to ions. It was also found that regardless of external parameters, half of the power deposition onto the cathode always comes from the particle contribution, while the other half is the net contribution of heat transfer and cathode radiation. The HCA model also allows the simulation of multiple discharge modes for low-pressure HCA discharges over a wide range of gas flow rates. It was also shown that the discharge operating conditions and the external magnetic field can change the distribution of the particle flow on the cathode wall. In Chapter 5, the ion sputtering erosion process on the cathode was simulated by coupling the HCA numerical model with the moving grid technique. The results showed that the ion sputtering erosion on the cathode depends on the ion flux and the plasma potential near the cathode wall and that their distribution and magnitude jointly determine the erosion morphology of the cathode. It was also found that the location of the most severe erosion on the cathode is located in the region of the densest ion flux on the cathode wall, rather than in the longitudinal correspondence with the central region of the internal positive column (IPC). The external magnetic fields can mitigate the cathode erosion and reduce the erosion depth, but stronger magnetic fields lead to a concentration of current density at the cathode tip, which can enhance erosion slightly at the cathode outlet end. Finally, the conclusions and innovation highlights were summarized, and prospects for future work were discussed. |
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UA @ admin @ c:irua:178725 |
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8323 |
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Van Hal, M. |
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Photo(electro)catalytic air purification and soot degradation with simultaneous energy recovery |
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Doctoral thesis |
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2021 |
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XXXII, 203 p. |
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Doctoral thesis; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL) |
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Today’s society is increasingly challenged by a range of urgent environmental problems. Air pollution is one of these pressing topics. This thesis will mainly focus on the degradation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter (PM) – more specifically soot. A second globally urging topic is the quest for sustainable energy production. To simultaneously target both environmental problems, a photoelectrochemical (PEC) cell will be studied in this thesis, combining air purification and sustainable energy production in a single device. Photocatalysis is used at the anode of the PEC cell to drive the air purification process, while the energy contained in the degraded compounds is (partially) recovered at the cathode, either as H2 gas or electricity. The first two experimental chapters focus on the proof of concept of such an unbiased all-gas phase PEC cell targeting VOC degradation, using both TiO2- and WO3-based photocatalysts. In the two following experimental chapters the photocatalytic soot oxidation capacity of these TiO2- and WO3-based photocatalysts was studied. In the final experimental chapter the previously obtained results were combined, striving towards an efficient, sunlight-driven and soot-degrading waste gas-to-energy PEC cell. |
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UA @ admin @ c:irua:184521 |
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8378 |
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Daems, E. |
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Shaping up oligonucleotides : aptamer-target recognition investigated by native mass spectrometry |
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Doctoral thesis |
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2021 |
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235 p. |
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Doctoral thesis; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation) |
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Aptamers are short, synthetic DNA or RNA molecules that are characterized by a specific 3D conformation which enables specific target recognition. Aptamers are promising tools in many application fields from sensing to therapeutics. One of the major challenges in the aptamer field is understanding the relationship between the sequence and what determines the higher-order structure and specific interactions with targets. Therefore, this PhD thesis focuses on the use of different mass spectrometry (MS) based approaches to characterize aptamers and their interactions. Several of these approaches are already widely applied to study other biomolecules, such as proteins, but are still largely unexplored for aptamers and oligonucleotides in general. A first focus was put on obtaining information on the higher-order structure and conformational stability of aptamers using a combination of MS and with ion mobility (IM) spectrometry by performing collision-induced unfolding (CIU) experiments. CIU was shown to hold great promise to analyze the conformational dynamics and gas-phase stabilities of aptamers. Next, the capabilities and limitations of native IM-MS for the analysis of noncovalent interactions of aptamers were demonstrated. The conformational behavior and interactions of cocaine-binding aptamers were studied and it was found that relative binding affinities of aptamers that only differ slightly in sequence and structure can be determined using native MS. Moreover, native IM-MS allowed the detection of small conformational changes upon binding of a target, which were found to be dependent on the binding mode of the aptamer. An adaptive binding mechanism was suggested for flexible aptamers that require more reorganization upon binding. In the final part of this thesis, the importance of thoroughly characterizing and validating aptamer-target interactions before using them in an application was emphasized. Moreover, the gathered insights were applied in our own development of a proof-of-concept aptamer-based sensor. This was shown by investigating the interactions of ampicillin aptamers which were found to not bind the target they were selected for in the first place. A multi-analytical approach combining complementary techniques was used for this purpose since no single technique is generally applicable to characterize all aptamers and their interactions and to obtain a comprehensive picture of the aptamer-target interactions. Furthermore, such multi-analytical approach was used to characterize a testosterone-binding aptamer while developing an aptamer-based electrochemiluminescent sensing strategy for this target. This shows the importance of native MS, in combination with other techniques, to thoroughly understand the aptamer-target interactions in the development of a designed application. |
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UA @ admin @ c:irua:178116 |
Serial |
8517 |
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Author |
Van Loenhout, J. |
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Title |
Targeting pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and glioblastoma with oxidative stress-mediated treatment strategies : focus on tumor cell death and modulation of the tumor microenvironment |
Type |
Doctoral thesis |
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Year |
2021 |
Publication |
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Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
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Issue |
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Pages |
167 p. |
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Doctoral thesis; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT); Center for Oncological Research (CORE) |
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Abstract |
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) are two of the most malignant solid tumor types with poor survival rates, which underscore the urgency of novel and efficacious treatment strategies. Within the last decade, immunotherapy has been established as a breakthrough in cancer therapy. This mainly has been driven by the clinical data and approval associated with several immune checkpoint inhibitors (e.g. anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1/L1). Despite the clinical benefit in specific tumor types, these inhibitors have not yet fulfilled their promise in low immunogenic tumors such as PDAC and GBM. Oxidative stress in cancer cells due to elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) and an inability to balance intracellular redox state has recently been highlighted as promising target for anticancer treatment strategies with possible immunogenic effects. In this PhD dissertation, I investigated novel oxidative stress-mediated treatment approaches to target PDAC and GBM and to enhance immunogenicity by inducing immunogenic cell death (ICD). In the first part of this thesis (chapter 2), I reviewed the mechanistic responses of cancer cells towards different oxidative stress-inducing treatment strategies and their immunomodulating effects. The resulting literature demonstrated that different exogenous and endogenous ROS-inducing therapies show direct and indirect immunomodulating effects, which can be either immunostimulatory or immunosuppressive. One of the indirect immunostimulatory effects of the ROS-mediating therapies is the capacity of inducing immunogenic cell death (ICD) in tumor cells, which can increase the immunogenicity and consequently can trigger an antitumoral immune response. In chapter 3, I investigated a novel exogenous ROS-inducing treatment method, namely cold atmospheric plasma, to determine the therapeutic and ICD-inducing effects in PDAC, in vitro. I revealed that plasma-treated PBS (pPBS) has the potential to induce ICD in pancreatic cancer cells (PCCs) and to reduce the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) by attacking the tumor supportive pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs). Although the cell death induced in PSCs was non-immunogenic as seen by the lack of danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) emission and DC activation, I showed that pPBS could disrupt the physical barrier and lower the immunosuppressive secretion profile (lower TGF-β) of PSCs. In contrast, DAMPs were released by PCCs after treatment with pPBS which resulted in activation and maturation of DCs and a more immunostimulatory secretion profile (higher TNF-α, IFN-γ). Hence, indirect plasma treatment via pPBS has the potential to enhance immunogenicity in PDAC by triggering ICD and by attacking the immunosuppressive PSCs. Tumor cells can evolve adaptation mechanisms to protect themselves against intrinsic oxidative stress by upregulation of pro-survival molecules and their antioxidant defense system to maintain the redox balance. As such, tumor cells can become resistant towards exogenous ROS-inducing therapies, like plasma. Dual targeting of the redox balance of tumor cells by increasing exogenous levels of ROS and inhibiting the antioxidant defense system can maximally exploit ROS-mediated cell death mechanisms as therapeutic anticancer strategy. In this regard, cold atmospheric plasma was combined with auranofin, a thioredoxin reductase inhibitor, in GBM (chapter 4). A synergistic effect was shown after this combination treatment in 2D and 3D, however, in 3D only high concentrations of auranofin synergized with plasma treatment. I confirmed a ROS-mediated response after combination treatment, which was able to induce distinct cell death mechanisms, specifically apoptosis and ferroptosis. Additionally, the auranofin and plasma combined treatment strategy induced cell death, which resulted in an increased release of DAMPs. Together with the observed DC maturation, these results indicates the potential increase in immunogenicity, though, the phagocytotic capacity of DCs was inhibited by auranofin. In chapter 5, I evaluated this promising oxidative stress combination therapy in GBM, in vivo. A decrease in tumor kinetics and an increased survival in GBM-bearing mice was observed when auranofin was sequentially combined with direct plasma treatment. No T cell infiltration was observed after auranofin monotherapy. However, further characterization of the TME after the combination therapy is necessary to provide more insight in the immunogenic effects in vivo. In conclusion, this PhD dissertation comprises novel and important therapeutic and immunogenic insights in cold atmospheric plasma and auranofin as promising oxidative stress-mediated treatment strategies for low immunogenic tumors, like PDAC and GBM. These preclinical results provide a solid basis for future research towards combinations with immunotherapeutic approaches. |
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Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:181309 |
Serial |
8643 |
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Author |
Yildiz, A.; Chouki, T.; Atli, A.; Harb, M.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Ninakanti, R.; Emin, S. |
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Title |
Efficient iron phosphide catalyst as a counter electrode in dye-sensitized solar cells |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2021 |
Publication |
ACS applied energy materials |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
4 |
Issue |
10 |
Pages |
10618-10626 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL) |
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Abstract |
Developing an efficient material as a counter electrode (CE) with excellent catalytic activity, intrinsic stability, and low cost is essential for the commercial application of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Transition metal phosphides have been demonstrated as outstanding multifunctional catalysts in a broad range of energy conversion technologies. Here, we exploited different phases of iron phosphide as CEs in DSSCs with an I–/I3–-based electrolyte. Solvothermal synthesis using a triphenylphosphine precursor as a phosphorus source allows to grow a Fe2P phase at 300 °C and a FeP phase at 350 °C. The obtained iron phosphide catalysts were coated on fluorine-doped tin oxide substrates and heat-treated at 450 °C under an inert gas atmosphere. The solar-to-current conversion efficiency of the solar cells assembled with the Fe2P material reached 3.96 ± 0.06%, which is comparable to the device assembled with a platinum (Pt) CE. DFT calculations support the experimental observations and explain the fundamental origin behind the improved performance of Fe2P compared to FeP. These results indicate that the Fe2P catalyst exhibits excellent performance along with desired stability to be deployed as an efficient Pt-free alternative in DSSCs. |
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Wos |
000711236300022 |
Publication Date |
2021-10-08 |
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ISSN |
2574-0962 |
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UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
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OpenAccess |
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Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:181953 |
Serial |
7853 |
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Author |
Bafekry, A.; Shahrokhi, M.; Shafique, A.; Jappor, H.R.; Fadlallah, M.M.; Stampfl, C.; Ghergherehchi, M.; Mushtaq, M.; Feghhi, S.A.H.; Gogova, D. |
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Semiconducting chalcogenide alloys based on the (Ge, Sn, Pb) (S, Se, Te) formula with outstanding properties : a first-principles calculation study |
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A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2021 |
Publication |
ACS Omega |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
6 |
Issue |
14 |
Pages |
9433-9441 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT) |
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Abstract |
Very recently, a new class of the multicationic and -anionic entropy-stabilized chalcogenide alloys based on the (Ge, Sn, Pb) (S, Se, Te) formula has been successfully fabricated and characterized experimentally [Zihao Deng et al., Chem. Mater. 32, 6070 (2020)]. Motivated by the recent experiment, herein, we perform density functional theory-based first-principles calculations in order to investigate the structural, mechanical, electronic, optical, and thermoelectric properties. The calculations of the cohesive energy and elasticity parameters indicate that the alloy is stable. Also, the mechanical study shows that the alloy has a brittle nature. The GeSnPbSSeTe alloy is a semiconductor with a direct band gap of 0.4 eV (0.3 eV using spin-orbit coupling effect). The optical analysis illustrates that the first peak of Im(epsilon) for the GeSnPbSSeTe alloy along all polarization directions is located in the visible range of the spectrum which renders it a promising material for applications in optical and electronic devices. Interestingly, we find an optically anisotropic character of this system which is highly desirable for the design of polarization-sensitive photodetectors. We have accurately predicted the thermoelectric coefficients and have calculated a large power factor value of 3.7 x 10(11) W m(-1) K-2 s(-1) for p-type. The high p-type power factor is originated from the multiple valleys near the valence band maxima. The anisotropic results of the optical and transport properties are related to the specific tetragonal alloy unit cell. |
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000640649500012 |
Publication Date |
2021-03-30 |
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ISSN |
2470-1343 |
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UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
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Open Access |
OpenAccess |
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Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:178395 |
Serial |
7017 |
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Author |
McLachlan, G.; Majdak, P.; Reijniers, J.; Peremans, H. |
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Title |
Towards modelling active sound localisation based on Bayesian inference in a static environment |
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A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2021 |
Publication |
Acta Acustica |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
5 |
Issue |
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Pages |
45 |
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A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM); Condensed Matter Theory (CMT) |
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Abstract |
Over the decades, Bayesian statistical inference has become a staple technique for modelling human multisensory perception. Many studies have successfully shown how sensory and prior information can be combined to optimally interpret our environment. Because of the multiple sound localisation cues available in the binaural signal, sound localisation models based on Bayesian inference are a promising way of explaining behavioural human data. An interesting aspect is the consideration of dynamic localisation cues obtained through self-motion. Here we provide a review of the recent developments in modelling dynamic sound localisation with a particular focus on Bayesian inference. Further, we describe a theoretical Bayesian framework capable to model dynamic and active listening situations in humans in a static auditory environment. In order to demonstrate its potential in future implementations, we provide results from two examples of simplified versions of that framework. |
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Wos |
000709050000001 |
Publication Date |
2021-10-21 |
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UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
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OpenAccess |
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Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:182453 |
Serial |
7035 |
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Gielis, J.; Ricci, P.E.; Tavkhelidze, I. |
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The Möbius phenomenon in Generalized Möbius-Listing surfaces and bodies, and Arnold's Cat phenomenon |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2021 |
Publication |
Advanced Studies : Euro-Tbilisi Mathematical Journal |
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Volume |
14 |
Issue |
4 |
Pages |
17-35 |
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A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL) |
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Abstract |
Möbius bands have been studied extensively, mainly in topology. Generalized Möbius-Listing surfaces and bodies providing a full geometrical generalization, is a quite new field, motivated originally by solutions of boundary value problems. Analogous to cutting of the original Möbius band, for this class of surfaces and bodies, results have been obtained when cutting such bodies or surfaces. In general, cutting leads to interlinked and intertwined different surfaces or bodies, resulting in very complex systems. However, under certain conditions, the result of cutting can be a single surface or body, which reduces complexity considerably. Our research is motivated by this reduction of complexity. In the study of cutting Generalized Möbius-Listing bodies with polygons as cross section, the conditions under which a single body results, displaying the Möbius phenomenon of a one-sided body, have been determined for even and odd polygons. These conditions are based on congruence and rotational symmetry of the resulting cross sections after cutting, and on the knife cutting the origin. The Möbius phenomenon is important, since the process of cutting (or separation of zones in a GML body in general) then results in a single body, not in different, intertwined domains. In all previous works it was assumed that the cross section of the GML bodies is constant, but the main result of this paper is that it is sufficient that only one cross section on the whole GML structure meets the conditions for the Möbius phenomenon to occur. Several examples are given to illustrate this. |
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000774655100002 |
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UA library record; WoS full record |
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Open Access |
OpenAccess |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:183081 |
Serial |
8258 |
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Author |
Sebhatu, K.T.; Taheri, F.; Berhanu, T.; Maertens, M.; Van Passel, S.; D'Haese, M. |
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Title |
Beyond focus : exploring variability of service provision of agricultural cooperatives |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2021 |
Publication |
Annals of public and cooperative economics |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
92 |
Issue |
2 |
Pages |
207-231 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM) |
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Abstract |
The wide array of services provided by agricultural cooperatives for their members is often not considered in academic studies. Addressing this gap in the literature, our paper explores the wide array of services provided by agricultural cooperatives and how these extend beyond those they were initially intended to provide. We study the extent and characteristics of service portfolios from 511 agricultural cooperatives in the Tigray region of Ethiopia. Results from two-limit Tobit models confirm that government and NGO-initiated cooperatives have a wide service portfolio compared to member-initiated cooperatives. In many of the studied cooperatives, the services they provide and their portfolios are more diverse than expected. Cooperatives seem to go beyond their focal areas of intervention. Also, those cooperatives that are more outward-oriented and where the chair has contact with other cooperatives or businesses, have a wider service portfolio. These results may help to explain the mixed findings on the impact of cooperative membership. |
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Wos |
000583855500001 |
Publication Date |
2020-10-27 |
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ISSN |
1370-4788; 1467-8292 |
ISBN |
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UA library record; WoS full record |
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OpenAccess |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:173574 |
Serial |
6916 |
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Author |
Bizindavyi, J.; Verhulst, A.S.; Sorée, B.; Vandenberghe, W.G. |
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Title |
Thermodynamic equilibrium theory revealing increased hysteresis in ferroelectric field-effect transistors with free charge accumulation |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2021 |
Publication |
Communications Physics |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
4 |
Issue |
1 |
Pages |
86 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT) |
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Abstract |
At the core of the theoretical framework of the ferroelectric field-effect transistor (FeFET) is the thermodynamic principle that one can determine the equilibrium behavior of ferroelectric (FERRO) systems using the appropriate thermodynamic potential. In literature, it is often implicitly assumed, without formal justification, that the Gibbs free energy is the appropriate potential and that the impact of free charge accumulation can be neglected. In this Article, we first formally demonstrate that the Grand Potential is the appropriate thermodynamic potential to analyze the equilibrium behavior of perfectly coherent and uniform FERRO-systems. We demonstrate that the Grand Potential only reduces to the Gibbs free energy for perfectly non-conductive FERRO-systems. Consequently, the Grand Potential is always required for free charge-conducting FERRO-systems. We demonstrate that free charge accumulation at the FERRO interface increases the hysteretic device characteristics. Lastly, a theoretical best-case upper limit for the interface defect density D-FI is identified. The ferroelectric field-effect transistor, which has attracted much attention for application as both a highly energy-efficient logic device and a non-volatile memory device, has often been studied within the framework of equilibrium thermodynamics. Here, the authors theoretically demonstrate the importance of utilizing the correct thermodynamic potential and investigate the impact of free charge accumulation on the equilibrium performance of ferroelectric-based systems. |
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Wos |
000645913400001 |
Publication Date |
2021-04-30 |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
2399-3650 |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
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Open Access |
OpenAccess |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:179005 |
Serial |
7031 |
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Author |
Barbiellini, B.; Kuriplach, J.; Saniz, R. |
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Title |
Study of rechargeable batteries using advanced spectroscopic and computational techniques |
Type |
Editorial |
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Year |
2021 |
Publication |
Condensed Matter |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
6 |
Issue |
3 |
Pages |
26 |
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Keywords |
Editorial; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT) |
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Abstract |
Improving the efficiency and longevity of energy storage systems based on Li- and Na-ion rechargeable batteries presents a major challenge. The main problems are essentially capacity loss and limited cyclability. These effects are due to a hierarchy of factors spanning various length and time scales, interconnected in a complex manner. As a consequence, and in spite of several decades of research, a proper understanding of the ageing process has remained somewhat elusive. In recent years, however, combinations of advanced spectroscopy techniques and first-principles simulations have been applied with success to tackle this problem. In this Special Issue, we are pleased to present a selection of articles that, by precisely applying these methods, unravel key aspects of the reduction-oxidation reaction and intercalation processes. Furthermore, the approaches presented provide improvements to standard diagnostic and characterisation techniques, enabling the detection of possible Li-ion flow bottlenecks causing the degradation of capacity and cyclability. |
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Wos |
000699368400001 |
Publication Date |
2021-07-26 |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
2410-3896 |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
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Times cited |
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Open Access |
OpenAccess |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:181630 |
Serial |
6890 |
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Author |
Conti, S.; Perali, A.; Peeters, F.M.; Neilson, D. |
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Title |
Effect of mismatched electron-hole effective masses on superfluidity in double layer solid-state systems |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2021 |
Publication |
Condensed Matter |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
6 |
Issue |
2 |
Pages |
14 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT) |
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Abstract |
Superfluidity has been predicted and now observed in a number of different electron-hole double-layer semiconductor heterostructures. In some of the heterostructures, such as GaAs and Ge-Si electron-hole double quantum wells, there is a strong mismatch between the electron and hole effective masses. We systematically investigate the sensitivity to unequal masses of the superfluid properties and the self-consistent screening of the electron-hole pairing interaction. We find that the superfluid properties are insensitive to mass imbalance in the low density BEC regime of strongly-coupled boson-like electron-hole pairs. At higher densities, in the BEC-BCS crossover regime of fermionic pairs, we find that mass imbalance between electrons and holes weakens the superfluidity and expands the density range for the BEC-BCS crossover regime. This permits screening to kill the superfluid at a lower density than for equal masses. |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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Wos |
000665155800001 |
Publication Date |
2021-04-07 |
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Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
2410-3896 |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
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Impact Factor |
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Times cited |
1 |
Open Access |
OpenAccess |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:179635 |
Serial |
6982 |
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| Permanent link to this record |
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Author |
Li, C.-F.; Zhao, K.; Liao, X.; Hu, Z.-Y.; Zhang, L.; Zhao, Y.; Mu, S.; Li, Y.; Li, Y.; Van Tendeloo, G.; Sun, C. |
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Title |
Interface cation migration kinetics induced oxygen release heterogeneity in layered lithium cathodes |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| |
Year |
2021 |
Publication |
Energy Storage Materials |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
36 |
Issue |
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Pages |
115-122 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT) |
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Abstract |
The irreversible release of the lattice oxygen in layered cathodes is one of the major degradation mechanisms of lithium ion batteries, which accounts for a number of battery failures including the voltage/capacity fade, loss of cation ions and detachment of the primary particles, etc. Oxygen release is generally attributed to the stepwise thermodynamic controlled phase transitions from the layered to spinel and rock salt phases. Here, we report a strong kinetic effect from the mobility of cation ions, whose migration barrier can be significantly modulated by the phase epitaxy at the degrading interface. It ends up with a clear oxygen release heterogeneity and completely different reaction pathways between the thin and thick areas, as well as the interparticle valence boundaries, both of which widely exist in the mainstream cathode design with the secondary agglomerates. This work unveils the origin of the heterogenous oxygen release in the layered cathodes. It also sheds light on the rational design of cathode materials with enhanced oxygen stability by suppressing the cation migration. |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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Language |
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Wos |
000620584300009 |
Publication Date |
2020-12-24 |
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Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
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ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
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Impact Factor |
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Times cited |
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Open Access |
OpenAccess |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:176654 |
Serial |
6730 |
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| Permanent link to this record |
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Author |
Gupta, A.; Baron, G.V.; Perreault, P.; Lenaerts, S.; Ciocarlan, R.-G.; Cool, P.; Mileo, P.G.M.; Rogge, S.; Van Speybroeck, V.; Watson, G.; Van Der Voort, P.; Houlleberghs, M.; Breynaert, E.; Martens, J.; Denayer, J.F.M. |
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Title |
Hydrogen clathrates : next generation hydrogen storage materials |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2021 |
Publication |
Energy Storage Materials |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
41 |
Issue |
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Pages |
69-107 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Laboratory of adsorption and catalysis (LADCA); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL) |
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Abstract |
Extensive research has been carried on the molecular adsorption in high surface area materials such as carbonaceous materials and MOFs as well as atomic bonded hydrogen in metals and alloys. Clathrates stand among the ones to be recently suggested for hydrogen storage. Although, the simulations predict lower capacity than the expected by the DOE norms, the additional benefits of clathrates such as low production and operational cost, fully reversible reaction, environmentally benign nature, low risk of flammability make them one of the most promising materials to be explored in the next decade. The inherent ability to tailor the properties of clathrates using techniques such as addition of promoter molecules, use of porous supports and formation of novel reverse micelles morphology provide immense scope customisation and growth. As rapidly evolving materials, clathrates promise to get as close as possible in the search of “holy grail” of hydrogen storage. This review aims to provide the audience with the background of the current developments in the solid-state hydrogen storage materials, with a special focus on the hydrogen clathrates. The in-depth analysis of the hydrogen clathrates will be provided beginning from their discovery, various additives utilised to enhance their thermodynamic and kinetic properties, challenges in the characterisation of hydrogen in clathrates, theoretical developments to justify the experimental findings and the upscaling opportunities presented by this system. The review will present state of the art in the field and also provide a global picture for the path forward. |
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Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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Language |
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Wos |
000685118300009 |
Publication Date |
2021-06-08 |
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Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
2405-8297 |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
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Impact Factor |
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Times cited |
|
Open Access |
OpenAccess |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:178744 |
Serial |
8045 |
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| Permanent link to this record |
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Author |
Herzog, M.J.; Gauquelin, N.; Esken, D.; Verbeeck, J.; Janek, J. |
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Title |
Facile dry coating method of high-nickel cathode material by nanostructured fumed alumina (Al2O3) improving the performance of lithium-ion batteries |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| |
Year |
2021 |
Publication |
Energy technology |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
9 |
Issue |
4 |
Pages |
2100028 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT) |
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Abstract |
Surface coating is a crucial method to mitigate the aging problem of high-Ni cathode active materials (CAMs). By avoiding the direct contact of the CAM and the electrolyte, side reactions are hindered. Commonly used techniques like wet or ALD coating are time consuming and costly. Therefore, a more cost-effective coating technique is desirable. Herein, a facile and fast dry powder coating process for CAMs with nanostructured fumed metal oxides are reported. As the model case, the coating of high-Ni NMC (LiNi0.7Mn0.15Co0.15O2) by nanostructured fumed Al2O3 is investigated. A high coverage of the CAM surface with an almost continuous coating layer is achieved, still showing some porosity. Electrochemical evaluation shows a significant increase in capacity retention, cycle life and rate performance of the coated NMC material. The coating layer protects the surface of the CAM successfully and prevents side reactions, resulting in reduced solid electrolyte interface (SEI) formation and charge transfer impedance during cycling. A mechanism on how the coating layer enhances the cycling performance is hypothesized. The stable coating layer effectively prevents crack formation and particle disintegration of the NMC. In depth analysis indicates partial formation of LixAl2O3/LiAlO2 in the coating layer during cycling, enhancing lithium ion diffusivity and thus, also the rate performance. |
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Wos |
000621000700001 |
Publication Date |
2021-01-23 |
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Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
2194-4296; 2194-4288 |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
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Impact Factor |
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Times cited |
25 |
Open Access |
OpenAccess |
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Notes |
The authors would like to thank Erik Peldszus and Steve Rienecker for the support with scanning electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis. The Qu-Ant-EM microscope and the direct electron detector were partly funded by the Hercules fund from the Flemish Government. N.G. and J.V. acknowledge funding from GOA project “Solarpaint” of the University of Antwerp. Funding from the Flemish Research Fund (FWO) project G0F1320N is acknowledged.; Open access funding enabled and organized by Projekt DEAL. |
Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:176670 |
Serial |
6724 |
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| Permanent link to this record |
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Author |
Ghorbani, A.; Mousazadeh, H.; Taheri, F.; Ehteshammajd, S.; Azadi, H.; Yazdanpanah, M.; Khajehshahkohi, A.; Tanaskovik, V.; Van Passel, S. |
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Title |
An attempt to develop ecotourism in an unknown area : the case of Nehbandan County, South Khorasan Province, Iran |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2021 |
Publication |
Environment, development and sustainability |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
23 |
Issue |
8 |
Pages |
11792-11817 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM) |
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Abstract |
This study is an attempt to develop ecotourism in Nehbandan County, in the South Khorasan Province, Iran, by representing unknown areas that have tourism potential. The most important obstacle in the development of tourism industry is the lack of strong marketing plans, tourism management, accommodations for overnight and long stays, and medical and health clinic in the desert. This is a qualitative, exploratory case study investigating the status of environmental, sociocultural, and economic impacts of ecotourism development on the native people's livelihood in Nehbandan County in Iran. The methodology is based on field observations, secondary data sources, and field survey. It is an interpretive approach that avoids numbers but focuses on issues linked to culture and nature. In the present study, the grounded theory was used to perform data analysis. Based on the findings, ecotourism has undoubtedly proven to be an effective environmental conservation tool in the study site and enables local people to increase their livelihood security through employment in activities relating to ecotourism and the development of rural livelihood. |
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Corporate Author |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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Wos |
000604534700011 |
Publication Date |
2021-01-04 |
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Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
1387-585x |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
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Impact Factor |
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Times cited |
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Open Access |
Not_Open_Access |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:174994 |
Serial |
6914 |
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Author |
Berihun, D.; Van Passel, S. |
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Title |
Climate variability and macroeconomic output in Ethiopia : the analysis of nexus and impact via asymmetric autoregressive distributive lag cointegration method |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2021 |
Publication |
Environment, development and sustainability |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
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Issue |
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Pages |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM) |
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Abstract |
Ethiopia showed a rapid, yet, a none resilient economic growth much threatened by climate variability. In Ethiopia, the adverse effects of climate variability are stipulated among the significant factors constraining its economic development. There are relatively few studies about the adverse effects of climate variability on the Ethiopian macroeconomy. In this context, little is known about the exact effects of the ongoing climate variability on Ethiopian macroeconomic growth. This study intends to examine whether climate variability factors, for instance rainfall and temperature, have an effect on the macroeconomic output of Ethiopia. An asymmetric autoregressive distributive lag cointegration method is used to investigate time-series data for the years 1950-2014. Diagnostic tests show the relevance of the applied method and robustness of our results. The study finds climate variability affects Ethiopia's economic growth in the long run. Rainfall and temperature fluctuation induce significant negative impacts. A percentage annual temperature variability for instance decreases the Ethiopian annual gross domestic yield (GDP) up to 4.5 percent. In the short run, climate variability particularly rainfall and temperature changes also have a profound effect on Ethiopia's economic output. Within such confirmed climate change impacts, Ethiopia should carry out more on adapting and mitigating the impacts as it is presented on its climate-resilient economic growth policies and strategies. In spite of the policy contribution of the results, the study will motivate further research and will also serve as a benchmark for the coming Ethiopian studies. |
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Place of Publication |
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Wos |
000670722100001 |
Publication Date |
2021-07-07 |
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Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
1387-585x |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
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Impact Factor |
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Times cited |
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Open Access |
OpenAccess |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:179837 |
Serial |
6917 |
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Author |
Girma, H.; Huge, J.; Gebrehiwot, M.; Van Passel, S. |
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Title |
Farmers' willingness to contribute to the restoration of an Ethiopian Rift Valley lake : a contingent valuation study |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2021 |
Publication |
Environment, development and sustainability |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
23 |
Issue |
7 |
Pages |
10646-10665 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM) |
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Abstract |
Lakes provide considerable social, economic, and ecological benefits. However, lakes are shrinking and the water quality is declining, due to human pressures such as water withdrawal and land use change, particularly in the developing world. Despite this, information regarding the economic impact of lake level reduction and local willingness to support restoration programs is lacking. This study employed a contingent valuation method to estimate willingness to pay and to contribute labor to Lake Ziway restoration program, Ethiopia. Face-to-face interviews were administered to 259 randomly selected respondents. Our findings revealed that about one-third of the respondents are willing to pay and about two-third are willing to contribute labor to restore the lake. From the interval regression models, the annual mean willingness to pay was estimated about 21.0 USD for the status quo scenario (the program works to keep water levels constant at current levels) and 31.1 USD for the improvement scenario (the program works to increase the water levels permanently). The annual mean willingness to contribute labor was estimated about 27.7 man-days for the status quo and 39.3 man-days for the improvement scenarios. 'Farm income' positively influenced the willingness to pay together with 'farm plot area.' Similarly, labor contribution was positively influenced by 'farm plot area' and 'education' and negatively by 'farm plot distance.' The economic values derived from this study reflect societal preferences and can form a significant input for policymakers, in support of informed and evidence-based decision-making regarding lake management and restoration in developing countries like Ethiopia. |
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Place of Publication |
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Wos |
000590038300001 |
Publication Date |
2020-11-16 |
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Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
1387-585x |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
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Impact Factor |
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Times cited |
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Open Access |
Not_Open_Access |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:174271 |
Serial |
6926 |
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| Permanent link to this record |
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Author |
Kerckhof, F.-M.; Sakarika, M.; Van Giel, M.; Muys, M.; Vermeir, P.; De Vrieze, J.; Vlaeminck, S.E.; Rabaey, K.; Boon, N. |
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Title |
From biogas and hydrogen to microbial protein through co-cultivation of methane and hydrogen oxidizing bacteria |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2021 |
Publication |
Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
9 |
Issue |
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Pages |
733753 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL) |
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Abstract |
Increasing efforts are directed towards the development of sustainable alternative protein sources among which microbial protein (MP) is one of the most promising. Especially when waste streams are used as substrates, the case for MP could become environmentally favorable. The risks of using organic waste streams for MP production–the presence of pathogens or toxicants–can be mitigated by their anaerobic digestion and subsequent aerobic assimilation of the (filter-sterilized) biogas. Even though methane and hydrogen oxidizing bacteria (MOB and HOB) have been intensively studied for MP production, the potential benefits of their co-cultivation remain elusive. Here, we isolated a diverse group of novel HOB (that were capable of autotrophic metabolism), and co-cultured them with a defined set of MOB, which could be grown on a mixture of biogas and H2/O2. The combination of MOB and HOB, apart from the CH4 and CO2 contained in biogas, can also enable the valorization of the CO2 that results from the oxidation of methane by the MOB. Different MOB and HOB combinations were grown in serum vials to identify the best-performing ones. We observed synergistic effects on growth for several combinations, and in all combinations a co-culture consisting out of both HOB and MOB could be maintained during five days of cultivation. Relative to the axenic growth, five out of the ten co-cultures exhibited 1.1–3.8 times higher protein concentration and two combinations presented 2.4–6.1 times higher essential amino acid content. The MP produced in this study generally contained lower amounts of the essential amino acids histidine, lysine and threonine, compared to tofu and fishmeal. The most promising combination in terms of protein concentration and essential amino acid profile was Methyloparacoccus murrelli LMG 27482 with Cupriavidus necator LMG 1201. Microbial protein from M. murrelli and C. necator requires 27–67% less quantity than chicken, whole egg and tofu, while it only requires 15% more quantity than the amino acid-dense soybean to cover the needs of an average adult. In conclusion, while limitations still exist, the co-cultivation of MOB and HOB creates an alternative route for MP production leveraging safe and sustainably-produced gaseous substrates. |
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Wos |
000697897900001 |
Publication Date |
2021-09-06 |
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Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
2296-4185 |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
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Impact Factor |
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Times cited |
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Open Access |
OpenAccess |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:180591 |
Serial |
7985 |
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| Permanent link to this record |
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Author |
Azadi, H.; Van Passel, S.; Cools, J. |
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Title |
Rapid economic valuation of ecosystem services in man and biosphere reserves in Africa : a review |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2021 |
Publication |
Global Ecology and Conservation |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
28 |
Issue |
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Pages |
e01697 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM) |
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Abstract |
Y Ecosystem services (ESs) include the benefits people receive from ecosystems that support the socio-economic requirements and human well-being. The Man and Biosphere (MAB) programs are a scientific plan in the African context that is linked to governments and attempts to create a systematic ground to enhance the relationship between individuals and their environments. Using economic valuation methods, the main objective of this study was to perform a systematic review on studies undertaken in African countries in order to expose the role of MAB programs in conserving ESs in these countries. Based on the results, MAB programs offer both the protection of cultural ecosystem services and the improvement of livelihoods. Moreover, the MAB programs enable biosphere reserves to help national governments find solutions to the pressing challenges in Africa. In conclusion, policymakers should be aware of the main goal of ESs valuation approaches. In other words, the main goal should focus on the creation of prevention rather than rehabilitation activities in order to avoid the loss of ecosystem services mainly at the cost of users. Overall, the findings of this study underlined that economic valuation methods should provide evidence to underpin the development of policy instruments for the conservation of ESs in African countries. More importantly, ESs conservation strategies should consider various measures to reduce human impacts while also considering their well-being. In this context, the study's main implication is that human well-being is determined not only by the quantity but also by the quality of ESs. |
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Wos |
000684309900002 |
Publication Date |
2021-06-21 |
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Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
23519894; 2351-9894 |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
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Impact Factor |
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Times cited |
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Open Access |
OpenAccess |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:180530 |
Serial |
6941 |
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| Permanent link to this record |
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Author |
Al-Emam, E.; Motawea, A.G.; Caen, J.; Janssens, K. |
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Title |
Soot removal from ancient Egyptian complex painted surfaces using a double network gel : empirical tests on the ceiling of the sanctuary of Osiris in the temple of Seti I-Abydos |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2021 |
Publication |
Heritage science |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
9 |
Issue |
1 |
Pages |
1-10 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Art; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Antwerp Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES) |
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Abstract |
In this study, we evaluated the ease of removal of soot layers from ancient wall paintings by employing double network gels as a controllable and safe cleaning method. The ceiling of the temple of Seti I (Abydos, Egypt) is covered with thick layers of soot; this is especially the case in the sanctuary of Osiris. These layers may have been accumulated during the occupation of the temple by Christians, fleeing the Romans in the first centuries A.D. Soot particulates are one of the most common deposits to be removed during conservation-restoration activities of ancient Egyptian wall paintings. They usually mask the painted reliefs and reduce the permeability of the painted surface. A Polyvinyl alcohol-borax/agarose (PVA-B/AG) double network gel was selected for this task since its properties were expected to be compatible with the cleaning treatment requirements. The gel is characterized by its flexibility, permitting to take the shape of the reliefs, while also having self-healing properties, featuring shape stability and an appropriate capacity to retain liquid. The gel was loaded with several cleaning reagents that proved to be effective for soot removal. Soot removal tests were conducted with these gel composites. The cleaned surfaces were evaluated with the naked eye, a digital microscope, and color measurements in order to select the best gel composite. The gel composite, loaded with a solution of 5% ammonia, 0.3% ammonium carbonate, and 0.3% EDTA yielded the most satisfactory results and allowed to safely remove a crust of thick soot layers from the surface. Thus, during the final phase of the study, it was used successfully to clean a larger area of the ceiling. |
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Wos |
000604977300001 |
Publication Date |
2021-01-04 |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
2050-7445 |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
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Impact Factor |
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Times cited |
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Open Access |
OpenAccess |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:174948 |
Serial |
8557 |
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| Permanent link to this record |
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Author |
Baij, L.; Liu, C.; Buijs, J.; Alvarez Martin, A.; Westert, D.; Raven, L.; Geels, N.; Noble, P.; Sprakel, J.; Keune, K. |
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Title |
Understanding and optimizing Evolon® CR for varnish removal from oil paintings |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2021 |
Publication |
Heritage science |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
9 |
Issue |
1 |
Pages |
155-17 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Antwerp X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy (AXIS) |
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Place of Publication |
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Wos |
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Publication Date |
2021-11-27 |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
2050-7445 |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record |
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Impact Factor |
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Times cited |
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Open Access |
Not_Open_Access |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:183747 |
Serial |
8707 |
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Author |
Tiwari, S.; Van de Put, M.L.; Sorée, B.; Vandenberghe, W.G. |
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Title |
Ab initio modeling of few-layer dilute magnetic semiconductors |
Type |
P1 Proceeding |
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Year |
2021 |
Publication |
International Conference on Simulation of Semiconductor Processes and Devices : [proceedings]
T2 – International Conference on Simulation of Semiconductor Processes and, Devices (SISPAD), SEP 27-29, 2021, Dallas, TX |
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Volume |
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Issue |
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Pages |
141-145 |
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Keywords |
P1 Proceeding; Engineering sciences. Technology; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT) |
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Abstract |
We present a computational model to model the magnetic structure of two-dimensional (2D) dilute-magnetic-semiconductors (DMS) both the monolayers and multilayers using first-principles density functional theory (DFT), as well as their magnetic phase transition as a function of temperature using Monte-Carlo simulations. Using our method, we model the magnetic structure of bulk, bilayer, and monolayer MoS2 substitutionally doped with Fe atoms. We find that the out-of-plane interaction in bilayer MoS2 is weakly ferromagnetic, whereas in bulk MoS2 it is strongly anti-ferromagnetic. Finally, we show that the magnetic order is more robust in bilayer Fe-doped MoS2 compared to the monolayer and results in a room-temperature FM at an atomic substitution of 14-16%. |
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Wos |
000766985400034 |
Publication Date |
2021-11-08 |
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Series Editor |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
978-1-6654-0685-7 |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
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Times cited |
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Open Access |
Not_Open_Access |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:187291 |
Serial |
7401 |
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Author |
Birhanu, T.; Deressa, S.B.; Azadi, H.; Viira, A.-H.; Van Passel, S.; Witlox, F. |
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Title |
Determinants of commercial bank loan and advance disbursement : the case of private Ethiopian commercial banks |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2021 |
Publication |
International journal of bank marketing |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
39 |
Issue |
7 |
Pages |
1227-1247 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM) |
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Abstract |
Purpose This paper aimed to investigate the determinants of loans and advances from commercial banks in the case of Ethiopian private commercial banks. Design/methodology/approach The study randomly selected seven commercial banks to represent the population stratified on their asset, deposit and paid-up capital amounts. The study utilized an unbalanced panel data model as each bank started operation at a different period of time and considered the period 1995-2016 for secondary details. Findings The findings showed that the deposit size, credit risk, portfolio investment, average lending rate, real gross domestic product (GDP) and inflation rate had significant and optimistic effects on the lending and advancement of private commercial banks. On the contrary, liquidity ratio had significant and negative effects on private commercial bank loans and advances. Finally, the study forwarded a feasible recommendation for concerned organs to focus on deposit size, credit risk, portfolio investment, average lending rate, real GDP, inflation rate and liquidity ratio. The results of this study will help banking industry policymakers and planners understand how to minimize inflation and unemployment by improving development and sustainable economic growth. Originality/value The findings of this study can also affect the general attitudes of a society by increasing knowledge and improve the quality of life for the general public. |
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Wos |
000670351700001 |
Publication Date |
2021-07-07 |
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Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
0265-2323 |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
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Impact Factor |
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Times cited |
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Open Access |
OpenAccess |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:179858 |
Serial |
6919 |
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Author |
Muhammad, S.; Wuyts, K.; De Wael, K.; Samson, R. |
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Title |
Does leaf micro-morphology influence the recognition of particles on SEM images? |
Type |
A3 Journal article |
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Year |
2021 |
Publication |
International Journal of Environmental Pollution and Remediation |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
9 |
Issue |
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Pages |
22-37 |
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Keywords |
A3 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab) |
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Abstract |
Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) remains a popular approach to determine the shape, size, density and elemental composition of particles collected on leaf surfaces, but the effect of leaf micro-morphology on particle counts is not very well known. In this study, leaves of sixteen urban plant species were examined for particle density in June and September 2016 using SEM. The investigated plant species differed in leaf micro-morphology involving trichomes, raised stomata, epicuticular wax crystals and convex epidermal cells forming deep grooves between cells. The particle density on leaves of the investigated plant species was estimated by particle size fraction and leaf side. Particle density was significantly higher on the adaxial (AD) leaf side compared to the abaxial (AB) leaf side and higher for fine-particles than coarse-particles. The effect of trichome density on particle density of the AB and the AD leaf side was indicated to be significant and positive for both coarse and fine-particles in June but not in September. The successive repeated measurements elucidated that features constructing the topography of a leaf surface such as trichomes, stomata, and epidermal cells frequently contributed towards the edge enhancement effect, resulting in exaggerated particle counts. Besides, the mechanical drift contributed to the disparity in particle density measurements. Lastly, the reduction in particle density between successive measurements were imputed on the charging effect. These results enable us to suggest that in addition to characterization of micro-morphological features on a leaf surface, SEM will continue to be a useful approach for determining the particle: shape, size, elemental composition and density of the deposited particles. Nonetheless, the disparity in particle density measurements can occur due to abnormal particle recognition. Based on the results of September, we recommend that within-session successive repeated measurements (~ n ≥ 5) need to be performed to remove measurement uncertainties and obtain reliable quantitative data of particle counts using SEM. |
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Wos |
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Publication Date |
2021-09-15 |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
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ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record |
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Impact Factor |
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Times cited |
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Open Access |
OpenAccess |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:181797 |
Serial |
7822 |
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| Permanent link to this record |
