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Author Menegaldo, B.; Aleccia, D.; Nuyts, G.; Amato, A.; Orsega, E.F.; Moro, G.; Balliana, E.; De Wael, K.; Moretto, L.M.; Beltran, V.
Title Stories of the life of Saint George : materials and techniques from a Barbelli mural painting Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Studies in conservation Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 1-14
Keywords A1 Journal article; Art; History; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)
Abstract (down) Gian Giacomo Inchiocchio (1604-1656), better known as Barbelli, was one of the main exponents of Lombard painting of the seventeenth century. A large body of work is attributed to him, encompassing a wide range of drawings, murals, and oil paintings. However, despite his broad production, there are still many open questions regarding his painting techniques and materials. In this paper, a multi-analytical study of the cycle Stories of the life of Saint George that originally decorated the presbytery of the parish church of Casaletto Vaprio (Cremona, Italy) was performed, combining non-invasive techniques with the characterisation of selected micro samples. Results show that Barbelli used a very limited number of inorganic pigments, often mixing them together to create different colours and shades. Remains of caseinate and degradation products (i.e. weddellite and whewellite) related to the strappo intervention were also highlighted. The study helped to decipher the materials and technique of this painting, providing data that can be used as a reference to study his extensive production.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001080139100001 Publication Date 2023-10-04
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0039-3630; 2047-0584 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 0.8 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 0.8; 2023 IF: 0.578
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:200302 Serial 9098
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Author Borah, R.; Ninakanti, R.; Nuyts, G.; Peeters, H.; Pedrazo-Tardajos, A.; Nuti, S.; Vande Velde, C.; De Wael, K.; Lenaerts, S.; Bals, S.; Verbruggen, S.
Title Selectivity in ligand functionalization of photocatalytic metal oxide nanoparticles for phase transfer and self‐assembly applications Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Chemistry-A European Journal Abbreviated Journal Chem-Eur J
Volume Issue Pages chem.202100029-15
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
Abstract (down) Functionalization of photocatalytic metal oxide nanoparticles of TiO 2 , ZnO, WO 3 and CuO with amine‐terminated (oleylamine) and thiol‐terminated (1‐dodecanethiol) alkyl chained ligands was studied under ambient conditions. A high selectivity was observed in the binding specificity of a ligand towards nanoparticles of these different oxides. It was observed that oleylamine binds stably to only TiO 2 and WO 3 , while 1‐dodecanethiol binds stably only to ZnO and CuO. Similarly, polar to non‐polar solvent phase transfer of TiO 2 and WO 3 nanoparticles could be achieved by using oleylamine, but not by 1‐dodecanethiol, while the contrary holds for ZnO and CuO. The surface chemistry of ligand functionalized nanoparticles was probed by ATR‐FTIR spectroscopy, that enabled to elucidate the occupation of the ligands at the active sites. The photo‐stability of the ligands on the nanoparticle surface was determined by the photocatalytic self‐cleaning properties of the material. While TiO 2 and WO 3 degrade the ligands within 24 hours under both UV and visible light, ligands on ZnO and CuO remain unaffected. The gathered insights are also highly relevant from an application point of view. As an example, since the ligand functionalized nanoparticles are hydrophobic in nature, they can thus be self‐assembled at the air‐water interface, for obtaining nanoparticle films with demonstrated photocatalytic as well as anti‐fogging properties.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000652651400001 Publication Date 2021-04-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0947-6539 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.317 Times cited 15 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes R.B. and S.W.V. acknowledge financial support from the University of Antwerp Special Research Fund (BOF) for a DOCPRO4 doctoral scholarship. S.B. and A.P.-T. acknowledge financial support from the European Commission under the Horizon 2020 Program by means of the grant agreement no. 731019 EUSMI and the ERC Consolidator grant no. 815128 REALNANO.; sygmaSB Approved Most recent IF: 5.317
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:177495 Serial 6787
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Author Van Echelpoel, R.; Kranenburg, R.; van Asten, A.; De Wael, K.
Title Electrochemical detection of MDMA and 2C-B in ecstasy tablets using a selectivity enhancement strategy by in-situ derivatization Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Forensic chemistry Abbreviated Journal
Volume 27 Issue Pages 100383
Keywords A1 Journal article; Pharmacology. Therapy; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)
Abstract (down) Forensic drug laboratories are confronted with increasing amounts of drugs and a demand for faster results that are directly available on-site. In addition, the drug market is getting more complex with hundreds of new psychoactive substances (NPS) entering the market in recent years. Rapid and on-scene presumptive drug testing therefore faces a shift from manual colorimetric tests towards approaches that can detect a wider range of components and process results automatically. Electrochemical detection offers these desired characteristics, making it a suitable candidate for on-site drug detection. In this study, a two-step electrochemical sensor is introduced for the detection of MDMA and 2C-B. Firstly, a direct electrochemical analysis was performed to detect MDMA. Validation experiments on over 70 substances revealed that 2C-B was the only frequently encountered drug that gave a false positive result for MDMA in this first analysis. A second step using in-situ derivatization was subsequently introduced. To this end, formaldehyde was used for N-methylation of 2C-B thereby enhancing its electrochemical profile. The enriched electrochemical fingerprint in the second step allowed for clear differentiation between MDMA and 2C-B. The applicability of this approach was demonstrated with 71 ecstasy tablets seized by the Amsterdam Police. The MDMA/2C-B sensor correctly identified all 39 MDMA-containing tablets and 10 out of 11 tablets containing 2C-B. Most notably, correct results were also obtained for dark colored tablets in which both spectroscopic analysis and colorimetric tests failed due to obscured signals.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000725708200002 Publication Date 2021-11-23
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2468-1709 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.7 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 2.7
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:183340 Serial 7149
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Author Muhammad, S.; Wuyts, K.; Nuyts, G.; De Wael, K.; Samson, R.
Title Characterization of epicuticular wax structures on leaves of urban plant species and its association with leaf wettability Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication Urban Forestry & Urban Greening Abbreviated Journal Urban For Urban Gree
Volume 47 Issue 47 Pages 126557
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract (down) Epicuticular wax (EW) protects the plant’s integrity and acts as a barrier against biotic and abiotic stresses. The micro-structured three-dimensional EW’s and presence of leaf trichomes influence the wettability of a leaf surface. In this study, leaves of 96 perennial urban plant species were examined to determine an association between epicuticular wax structure (EWS) types and leaf wettability and investigate their seasonal variation. The EWS types were identified using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), while leaf wettability was analyzed by measuring the drop contact angle (DCA) on both the abaxial and the adaxial sides of leaves collected from a common garden in June and September 2016. Four distinct EWS types namely thin film, platelets, crusts, and tubules were observed on leaves of investigated plant species in both June and September. The EWS types varied significantly between functional plant types and plant families in both June and September. In June, the abaxial DCA ranged from 56° to 147°, and the adaxial DCA ranged from 56° to 136°. In September, the abaxial DCA ranged from 54° to 130°, and the adaxial DCA ranged from 51° to 125°. The effect of time, leaf side, and EWS type on leaf wettability were significant. Plant species which showed a change in EWS type or clustering from June to September did not show a more pronounced reduction in DCA compared to those species which exhibited a constant EWS type. Findings from our study illustrate that DCA is not a good indicator in determining the different EWS types due to overlapping DCA intervals between the identified EWS types. However, the identified EWS types remained fairly stable throughout the in-leaf season and do not require repeated measurements for characterization.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000508389000028 Publication Date 2019-12-05
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1618-8667 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.4 Times cited 5 Open Access
Notes ; The research was funded by the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP # 15103399). The SEM equipment was funded by FWO/Hercules. The authors acknowledge the help of the ENdEMIC group involved in the upkeep of the experimental site. The authors would like to thank the anonymous reviewers for their critical comments and constructive suggestions in improving the quality of the article. ; Approved Most recent IF: 6.4; 2020 IF: 2.113
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:164906 Serial 5504
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Author Beltran, V.; Marchetti, A.; De Meyer, S.; Nuyts, G.; De Wael, K.
Title Geranium lake pigments : the role of the synthesis on the structure and composition Type A1 Journal article
Year 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 (down) 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.
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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
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Author Trashin, S.; Rahemi, V.; Ramji, K.; Neven, L.; Gorun, S.M.; De Wael, K.
Title Singlet oxygen-based electrosensing by molecular photosensitizers Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Nature communications Abbreviated Journal Nat Commun
Volume 8 Issue Pages 16108
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract (down) Enzyme-based electrochemical biosensors are an inspiration for the development of (bio)analytical techniques. However, the instability and reproducibility of the reactivity of enzymes, combined with the need for chemical reagents for sensing remain challenges for the construction of useful devices. Here we present a sensing strategy inspired by the advantages of enzymes and photoelectrochemical sensing, namely the integration of aerobic photocatalysis and electrochemical analysis. The photosensitizer, a bioinspired perfluorinated Zn phthalocyanine, generates singlet-oxygen from air under visible light illumination and oxidizes analytes, yielding electrochemically-detectable products while resisting the oxidizing species it produces. Compared with enzymatic detection methods, the proposed strategy uses air instead of internally added reactive reagents, features intrinsic baseline correction via on/off light switching and shows C-F bonds-type enhanced stability. It also affords selectivity imparted by the catalytic process and nano-level detection, such as 20 nM amoxicillin in μl sample volumes.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000405466200002 Publication Date 2017-07-14
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2041-1723 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 12.124 Times cited 26 Open Access
Notes ; Evonik is thanked for providing samples of silicon and titanium oxides. Support from the National Science Foundation (SMG) for a portion of this work is gratefully acknowledged. FWO and UAntwerpen (BOF) are acknowledged for financial support. ; Approved Most recent IF: 12.124
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:144538 Serial 5833
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Author Wuyts, K.; Hofman, J.; van Wittenberghe, S.; Nuyts, G.; De Wael, K.; Samson, R.
Title A new opportunity for biomagnetic monitoring of particulate pollution in an urban environment using tree branches Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Atmospheric environment : an international journal Abbreviated Journal Atmos Environ
Volume 190 Issue 190 Pages 177-187
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract (down) Environmental magnetism, and the magnetic leaf signal in particular, is amply investigated and applied as proxy for atmospheric particulate matter pollution. In this study, we investigated the magnetic signal of annual segments of tree branches, and the composition of particles deposited hereon. Branches are, contrary to leaves of deciduous trees, available during leaf-off seasons and exposed to air pollution year-round. We examined the intra- and inter-tree variation in saturation isothermal remanent magnetization (SIRM) of branch internodes of London plane (Platanus x aeerifolia Willd.) trees in an urban environment. The branch SIRM, normalized by surface area, ranged from 18 to 650 x 10(-6) angstrom; the median amounted to 106 x 10(-6) angstrom. Most of the branch magnetic signal was attributed to the epidermis or bark, and the presence of metal-containing particles on the branch surfaces was confirmed by SEM-EDX. The location of the trees and the height, the depth in the crown and the age of the branches significantly influenced the branch SIRM. The median branch SIRM was up to 135% higher near a busy ring road than in quiet environments (city park and quiet street canyon), and was linked to the presence of Fe-rich particles with co-occurrence of trace metals such as Cr, Cu, Zn and Mn on the branch surface. Within the tree crowns, the branch SIRM generally decreased with increasing height, and was 22% higher in the interior than at the periphery of the crowns. Within the branches, the SIRM increased with each year of exposure, but did not relate to year-to-year variation in particle concentrations due to branch surface changes (epidermis shedding). Our results provide indications that branches can be a valuable alternative for biomagnetic monitoring of particulate pollution, but intra-tree variability in branch SIRM can be substantial due to the branch's location in the tree and branch age.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000444659400017 Publication Date 2018-07-11
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1352-2310 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.629 Times cited 3 Open Access
Notes ; We would like to thank the city council services of the city of Antwerp for their logistical support. We are grateful to Ana Castanheiro and Leen Van Ham for laboratory and SEM assistance. JH is supported as postdoctoral fellow of the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO; 12I4816N) and SVW is supported by a Marie Sklodowska-Curie Individual Fellowship under the grant agreement no 701815 FLUOPHOT. ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.629
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:153607 Serial 5454
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Author Rather, J.A.; De Wael, K.
Title Fullerene-C60 sensor for ultra-high sensitive detection of bisphenol-A and its treatment by green technology Type A1 Journal article
Year 2013 Publication Sensors and actuators : B : chemical Abbreviated Journal Sensor Actuat B-Chem
Volume 176 Issue Pages 110-117
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract (down) Endocrine disruptors (EDCs) are environmental pollutants that, once incorporated into an organism, affect the hormonal balance of humans and various species. Its presence in environment is of great importance in water quality related questions. The proposed method describes the development of an accurate, sensitive and selective sensor for the detection of bisphenol-A (BPA) and its treatment by green technology. A fullerene (C60) fabricated electrochemical sensor was developed for the ultrasensitive detection of BPA. The homemade sensor was characterized by scanning electron microscopy, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and chronocoulometry. The influence of measuring parameters such as pH and C60 loading on the analytical performance of the sensor was evaluated. Various kinetic parameters such as electron transfer number (n); charge transfer coefficient (α); electrode surface area (A) and diffusion coefficient (D) were also calculated. Under the optimal conditions, the oxidation peak current was linear over the concentration range of 74 nM to 0.23 μM with the detection limit (LOD) of 3.7 nM. The fabricated sensor was successfully applied to the determination of BPA in wastewater samples and it has promising analytical applications for the direct determination of BPA at trace level.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000319867500017 Publication Date 2012-09-07
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 79 Open Access
Notes ; The authors are highly thankful for the mobility grant (Non-Europe Postdoc Fellowship) for one of the author (Jahangir Ahmad Rather) supported by the Belgian Federal Science Policy (Belspo) co-funded by the Marie Curie Actions from the European Commission. ; Approved Most recent IF: 5.401; 2013 IF: 3.840
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:101055 Serial 5630
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Author Neven, L.; Barich, H.; Ching, H.Y.V.; Khan, S.U.; Colomier, C.; Patel, H.H.; Gorun, S.M.; Verbruggen, S.; Van Doorslaer, S.; De Wael, K.
Title Correlation between the fluorination degree of perfluorinated zinc phthalocyanines, their singlet oxygen generation ability, and their photoelectrochemical response for phenol sensing Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Analytical chemistry Abbreviated Journal Anal Chem
Volume 94 Issue 13 Pages 5221-5230
Keywords A1 Journal article; Organic synthesis (ORSY); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)
Abstract (down) Electron-withdrawing perfluoroalkyl peripheral groups grafted on phthalocyanine (Pc) macrocycles improve their single-site isolation, solubility, and resistance to self-oxidation, all beneficial features for catalytic applications. A high degree of fluorination also enhances the reducibility of Pcs and could alter their singlet oxygen (1O2) photoproduction. The ethanol/toluene 20:80 vol % solvent mixture was found to dissolve perfluorinated FnPcZn complexes, n = 16, 52, and 64, and minimize the aggregation of the sterically unencumbered F16PcZn. The 1O2 production ability of FnPcZn complexes was examined using 9,10-dimethylanthracene (DMA) and 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine (TEMP) in combination with UV–vis and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy, respectively. While the photoreduction of F52PcZn and F64PcZn in the presence of redox-active TEMP lowered 1O2 production, DMA was a suitable 1O2 trap for ranking the complexes. The solution reactivity was complemented by solid-state studies via the construction of photoelectrochemical sensors based on TiO2-supported FnPcZn, FnPcZn|TiO2. Phenol photo-oxidation by 1O2, followed by its electrochemical reduction, defines a redox cycle, the 1O2 production having been found to depend on the value of n and structural features of the supported complexes. Consistent with solution studies, F52PcZn was found to be the most efficient 1O2 generator. The insights on reactivity testing and structural–activity relationships obtained may be useful for designing efficient and robust sensors and for other 1O2-related applications of FnPcZn.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000786254500002 Publication Date 2022-03-22
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 7.4 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 7.4
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:187522 Serial 7141
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Author Sleegers, N.; van Nuijs, A.L.N.; van den Berg, M.; De Wael, K.
Title Cephalosporin antibiotics : electrochemical fingerprints and core structure reactions investigated by LC-MSMS Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Analytical chemistry Abbreviated Journal Anal Chem
Volume 91 Issue 3 Pages 2035-2041
Keywords A1 Journal article; Pharmacology. Therapy; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Toxicological Centre
Abstract (down) Electrochemistry and exploiting electrochemical fingerprints is a potent approach to address newly emerging surveillance needs, for instance for antibiotics. However, a comprehensive insight in the electrochemical oxidation behaviour and mechanism is re-quired for this sensing strategy. To address the lack in knowledge of the voltammetric behaviour of the cephalosporins antibiotics, a selection of cephalosporin antibiotics and two main intermediates were subjected to an electrochemical study of their redox behaviour by means of pulsed voltammetric techniques and small-scale electrolysis combined with HPLC-MS/MS analyses. Sur-prisingly, the detected oxidation products did not fit the earlier suggested oxidation of the sulfur group to the corresponding sul-foxide. The influence of different side chains, both at the three and the seven position of the β-lactam core structure on the elec-trochemical fingerprint were investigated. Additional oxidation signals at lower potentials were elucidated and linked to different side chains. These signals were further exploited to allow simultaneous detection of different cephalosporins in one voltammetric sweep. These fundamental insights can become the building blocks for an new on-site screening method.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000458220300055 Publication Date 2019-01-03
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 6 Open Access
Notes ; The authors acknowledge financial support from the Fund for Scientific Research (FWO) Flanders, Grant 1S 37658 17N. ; Approved Most recent IF: 6.32
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:156046 Serial 5497
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Author Schram, J.; Thiruvottriyur Shanmugam, S.; Sleegers, N.; Florea, A.; Samyn, N.; van Nuijs, A.L.N.; De Wael, K.
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 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 (down) 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.
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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 Florea, A.; Schram, J.; De Jong, M.; Eliaerts, J.; Van Durme, F.; Kaur, B.; Samyn, N.; De Wael, K.
Title Electrochemical strategies for adulterated heroin samples Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Analytical chemistry Abbreviated Journal Anal Chem
Volume 91 Issue 12 Pages 7920-7928
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract (down) Electrochemical strategies to selectively detect heroin in street samples without the use of complicated electrode modifications were developed for the first time. For this purpose, heroin, mixing agents (adulterants, cutting agent, and impurities), and their binary mixtures were subjected to square wave voltammetry measurements at bare graphite electrodes at pH 7.0 and pH 12.0, in order to elucidate the unique electrochemical fingerprint of heroin and mixing agents as well as possible interferences or reciprocal influences. Adjusting the pH from pH 7.0 to pH 12.0 allowed a more accurate detection of heroin in the presence of most common mixing agents. Furthermore, the benefit of introducing a preconditioning step prior to running square wave voltammetry on the electrochemical fingerprint enrichment was explored. Mixtures of heroin with other drugs (cocaine, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, and morphine) were also tested to explore the possibility of their discrimination and simultaneous detection. The feasibility of the proposed electrochemical strategies was tested on realistic heroin street samples from forensic cases, showing promising results for fast, on-site detection tools of drugs of abuse.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000472682000056 Publication Date 2019-05-30
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 2 Open Access
Notes ; This project has received funding from the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Grant Agreement No. 753223 Narcoreader. The authors also acknowledge IOF (UAntwerp) and Belspo for financial support. ; Approved Most recent IF: 6.32
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:160061 Serial 5596
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Author Steijlen, A.S.M.; Parrilla, M.; Van Echelpoel, R.; De Wael, K.
Title Dual microfluidic sensor system for enriched electrochemical profiling and identification of illicit drugs on-site Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Analytical chemistry Abbreviated Journal
Volume 96 Issue 1 Pages 590-598
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)
Abstract (down) Electrochemical sensors have emerged as a new analytical tool for illicit drug detection to facilitate ultrafast and accurate identification of suspicious compounds on-site. Drugs of abuse can be identified using their unique voltammetric fingerprint at a given pH. Today, the right buffer solution is manually selected based on drug appearance, and in some cases, a consecutive analysis in two different pH solutions is required. In this work, we present a disposable microfluidic multichannel sensor system that automatically records fingerprints in two pH solutions (e.g., pH 5 and pH 12). This system has two advantages. It will overcome the manual selection of a buffer solution at the right pH, decrease analysis time, and minimize the risk of human errors. Second, the combination of two fingerprints, the superfingerprint, contains more detailed information about the samples, which enhances the selectivity of the analytical technique. First, real-time pH measurements proved that the sample can be brought to the desired pH within a minute. Subsequently, an electrochemical study on the microfluidic platform with 1 mM illicit drug standards of MDMA, cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine showed that the characteristic voltammetric fingerprints and peak potentials are reproducible, also in the presence of common cutting agents. Finally, the microfluidic concept was validated with real confiscated samples, showing promising results for the user-friendly identification of drugs of abuse. In short, this paper presents a successful proof-of-concept study of a multichannel microfluidic sensor system to enrich the fingerprints of illicit drugs at pH 5 and pH 12, thus providing a low-cost, portable, and rapid identification system of illicit drugs with minimal user intervention.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001139443500001 Publication Date 2023-12-28
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 7.4 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 7.4; 2024 IF: 6.32
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:201877 Serial 9024
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Author Moro, G.; Barich, H.; Driesen, K.; Montiel, N.F.; Neven, L.; Mendonca, C.D.; Thiruvottriyur Shanmugam, S.; Daems, E.; De Wael, K.
Title Unlocking the full power of electrochemical fingerprinting for on-site sensing applications Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication Analytical And Bioanalytical Chemistry Abbreviated Journal Anal Bioanal Chem
Volume Issue Pages 1-14
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract (down) Electrochemical sensing for the semi-quantitative detection of biomarkers, drugs, environmental contaminants, food additives, etc. shows promising results in point-of-care diagnostics and on-site monitoring. More specifically, electrochemical fingerprint (EF)-based sensing strategies are considered an inviting approach for the on-site detection of low molecular weight molecules. The fast growth of electrochemical sensors requires defining the concept of direct electrochemical fingerprinting in sensing. The EF can be defined as the unique electrochemical signal or pattern, mostly recorded by voltammetric techniques, specific for a certain molecule that can be used for its quantitative or semi-quantitative identification in a given analytical context with specified circumstances. The performance of EF-based sensors can be enhanced by considering multiple features of the signal (i.e., oxidation or reduction patterns), in combination with statistical data analysis or sample pretreatments or by including electrode surface modifiers to enrich the EF. In this manuscript, some examples of EF-based sensors, strategies to improve their performances, and open challenges are discussed to unlock the full power of electrochemical fingerprinting for on-site sensing applications.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000523396300002 Publication Date 2020-04-04
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1618-2642 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.3 Times cited 3 Open Access
Notes ; The presented review is the result of a concerted effort and fruitful discussions among enthusiastic, young, and (for the occasion) female researchers of the AXES research group, each of them with specific expertise and background, under the guidance of the corresponding author. The authors acknowledge FWO-Flanders, BOF-UA, IOF-UA, FAPESP and EU for funding. ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.3; 2020 IF: 3.431
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:168563 Serial 6647
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Author De Keersmaecker, M.; De Wael, K.; Adriaens, A.
Title Influence of the deposition method, temperature and deposition time on the corrosion inhibition of lead dodecanoate coatings deposited on lead surfaces Type A1 Journal article
Year 2013 Publication Journal of solid state electrochemistry Abbreviated Journal J Solid State Electr
Volume 17 Issue 5 Pages 1259-1269
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract (down) Electrochemical impedance measurements have been used to investigate the influence of the deposition method, including time and temperature, upon the corrosion inhibition characteristics of lead dodecanoate coatings on lead electrodes. The results were analysed using multivariate statistics and show that, in general, these easily prepared coatings are very protective against corrosion. The temperature proves to be an important parameter for the quality and the corrosion inhibition efficiency of the coating. A comparison between two different electrochemically assisted deposition methods, immersion using a reduction pretreatment and cyclic voltammetry, does not show significant differences. Using the immersion technique at room temperature, the deposition time was tested as the third influencing parameter for the corrosion inhibition efficiency of the deposited lead dodecanoate coatings. A longer deposition time of the lead into the sodium dodecanoate solution provides a layer with a somewhat higher corrosion resistance.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000320374300001 Publication Date 2013-01-10
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1432-8488 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.316 Times cited 4 Open Access
Notes ; The Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO)- and Ghent University are acknowledged for the funding of this work. The authors would also like to thank Pieter van Hoe for the construction of the lead electrodes. ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.316; 2013 IF: 2.234
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:105278 Serial 5663
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Author Thiruvottriyur Shanmugam, S.; Campos, R.; Trashin, S.; Daems, E.; Carneiro, D.; Fraga, A.; Ribeiro, R.; De Wael, K.
Title Singlet oxygen-based photoelectrochemical detection of miRNAs in prostate cancer patients’ plasma : a novel diagnostic tool for liquid biopsy Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Bioelectrochemistry: an international journal devoted to electrochemical aspects of biology and biological aspects of electrochemistry Abbreviated Journal
Volume 158 Issue Pages 108698-108699
Keywords A1 Journal article; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)
Abstract (down) Dysregulation of miRNA expression occurs in many cancers, making miRNAs useful in cancer diagnosis and therapeutic guidance. In a clinical context using methods such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), the limited amount of miRNAs in circulation often limits their quantification. Here, we present a PCR-free and sensitive singlet oxygen (1O2)-based strategy for the detection and quantification of miRNAs in untreated human plasma from patients diagnosed with prostate cancer. A target miRNA is specifically captured by functionalised magnetic beads and a detection oligonucleotide probe in a sandwich-like format. The formed complex is concentrated at the sensor surface via magnetic beads, providing an interface for the photoinduced redox signal amplification. The detection oligonucleotide probe bears a molecular photosensitiser, which produces 1O2 upon illumination, oxidising a redox reporter and creating a redox cycling loop, allowing quantification of pM level miRNA in diluted human plasma within minutes after hybridisation and without target amplification.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date 2024-04-04
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1567-5394 ISBN Additional Links UA library record
Impact Factor 5 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 5; 2024 IF: 3.346
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205281 Serial 9229
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Author Khan, S.U.; Trashin, S.; Beltran, V.; Korostei, Y.S.; Pelmus, M.; Gorun, S.M.; Dubinina, T., V.; Verbruggen, S.W.; De Wael, K.
Title Photoelectrochemical behavior of phthalocyanine-sensitized TiO₂ in the presence of electron-shuttling mediators Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Analytical chemistry Abbreviated Journal Anal Chem
Volume 94 Issue 37 Pages 12723-12731
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)
Abstract (down) Dye-sensitized TiO(2 )has found many applications for dye sensitized solar cells (DSSC), solar-to-chemical energy conversion, water/air purification systems, and (electro)chemical sensors. We report an electrochemical system for testing dye-sensitized materials that can be utilized in photoelectrochemical (PEC) sensors and energy conversion. Unlike related systems, the reported system does not require a direct electron transfer from semiconductors to electrodes. Rather, it relies on electron shuttling by redox mediators. A range of model photocatalytic materials were prepared using three different TiO2 materials (P25, P90, and PC500) and three sterically hindered phthalocyanines (Pcs) with electron-rich tert-butyl substituents (t-Bu4PcZn, t-Bu4PcAlCl, and t-Bu4PcH2). The materials were compared with previously developed TiO(2 )modified by electron-deficient, also sterically hindered fluorinated phthalocyanine F64PcZn, a singlet oxygen (O-1(2)) producer, as well as its metal-free derivative, F64PcH2. The PEC activity depended on the redox mediator, as well as the type of TiO2 and Pc. By comparing the responses of one-electron shuttles, such as K4Fe(CN)(4), and O-1(2)-reactive electron shuttles, such as phenol, it is possible to reveal the action mechanism of the supported photosensitizers, while the overall activity can be assessed using hydroquinone. t-Bu4PcAlCl showed significantly lower blank responses and higher specific responses toward chlorophenols compared to t-Bu4PcZn due to the electron-withdrawing effect of the Al3+ metal center. The combination of reactivity insights and the need for only microgram amounts of sensing materials renders the reported system advantageous for practical applications.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000855284300001 Publication Date 2022-09-12
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 7.4 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 7.4
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:190602 Serial 7190
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Author Trashin, S.; Morales-Yánez, F.; Thiruvottriyur Shanmugam, S.; Paredis, L.; Carrión, E.N.; Sariego, I.; Muyldermans, S.; Polman, K.; Gorun, S.M.; De Wael, K.
Title Nanobody-based immunosensor detection enhanced by photocatalytic-electrochemical redox cycling Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Analytical Chemistry Abbreviated Journal Anal Chem
Volume 93 Issue 40 Pages 13606-13614
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)
Abstract (down) Detection of antigenic biomarkers present in trace amounts is of crucial importance for medical diagnosis. A parasitic disease, human toxocariasis, lacks an adequate diagnostic method despite its worldwide occurrence. The currently used serology tests may stay positive even years after a possibly unnoticed infection, whereas the direct detection of a re-infection or a still active infection remains a diagnostic challenge due to the low concentration of circulating parasitic antigens. We report a time-efficient sandwich immunosensor using small recombinant single-domain antibodies (nanobodies) derived from camelid heavy-chain antibodies specific to Toxocara canis antigens. An enhanced sensitivity to pg/mL levels is achieved by using a redox cycle consisting of a photocatalytic oxidation and electrochemical reduction steps. The photocatalytic oxidation is achieved by a photosensitizer generating singlet oxygen (1O2) that, in turn, readily reacts with p-nitrophenol enzymatically produced under alkaline conditions. The photooxidation produces benzoquinone that is electrochemically reduced to hydroquinone, generating an amperometric response. The light-driven process could be easily separated from the background, thus making amperometric detection more reliable. The proposed method for detection of the toxocariasis antigen marker shows superior performances compared to other detection schemes with the same nanobodies and outperforms by at least two orders of magnitude the assays based on regular antibodies, thus suggesting new opportunities for electrochemical immunoassays of challenging low levels of antigens.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000708550500025 Publication Date 2021-09-29
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 OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 6.32
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:181795 Serial 8290
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Author Loreto, S.; Cuypers, B.; Brokken, J.; Van Doorslaer, S.; De Wael, K.; Meynen, V.
Title The effect of the buffer solution on the adsorption and stability of horse heart myoglobin on commercial mesoporous titanium dioxide : a matter of the right choice Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Physical chemistry, chemical physics Abbreviated Journal Phys Chem Chem Phys
Volume 19 Issue 21 Pages 13503-13514
Keywords A1 Journal article; Laboratory of adsorption and catalysis (LADCA); AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract (down) Despite the numerous studies on the adsorption of different proteins onto mesoporous titanium dioxide and indications on the important role of buffer solutions in bioactivity, a systematic study on the impact of the buffer on the protein incorporation into porous substrates is still lacking. We here studied the interaction between a commercial mesoporous TiO2 and three of the most used buffers for protein incorporation, i.e. HEPES, Tris and phosphate buffer. In addition, this paper analyzes the adsorption of horse heart myoglobin (hhMb) onto commercial mesoporous TiO2 as a model system to test the influence of buffers on the protein incorporation behavior in mesoporous TiO2. N2 sorption analysis, FT-IR and TGA/DTG measurements were used to evaluate the interaction between the buffers and the TiO2 surface, and the effect of such an interaction on hhMb adsorption. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) were used to detect changes in the microenvironment surrounding the heme. The three buffers show a completely different interaction with the TiO2 surface, which drastically affects the adsorption of myoglobin as well as its structure and electrochemical activity. Therefore, special attention is required while choosing the buffer medium to avoid misguided evaluation of protein adsorption on mesoporous TiO2.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000402488300013 Publication Date 2017-04-27
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1463-9076; 1463-9084 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.123 Times cited 2 Open Access
Notes ; We are grateful to Gert Nuyts for performing the XRF measurements, and Dr Stanislav Trashin for his assistance during the electrochemical experiments. This work is supported by the Research Foundation – Flanders (FWO) (grant G.0687.13) and the University of Antwerp (BOF project). ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.123
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:143514 Serial 5582
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Author Anaf, W.; Janssens, K.; De Wael, K.
Title Formation of metallic mercury during photodegradation/photodarkening of \alpha-HgS : electrochemical evidence Type A1 Journal article
Year 2013 Publication Angewandte Chemie: international edition in English Abbreviated Journal Angew Chem Int Edit
Volume 52 Issue 48 Pages 12568-12571
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract (down) Das rote Pigment α-HgS neigt in Gegenwart von Licht und Chloridionen zur Schwärzung. Als Grund für die Zersetzung und Entfärbung werden die Bildung von (schwarzem) β-HgS oder Quecksilbermetall vermutet, doch diese Substanzen wurden noch nicht auf natürlich oder künstlich zersetzter HgS-Farbe nachgewiesen. Elektrochemische Experimente belegen nun die Bildung von Quecksilbermetall in Gegenwart von Licht und Chloridionen.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000327582900015 Publication Date 2013-10-04
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1433-7851; 0570-0833 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 11.994 Times cited 19 Open Access
Notes ; The authors acknowledge L. Klaassen for valuable discussions and providing samples. We acknowledge financial support from the SDD programme (S2-ART project) of the Belgian Federal Goverment. ; Approved Most recent IF: 11.994; 2013 IF: 11.336
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:111265 Serial 5626
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Author Khan, S.U.; Matshitse, R.; Borah, R.; Nemakal, M.; Moiseeva, E.O.; Dubinina, T.V.; Nyokong, T.; Verbruggen, S.W.; De Wael, K.
Title Coupling of phthalocyanines with plasmonic gold nanoparticles by click chemistry for an enhanced singlet oxygen based photoelectrochemical sensing Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication ChemElectroChem Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 1-11
Keywords A1 Journal article; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab); Antwerp engineering, PhotoElectroChemistry & Sensing (A-PECS)
Abstract (down) Coupling photosensitizers (PSs) with plasmonic nanoparticles increases the photocatalytic activity of PSs as the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) of plasmonic nanoparticles leads to extreme concentration of light in their vicinity known as the near-field enhancement effect. To realize this in a colloidal phase, efficient conjugation of the PS molecules with the plasmonic nanoparticle surface is critical. In this work, we demonstrate the coupling of phthalocyanine (Pc) molecules with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) in the colloidal phase via click chemistry. This conjugated Pc-AuNPs colloidal system is shown to enhance the photocatalytic singlet oxygen (1O2) production over non-conjugated Pcs and hence improve the photoelectrochemical detection of phenols. The plasmonic enhancement of the 1O2 generation by Pcs was clearly elucidated by complementary experimental and computational classical electromagnetic models. The dependence of plasmonic enhancement on the spectral position of the excitation laser wavelength and the absorbance of the Pc molecules with respect to the wavelength specific near-field enhancement is clearly demonstrated. A high similar to 8 times enhancement is obtained with green laser (532 nm) at the LSPR due to the maximum near-field enhancement at the resonance wavelength. Zinc phthalocyanine is covalently linked to plasmonic AuNPs via click chemistry to investigate the synergistic effect that boosts the overall activity toward the detection of HQ under visible light illumination. The 1O2 quantum yield of ZnPc improved significantly after conjugating with AuNPs, resulting in enhanced photoelectrochemical activity. image
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001214481000001 Publication Date 2024-05-02
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2196-0216 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 4 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4; 2024 IF: 4.136
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205962 Serial 9142
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Author Rahemi, V.; Sarmadian, N.; Anaf, W.; Janssens, K.; Lamoen, D.; Partoens, B.; De Wael, K.
Title Unique opto-electronic structure and photo reduction properties of sulfur doped lead chromates explaining their instability in paintings Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Analytical chemistry Abbreviated Journal Anal Chem
Volume 89 Issue 89 Pages 3326-3334
Keywords A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Condensed Matter Theory (CMT); AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract (down) Chrome yellow refers to a group of synthetic inorganic pigments that became popular as an artists material from the second quarter of the 19th century. The color of the pigment, in which the chromate ion acts as a chromophore, is related to its chemical composition (PbCr1-xSxO4, with 0≤x≤0.8) and crystalline structure (monoclinic/orthorhombic). Their shades range from the yellow-orange to the paler yellow tones with increasing sulfate amount. These pigments show remarkable signs of degradation after limited time periods. Pure PbCrO4 (crocoite in its natural form) has a deep yellow color and is relatively stable, while the co-precipitate with lead sulfate (PbCr1-xSxO4) has a paler shade and seems to degrade faster. This degradation is assumed to be related to the reduction of Cr(VI) to Cr(III). We show that on increasing the sulfur(S)-content in chrome yellow, the band gap increases. Typically, when increasing the band gap, one might assume that a decrease in photo activity is the result. However, the photo activity relative to the Cr content, and thus Cr reduction, of sulfur-rich PbCr1-xSxO4 is found to be much higher compared to the sulfur-poor or non-doped lead chromates. This discrepancy can be explained by the evolution of the crystal and electronic structure as function of the sulfur content: first-principles density functional theory calculations show that both the absorption coefficient and reflection coefficients of the lead chromates change as a result of the sulfate doping in such a way that the generation of electron-hole pairs under illumination relative to the total Cr content increases. These changes in the material properties explain why paler shade yellow colors of this pigment are more prone to discoloration. The electronic structure calculations also demonstrate that lead chromate and its co-precipitates are p-type semiconductors, which explains the observed reduction reaction. As understanding this phenomenon is valuable in the field of cultural heritage, this study is the first joint action of photo-electrochemical measurements and first-principles calculations to approve the higher tendency of sulfur-rich lead chromates to darken.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Washington, D.C. Editor
Language Wos 000397478300015 Publication Date 2017-02-23
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0003-2700 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.32 Times cited 7 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes ; The computational resources and services used in this work were provided by the VSC (Flemish Supercomputer Center) and the HPC infrastructure of the University of Antwerp (CalcUA), both funded by the Hercules Foundation and the Flemish Government, department EWI. The BOF-GOA action SOLARPAINT of the University of Antwerp Research Council is acknowledged for financial support. W.A. acknowledges support from BELSPO project S2-ART. Dr. L. Monico and Dr. C. Miliani (ISTM, Perugia) are gratefully acknowledged for helpful discussions and for providing some of the initial batches of the materials studied. ; Approved Most recent IF: 6.32
Call Number UA @ lucian @ c:irua:140886 Serial 4451
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Author Anaf, W.; Trashin, S.; Schalm, O.; van Dorp, D.; Janssens, K.; De Wael, K.
Title Electrochemical photodegradation study of semiconductor pigments : influence of environmental parameters Type A1 Journal article
Year 2014 Publication Analytical chemistry Abbreviated Journal Anal Chem
Volume 86 Issue 19 Pages 9742-9748
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Antwerp Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES)
Abstract (down) Chemical transformations in paintings often induce discolorations, disturbing the appearance of the image. For an appropriate conservation of such valuable and irreplaceable heritage objects, it is important to have a good know-how on the degradation processes of the (historical) materials: which pigments have been discolored, what are the responsible processes, and which (environmental) conditions have the highest impact on the pigment degradation and should be mitigated. Pigment degradation is already widely studied, either by analyzing historical samples or by accelerated weathering experiments on dummies. However, in historic samples several processes may have taken place, increasing the complexity of the current state, while aging experiments are time-consuming due to the often extended aging period. An alternative method is proposed for a fast monitoring of degradation processes of semiconductor pigments, using an electrochemical setup mimicking the real environment and allowing the identification of harmful environmental parameters for each pigment. Examples are given for the pigments cadmium yellow (CdS) and vermilion (α-HgS).
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000343017100058 Publication Date 2014-08-27
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 18 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 6.32; 2014 IF: 5.636
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:118834 Serial 5593
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Author Elia, A.; De Wael, K.; Dowsett, M.; Adriaens, A.
Title Electrochemical deposition of a copper carboxylate layer on copper as potential corrosion inhibitor Type A1 Journal article
Year 2011 Publication Journal of solid state electrochemistry Abbreviated Journal J Solid State Electr
Volume 16 Issue 1 Pages 143-148
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract (down) Carboxylic acids and sodium carboxylates are used to protect metals against aqueous and atmospheric corrosion. In this paper, we describe the application of a layer of copper carboxylate on the surface of a copper electrode by means of cyclic voltammetry technique and tests which measure the corresponding resistance to aqueous corrosion. Unlike the soaking process, which also forms a film on the surface, the use of cyclic voltammetry allows one to follow the deposition process of the copper carboxylates onto the electrode. The modified electrodes have been characterised with infrared spectroscopy. In addition, the corrosion resistance of the film has been investigated using polarisation resistance and Tafel plot measurements.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000298651700018 Publication Date 2011-01-25
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1432-8488 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.316 Times cited 8 Open Access
Notes ; Authors would like to acknowledge the Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO) for funding assistance (A. Elia is a FWO aspirant) and V. Vermeersch and S. Van Vlierberghe (Ghent University, Polymer Chemistry and Biomaterials Research Group) for the FTIR-ATR measurements. ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.316; 2011 IF: 2.131
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:89618 Serial 5588
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Author Smets, B.; Boschker, H.T.S.; Wetherington, M.T.; Lelong, G.; Hidalgo-Martinez, S.; Polerecky, L.; Nuyts, G.; De Wael, K.; Meysman, F.J.R.
Title Multi-wavelength Raman microscopy of nickel-based electron transport in cable bacteria Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Frontiers in microbiology Abbreviated Journal
Volume 15 Issue Pages 1208033-16
Keywords A1 Journal article
Abstract (down) Cable bacteria embed a network of conductive protein fibers in their cell envelope that efficiently guides electron transport over distances spanning up to several centimeters. This form of long-distance electron transport is unique in biology and is mediated by a metalloprotein with a sulfur-coordinated nickel (Ni) cofactor. However, the molecular structure of this cofactor remains presently unknown. Here, we applied multi-wavelength Raman microscopy to identify cell compounds linked to the unique cable bacterium physiology, combined with stable isotope labeling, and orientation-dependent and ultralow-frequency Raman microscopy to gain insight into the structure and organization of this novel Ni-cofactor. Raman spectra of native cable bacterium filaments reveal vibrational modes originating from cytochromes, polyphosphate granules, proteins, as well as the Ni-cofactor. After selective extraction of the conductive fiber network from the cell envelope, the Raman spectrum becomes simpler, and primarily retains vibrational modes associated with the Ni-cofactor. These Ni-cofactor modes exhibit intense Raman scattering as well as a strong orientation-dependent response. The signal intensity is particularly elevated when the polarization of incident laser light is parallel to the direction of the conductive fibers. This orientation dependence allows to selectively identify the modes that are associated with the Ni-cofactor. We identified 13 such modes, some of which display strong Raman signals across the entire range of applied wavelengths (405–1,064 nm). Assignment of vibrational modes, supported by stable isotope labeling, suggest that the structure of the Ni-cofactor shares a resemblance with that of nickel bis(1,2-dithiolene) complexes. Overall, our results indicate that cable bacteria have evolved a unique cofactor structure that does not resemble any of the known Ni-cofactors in biology.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001189511900001 Publication Date 2024-03-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1664-302x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205115 Serial 9214
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Author Pankratov, D.; Hidalgo Martinez, S.; Karman, C.; Gerzhik, A.; Gomila, G.; Trashin, S.; Boschker, H.T.S.; Geelhoed, J.S.; Mayer, D.; De Wael, K.; Meysman, F.J.R.
Title The organo-metal-like nature of long-range conduction in cable bacteria Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Bioelectrochemistry: an international journal devoted to electrochemical aspects of biology and biological aspects of electrochemistry Abbreviated Journal
Volume 157 Issue Pages 108675-10
Keywords A1 Journal article
Abstract (down) Cable bacteria are filamentous, multicellular microorganisms that display an exceptional form of biological electron transport across centimeter-scale distances. Currents are guided through a network of nickel-containing protein fibers within the cell envelope. Still, the mechanism of long-range conduction remains unresolved. Here, we characterize the conductance of the fiber network under dry and wet, physiologically relevant, conditions. Our data reveal that the fiber conductivity is high (median value: 27 S cm−1; range: 2 to 564 S cm−1), does not show any redox signature, has a low thermal activation energy (Ea = 69 ± 23 meV), and is not affected by humidity or the presence of ions. These features set the nickel-based conduction mechanism in cable bacteria apart from other known forms of biological electron transport. As such, conduction resembles that of an organic semi-metal with a high charge carrier density. Our observation that biochemistry can synthesize an organo-metal-like structure opens the way for novel bio-based electronic technologies.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date 2024-02-25
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1567-5394 ISBN Additional Links UA library record
Impact Factor 5 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 5; 2024 IF: 3.346
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205117 Serial 9215
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Author Bottari, F.; Moro, G.; Sleegers, N.; Florea, A.; Cowen, T.; Piletsky, S.; van Nuijs, A.L.N.; De Wael, K.
Title Electropolymerized o-phenylenediamine on graphite promoting the electrochemical detection of nafcillin Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Electroanalysis Abbreviated Journal Electroanal
Volume 32 Issue 32 Pages 135-141
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Toxicological Centre
Abstract (down) By combining molecular modelling and electrochemistry we envision the creation of modified electrodes tailored for a more sensitive and selective detection of a single analyte. In this study we report on a graphite screen printed electrode modified with electropolymerized o-phenylenediamine, selected by rational design, which promotes the detection of nafcillin (NAF), an antibiotic. Parameters such as monomer concentration, pH and number of electropolymerization cycles were optimized to obtain the highest current signal for the target upon amperometric detection. NAF identification was based on the redox process at +1.1 V (vs pseudo Ag), ascribed to the oxidation of the C-7 side chain. With the optimized modification protocol, a two-fold increase in nafcillin signal could be obtained: the calibration plot in 0.1 M Britton-Robinson buffer pH 4 showed a limit of detection of 80 nM with improved sensitivity and reproducibility (RSD<5 %) compared to the detection at non-modified electrodes.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000482596300001 Publication Date 2019-08-26
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1040-0397 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.851 Times cited 1 Open Access
Notes ; FB and GM devised the study and performed the experiments, FB wrote the original draft of the paper and analysed the data, NS and AvN performed the MS experiments, AF helped with the optimization of the protocol and correction of the first draft, TC and SP performed the rational monomer design, KdW supervised the work and corrected the final draft. All authors gave their suggestions and corrections to the final version of the paper. This work was financially supported by the University of Antwerp (BOF) and the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO). ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.851
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:162870 Serial 5601
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Author Van Echelpoel, R.; de Jong, M.; Daems, D.; van Espen, P.; De Wael, K.
Title Unlocking the full potential of voltammetric data analysis : a novel peak recognition approach for (bio)analytical applications Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Talanta Abbreviated Journal Talanta
Volume 233 Issue Pages 122605
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract (down) Bridging the gap between complex signal data output and clear interpretation by non-expert end-users is a major challenge many scientists face when converting their scientific technology into a real-life application. Currently, pattern recognition algorithms are the most frequently encountered signal data interpretation algorithms to close this gap, not in the least because of their straight-forward implementation via convenient software packages. Paradoxically, just because their implementation is so straight-forward, it becomes cumbersome to integrate the expert's domain-specific knowledge. In this work, a novel signal data interpretation approach is presented that uses this domain-specific knowledge as its fundament, thereby fully exploiting the unique expertise of the scientist. The new approach applies data preprocessing in an innovative way that transcends its usual purpose and is easy to translate into a software application. Multiple case studies illustrate the straight-forward application of the novel approach. Ultimately, the approach is highly suited for integration in various (bio)analytical applications that require interpretation of signal data.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000668000500108 Publication Date 2021-06-11
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:179417 Serial 8712
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Author Marchetti, A.; Beltran, V.; Storme, P.; Nuyts, G.; Van Der Meeren, L.; Skirtach, A.; Otten, E.; Debulpaep, M.; Watteeuw, L.; De Wael, K.
Title All that glitters is not gold : unraveling the material secrets behind the preservation of historical brass Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Journal of cultural heritage Abbreviated Journal
Volume 63 Issue Pages 179-186
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Art; History; Antwerp Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES); Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)
Abstract (down) Brass is a relatively stable alloy but it tends to tarnish over time due to the interaction with the atmosphere. Thus, it is rare to observe centuries-old brass objects untouched by the passing of time. For this reason, the pristine appearance of hundreds of brass sequins in the Enclosed Gardens of Mechelen (reliquary altarpieces produced between 1530 and 1550) is remarkable. In this study, the chemical and metallographic characterization of such unexpectedly well-preserved objects is presented. The results revealed the reason for their stability to be a combination of high-quality materials (i.e. medium Zn content, low impurities) and optimal surface properties (i.e. high homogeneity, low roughness), indicating the high level of expertise of the craftsmen who produced them. Novel fundamental insights on the historical manufacturing method of metallic sequins were also obtained.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001058894000001 Publication Date 2023-08-14
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1296-2074 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.1 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access: Available from 15.08.2024
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.1; 2023 IF: 1.838
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:198113 Serial 8830
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Author Daems, E.; Moro, G.; Berghmans, H.; Moretto, L.M.; Dewilde, S.; Angelini, A.; Sobott, F.; De Wael, K.
Title Native mass spectrometry for the design and selection of protein bioreceptors for perfluorinated compounds Type A1 Journal article
Year 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 (down) 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
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