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Author Tarakanova, E.N.; Tarakanov, P.A.; Simakov, A.O.; Furuyama, T.; Kobayashi, N.; Konev, D.V.; Goncharova, O.A.; Trashin, S.A.; De Wael, K.; Sulimenkov, I.V.; Filatov, V.V.; Kozlovskiy, V.I.; Tomilova, L.G.; Stuzhin, P.A.; Pushkarev, V.E. doi  openurl
  Title Synthesis and characterization of heteroleptic rare earth double-decker complexes involving tetradiazepinoporphyrazine and phthalocyanine macrocycles Type A1 Journal article
  Year (down) 2021 Publication Dalton Transactions Abbreviated Journal Dalton T  
  Volume 50 Issue 18 Pages 6245-6255  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)  
  Abstract Reaction of (2,3,9,10,16,17,23,24-octabutylphthalocyaninato)lanthanide(iii) acetylacetonates ((Bu)PcLn(acac), 1a-c, Ln = Lu (a), Eu (b), La (c)) with a tetrakis(5,7-bis(4-tert-butylphenyl)-6H-1,4-diazepino)[2,3-b,g,l,q]porphyrazine ligand ((tBuPh)DzPzH(2), 2) produced sandwich compounds ((tBuPh)DzPz)Ln(Pc-Bu) (3a-c), which represent the first heteroleptic double-deckers incorporating both Pc and DzPz decks. A combination of high-resolution mass spectrometry, UV-Vis/NIR, MCD, and H-1 NMR spectroscopy, and square-wave voltammetry provided unambiguous characterization of target complexes 3 indicating that their spectral and electrochemical properties are generally intermediate with respect to their homoleptic relatives. Based on the data of solution-state H-1-H-1 NMR (COSY, NOESY) correlation spectroscopy supported by DFT calculations, a dimerization tendency of compounds 3 proportional to the Ln(iii) ion size was found. The spectroelectrochemical study of 3 and the corresponding homoleptic double-deckers revealed a pronounced tendency to aggregation of the one-electron oxidized forms of DzPz-containing double-decker complexes compared to homoleptic Pc(2)Ln compounds.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000641283000001 Publication Date 2021-04-01  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1477-9226; 1477-9234 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 4.029 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.029  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:178289 Serial 8636  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Mudronja, D.; Vanmeert, F.; Fazinic, S.; Janssens, K.; Tibljas, D.; Desnica, V. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Protection of stone monuments using a brushing treatment with ammonium oxalate Type A1 Journal article
  Year (down) 2021 Publication Coatings Abbreviated Journal Coatings  
  Volume 11 Issue 4 Pages 379  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)  
  Abstract Stone monuments and buildings are susceptible to weathering. Carbonate-based stones are especially vulnerable in acidic environments, whereas magmatic acidic stones are more susceptible to chemical weathering in basic environments. To slow down surface corrosion of limestone and marble artworks/buildings, protective coatings which inhibit calcite dissolution have been proposed. In this work, samples from two stone types with different porosity were treated with ammonium oxalate (AmOx) to create a protective layer of calcium oxalate (CaOx) using the previously developed brushing method. Two different synchrotron microscopy experiments were performed to determine its protective capability. X-ray powder diffraction (SR-mu-XRPD) in transmission geometry allowed visualization of the distributions of calcium carbonate and oxalates along the sample depths. In a second step, X-ray fluorescence (SR-mu-XRF) was used to check the efficiency/integrity of the protective surface coating layer. This was done by measuring the sulfur distribution on the stone surface after exposing the protected stones to sulfuric acid. XRPD showed the formation of a protective oxalate layer with a thickness of 5-15 mu m on the less porous stone, while a 20-30 mu m thick layer formed on the more porous stone. The XRF study showed that the optimal treatment time depends on the stone porosity. Increasing the treatment time from 1 to 3 h resulted in a decreased efficiency of the protective layer for the low porosity stone. We assume that this is due to the formation of vertical channels (cracks) in the protective layer.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000642940900001 Publication Date 2021-03-25  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2079-6412 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 2.175 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 2.175  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:178271 Serial 8428  
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Author Parrilla, M.; Montiel, F.N.; Van Durme, F.; De Wael, K. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Derivatization of amphetamine to allow its electrochemical detection in illicit drug seizures Type A1 Journal article
  Year (down) 2021 Publication Sensors And Actuators B-Chemical Abbreviated Journal Sensor Actuat B-Chem  
  Volume 337 Issue Pages 129819  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)  
  Abstract Amphetamine (AMP) is posing critical issues in our society being one of the most encountered drugs-of-abuse in the current illicit market. The continuous drug production in Europe urges the development of new tools for the rapid on-site determination of illicit drugs such as AMP. However, the direct electrochemical detection of AMP is a challenge because the molecule is non-electroactive at the potential window of conventional graphite SPEs. For this reason, a derivatization step is needed to convert the primary amine into an electroactive oxidizable group. Herein, the rapid electrochemical detection of AMP in seized samples based on the derivatization by 1,2-naphthoquinone-4-sulfonate (NQS) is presented by using square wave voltammetry (SWV) at graphite screen-printed electrodes (SPEs). First, a detailed optimization of the key parameters and the analytical performance is provided. The method showed a sensitivity of 7.9 µA mM-1 within a linear range from 50 to 500 µM, a limit of detection of 22.2 µM, and excellent reproducibility (RSD = 4.3%, n = 5 at 500 µM). Subsequently, the effect of NQS on common cutting agents for the selective detection of AMP is addressed. The comparison of the method with drugs-of-abuse containing secondary and tertiary amines confirms the selectivity of the method. Finally, the concept is applied to quantify AMP in 20 seized samples provided by forensic laboratories, exhibiting an accuracy of 97.3 ± 10.5%. Overall, the fast analysis of samples with the electrochemical profiling of derivatized AMP exhibits a straightforward on-site screening aiming to facilitate the tasks of law enforcement agents in the field.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000640386500001 Publication Date 2021-03-19  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0925-4005 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 5.401 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 5.401  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:176353 Serial 7762  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Baly, L.; Quesada, I.; Murray, A.S.; Martin, G.; van Espen, P.; Arteche, R.; Jain, M. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Modeling the charge deposition in quartz grains during natural irradiation and its influence on the optically stimulated luminescence signal Type A1 Journal article
  Year (down) 2021 Publication Radiation Measurements Abbreviated Journal Radiat Meas  
  Volume 142 Issue Pages 106564  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)  
  Abstract The rate of charge deposition in quartz grains irradiated in natural conditions is computed by radiation transport modeling. Quartz luminescence models are modified with the addition of the resulting charge deposition term, and the influence of this process on the optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) signal is analyzed. The results indicate that the charge deposition occurring in the quartz grain during the time of residence within rock could lead to the depletion of trapped holes in the recombination centres. For the two different quartz models investigated here, complete depletion is expected to occur for rock ages between 500 Ma and 1100 Ma. It is predicted that for sedimentary quartz derived from such rocks, the OSL signal is dominated by the slow component. It was also found that the shape and saturation level of the natural sensitivity-corrected dose response curve (DRC) of quartz is affected by the charge deposition; specifically, a linear reduction of the saturation level with the age of the rock is observed.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000639160300003 Publication Date 2021-03-18  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1350-4487 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 1.442 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 1.442  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:178307 Serial 8265  
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Author Dragan, A.-M.; Truta, F.M.; Tertis, M.; Florea, A.; Schram, J.; Cernat, A.; Feier, B.; De Wael, K.; Cristea, C.; Oprean, R. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Electrochemical fingerprints of illicit drugs on graphene and multi-walled carbon nanotubes Type A1 Journal article
  Year (down) 2021 Publication Frontiers In Chemistry Abbreviated Journal Front Chem  
  Volume 9 Issue Pages 641147  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)  
  Abstract Illicit drugs use and abuse remains an increasing challenge for worldwide authorities and, therefore, it is important to have accurate methods to detect them in seized samples, biological fluids and wastewaters. They are recently classified as the latest group of emerging pollutants as their consumption increased tremendously in recent years. Nanomaterials have gained much attention over the last decade in the development of sensors for a myriad of applications. The applicability of these nanomaterials, functionalized or not, significantly increases and it is therefore highly suitable for use in the detection of illicit drugs. We have assessed the suitability of various nanoplatforms, such as graphene (GPH), multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) for the electrochemical detection of illicit drugs. GPH and MWCNTs were chosen as the most suitable platforms and cocaine, 3,4-methylendioxymethamfetamine (MDMA), 3-methylmethcathinone (MMC) and alpha-pyrrolidinovalerophenone (PVP) were tested. Due to the hydrophobicity of the nanomaterials-based platforms which led to low signals, two strategies were followed namely, pretreatment of the electrodes in sulfuric acid by cyclic voltammetry and addition of Tween 20 to the detection buffer. Both strategies led to an increase in the oxidation signal of illicit drugs. Binary mixtures of illicit drugs with common adulterants found in street samples were also investigated. The proposed strategies allowed the sensitive detection of illicit drugs in the presence of most adulterants. The suitability of the proposed sensors for the detection of illicit drugs in spiked wastewaters was finally assessed.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000634708900001 Publication Date 2021-03-16  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2296-2646 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 3.994 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.994  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:177704 Serial 7861  
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Author Beltran, V.; Marchetti, A.; De Meyer, S.; Nuyts, G.; De Wael, K. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Geranium lake pigments : the role of the synthesis on the structure and composition Type A1 Journal article
  Year (down) 2021 Publication Dyes And Pigments Abbreviated Journal Dyes Pigments  
  Volume 189 Issue Pages 109260  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)  
  Abstract Eosin Y has an extraordinary capacity to form complexes with metallic elements, that have applications in many different fields, from photovoltaics and photocatalysis to historical artists? pigments. To unravel the complexes reactivity, it is essential to have a precise knowledge of their structure and composition, as well as how these can be affected by the synthesis protocol, an often underestimated factor. This manuscript presents a thorough investigation of the structure and composition of eosin Y complexes based on Al and Pb, by FTIR, XRPD and Raman spectroscopy, with a particular focus on the effect of the synthesis conditions. Results clearly show the change of the coordination mode in Pb complexes depending on the protocol, while the structure of Al complexes remains stable. In both cases, the formation of by-products was observed. Additionally, a detailed band assignment of the FTIR and Raman spectra of eosin Y and Pb and Al complexes is described, providing interesting details such as the interaction between the metallic ion and the xanthene moiety (chromophore). This is extremely important for the analysis of historical paintings where eosin Y is bonded to metallic ions, as well as for other materials in dye-sensitized solar cells, wastewater treatment or photocatalysis.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000634733200001 Publication Date 2021-03-03  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0143-7208 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 3.473 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.473  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:177676 Serial 8002  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Moiseeva, E.O.; Trashin, S.; Korostei, Y.S.; Khan, S.U.; Kosov, A.D.; De Wael, K.; Dubinina, T.V.; Tomilova, L.G. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Electrochemical and spectroelectrochemical studies of tert-butyl-substituted aluminum phthalocyanine Type A1 Journal article
  Year (down) 2021 Publication Polyhedron Abbreviated Journal Polyhedron  
  Volume 200 Issue Pages 115136  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)  
  Abstract Tetra-tert-butylphthalocyanine aluminum (III) chloride was studied by voltammetric and potential-resolved spectroelectrochemical methods in a non-coordinating solvent o-dichlorobenzene. Five redox transitions were found including two oxidation waves at 0.18 and 0.90 V and three reduction waves at −1.28, −1.65, and −2.63 V vs. Fc+/Fc. Electrochemical reversibility of the first oxidation and reduction processes was assessed by using the diagnostic criteria of cyclic voltammetry. First comprehensive spectroelectrochemical characterization of oxidation of the aluminum phthalocyanine is reported. Moreover, potential-resolved spectroelectrochemical titration revealed strong influence of aggregation on the UV–vis spectra and the half-wave potentials of the first oxidation transition and disclosed the presence of the partially oxidized complex in the initial solution, which noticeably affected the spectrum of the neutral form.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000640386000006 Publication Date 2021-03-02  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0277-5387 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 1.926 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 1.926  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:176389 Serial 7860  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Schram, J.; Parrilla, M.; Sleegers, N.; Van Durme, F.; van den Berg, J.; van Nuijs, A.L.N.; De Wael, K. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Electrochemical profiling and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry characterization of synthetic cathinones : from methodology to detection in forensic samples Type A1 Journal article
  Year (down) 2021 Publication Drug Testing And Analysis Abbreviated Journal Drug Test Anal  
  Volume 13 Issue 7 Pages 1282-1294  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Pharmacology. Therapy; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Toxicological Centre  
  Abstract The emergence of new psychoactive drugs in the market demands rapid and accurate tools for the on‐site classification of illegal and legal compounds with similar structures. Herein, a novel method for the classification of synthetic cathinones (SC) is presented based on their electrochemical profile. First, the electrochemical profile of five common SC (i.e., mephedrone, ethcathinone, methylone, butylone and 4‐chloro‐alpha‐pyrrolidinovalerophenone) is collected to build calibration curves using square wave voltammetry on graphite screen‐printed electrodes (SPE). Second, the elucidation of the oxidation pathways, obtained by liquid chromatography‐high resolution mass spectrometry, allows the pairing of the oxidation products to the SC electrochemical profile, providing a selective and robust classification. Additionally, the effect of common adulterants and illicit drugs on the electrochemical profile of the SC is explored. Interestingly, a cathodic pretreatment of the SPE allows the selective detection of each SC in presence of electroactive adulterants. Finally, the electrochemical approach is validated with gas‐chromatography‐mass spectrometry by analyzing 26 confiscated samples from seizures and illegal webshops. Overall, the electrochemical method exhibits a successful classification of SC including structural derivatives, a crucial attribute in an ever‐diversifying drug market.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000624902500001 Publication Date 2021-02-24  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1942-7603; 1942-7611 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 3.469 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.469  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:175583 Serial 7863  
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Author Stefan, G.; Hosu, O.; De Wael, K.; Jesus Lobo-Castanon, M.; Cristea, C. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Aptamers in biomedicine : selection strategies and recent advances Type A1 Journal article
  Year (down) 2021 Publication Electrochimica Acta Abbreviated Journal Electrochim Acta  
  Volume 376 Issue Pages 137994  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)  
  Abstract Aptamers have come in the spotlight as bio-mimetic molecular recognition elements in the field of biomedicine due to various applications in diagnostics, drug delivery, therapeutics, and pharmaceutical analysis. Aptamers are composed of nucleic acid strands (DNA or RNA) that can specifically interact in a three-dimensional tailored design with the target molecule. The basic method to generate aptamers is Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment (SELEX). Recent technological advances in aptamer selection allow for faster and cheaper production of a new generation of high-affinity aptamers compared to the traditional SELEX, which can last up to several months. Rigorous characterization performed by multiple research groups endorsed several well-defined aptamer sequences. Binding affinity, nature of the biomolecular interactions and structural characterization are of paramount importance for aptamer screening and development of applications. However, remarkable challenges still need to be dealt with before the aptamers can make great contributions to the biomedical field. Poor specificity and sensitivity, questionable clinical use, low drug loading, in vivo stability and toxicity are only some of the identified challenges. This review accounts for the 30th celebration of the SELEX technology underlining the most important aptamers' achievements in the biomedical field within mostly the past five years. Aptamers' advantages over antibodies are discussed. Because of potential clinical translational utility, insights of remarkable developments in aptamer-based methods for diagnosis and monitoring of disease biomarkers and pharmaceuticals are discussed focusing on the recent studies (2015-2020). The current challenges and promising opportunities for aptamers for therapeutic and theragnostic purposes are also presented. (C) 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000634761900003 Publication Date 2021-02-22  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0013-4686 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 4.798 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.798  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:177677 Serial 7491  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Maso, L.; Trande, M.; Liberi, S.; Moro, G.; Daems, E.; Linciano, S.; Sobott, F.; Covaceuszach, S.; Cassetta, A.; Fasolato, S.; Moretto, L.M.; De Wael, K.; Cendron, L.; Angelini, A. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Unveiling the binding mode of perfluorooctanoic acid to human serum albumin Type A1 Journal article
  Year (down) 2021 Publication Protein Science Abbreviated Journal Protein Sci  
  Volume 30 Issue 4 Pages 830-841  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)  
  Abstract Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is a toxic compound that is absorbed and distributed throughout the body by noncovalent binding to serum proteins such as human serum albumin (hSA). Though the interaction between PFOA and hSA has been already assessed using various analytical techniques, a high resolution and detailed analysis of the binding mode is still lacking. We report here the crystal structure of hSA in complex with PFOA and a medium-chain saturated fatty acid (FA). A total of eight distinct binding sites, four occupied by PFOAs and four by FAs, have been identified. In solution binding studies confirmed the 4:1 PFOA-hSA stoichiometry and revealed the presence of one high and three low affinity binding sites. Competition experiments with known hSA-binding drugs allowed locating the high affinity binding site in sub-domain IIIA. The elucidation of the molecular basis of the interaction between PFOA and hSA might provide not only a better assessment of the absorption and elimination mechanisms of these compounds in vivo but also have implications for the development of novel molecular receptors for diagnostic and biotechnological applications.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000625392600001 Publication Date 2021-02-08  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0961-8368 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 2.523 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 2.523  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:176725 Serial 8714  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Fuoco, T.; Cuartero, M.; Parrilla, M.; García-Guzmán, J.J.; Crespo, G.A.; Finne-Wistrand, A. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Capturing the real-time hydrolytic degradation of a library of biomedical polymers by combining traditional assessment and electrochemical sensors Type A1 Journal article
  Year (down) 2021 Publication Biomacromolecules Abbreviated Journal Biomacromolecules  
  Volume 22 Issue 2 Pages 949-960  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)  
  Abstract We have developed an innovative methodology to overcome the lack of techniques for real-time assessment of degradable biomedical polymers at physiological conditions. The methodology was established by combining polymer characterization techniques with electrochemical sensors. The in vitro hydrolytic degradation of a series of aliphatic polyesters was evaluated by following the molar mass decrease and the mass loss at different incubation times while tracing pH and l-lactate released into the incubation media with customized miniaturized electrochemical sensors. The combination of different analytical approaches provided new insights into the mechanistic and kinetics aspects of the degradation of these biomedical materials. Although molar mass had to reach threshold values for soluble oligomers to be formed and specimens’ resorption to occur, the pH variation and l-lactate concentration were direct evidence of the resorption of the polymers and indicative of the extent of chain scission. Linear models were found for pH and released l-lactate as a function of mass loss for the l-lactide-based copolymers. The methodology should enable the sequential screening of degradable polymers at physiological conditions and has potential to be used for preclinical material’s evaluation aiming at reducing animal tests.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date 2021-01-27  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1525-7797 ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor 5.246 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 5.246  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:175296 Serial 7575  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Felipe Montiel, N.; Parrilla, M.; Beltrán, V.; Nuyts, G.; Van Durme, F.; De Wael, K. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title The opportunity of 6-monoacetylmorphine to selectively detect heroin at preanodized screen printed electrodes Type A1 Journal Article
  Year (down) 2021 Publication Talanta Abbreviated Journal Talanta  
  Volume Issue Pages 122005  
  Keywords A1 Journal Article; Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation (AXES) ;  
  Abstract The illicit consumption of heroin is an increasing concern in our society. For this reason, rapid analytical methods to seize heroin samples in the field are of paramount importance to hinder drug trafficking, and thus prevent the availability of heroin in the drug market. The present work reports on the enriched electrochemical fingerprint of heroin, allowing its selective detection in street samples, based on the use of electrochemical pretreated screen printed electrodes (p-SPE). The voltammetric identification is built on two oxidation peaks of both heroin and its degradation product 6-monoacetylmorphine (6-MAM), generated in alkaline conditions. Interestingly, an anodic pretreatment of the screen printed electrodes (SPE) shifts the peak potential of paracetamol (the most encountered cutting agent in heroin seizures), allowing the detection of 6-MAM peak, overlapping with the paracetamol signal in the case of untreated SPE. Subsequently, the characterization of the p-SPE with scanning electron microscopy, cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, Raman and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is provided to demonstrate local changes on the surface of the electrode. From an analytical perspective, p-SPE provide higher sensitivity (0.019 μA μM-1), excellent reproducibility (6-MAM, RSD = 2.85%, and heroin RSD = 0.91%, n = 5) and lower limits of detection (LOD) (5.2 μM) in comparison to untreated SPE. The proposed protocol which integrates a tailor-made script is interrogated against common cutting agents, and finally, validated with the screening of 14 street samples, also analyzed by standard methods. Besides, a comparison with portable spectroscopic techniques on the confiscated samples shows the better performance of the electrochemical strategy. Overall, this sensing approach offers promising results for the rapid on-site profiling of suspicious heroin samples, also in the presence of paracetamol.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000656959000033 Publication Date 2021-01-20  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0039-9140 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 4.162 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under the grant agreement No 833787, BorderSens. The authors acknowledge financial support from the University of Antwerp (IOF). Approved Most recent IF: 4.162  
  Call Number AXES @ axes @c:irua:174844 Serial 6663  
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Author Castanheiro, A.; Wuyts, K.; Hofman, J.; Nuyts, G.; De Wael, K.; Samson, R. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Morphological and elemental characterization of leaf-deposited particulate matter from different source types : a microscopic investigation Type A1 Journal article
  Year (down) 2021 Publication Environmental Science And Pollution Research Abbreviated Journal Environ Sci Pollut R  
  Volume 28 Issue 20 Pages 25716-25732  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)  
  Abstract Particulate matter (PM) deposition on urban green enables the collection of particulate pollution from a diversity of contexts, and insight into the physico-chemical profiles of PM is key for identifying main polluting sources. This study reports on the morphological and elemental characterization of PM2-10 deposited on ivy leaves from five different environments (forest, rural, roadside, train, industry) in the region of Antwerp, Belgium. Ca. 40,000 leaf-deposited particles were thoroughly investigated by particle-based analysis using scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDX) and their physico-chemical characteristics were explored for PM source apportionment purposes. The size distribution of all deposited particles was biased towards small-sized PM, with 32% of the particles smaller than 2.5 mu m (PM2.5) and median diameters of 2.80-3.09 mu m. The source type influenced both the particles' size and morphology (aspect ratio and shape), with roadside particles being overall the smallest in size and the most spherical. While forest and rural elemental profiles were associated with natural PM, the industry particles revealed the highest anthropogenic metal input. PM2-10 profiles for roadside and train sites were rather comparable and only distinguishable when evaluating the fine (2-2.5 mu m) and coarse (2.5-10 mu m) PM fractions separately, which enabled the identification of a larger contribution of combustion-derived particles (small, circular, Fe-enriched) at the roadside compared to the train. Random forest prediction model classified the source type correctly for 61-85% of the leaf-deposited PM. The still modest classification accuracy denotes the influence of regional background PM and demands for additional fingerprinting techniques to facilitate source apportionment. Nonetheless, the obtained results demonstrate the utility of leaf particle-based analysis to fingerprint and pinpoint source-specific PM, particularly when considering both the composition and size of leaf-deposited particles.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000609067300006 Publication Date 2021-01-20  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0944-1344; 1614-7499 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 2.741 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 2.741  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:176082 Serial 8282  
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Author Daems, E.; Moro, G.; Berghmans, H.; Moretto, L.M.; Dewilde, S.; Angelini, A.; Sobott, F.; De Wael, K. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Native mass spectrometry for the design and selection of protein bioreceptors for perfluorinated compounds Type A1 Journal article
  Year (down) 2021 Publication Analyst Abbreviated Journal Analyst  
  Volume 146 Issue 6 Pages 2065-2073  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)  
  Abstract Biosensing platforms are answering the increasing demand for analytical tools for environmental monitoring of small molecules, such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). By transferring toxicological findings in bioreceptor design we can develop innovative pathways for biosensor design. Indeed, toxicological studies provide fundamental information about PFAS-biomolecule complexes that can help evaluate the applicability of the latter as bioreceptors. The toolbox of native mass spectrometry (MS) can support this evaluation, as shown by the two case studies reported in this work. The analysis of model proteins’ (i.e. albumin, haemoglobin, cytochrome c and neuroglobin) interactions with well-known PFAS, such as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), demonstrated the potential of this native MS screening approach. In the first case study, untreated albumin and delipidated albumin were compared in the presence and absence of PFOA confirming that the delipidation step increases albumin affinity for PFOA without affecting protein stability. In the second case study, the applicability of our methodology to identify potential bioreceptors for PFOS/PFOA was extended to other proteins. Structurally related haemoglobin and neuroglobin revealed a 1 : 1 complex, whereas no binding was observed for cytochrome c. These studies have value as a proof-of-concept for a general application of native MS to identify bioreceptors for toxic compounds.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000631575100031 Publication Date 2021-01-18  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0003-2654; 1364-5528 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor 3.885 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.885  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:177074 Serial 8294  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Verlinden, B.; Van Hoecke, K.; Aerts, A.; Daems, N.; Dobney, A.; Janssens, K.; Cardinaels, T. doi  openurl
  Title Quantification of boron in cells for evaluation of drug agents used in boron neutron capture therapy Type A1 Journal article
  Year (down) 2021 Publication Journal Of Analytical Atomic Spectrometry Abbreviated Journal J Anal Atom Spectrom  
  Volume 36 Issue 3 Pages 598-606  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)  
  Abstract Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) is an extensively studied radiotherapeutic strategy for cancer treatment. BNCT is based on irradiation of malignant tumour cells with neutrons after uptake of a B-10 containing molecule. Alpha particles, locally produced by neutron irradiation kill the cancer cells. Important for ongoing research regarding cellular uptake and cytotoxicity of a large variety of B-10 containing molecules is the accurate determination of boron concentrations in cell cultures. In this work, the sample preparation for quantitative inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) analysis on cell cultures was optimized. By making use of acid digestion combined with UV digestion, low detection limits (0.4 mu g L-1) and full recoveries of boron could be achieved while measurements were free of spectral and non-spectral interferences. Finally, cell-associated boron in the form of 4-borono-l-phenylalanine (l-BPA) in vascular endothelial cell cultures could be determined with ICP-MS as (1.26 +/- 0.10) x 10(9) boron atoms per cell. The developed method can prove its importance for further BNCT research and elemental analysis of cell cultures.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000629283400009 Publication Date 2021-01-14  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0267-9477 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 3.379 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.379  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:177656 Serial 8435  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Blommaerts, N.; Hoeven, N.; Arenas Esteban, D.; Campos, R.; Mertens, M.; Borah, R.; Glisenti, A.; De Wael, K.; Bals, S.; Lenaerts, S.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Cool, P. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Tuning the turnover frequency and selectivity of photocatalytic CO2 reduction to CO and methane using platinum and palladium nanoparticles on Ti-Beta zeolites Type A1 Journal article
  Year (down) 2021 Publication Chemical Engineering Journal Abbreviated Journal Chem Eng J  
  Volume 410 Issue Pages 128234  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Laboratory of adsorption and catalysis (LADCA); AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)  
  Abstract A Ti-Beta zeolite was used in gas phase photocatalytic CO2 reduction to reduce the charge recombination rate and increase the surface area compared to P25 as commercial benchmark, reaching 607 m2 g-1. By adding Pt nanoparticles, the selectivity can be tuned toward CO, reaching a value of 92% and a turnover frequency (TOF) of 96 µmol.gcat-1.h-1, nearly an order of magnitude higher in comparison with P25. By adding Pd nanoparticles the selectivity can be shifted from CO (70% for a bare Ti-Beta zeolite), toward CH4 as the prevalent species (60%). In this way, the selectivity toward CO or CH4 can be tuned by either using Pt or Pd. The TOF values obtained in this work outperform reported state-of-the-art values in similar research. The improved activity by adding the nanoparticles was attributed to an improved charge separation efficiency, together with a plasmonic contribution of the metal nanoparticles under the applied experimental conditions.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000623394200004 Publication Date 2021-01-09  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1385-8947 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 6.216 Times cited 15 Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes N.B., S.L., S.W.V. and P.C. wish to thank the Flemish government and Catalisti for financial support and coordination in terms of a sprint SBO in the context of the moonshot project D2M. N.H. thanks the Flanders Innovation and Entrepreneurship (VLAIO) for the financial support. The Systemic Physiological and Ecotoxicological Research (SPHERE) group, R. Blust, University of Antwerp is acknowledged for the ICP-MS measurements. Approved Most recent IF: 6.216  
  Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:174591 Serial 6662  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Sleegers, N.; van Nuijs, A.L.N.; van den Berg, M.; De Wael, K. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Electrochemistry of intact versus degraded cephalosporin antibiotics facilitated by LC–MS analysis Type A1 Journal article
  Year (down) 2021 Publication Analytical Chemistry Abbreviated Journal Anal Chem  
  Volume 93 Issue 4 Pages 2394-2402  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Toxicological Centre  
  Abstract The electrochemical detection of cephalosporins is a promising approach for the monitoring of cephalosporin levels in process waters. However, this class of antibiotics, like penicillins, is composed of chemically active molecules and susceptible to hydrolysis and aminolysis of the four membered β-lactam ring present. In order to develop a smart monitoring strategy for cephalosporins, the influence of degradation (hydrolysis and aminolysis) on the electrochemical fingerprint has to be taken into account. Therefore, an investigation was carried out to understand the changes of the voltammetric fingerprints upon acidic and alkaline degradation. Changes in fingerprints were correlated to the degradation pathways through the combination of square wave voltammetry and liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight analysis. The characteristic electrochemical signals of the β-lactam ring disappeared upon hydrolysis. Additional oxidation signals that appeared after degradation were elucidated and linked to different degradation products, and therefore, enrich the voltammetric fingerprints with information of the state of the cephalosporins. The applicability of the electrochemical monitoring system was explored by the analysis of the intact and degraded industrial process waters containing the key intermediate 7-aminodeacetoxycephalosporanic acid (7-ADCA). Clearly, the intact process samples exhibited the expected core signals of 7-ADCA and could be quantified, while the degraded samples only showed the newly formed degradation products.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000618089100063 Publication Date 2021-01-04  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0003-2700; 5206-882x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 6.32 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 6.32  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:176206 Serial 7864  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Al-Emam, E.; Motawea, A.G.; Caen, J.; Janssens, K. url  doi
openurl 
  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
  Year (down) 2021 Publication Heritage science Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 9 Issue 1 Pages 1-10  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Art; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Antwerp Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES)  
  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.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000604977300001 Publication Date 2021-01-04  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2050-7445 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:174948 Serial 8557  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Daems, E.; Dewaele, D.; Barylyuk, K.; De Wael, K.; Sobott, F. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Aptamer-ligand recognition studied by native ion mobility-mass spectrometry Type A1 Journal article
  Year (down) 2021 Publication Talanta Abbreviated Journal Talanta  
  Volume 224 Issue Pages 121917  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)  
  Abstract The range of applications for aptamers, small oligonucleotide-based receptors binding to their targets with high specificity and affinity, has been steadily expanding. Our understanding of the mechanisms governing aptamer-ligand recognition and binding is however lagging, stymieing the progress in the rational design of new aptamers and optimization of the known ones. Here we demonstrate the capabilities and limitations of native ion mobility-mass spectrometry for the analysis of their higher-order structure and non-covalent interactions. A set of related cocaine-binding aptamers, displaying a range of folding properties and ligand binding affinities, was used as a case study in both positive and negative electrospray ionization modes. Using carefully controlled experimental conditions, we probed their conformational behavior and interactions with the high-affinity ligand quinine as a surrogate for cocaine. The ratios of bound and unbound aptamers in the mass spectra were used to rank them according to their apparent quinine-binding affinity, qualitatively matching the published ranking order. The arrival time differences between the free aptamer and aptamer-quinine complexes were consistent with a small ligand-induced conformational change, and found to inversely correlate with the affinity of binding. This mass spectrometry-based approach provides a fast and convenient way to study the molecular basis of aptamer-ligand recognition.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000600787800122 Publication Date 2020-12-02  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0039-9140; 1873-3573 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 4.162 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.162  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:174086 Serial 7490  
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Author Schram, J.; Thiruvottriyur Shanmugam, S.; Sleegers, N.; Florea, A.; Samyn, N.; van Nuijs, A.L.N.; De Wael, K. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Local conversion of redox inactive molecules into redox active ones : a formaldehyde based strategy for the electrochemical detection of illicit drugs containing primary and secondary amines Type A1 Journal article
  Year (down) 2021 Publication Electrochimica Acta Abbreviated Journal Electrochim Acta  
  Volume 367 Issue Pages 137515  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Toxicological Centre  
  Abstract Electrochemical techniques have evidenced to be highly suitable for the development of portable, rapid and accurate screening methods for the detection of illicit drugs in seized samples. However, the redox inactivity of primary amines, one of the most common functional groups of illicit drugs, masks voltammetric detection in aqueous environment at carbon electrodes and, therefore, leads to false negative results if only these primary amines are present in the structures. This work explores the feasibility of a derivatisation approach that introduces formaldehyde in the measuring conditions in order to achieve methylation, via an Eschweiler-Clarke mechanism, of illicit drugs containing primary and secondary amines, using amphetamine (AMP) and methamphetamine (MET) as model molecules. As a result the electrochemical fingerprint is enriched and thereby the detectability enhanced. A combination of liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOFMS) and square-wave voltammetric (SWV) measurements is employed to identify reaction products and link them to the observed redox peaks. Although an alkaline environment (pH 12.0) proved to increase the reaction yield, a richer electrochemical fingerprint (EF) is obtained in neutral conditions (pH 7.0). Similarly, the addition of formate improved the reaction conversion but reduced the EF by eliminating a redox peak that is attributed to side products formed in the absence of formate. To illustrate the applicability, the derivatisation strategy is applied to several prominent illicit drugs containing primary and secondary amines to demonstrate its EF enriching capabilities. Finally, real street samples from forensic seizures are analysed. Overall, this strategy unlocks the detectability of the hitherto undetectable AMP and other drugs only containing primary amines, while strongly facilitating the identification of MET and analogues. These findings are not limited to illicit drugs, the insights can ultimately be applied to other target molecules containing similar functional groups. (C) 2020 Published by Elsevier Ltd.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000607620700010 Publication Date 2020-11-21  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0013-4686 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 4.798 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.798  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:176083 Serial 8177  
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Author Sleegers, N. openurl 
  Title Cephalosporin antibiotics : electrochemical fingerprints and redox pathways investigated by mass spectral analysis Type Doctoral thesis
  Year (down) 2021 Publication Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages 208 p.  
  Keywords Doctoral thesis; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)  
  Abstract  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:181014 Serial 7588  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Marchetti, A. url  openurl
  Title Novel insights and approaches for the analytical characterization of tangible cultural heritage objects Type Doctoral thesis
  Year (down) 2021 Publication Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages 333 p.  
  Keywords Doctoral thesis; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)  
  Abstract 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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  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:177849 Serial 8319  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Legrand, S. url  openurl
  Title Advanced chemical imaging of artworks Type Doctoral thesis
  Year (down) 2021 Publication Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages 315 p.  
  Keywords Doctoral thesis; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)  
  Abstract Last century the field of heritage sciences expanded beyond imagination. The inventions of X-ray radiography and infrared reflectography allowed experts to investigate paintings below the surface as well. More recent developments led to the advent of the field of hyperspectral imaging, to which the advanced chemical imaging methods, used in this thesis work, belong. These techniques not only allow to identify the components present in artworks, but also to visualize their distribution over these objects. The resulting distribution maps permit a broader public to interpret the scientific data and to relate these results with the artwork itself. During this thesis work a range of flat artworks were investigated in a non-destructive manner using mainly two macroscopic imaging techniques: macroscopic X-ray fluorescence scanning and macroscopic Fourier transformed mid-infrared scanning in reflectance mode. The resulting images were sometimes supplemented with microscopic techniques on a minute selection of samples to fully understand the layer build-up, composition and distribution of these materials over the stratigraphy. Illuminated manuscripts pushed the interpretation of the macroscopic imaging techniques: due to the impossibility of sampling, all answers had to be obtained non-destructively. Documenting masterpieces such as the Ghent Altarpiece by means of chemical imaging techniques, helped the restoration team, assisted by the international commission to make the daring decision of manually removing the non-original paint layers. Scanning stained-glass windows allowed experts to document the panels, create situation reports, identify later infills and guide the restoration process in a more efficient manner. By initially applying non-destructive imaging techniques, many of the research/conservation questions could already be answered. Based on the resulting distribution maps, only a very limited amount of sampling was required to obtain a representative set to answer the remaining questions. In most cases the combination of multiple methods was necessary to fully understand the situation. A similar trend could be seen in the research field: the collaboration between divergent disciples was often required in order to explain all observations. In order to completely break through, the scanning speed of these techniques has to increase even more in order to cover an acceptable surface in one workday. Parallel with the operational speed, the (basic) data treatment should also be streamlined more in order to allow a broader user group to access the results. Once these two improvements are carried out, these techniques become accessible to a larger public.  
  Address  
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  Language Wos Publication Date  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:176342 Serial 7420  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Daems, E. url  openurl
  Title Shaping up oligonucleotides : aptamer-target recognition investigated by native mass spectrometry Type Doctoral thesis
  Year (down) 2021 Publication Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages 235 p.  
  Keywords Doctoral thesis; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)  
  Abstract 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.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:178116 Serial 8517  
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Author Blidar, A.-M. url  openurl
  Title The development of sensitive and selective electrochemical methods for the detection of antibiotics Type Doctoral thesis
  Year (down) 2021 Publication Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages 139 p.  
  Keywords Doctoral thesis; Pharmacology. Therapy; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)  
  Abstract The discovery of antibiotics represented one of the greatest breakthroughs in medicine. Their success combined with an increasing intensive use is apparently bound to be also their undoing. This is due to the development of acquired antibiotic resistance, leading to inefficient antibiotherapy and even to the impossibility of treatment and death. The development and spread of antibiotic resistance are fueled by the widespread presence of trace levels of antibiotics residue, in various media, from environment to aliments. One of the solutions is the rigorous monitoring of the levels of antibiotics, which in term requires an almost constant development of new, more accessible analytical methods, especially screening methods, capable of decentralized analysis. In this direction, the electrochemical detection of antibiotics represents a very viable alternative. In this context, the aim of this thesis was to develop new electrochemical methods for the detection of antibiotics by employing and expanding on several strategies, like biomimetic sensors and electrochemical fingerprinting. Five studies were described in this thesis, that can be roughly divided in three categories, based on the analytical strategy employed. The first group is represented by direct electrochemical methods. The second group focuses on the use of biomimetic elements, molecularly imprinted polymers and aptamers. The hyphenation of electrochemical methods with other analytical methods was explored in the last group. In the last study, included in this group, the singlet oxygen-based photoelectrochemical approach was used for the detection of a phenolic antibiotic, rifampicin. The originality of the thesis consists in the testing and development of new approaches to various strategies used in electrochemical detection, revealing new insights in the field of electrochemical detection of antibiotics. The complex electrochemical fingerprint and the mechanism of the electrochemical oxidation were created and investigated, respectively, for the antibiotic vancomycin. New sensitive nanoplatforms were prepared by employing and combining new protocols. Additionally, important contributions were brought through the study involving the singlet oxygen-based detection of rifampicin. We demonstrated how a photocatalyst can exhibit analyte selectivity by strongly interacting with a complex phenolic compound, rifampicin. Summing up, the studies presented in this thesis will have an important impact in the field of electrochemical detection of antibiotics.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:182955 Serial 7804  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Alemam, E. url  openurl
  Title Cleaning of wall paintings by Polyvinyl alcohol–Borax/Agarose (PVA–B/AG) double network hydrogels : characterization, assessment, and applications Type Doctoral thesis
  Year (down) 2021 Publication Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages 184 p.  
  Keywords Doctoral thesis; Engineering sciences. Technology; Art; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Antwerp Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES); Antwerp X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy (AXIS)  
  Abstract Wall paintings make up an important section of cultural heritage. They resemble time portals that can be used to travel back into the past and witness the life of our ancestors. In these paintings, the ancient artists depicted the different aspects of their life, such as cooking, baking, farming, manufacturing, as well as thoughts and beliefs. Unfortunately, wall paintings are susceptible to degradation over time in the form of the accumulations of dirt and deposits on the painted surfaces and loss of adhesion of the paint layers at the surface. Therefore, the removal of these deposits is one of the primary duties of conservator-restorers. Such operations are intended to restore the painted surface to a condition close enough to its original state. Since cleaning artworks may cause undesirable physicochemical alterations and is nonreversible, the proper cleaning procedure should be adopted. In this regard, numerous gels have been developed and exploited for the cleaning of various artwork surfaces. Lately, polyvinyl alcohol-borax (PVA-B) and agarose (AG) hydrogels have been widely employed as cleaning materials by conservator-restorers. However, both hydrogels have shown limitations in specific cleaning practices. In this work, we investigated a new double network hydrogel based on blending PVA-B and agarose to avoid the limitations posed by the constituting hydrogels. For this reason, a detailed characterization of the PVA–B/AG double network hydrogel was performed, including chemical structure, liquid phase retention, mechanical strength, rheological behavior, and self-healing behavior of various PVA-B/AG hydrogels. These new hydrogels revealed better properties than PVA-B and agarose hydrogels and obviated their limitations. A laboratory experiment on the removal of deteriorated Paraloid® B72 proved that the PVA-B/AG hydrogel loaded 10%/10% MEK/1-PeOH was able to remove these layers efficiently. Therefore, the hydrogel was tested on a wall painting from the Temple of Seti I in Abydos – Egypt. It removed the glossy/darkened consolidant from the wall painting and restored the original matt appearance of the painted surface. In another application on the painted ceiling of the same temple, the hydrogel was tested for removing thick soot layers. The hydrogel formulation (loaded with 5% ammonia, 0.3% ammonium carbonate, and 0.3% EDTA) removed these layers with no noticeable damage to the paint layers. In a wide-scale application of the hydrogel (loaded with 10% propylene carbonate), it removed a highly deteriorated varnish layer from a 19-c wall painting. All the traditional cleaning methods employed caused damage to the paint layers, proving that gel cleaning can be a safer cleaning alternative in some cases.  
  Address  
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  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:183381 Serial 7671  
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Author Simonsen, K.P.; Poulsen, J.N.; Vanmeert, F.; Ryhl-Svendsen, M.; Bendix, J.; Sanyova, J.; Janssens, K.; Mederos-Henry, F. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Formation of zinc oxalate from zinc white in various oil binding media: the influence of atmospheric carbon dioxide by reaction with 13CO2 Type A1 Journal article
  Year (down) 2020 Publication Heritage science Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 8 Issue 1 Pages 126  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Art; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)  
  Abstract The formation of metal oxalates in paintings has recently gained a great deal of interest within the field of heritage science as several types of oxalate compounds have been identified in oil paintings. The present work investigates the formation of metal oxalates in linseed oil in the presence of the artists' pigments zinc white, calcite, lead white, zinc yellow, chrome yellow, cadmium yellow, cobalt violet, and verdigris. The oil paint films were artificially photo-aged by exposure to UVA light at low and high relative humidity, and afterwards analysed by attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR). The results showed that, compared to the other pigments investigated, zinc white is especially prone to metal oxalate formation and that high humidity is a crucial factor in this process. Consequently, the reactivity and photo-aging of ZnO in various oil binding media was investigated further under simulated solar radiation and at high relative humidity levels. ATR-FTIR showed that zinc oxalate is formed in all oil binding media while X-ray powder diffraction (PXRD) revealed it was mainly present in an amorphous state. To examine whether atmospheric CO2(g) has any influence on the formation of zinc oxalate, experiments with isotopically enriched (CO2(g))-C-13 were performed. Based on ATR-FTIR measurements, neither (ZnC2O4)-C-13 nor (ZnCO3)-C-13 were formed which suggests that the carbon source for the oxalate formation is most likely the paint itself (and its oil component) and not the surrounding atmosphere.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000596527000001 Publication Date 2020-12-07  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2050-7445 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 2.5 Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 2.5; 2020 IF: NA  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:174381 Serial 7979  
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Author Alvarez-Martin, A.; George, J.; Kaplan, E.; Osmond, L.; Bright, L.; Newsome, G.A.; Kaczkowski, R.; Vanmeert, F.; Kavich, G.; Heald, S. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Identifying VOCs in exhibition cases and efflorescence on museum objects exhibited at Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian-New York Type A1 Journal article
  Year (down) 2020 Publication Heritage science Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 8 Issue 1 Pages 115  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Art; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)  
  Abstract Two mass spectrometry (MS) methods, solid-phase microextraction gas chromatography (SPME–GC–MS) and direct analysis in real time (DART-MS), have been explored to investigate widespread efflorescence observed on exhibited objects at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian in New York (NMAI-NY). Both methods show great potential, in terms of speed of analysis and level of information, for identifying the organic component of the efflorescence as 2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidinol (TMP-ol) emitted by the structural adhesive (Terostat MS 937) used for exhibit case construction. The utility of DART-MS was proven by detecting the presence of TMP-ol in construction materials in a fraction of the time and effort required for SPME–GC–MS analysis. In parallel, an unobtrusive SPME sampling strategy was used to detect volatile organic compounds (VOCs) accumulated in the exhibition cases. This sampling technique can be performed by collections and conservation staff at the museum and shipped to an off-site laboratory for analysis. This broadens the accessibility of MS techniques to museums without access to instrumentation or in-house analysis capabilities.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000589423700001 Publication Date 2020-11-14  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2050-7445 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 2.5 Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 2.5; 2020 IF: NA  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:181925 Serial 8056  
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Author Bottari, F.; Daems, E.; de Vries, A.-M.; Van Wielendaele, P.; Trashin, S.; Blust, R.; Sobott, F.; Madder, A.; Martins, J.C.; De Wael, K. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Do aptamers always bind? The need for a multifaceted analytical approach when demonstrating binding affinity between aptamer and low molecular weight compounds Type A1 Journal article
  Year (down) 2020 Publication Journal Of The American Chemical Society Abbreviated Journal J Am Chem Soc  
  Volume 142 Issue 46 Pages jacs.0c08691-19630  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Medical Biochemistry  
  Abstract In this manuscript, we compare different analytical methodologies to validate or disprove the binding capabilities of aptamer sequences. This was prompted by the lack of a universally accepted and robust quality control protocol for the characterization of aptamer performances coupled with the observation of independent yet inconsistent data sets in the literature. As an example, we chose three aptamers with a reported affinity in the nanomolar range for ampicillin, a β-lactam antibiotic, used as biorecognition elements in several detection strategies described in the literature. Application of a well-known colorimetric assay based on aggregation of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) yielded conflicting results with respect to the original report. Therefore, ampicillin binding was evaluated in solution using isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), native nano-electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (native nESI-MS), and 1H-nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H NMR). By coupling the thermodynamic data obtained with ITC with the structural information on the binding event given by native nESI-MS and 1H NMR we could verify that none of the ampicillin aptamers show any specific binding with their intended target. The effect of AuNPs on the binding event was studied by both ITC and 1H NMR, again without providing positive evidence of ampicillin binding. To validate the performance of our analytical approach, we investigated two well-characterized aptamers for cocaine/quinine (MN4), chosen for its nanomolar range affinity, and l-argininamide (1OLD) to show the versatility of our approach. The results clearly indicate the need for a multifaceted analytical approach, to unequivocally establish the actual detection potential and performance of aptamers aimed at small organic molecules.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000592911000024 Publication Date 2020-11-09  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0002-7863 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 15 Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 15; 2020 IF: 13.858  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:173136 Serial 6488  
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Author Truta, F.; Florea, A.; Cernat, A.; Tertis, M.; Hosu, O.; De Wael, K.; Cristea, C. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Tackling the problem of sensing commonly abused drugs through nanomaterials and (bio)recognition approaches Type A1 Journal article
  Year (down) 2020 Publication Frontiers In Chemistry Abbreviated Journal Front Chem  
  Volume 8 Issue Pages 561638  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)  
  Abstract We summarize herein the literature in the last decade, involving the use of nanomaterials and various (bio)recognition elements, such as antibodies, aptamers and molecularly imprinted polymers, for the development of sensitive and selective (bio)sensors for illicit drugs with a focus on electrochemical transduction systems. The use and abuse of illicit drugs remains an increasing challenge for worldwide authorities and, therefore, it is important to have accurate methods to detect them in seized samples, biological fluids and wastewaters. They are recently classified as the latest group of “emerging pollutants,” as their consumption has increased tremendously in recent years. Nanomaterials, antibodies, aptamers and molecularly imprinted polymers have gained much attention over the last decade in the development of (bio)sensors for a myriad of applications. The applicability of these (nano)materials, functionalized or not, has significantly increased, and are therefore highly suitable for use in the detection of drugs. Lately, such functionalized nanoscale materials have assisted in the detection of illicit drugs fingerprints, providing large surface area, functional groups and unique properties that facilitate sensitive and selective sensing. The review discusses the types of commonly abused drugs and their toxicological implications, classification of functionalized nanomaterials (graphene, carbon nanotubes), their fabrication, and their application on real samples in different fields of forensic science. Biosensors for drugs of abuse from the last decade's literature are then exemplified. It also offers insights into the prospects and challenges of bringing the functionalized nanobased technology to the end user in the laboratories or in-field.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000589960100001 Publication Date 2020-11-04  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2296-2646 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 5.5 Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 5.5; 2020 IF: 3.994  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:174278 Serial 8639  
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