Records |
Author |
De Jong, M.; Sleegers, N.; Kim, J.; Van Durme, F.; Samyn, N.; Wang, J.; De Wael, K. |
Title |
Electrochemical fingerprint of street samples for fast on-site screening of cocaine in seized drug powders |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
Year |
2016 |
Publication |
Chemical science |
Abbreviated Journal |
Chem Sci |
Volume |
|
Issue |
|
Pages |
1-7 |
Keywords |
A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation) |
Abstract |
We report on a wearable fingertip sensor for on-the-spot identification of cocaine and its cutting agents in street samples. Traditionally, on-site screening is performed by means of colour tests which are difficult to interpret and lack selectivity. By presenting the distinct voltammetric response of cocaine, cutting agents, binary mixtures of cocaine and street samples in solution and powder street samples, we were able to elucidate the electrochemical fingerprint of all these compounds. The new electrochemical concept holds considerable promise as an on-site screening method. |
Address |
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Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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Language |
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Wos |
000371021900094 |
Publication Date |
2016-01-06 |
Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition ![sorted by Edition field, descending order (down)](img/sort_desc.gif) |
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ISSN |
2041-6520 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
Impact Factor |
8.668 |
Times cited |
37 |
Open Access |
|
Notes |
; The authors acknowledge BELSPO for funding the APTADRU project (BR/314/PI/ APTADRU). ; |
Approved |
Most recent IF: 8.668 |
Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:130404 |
Serial |
5591 |
Permanent link to this record |
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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 |
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. |
Address |
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Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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Language |
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Wos |
000472682000056 |
Publication Date |
2019-05-30 |
Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition ![sorted by Edition field, descending order (down)](img/sort_desc.gif) |
|
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 |
Permanent link to this record |
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Author |
De Jong, M.; Florea, A.; de Vries, A.-M.; van Nuijs, A.L.N.; Covaci, A.; Van Durme, F.; Martins, J.C.; Samyn, N.; De Wael, K. |
Title |
Levamisole : a common adulterant in cocaine street samples hindering electrochemical detection of cocaine |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
Year |
2018 |
Publication |
Analytical chemistry |
Abbreviated Journal |
Anal Chem |
Volume |
90 |
Issue |
8 |
Pages |
5290-5297 |
Keywords |
A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Toxicological Centre |
Abstract |
The present work investigates the electrochemical determination of cocaine in the presence of levamisole, one of the most common adulterants found in cocaine street samples. Levamisole misleads cocaine color tests, giving a blue color (positive test) even in the absence of cocaine. Moreover, the electrochemical detection of cocaine is also affected by the presence of levamisole, with a suppression of the oxidation signal of cocaine. When levamisole is present in the sample in ratios higher than 1:1, the cocaine signal is no longer detected, thus leading to false negative results. Mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance were used to investigate if the signal suppression is due to the formation of a complex between cocaine and levamisole in bulk solution. Strategies to eliminate this suppressing effect are further suggested in this manuscript. In a first approach, the increase of the pH of the sample solution from pH 7 to pH 12 allowed the voltammetric determination of cocaine in the presence of levamisole in a concentration range from 10 to 5000 μM at nonmodified graphite disposable electrodes with a detection limit of 5 μM. In a second approach, the graphite electrode was cathodically pretreated, resulting in the presence of oxidation peaks of both cocaine and levamisole, with a detection limit for cocaine of 3 μM over the linear range of concentrations from 10 to 2500 μM. Both these strategies have been successfully applied for the simultaneous detection of cocaine and levamisole in three street samples on unmodified graphite disposable electrodes. |
Address |
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Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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Language |
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Wos |
000430512200049 |
Publication Date |
2018-02-23 |
Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition ![sorted by Edition field, descending order (down)](img/sort_desc.gif) |
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ISSN |
0003-2700; 5206-882x |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
Impact Factor |
6.32 |
Times cited |
8 |
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. This work was also supported by BR/314/PI/ APTADRU Project and IOF-SBO (UAntwerp). Alexander van Nuijs acknowledges the Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO) for his postdoctoral fellowship. ; |
Approved |
Most recent IF: 6.32 |
Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:149528 |
Serial |
5693 |
Permanent link to this record |
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Author |
Eliaerts, J.; Meert, N.; Van Durme, F.; Samyn, N.; De Wael, K.; Dardenne, P. |
Title |
Practical tool for sampling and fast analysis of large cocaine seizures |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
Year |
2018 |
Publication |
Drug testing and analysis |
Abbreviated Journal |
Drug Test Anal |
Volume |
10 |
Issue |
6 |
Pages |
1039-1042 |
Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Pharmacology. Therapy; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation) |
Abstract |
Large quantities of illicit drugs are frequently seized by law enforcement. In such cases, a representative number of samples needs to be quickly examined prior to destruction. No procedure has yet been set up which rapidly provides information regarding the homogeneity of the samples, the presence of controlled substances and the degree of purity. This study establishes a protocol for fast analysis of cocaine and its most common cutting agent, levamisole, in large seizures. The protocol is based on a hypergeometric sampling approach combined with FTIR spectrometry and Support Vector Machines (SVM) algorithms as analysis methods. To demonstrate the practical use of this approach, five large cocaine seizures (consisting between 45 and 85 units) were analysed simultaneously with GC-MS, GC-FID and a portable FTIR spectrometer using Attenuated Total Reflectance (ATR) sampling combined with SVM models. According to the hypergeometric sampling plan of the Drugs Working Group ENFSI guidelines, the required number of subsamples ranged between 19 and 23. Considering the identification analyses, the SVM models detected cocaine and levamisole in all subsamples of cases 1 to 5 (100% correct classification), which was confirmed by GC-MS analysis. Considering the quantification analyses, the SVM models were able to estimate the cocaine and levamisole content in each subsample, compared to GC-FID data. The developed strategy is easy, cost effective and provides immediate information about both the presence and concentration of cocaine and levamisole. By using this new strategy, the number of confirmation analyses with laborious and expensive chromatographic techniques could be significantly reduced. |
Address |
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Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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Language |
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Wos |
000435270300016 |
Publication Date |
2018-02-03 |
Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition ![sorted by Edition field, descending order (down)](img/sort_desc.gif) |
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ISSN |
1942-7603; 1942-7611 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
Impact Factor |
3.469 |
Times cited |
1 |
Open Access |
|
Notes |
; Belgian Science Policy Office (BELSPO), Grant/Award Number: WE/49/N14-O14 ; |
Approved |
Most recent IF: 3.469 |
Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:148760 |
Serial |
5781 |
Permanent link to this record |
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Author |
Eliaerts, J.; Dardenne, P.; Meert, N.; Van Durme, F.; Samyn, N.; Janssens, K.; De Wael, K. |
Title |
Rapid classification and quantification of cocaine in seized powders with ATR-FTIR and chemometrics |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
Year |
2017 |
Publication |
Drug testing and analysis |
Abbreviated Journal |
Drug Test Anal |
Volume |
9 |
Issue |
10 |
Pages |
1480-1489 |
Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Pharmacology. Therapy; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation) |
Abstract |
Traditionally, fast screening for the presence of cocaine in unknown powders is performed by means of colour tests. The major drawbacks of these tests are subjective colour evaluation depending on the operator (50 shades of blue) and a lack of selectivity. An alternative fast screening technique is Fourier Transform InfraRed (FTIR) spectrometry. This technique provides spectra that are difficult to interpret without specialized expertise and showing a lack of sensitivity for the detection of cocaine in mixtures. To overcome these limitations, a portable FTIR spectrometer using Attenuated Total Reflectance (ATR) sampling was combined with a multivariate technique, called Support Vector Machines (SVM). Representative street drug powders (n = 482), seized during the period January 2013 to July 2015, and reference powders (n = 33) were used to build and validate a classification model (n = 515) and a quantification model (n = 378). Both models were compared with the conventional chromatographic techniques. The SVM classification model showed a high sensitivity, specificity and efficiency (99%). The SVM quantification model determined cocaine content with a root mean squared error of prediction (RMSEP) of 6% calculated over a wide working range from 4 to 99 w%. In conclusion, the developed models resulted in a clear output (cocaine detected or cocaine not detected) and a reliable estimation of the cocaine content in a wide variety of mixtures. The ATR-FTIR technique combined with SVM is a straightforward, user-friendly and fast approach for routine classification and quantification of cocaine in seized powders. |
Address |
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Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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Language |
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Wos |
000413685200001 |
Publication Date |
2016-12-17 |
Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition ![sorted by Edition field, descending order (down)](img/sort_desc.gif) |
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ISSN |
1942-7603; 1942-7611 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
Impact Factor |
3.469 |
Times cited |
9 |
Open Access |
|
Notes |
; ; |
Approved |
Most recent IF: 3.469 |
Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:139483 |
Serial |
5799 |
Permanent link to this record |
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Author |
De Jong, M.; Florea, A.; Eliaerts, J.; Van Durme, F.; Samyn, N.; De Wael, K. |
Title |
Tackling poor specificity of cocaine color tests by electrochemical strategies |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
Year |
2018 |
Publication |
Analytical chemistry |
Abbreviated Journal |
Anal Chem |
Volume |
90 |
Issue |
11 |
Pages |
6811-6819 |
Keywords |
A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation) |
Abstract |
This paper presents electrochemical strategies for the fast screening of cocaine and most common cutting agents found in seized drug samples. First, a study on the performance of Scott color tests on cocaine and a wide range of cutting agents is described. The cutting agents causing false positive or false negative results when in mixture with cocaine are identified. To overcome the lack of specificity of color tests, we further propose a fast screening strategy by means of square wave voltammetry on disposable graphite screen printed electrodes, which reveals the unique fingerprint of cocaine and cutting agents. By employing a forward and backward scan and by a dual pH strategy, we enrich the electrochemical fingerprint and enable the simultaneous detection of cocaine and cutting agents. The effectiveness of the developed strategies was tested for the detection of cocaine in seized cocaine samples and compared with the color tests. Moreover, we prove the usefulness of square wave voltammetry for predicting possible interfering agents in color tests, based on the reduction peak of cobalt thiocyanate. The developed electrochemical strategies allow for a quick screening of seized cocaine samples resulting in a selective identification of drugs and cutting agents. |
Address |
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Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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Language |
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Wos |
000434893200066 |
Publication Date |
2018-05-09 |
Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition ![sorted by Edition field, descending order (down)](img/sort_desc.gif) |
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ISSN |
0003-2700; 5206-882x |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
Impact Factor |
6.32 |
Times cited |
7 |
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. This work was also supported by Grants BR/314 /PI/APTADRU and IOF-SBO. ; |
Approved |
Most recent IF: 6.32 |
Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:151316 |
Serial |
5867 |
Permanent link to this record |
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Author |
Eliaerts, J.; Meert, N.; Dardenne, P.; Van Durme, F.; Baeten, V.; Samyn, N.; De Wael, K. |
Title |
Evaluation of a calibration transfer between a bench top and portable Mid-InfraRed spectrometer for cocaine classification and quantification |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
Year |
2020 |
Publication |
Talanta |
Abbreviated Journal |
Talanta |
Volume |
209 |
Issue |
|
Pages |
120481 |
Keywords |
A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation) |
Abstract |
A portable Fourier Transform Mid-InfraRed (FT-MIR) spectrometer using Attenuated Total Reflectance (ATR) sampling is used for daily routine screening of seized powders. Earlier, ATR-FT-MIR combined with Support Vector Machines (SVM) algorithms resulted in a significant improvement of the screening method to a reliable and straightforward classification and quantification tool for both cocaine and levamisole. However, can this tool be transferred to new (hand-held) devices, without loss of the extensive data set? The objective of this study was to perform a calibration transfer between a newly purchased bench top (BT) spectrometer and a portable (P) spectrometer with existing calibration models. Both instruments are from the same brand and have identical characteristics and acquisition parameters (FT instrument, resolution of 4 cm(-1) and wavenumber range 4000 to 500 cm(-1)). The original SVM classification model (n = 515) and SVM quantification model (n = 378) were considered for the transfer trial. Three calibration transfer strategies were assessed: 1) adjustment of slope and bias; 2) correction of spectra from the new instrument BT to P using Piecewise Direct Standardization (PDS) and 3) building a new mixed instrument model with spectra of both instruments. For each approach, additional cocaine powders were measured (n = 682) and the results were compared with GC-MS and GC-FID. The development of a mixed instrument model was the most successful in terms of performance. The future strategy of a mixed model allows applying the models, developed in the laboratory, to portable instruments that are used on-site, and vice versa. The approach offers opportunities to exchange data within a network of forensic laboratories using other FT-MIR spectrometers. |
Address |
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Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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Language |
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Wos |
000509632900016 |
Publication Date |
2019-10-21 |
Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition ![sorted by Edition field, descending order (down)](img/sort_desc.gif) |
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ISSN |
0039-9140; 1873-3573 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
Impact Factor |
6.1 |
Times cited |
2 |
Open Access |
|
Notes |
; ; |
Approved |
Most recent IF: 6.1; 2020 IF: 4.162 |
Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:166475 |
Serial |
6511 |
Permanent link to this record |
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Author |
Felipe Montiel, N.; Parrilla, M.; Beltrán, V.; Nuyts, G.; Van Durme, F.; De Wael, K. |
Title |
The opportunity of 6-monoacetylmorphine to selectively detect heroin at preanodized screen printed electrodes |
Type |
A1 Journal Article |
Year |
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 |
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Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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Language |
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Wos |
000656959000033 |
Publication Date |
2021-01-20 |
Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition ![sorted by Edition field, descending order (down)](img/sort_desc.gif) |
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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 |
Permanent link to this record |
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Author |
Eliaerts, J.; Meert, N.; Dardenne, P.; Baeten, V.; Pierna, J.-A.F.; Van Durme, F.; De Wael, K.; Samyn, N. |
Title |
Comparison of spectroscopic techniques combined with chemometrics for cocaine powder analysis |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
Year |
2020 |
Publication |
Journal Of Analytical Toxicology |
Abbreviated Journal |
J Anal Toxicol |
Volume |
44 |
Issue |
8 |
Pages |
851-860 |
Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Pharmacology. Therapy; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation) |
Abstract |
Spectroscopic techniques combined with chemometrics are a promising tool for analysis of seized drug powders. In this study, the performance of three spectroscopic techniques [Mid-InfraRed (MIR), Raman and Near-InfraRed (NIR)] was compared. In total, 364 seized powders were analyzed and consisted of 276 cocaine powders (with concentrations ranging from 4 to 99 w%) and 88 powders without cocaine. A classification model (using Support Vector Machines [SVM] discriminant analysis) and a quantification model (using SVM regression) were constructed with each spectral dataset in order to discriminate cocaine powders from other powders and quantify cocaine in powders classified as cocaine positive. The performances of the models were compared with gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and gas chromatography with flame-ionization detection (GC-FID). Different evaluation criteria were used: number of false negatives (FNs), number of false positives (FPs), accuracy, root mean square error of cross-validation (RMSECV) and determination coefficients (R-2). Ten colored powders were excluded from the classification data set due to fluorescence background observed in Raman spectra. For the classification, the best accuracy (99.7%) was obtained with MIR spectra. With Raman and NIR spectra, the accuracy was 99.5% and 98.9%, respectively. For the quantification, the best results were obtained with NIR spectra. The cocaine content was determined with a RMSECV of 3.79% and a R-2 of 0.97. The performance of MIR and Raman to predict cocaine concentrations was lower than NIR, with RMSECV of 6.76% and 6.79%, respectively and both with a R-2 of 0.90. The three spectroscopic techniques can be applied for both classification and quantification of cocaine, but some differences in performance were detected. The best classification was obtained with MIR spectra. For quantification, however, the RMSECV of MIR and Raman was twice as high in comparison with NIR. Spectroscopic techniques combined with chemometrics can reduce the workload for confirmation analysis (e.g., chromatography based) and therefore save time and resources. |
Address |
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Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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Language |
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Wos |
000606735000011 |
Publication Date |
2020-08-04 |
Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition ![sorted by Edition field, descending order (down)](img/sort_desc.gif) |
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ISSN |
0146-4760; 1945-2403 |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
Impact Factor |
2.5 |
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: 2.5; 2020 IF: 2.409 |
Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:175117 |
Serial |
7697 |
Permanent link to this record |
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Author |
Parrilla, M.; Montiel, F.N.; Van Durme, F.; De Wael, K. |
Title |
Derivatization of amphetamine to allow its electrochemical detection in illicit drug seizures |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
Year |
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 |
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Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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Language |
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Wos |
000640386500001 |
Publication Date |
2021-03-19 |
Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition ![sorted by Edition field, descending order (down)](img/sort_desc.gif) |
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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 |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: 5.401 |
Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:176353 |
Serial |
7762 |
Permanent link to this record |
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Author |
Schram, J.; Parrilla, M.; Sleegers, N.; Van Durme, F.; van den Berg, J.; van Nuijs, A.L.N.; De Wael, K. |
Title |
Electrochemical profiling and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry characterization of synthetic cathinones : from methodology to detection in forensic samples |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
Year |
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 |
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Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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Language |
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Wos |
000624902500001 |
Publication Date |
2021-02-24 |
Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition ![sorted by Edition field, descending order (down)](img/sort_desc.gif) |
|
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 |
Permanent link to this record |
|
|
|
Author |
Thiruvottriyur Shanmugam, S.; Van Echelpoel, R.; Boeye, G.; Eliaerts, J.; Samanipour, M.; Ching, H.Y.V.; Florea, A.; Van Doorslaer, S.; Van Durme, F.; Samyn, N.; Parrilla, M.; De Wael, K. |
Title |
Towards developing a screening strategy for ecstasy : revealing the electrochemical profile |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
Year |
2021 |
Publication |
Chemelectrochem |
Abbreviated Journal |
Chemelectrochem |
Volume |
8 |
Issue |
24 |
Pages |
4826-4834 |
Keywords |
A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Organic synthesis (ORSY); Applied Electrochemistry & Catalysis (ELCAT); Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab) |
Abstract |
This article describes the development of an electrochemical screening strategy for 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), the regular psychoactive compound in ecstasy (XTC) pills. We have investigated the specific electrochemical profile of MDMA and its electro-oxidation mechanisms at disposable graphite screen-printed electrodes. We have proved that the formation of a radical cation and subsequent reactions are indeed responsible for the electrode surface passivation, as evidenced by using electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy and electrochemistry. Thereafter, pure cutting agents and MDMA as well as simulated binary mixtures of compounds with MDMA were subjected to square wave voltammetry at pH 7 to understand the characteristic electrochemical profile. An additional measurement at pH 12 was able to resolve false positives and negatives occurring at pH 7. Finally, validation of the screening strategy was done by measuring a set of ecstasy street samples. Overall, our proposed electrochemical screening strategy has been demonstrated for the rapid, sensitive, and selective detection of MDMA, resolving most of the false positives and negatives given by the traditional Marquis color tests, thus exhibiting remarkable promises for the on-site screening of MDMA. |
Address |
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Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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Language |
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Wos |
000735883700020 |
Publication Date |
2021-12-22 |
Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition ![sorted by Edition field, descending order (down)](img/sort_desc.gif) |
|
ISSN |
2196-0216 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
Impact Factor |
4.136 |
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
OpenAccess |
Notes |
|
Approved |
Most recent IF: 4.136 |
Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:184371 |
Serial |
8680 |
Permanent link to this record |
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|
|
Author |
Van Echelpoel, R.; Schram, J.; Parrilla, M.; Daems, D.; Slosse, A.; Van Durme, F.; De Wael, K. |
Title |
Electrochemical methods for on-site multidrug detection at festivals |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
Year |
2022 |
Publication |
Sensors & Diagnostics |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
Volume |
1 |
Issue |
1 |
Pages |
793-802 |
Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab) |
Abstract |
Two electrochemical methodologies, i.e. flowchart and dual-sensor, were developed to aid law enforcement present at festivals to obtain a rapid indication of the presence of four illicit drugs in suspicious samples encountered. |
Address |
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Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
|
Publisher |
|
Place of Publication |
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Editor |
|
Language |
|
Wos |
|
Publication Date |
2022-06-01 |
Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition ![sorted by Edition field, descending order (down)](img/sort_desc.gif) |
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ISSN |
|
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record |
Impact Factor |
|
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
OpenAccess |
Notes |
|
Approved |
no |
Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:188521 |
Serial |
8856 |
Permanent link to this record |
|
|
|
Author |
Truta, F.; Drăgan, A.-M.; Tertis, M.; Parrilla, M.; Slosse, A.; Van Durme, F.; De Wael, K.; Cristea, C. |
Title |
Electrochemical rapid detection of methamphetamine from confiscated samples using a graphene-based printed platform |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
Year |
2023 |
Publication |
Sensors |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
Volume |
23 |
Issue |
13 |
Pages |
6193-18 |
Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab) |
Abstract |
Methamphetamine (MAP) is a highly addictive and illegal stimulant drug that has a significant impact on the central nervous system. Its detection in biological and street samples is crucial for various organizations involved in forensic medicine, anti-drug efforts, and clinical diagnosis. In recent years, nanotechnology and nanomaterials have played a significant role in the development of analytical sensors for MAP detection. In this study, a fast, simple, and cost-effective electrochemical sensor is presented that is used for the sensitive detection of MAP in confiscated street samples with a complex matrix. The optimized screen-printed sensor based on a carbon working electrode modified with graphene demonstrated an excellent limit of detection, good sensitivity, and a wide dynamic range (1–500 μM) for the target illicit drug both for standard solutions and real samples (seized samples, tap water, and wastewater samples). It can detect MAP at concentrations as low as 300 nM in real samples. This limit of detection is suitable for the rapid preliminary screening of suspicious samples in customs, ports, airports, and on the street. Furthermore, the sensor exhibits a good recovery rate, indicating its reliability and repeatability. This quality is crucial for ensuring consistent and accurate results during screening processes. |
Address |
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Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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Language |
|
Wos |
001033277900001 |
Publication Date |
2023-07-07 |
Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
|
Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition ![sorted by Edition field, descending order (down)](img/sort_desc.gif) |
|
ISSN |
1424-8220 |
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:198181 |
Serial |
8857 |
Permanent link to this record |
|
|
|
Author |
Montiel, F.N.; Parrilla, M.; Sleegers, N.; Van Durme, F.; van Nuijs, A.L.N.; De Wael, K. |
Title |
Electrochemical sensing of amphetamine-type stimulants (pre)-precursors to fight against the illicit production of synthetic drugs |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
Year |
2022 |
Publication |
Electrochimica acta |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
Volume |
436 |
Issue |
|
Pages |
141446-11 |
Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Toxicological Centre; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab) |
Abstract |
The illicit drug precursor market for the manufacture of amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS), mainly amphetamine, methamphetamine and methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), has emerged quickly in the last years. The evidence of a more complex and sophisticated drug market underlines the pressing need for new on-site methods to quickly detect precursors of synthetic drugs, with electrochemical analysis as a promising technique. Herein, the electrochemical fingerprints of ten common ATS precursors-3-oxo-2-phenylbutanenitrile (APAAN), 3-oxo-2-phenylbutanamide (APAA), methyl 3-oxo-2-phenylbutanoate (MAPA), benzyl methyl ketone (BMK), 1-(1,3-benzodioxol-5-yl)propan-2-one (PMK), ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, safrole, sassafras oil and piperonal- are reported for the first time. The electrochemical screening disclosed the redox inactivity of BMK, which is an essential starting material for the production of ATS. Therefore, the local derivatization of BMK at an electrode surface by reductive amination is presented as a feasible solution to enrich its electrochemical fingerprint. To prove that, the resulting mixture was analyzed using a set of chromatographic techniques to understand the reaction mechanism and to identify possible electrochemical active products. Two reaction products (i.e. methamphetamine and 1-phenylpropan-2-ol) were found and characterized using mass spectrometry and electrochemical methods. Subsequently, the optimization of the reaction parameters was carefully addressed to set the portable electrochemical sensing strategy. Ultimately, the analysis concept was validated for the qualitative identification of ATS precursors in seizures from a forensic institute. Overall, the electrochemical approach demonstrates to be a useful and affordable analytical tool for the early identification of ATS precursors to prevent trafficking and drug manufacture in clandestine laboratories. |
Address |
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Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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Language |
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Wos |
000914833800003 |
Publication Date |
2022-10-27 |
Series Editor |
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Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
|
Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition ![sorted by Edition field, descending order (down)](img/sort_desc.gif) |
|
ISSN |
0013-4686 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
Impact Factor |
|
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
OpenAccess |
Notes |
|
Approved |
no |
Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:191622 |
Serial |
8858 |
Permanent link to this record |
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|
|
Author |
Drăgan, A.-M.; Feier, B.G.; Tertis, M.; Bodoki, E.; Truta, F.; Stefan, M.-G.; Kiss, B.; Van Durme, F.; De Wael, K.; Oprean, R.; Cristea, C. |
Title |
Forensic analysis of synthetic cathinones on nanomaterials-based platforms : chemometric-assisted voltametric and UPLC-MS/MS investigation |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
Year |
2023 |
Publication |
Nanomaterials |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
Volume |
13 |
Issue |
17 |
Pages |
2393-19 |
Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab) |
Abstract |
Synthetic cathinones (SCs) are a group of new psychoactive substances often referred to as “legal highs” or “bath salts”, being characterized by a dynamic change, new compounds continuously emerging on the market. This creates a lack of fast screening tests, making SCs a constant concern for law enforcement agencies. Herein, we present a fast and simple method for the detection of four SCs (alpha-pyrrolidinovalerophenone, N-ethylhexedrone, 4-chloroethcathinone, and 3-chloromethcathinone) based on their electrochemical profiles in a decentralized manner. In this regard, the voltametric characterization of the SCs was performed by cyclic and square wave voltammetry. The elucidation of the SCs redox pathways was successfully achieved using liquid chromatography coupled to (tandem) mass spectrometry. For the rational identification of the ideal experimental conditions, chemometric data processing was employed, considering two critical qualitative and quantitative variables: the type of the electrochemical platform and the pH of the electrolyte. The analytical figures of merit were determined on standard working solutions using the optimized method, which exhibited wide linear ranges and LODs suitable for confiscated sample screening. Finally, the performance of the method was evaluated on real confiscated samples, the resulting validation parameters being similar to those obtained with another portable device (i.e., Raman spectrometer). |
Address |
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Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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Language |
|
Wos |
001061205100001 |
Publication Date |
2023-08-23 |
Series Editor |
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Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
|
Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition ![sorted by Edition field, descending order (down)](img/sort_desc.gif) |
|
ISSN |
2079-4991 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
Impact Factor |
5.3 |
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
OpenAccess |
Notes |
|
Approved |
Most recent IF: 5.3; 2023 IF: 3.553 |
Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:199221 |
Serial |
8869 |
Permanent link to this record |
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|
|
Author |
Drăgan, A.-M.; Parrilla, M.; Sleegers, N.; Slosse, A.; Van Durme, F.; van Nuijs, A.; Oprean, R.; Cristea, C.; De Wael, K. |
Title |
Investigating the electrochemical profile of methamphetamine to enable fast on-site detection in forensic analysis |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
Year |
2023 |
Publication |
Talanta : the international journal of pure and applied analytical chemistry |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
Volume |
255 |
Issue |
|
Pages |
124208-124211 |
Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Toxicological Centre; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab) |
Abstract |
Methamphetamine (MA) is a synthetic psychoactive drug which is consumed both licitly and illicitly. In some countries it is prescribed for attention-deficit and hyperactivity disorder, and short-term treatment of obesity. More often though, it is abused for its psychostimulant properties. Unfortunately, the spread and abuse of this synthetic drug have increased globally, being reported as the most widely consumed synthetic psychoactive drug in the world in 2019. Attempting to overcome the shortcomings of the currently used on-site methods for MA detection in suspected cargos, the present study explores the potential of electrochemical identification of MA by means of square wave voltammetry on disposable graphite screen-printed electrodes. Hence, the analytical characterization of the method was evaluated under optimal conditions exhibiting a linear range between 50 mu M and 2.5 mM MA, a LOD of 16.7 mu M, a LOQ of 50.0 mu M and a sensitivity of 5.3 mu A mM-1. Interestingly, two zones in the potential window were identified for the detection of MA, depending on its concentration in solution. Furthermore, the oxidative pathway of MA was elucidated employing liquid chromatography – mass spectrometry to understand the change in the electrochemical profile. Thereafter, the selectivity of the method towards MA in mixtures with other drugs of abuse as well as common adulterants/cutting agents was evaluated. Finally, the described method was employed for the analysis of MA in confiscated samples and compared with forensic methods, displaying its potential as a fast and easy-to-use method for on-site analysis. |
Address |
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Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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Language |
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Wos |
000925076200001 |
Publication Date |
2023-01-05 |
Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
|
Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition ![sorted by Edition field, descending order (down)](img/sort_desc.gif) |
|
ISSN |
0039-9140; 1873-3573 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
Impact Factor |
6.1 |
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
Not_Open_Access |
Notes |
|
Approved |
Most recent IF: 6.1; 2023 IF: 4.162 |
Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:194314 |
Serial |
8890 |
Permanent link to this record |
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|
|
Author |
Schram, J.; Parrilla, M.; Slosse, A.; Van Durme, F.; Åberg, J.; Björk, K.; Bijvoets, S.M.; Sap, S.; Heerschop, M.W.J.; De Wael, K. |
Title |
Paraformaldehyde-coated electrochemical sensor for improved on-site detection of amphetamine in street samples |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
Year |
2022 |
Publication |
Microchemical journal |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
Volume |
179 |
Issue |
|
Pages |
107518-107519 |
Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab) |
Abstract |
The increasing illicit production, distribution and abuse of amphetamine (AMP) poses a challenge for law enforcement worldwide. To effectively combat this issue, fast and portable tools for the on-site screening of suspicious samples are required. Electrochemical profile (EP)-based sensing of illicit drugs has proven to be a viable option for this purpose as it allows rapid voltammetric measurements via the use of disposable and low-cost graphite screen-printed electrodes (SPEs). In this work, a highly practical paraformaldehyde (PFA)-coated sensor, which unlocks the detectability of primary amines through derivatization, is developed for the on-site detection of AMP in seized drug samples. A potential interval was defined at the sole AMP peak (which is used for identification of the target analyte) to account for potential shifts due to fluctuations in concentration and temperature, which are relevant factors for on-site use. Importantly, it was found that AMP detection was not hindered by the presence of common diluents and adulterants such as caffeine, even when present in high amounts. When inter-drug differentiation is desired, a simultaneous second test with the same solution on an unmodified electrode is introduced to provide the required additional electrochemical information. Finally, the concept was validated by analyzing 30 seized AMP samples (reaching a sensitivity of 96.7 %) and comparing its performance to that of commercially available Raman and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) devices. |
Address |
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Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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Language |
|
Wos |
000809675500010 |
Publication Date |
2022-04-26 |
Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
|
Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition ![sorted by Edition field, descending order (down)](img/sort_desc.gif) |
|
ISSN |
0026-265x; 0026-265x |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
Impact Factor |
|
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
OpenAccess |
Notes |
|
Approved |
no |
Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:188454 |
Serial |
8910 |
Permanent link to this record |
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|
|
Author |
Parrilla, M.; Slosse, A.; Van Echelpoel, R.; Montiel, F.N.; Langley, A.R.; Van Durme, F.; De Wael, K. |
Title |
Rapid on-site detection of illicit drugs in smuggled samples with a portable electrochemical device |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
Year |
2022 |
Publication |
Chemosensors |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
Volume |
10 |
Issue |
3 |
Pages |
108-116 |
Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab) |
Abstract |
The smuggling of illicit drugs urges the development of new tools for rapid on-site identification in cargos. Current methods rely on presumptive color tests and portable spectroscopic techniques. However, these methods sometimes exhibit inaccurate results due to commonly used cutting agents, the colorful nature of the sample or because the drugs are smuggled in common goods. Interestingly, electrochemical sensors can deal with these specific problems. Herein, an electrochemical device is presented that uses affordable screen-printed electrodes for the electrochemical profiling of several illicit drugs by square-wave voltammetry (SWV). The identification of the illicit compound is based on the oxidation potential of the analyte. Hence, a library of electrochemical profiles is built upon the analysis of illicit drugs and common cutting agents. This library allows the design of a tailor-made script that enables the identification of each drug through a user-friendly interface (laptop or mobile phone). Importantly, the electrochemical test is compared by analyzing 48 confiscated samples with other portable devices based on Raman and FTIR spectroscopy as well as a laboratory standard method (i.e., gas chromatography-mass spectrometry). Overall, the electrochemical results, obtained through the analysis of different samples from confiscated cargos at an end-user site, present a promising alternative to current methods, offering low-cost and rapid testing in the field. |
Address |
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Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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Language |
|
Wos |
000775813500001 |
Publication Date |
2022-03-11 |
Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition ![sorted by Edition field, descending order (down)](img/sort_desc.gif) |
|
ISSN |
2227-9040 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
Impact Factor |
|
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
OpenAccess |
Notes |
|
Approved |
no |
Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:187766 |
Serial |
8920 |
Permanent link to this record |
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|
|
Author |
Van Echelpoel, R.; Parrilla, M.; Sleegers, N.; Thiruvottriyur Shanmugam, S.; van Nuijs, A.L.N.; Slosse, A.; Van Durme, F.; De Wael, K. |
Title |
Validated portable device for the qualitative and quantitative electrochemical detection of MDMA ready for on-site use |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
Year |
2023 |
Publication |
Microchemical journal |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
Volume |
190 |
Issue |
|
Pages |
108693-10 |
Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Toxicological Centre; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab) |
Abstract |
Identifying and quantifying 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) on-site in suspected illicit drug samples, whether it be at recreational settings or manufacturing sites, is a major challenge for law enforcement agencies (LEAs). Various analytical techniques exist to fulfil this goal, e.g. colourimetry and portable spectroscopic techniques, each having its specific limitations (e.g. low accuracy, fluorescence, no quantification) and strengths (e.g. fast, easy to use). In this work, for the first time, an electrochemical MDMA sensor is presented to become a detection tool that can realistically be used on-site. More specifically, the use of a single buffer solution and an unmodified screen-printed electrode, along with the integration of a data analysis algorithm and mobile application permits the straightforward on-site identification and quantification of MDMA in suspicious samples. Multiple studies investigating different parameters, including pH, concentration, reproducibility, temperature and binary mixture analyses, were executed. To fully understand all the occurring redox processes, liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry analysis of partially electrolyzed MDMA samples was performed unravelling oxidation of the methylenedioxy group. Validation of the methodology was executed on 15 MDMA street samples analysed by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry and compared with the performance of a commercial portable Raman and Attenuated Total Reflection Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) device. The novel methodology outperformed the spectroscopic techniques, correctly identifying all 15 street samples. Additionally, the electrochemical sensor predicted the purity of the tablets with a mean absolute error of 2.3%. Overall, this new, electrochemical detection strategy provides LEAs the rapid, low-cost, on-site detection and quantification of MDMA in suspicious samples, without requiring specialized training. |
Address |
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Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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Language |
|
Wos |
000977060400001 |
Publication Date |
2023-03-31 |
Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
|
Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition ![sorted by Edition field, descending order (down)](img/sort_desc.gif) |
|
ISSN |
0026-265x; 0026-265x |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
Impact Factor |
4.8 |
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
OpenAccess |
Notes |
|
Approved |
Most recent IF: 4.8; 2023 IF: 3.034 |
Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:195415 |
Serial |
8952 |
Permanent link to this record |
|
|
|
Author |
Truta, F.M.; Cruz, A.G.; Dragan, A.-M.; Tertis, M.; Cowen, T.; Stefan, M.-G.; Topala, T.; Slosse, A.; Piletska, E.; Van Durme, F.; Kiss, B.; De Wael, K.; Piletsky, S.A.; Cristea, C. |
Title |
Design of smart nanoparticles for the electrochemical detection of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine to allow in field screening by law enforcement officers |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
Year |
2023 |
Publication |
Drug testing and analysis |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
Volume |
|
Issue |
|
Pages |
1-14 |
Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Pharmacology. Therapy; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab) |
Abstract |
A portable and highly sensitive sensor was designed for the specific detection of 3,4-methyl-enedioxy-methamphetamine (MDMA), in a range of field-testing situations. The sensor can detect MDMA in street samples, even when other controlled substances drugs, or adulterants are present. In this work, we report for the first time a sensor using electroactive molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticles computationally designed to recognize MDMA and then produced using solid phase synthesis. A composite comprising chitosan, reduced graphene oxide, and molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticles synthesized for MDMA for the first time was immobilized on screen-printed carbon electrodes. The sensors displayed a satisfactory sensitivity (106.8 nA x mu M-1), limit of detection (1.6 nM; 0.31 ng/mL), and recoveries (92-99%). The accuracy of the results was confirmed through validation using Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled with tandem Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). This technology could be used in forensic analysis and make it possible to selectively detect MDMA in street samples. A highly sensitive and portable sensor has been developed to detect MDMA in street samples. It uses electroactive molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticles computationally designed to recognize MDMA, which were immobilized on screen-printed carbon electrodes with chitosan and graphene. The sensor showed good sensitivity and satisfactory recoveries (92-99%), confirmed with UPLC-MS/MS validation. This technology has the potential to be used in forensic analysis.image |
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Wos |
001107703400001 |
Publication Date |
2023-11-24 |
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1942-7603; 1942-7611 |
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UA library record; WoS full record |
Impact Factor |
2.9 |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: 2.9; 2023 IF: 3.469 |
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UA @ admin @ c:irua:202058 |
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9020 |
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