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Author Oliveira, M.C.; Cordeiro, R.M.; Bogaerts, A. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Effect of lipid oxidation on the channel properties of Cx26 hemichannels : a molecular dynamics study Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2023 Publication Archives of biochemistry and biophysics Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 746 Issue Pages (down) 109741-12  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)  
  Abstract Intercellular communication plays a crucial role in cancer, as well as other diseases, such as inflammation, tissue degeneration, and neurological disorders. One of the proteins responsible for this, are connexins (Cxs), which come together to form a hemichannel. When two hemichannels of opposite cells interact with each other, they form a gap junction (GJ) channel, connecting the intracellular space of these cells. They allow the passage of ions, reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS), and signaling molecules from the interior of one cell to another cell, thus playing an essential role in cell growth, differentiation, and homeostasis. The importance of GJs for disease induction and therapy development is becoming more appreciated, especially in the context of oncology. Studies have shown that one of the mechanisms to control the formation and disruption of GJs is mediated by lipid oxidation pathways, but the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. In this study, we performed atomistic molecular dynamics simulations to evaluate how lipid oxidation influences the channel properties of Cx26 hemichannels, such as channel gating and permeability. Our results demonstrate that the Cx26 hemichannel is more compact in the presence of oxidized lipids, decreasing its pore diameter at the extracellular side and increasing it at the amino terminus domains, respectively. The permeability of the Cx26 hemichannel for water and RONS molecules is higher in the presence of oxidized lipids. The latter may facilitate the intracellular accumulation of RONS, possibly increasing oxidative stress in cells. A better understanding of this process will help to enhance the efficacy of oxidative stress-based cancer treatments.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001079100300001 Publication Date 2023-09-07  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0003-9861; 1096-0384 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor 3.9 Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.9; 2023 IF: 3.165  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:200282 Serial 9028  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Bampouli, A.; Goris, Q.; Hussain, M.N.; Louisnard, O.; Stefanidis, G.D.; Van Gerven, T. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Importance of design and operating parameters in a sonication system for viscous solutions : effects of input power, horn tip diameter and reactor capacity Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Chemical engineering and processing Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 198 Issue Pages (down) 109715-12  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)  
  Abstract This study investigates the distribution of ultrasound (US) energy in a batch system for solutions with viscosity ranging from 1 to approximately 3000 mPas. Sonication was performed using horn type configurations operating at 20-30 kHz and rated power capacity of 50 or 200 W. Two different tip diameters (3 or 7 mm) and two insertion depths (35 or 25 mm) within vessels of different sizes ( approximate to 60 or 130 ml) were utilized. Additionally, a special conical tip design was employed. For each experimental setup, the calorimetric efficiency was estimated, the cavitationally active regions were visualized using the sonochemiluminescence (SCL) method and bubble cluster formation inside the vessel was macroscopically observed using a high speed camera (HSC). In the viscosity range tested, the calorimetry results showed that the efficiency and continuous operation of the device depend on both the rated power and the horn tip diameter. The ratio between electrical and calorimetric power input remained consistently around 40 to 50% across the different configurations for water, but for the 123.2 mPas solution exhibited significant variation ranging from 40 to 85%. Moreover, the power density in the smaller reactor was found to be nearly double compared to the larger one. The SCL analysis showed multiple cavitationally active zones in all setups, and the zones intensity decreased considerably with increase of the solutions viscosity. The results for the cone tip were not conclusive, but can be used as the basis for further investigation. The current research highlights the importance of thoroughly understanding the impact of each design parameter, and of establishing characterization methodologies to assist in the future development of scaled-up, commercial applications.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001218630800001 Publication Date 2024-02-21  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0255-2701 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor 4.3 Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.3; 2024 IF: 2.234  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:206003 Serial 9154  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Reynaert, S.; Vienne, A.; de Boeck, H.J.; D'Hose, T.; Janssens, I.; Nijs, I.; Portillo-Estrada, M.; Verbruggen, E.; Vicca, S. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Basalt addition improves the performance of young grassland monocultures under more persistent weather featuring longer dry and wet spells Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2023 Publication Agricultural and forest meteorology Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 340 Issue 1 Pages (down) 109610  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change  
  Abstract Global warming is altering the intra-annual variability of precipitation patterns in the mid-latitudes, including a shift towards longer dry and wet spells compared to historic averages. Such fluctuations will likely alter soil water and nutrient dynamics of managed ecosystems which could negatively influence their functioning (e.g., productivity and fodder quality). Here, we investigated whether basalt addition could attenuate effects of increasingly persistent precipitation regimes (PR) on two agricultural grassland monocultures differing in drought resistance (low: Lolium perenne (LP) vs high: Festulolium (FL)) and digestibility (high: LP, low: FL), while improving soil C sequestration. In total, 32 experimental mesocosms were subjected to either a low (1-day wet/ dry alternation) or a highly (30-day wet/dry alternation) persistent PR over 120 days, keeping total precipitation equal. In half of these mesocosms, we mixed basalt with the top 20 cm soil layer at a rate of 50 t ha-1. Overall, 30-day PR increased average water availability resulting in improved aboveground biomass and shoot digestibility for both species, in spite of elevated physiological stress. These PR also increased shoot Si, K, N and C but reduced Ca accumulation. Basalt addition generally increased soil Al, Ni, Mg, Ca, P, K and Si availability without altering root biomass or total soil carbon. Moreover, differences in root N content and C:N ratio between species were reduced. Interestingly, basalt modified the PR effects on productivity. Within 30-day PR, basalt stimulated aboveground biomass (& PLUSMN;14%) and root Si and K contents without altering plant digestibility, palatability, crude protein content or Ni/Al content. These results indicate that basalt can stimulate grassland productivity and soil nutrient availability under more persistent PR without negatively affecting fodder quality. Hence, basalt application may improve the performance of young temperate grassland monocultures under climate change, though dry soil conditions may limit effects on soil C sequestration during summer.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001051084500001 Publication Date 2023-07-21  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0168-1923 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 6.2 Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 6.2; 2023 IF: 3.887  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:199204 Serial 9189  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Beltran, V.; Marchetti, A.; De Meyer, S.; Nuyts, G.; De Wael, K. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Geranium lake pigments : the role of the synthesis on the structure and composition Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2021 Publication Dyes And Pigments Abbreviated Journal Dyes Pigments  
  Volume 189 Issue Pages (down) 109260  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)  
  Abstract Eosin Y has an extraordinary capacity to form complexes with metallic elements, that have applications in many different fields, from photovoltaics and photocatalysis to historical artists? pigments. To unravel the complexes reactivity, it is essential to have a precise knowledge of their structure and composition, as well as how these can be affected by the synthesis protocol, an often underestimated factor. This manuscript presents a thorough investigation of the structure and composition of eosin Y complexes based on Al and Pb, by FTIR, XRPD and Raman spectroscopy, with a particular focus on the effect of the synthesis conditions. Results clearly show the change of the coordination mode in Pb complexes depending on the protocol, while the structure of Al complexes remains stable. In both cases, the formation of by-products was observed. Additionally, a detailed band assignment of the FTIR and Raman spectra of eosin Y and Pb and Al complexes is described, providing interesting details such as the interaction between the metallic ion and the xanthene moiety (chromophore). This is extremely important for the analysis of historical paintings where eosin Y is bonded to metallic ions, as well as for other materials in dye-sensitized solar cells, wastewater treatment or photocatalysis.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000634733200001 Publication Date 2021-03-03  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0143-7208 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 3.473 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.473  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:177676 Serial 8002  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Drăgan, A.-M.; Parrilla, M.; Cambré, S.; Domínguez-Robles, J.; Detamornrat, U.; Donnelly, R.F.; Oprean, R.; Cristea, C.; De Wael, K. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Microneedle array-based electrochemical sensor functionalized with SWCNTs for the highly sensitive monitoring of MDMA in interstitial fluid Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2023 Publication Microchemical journal Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 193 Issue Pages (down) 109257-11  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Pharmacology. Therapy; Nanostructured and organic optical and electronic materials (NANOrOPT); Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)  
  Abstract Illicit drug consumption constitutes a great concern worldwide due to its increased spread and abuse, and the negative consequences exerted on society. For instance, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), a synthetic amphetamine-type substance, was abused by 20 million people worldwide in 2020. This psychoactive substance exerts a myriad of effects on the human body being dangerous for the consumer’s health. Besides, MDMA has been used in the treatment of some psychiatric conditions. Therefore, the development of wearable devices for MDMA sensing in biological fluids is of great importance for forensic toxicology (e.g., monitoring of patients with suspected or known MDMA consumption) as well as for therapeutic management of patients. Herein, we report the development of a wearable electrochemical platform based on a hollow microneedle (MN) array sensor for the monitoring of MDMA in the interstitial fluid by square-wave voltammetry. First, the holes of the MN array were modified with conductive pastes to devise a MN patch with a three-electrode system. Subsequently, the functionalization of the working electrode with nanomaterials enhanced MDMA detection. Thereafter, analytical parameters were evaluated exhibiting a slope of 0.05 µA µM−1 within a linear range from 1 to 50 µM and a limit of detection of 0.75 µM in artificial interstitial fluid. Importantly, critical parameters such as selectivity, piercing capability, temperature, reversibility and stability were assessed. Overall, the obtained MN sensor exhibited excellent analytical performance, making it a promising tool for MDMA tracking in interstitial fluid for individuals on probation or under therapeutic treatment.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001067945900001 Publication Date 2023-08-25  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  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 Not_Open_Access: Available from 27.02.2024  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.8; 2023 IF: 3.034  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:198183 Serial 8898  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Li, L.; Nijs, I.; De Boeck, H.; Vinduskova, O.; Reynaert, S.; Donnelly, C.; Zi, L.; Verbruggen, E. file  doi
openurl 
  Title Longer dry and wet spells alter the stochasticity of microbial community assembly in grassland soils Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2023 Publication Soil biology and biochemistry Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 178 Issue Pages (down) 108969-9  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; ADReM Data Lab (ADReM); Integrated Molecular Plant Physiology Research (IMPRES); Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change  
  Abstract Climate change is increasing the duration of alternating wet and dry spells. These fluctuations affect soil water availability and other soil properties which are crucial drivers of soil microbial communities. While soil microbial communities have a moderate capacity to recover once a drought ceases, the expected alternation of strongly opposing regimes can challenge their capacity to adapt. Here, we set up experimental grassland mesocosms where precipitation frequency was adjusted along a gradient while holding total precipitation constant. The gradient varied the duration of wet and dry spells from 1 to 60 days during a total of 120 days, where we hy-pothesized that especially intermediate durations would increase the importance of stochastic community as-sembly due to frequent alternation of opposing environmental regimes. We examined bacterial and fungal community composition, diversity, co-occurrence patterns and assembly mechanisms across these different precipitation treatments. Our results show that 1) intermediate regimes of wet and dry spells increased the stochasticity of microbial community assembly whereas microbial communities at low and high regimes were subjected to more deterministic assembly, and 2) more persistent precipitation regimes (>6 days duration) reduced the fungal diversity and network connectivity but had little effect on bacterial communities. Collec-tively, these findings indicate that longer alternating wet and dry events lead to a less predictable and connected soil microbial community. This study provides new insight into the likely mechanisms through which precipi-tation persistence alters soil microbial communities and their predictability.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000930582500001 Publication Date 2023-01-28  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0038-0717 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 9.7 Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 9.7; 2023 IF: 4.857  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:195257 Serial 9211  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Phuttaro, C.; Krishnan, S.; Saritpongteeraka, K.; Charnnok, B.; Diels, L.; Chaiprapat, S. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Integrated poultry waste management by co-digestion with perennial grass : effects of mixing ratio, pretreatments, reaction temperature, and effluent recycle on biomethanation yield Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2023 Publication Biochemical engineering journal Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 196 Issue Pages (down) 108937-12  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)  
  Abstract This work aims to enhance the efficiency of integrated poultry waste management in bio-circular-green economy by maximizing the co-digestion of chicken manure and its digestate-grown biomass. In a series of batch assays, Napier grass (NG) was mixed with chicken manure (CM) at various proportions (100:0, 80:20, 60:40, 50:50, 40:60, 20:80 and 0:100) to identify co-substrate synergism, followed by physiochemical conditioning (size reduction and ultrasonication) of NG before co-digestion. Results indicated that NG mix of at least 80% was required to gain a full methanation potential of the individual substrates; no synergistic ratio above unity was found. However, the combined effect of size reduction and sonication was found to markedly improve the cosubstrate's biodegradability by 88.7%. The findings were then used to run continuous co-digestion at various operating regimes. In optimal continuous co-digestion condition, NG particle size of 0.6-2.4 mm combined with sonication intensity at 1111 kJ/kgTS improved biomethanation yield as high as 106.3%. Sub-thermophilic digestion at 45 degrees C was shown to give a higher and more stable CH4 yield than at 55 degrees C. Finally, it was also found that recycling liquid effluent at 40% to replace freshwater in feed, although showed no significant difference in CH4 yield (& alpha; = 0.05), noticeably increased system buffer capacity. This optimized biodegradation regime could give co-digestion waste management a higher overall plant efficiency and economic return.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001054826200001 Publication Date 2023-04-06  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1369-703x; 1873-295x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor 3.9 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.9; 2023 IF: 2.892  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:199209 Serial 8887  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Truta, F.; Cruz, A.G.; Tertis, M.; Zaleski, C.; Adamu, G.; Allcock, N.S.; Suciu, M.; Stefan, M.-G.; Kiss, B.; Piletska, E.; De Wael, K.; Piletsky, S.A.; Cristea, C. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title NanoMIPs-based electrochemical sensors for selective detection of amphetamine Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2023 Publication Microchemical journal Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 191 Issue Pages (down) 108821-10  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)  
  Abstract A highly sensitive and portable electrochemical sensor based on molecularly imprinted nanoparticles (nanoMIPs) was developed. NanoMIPs were computationally designed for specific recognition of amphetamine, and then synthetized using solid phase synthesis. NanoMIPs were immobilized onto screen-printed carbon electrodes using a composite film comprising chitosan, nanoMIPs, and graphene oxide.Ferrocenylmethyl methacrylate was incorporated in nanoMIPs allowing electrochemical detection. The signal recorded for the electrochemical oxidation of ferrocene has proven to be dependent on the presence of amphetamine interacting with nanMIPs. The sensor was tested successfully with street samples, with high sensitivity and satisfactory recoveries (from 100.9% to 107.6%). These results were validated with UPL-MS/MS. The present technology is suitable for forensic applications in selective determination of amphetamine in street samples.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001008428600001 Publication Date 2023-05-03  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  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 Not_Open_Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.8; 2023 IF: 3.034  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:197397 Serial 8903  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Thiruvottriyur Shanmugam, S.; Campos, R.; Trashin, S.; Daems, E.; Carneiro, D.; Fraga, A.; Ribeiro, R.; De Wael, K. pdf  doi
openurl 
  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 (down) 108698-108699  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)  
  Abstract 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  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Van Echelpoel, R.; Parrilla, M.; Sleegers, N.; Thiruvottriyur Shanmugam, S.; van Nuijs, A.L.N.; Slosse, A.; Van Durme, F.; De Wael, K. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  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 (down) 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-methyl​enedioxy​methamphetamine (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  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000977060400001 Publication Date 2023-03-31  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  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 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. url  doi
openurl 
  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 (down) 108675-10  
  Keywords A1 Journal article  
  Abstract 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  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Gonzalez-Quiroga, A.; Shtern, V.; Perreault, P.; Vandewalle, L.; Marin, G.B.; Van Geem, K.M. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Intensifying mass and heat transfer using a high-g stator-rotor vortex chamber Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2021 Publication Chemical Engineering And Processing Abbreviated Journal Chem Eng Process  
  Volume 169 Issue Pages (down) 108638-11  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)  
  Abstract Vortex reactors take advantage of the synergy between enhanced heat and mass transfer rates and multifunctional phenomena at different temporal and spatial scales. Proof-of-concept experiments with our novel and innovative STAtor-Rotor VOrtex Chamber (STARVOC) confirm its advantageous features for the sustainable production of chemicals and fuels. STARVOC is a high-g contactor that uses carrier flow (gas or liquid) tangential injection to drive a rotor attached to low-friction bearings. The vortex chamber inside the rotor contains a secondary phase or phases, such as a solids bed, a liquid layer, or a suspension. Carrier fluid passes through the perforated rotor wall and contacts a densely and uniformly distributed secondary phase with enhanced slip velocities. Experiments focused on pressure profiles, rotor angular velocity, and solids azimuthal velocity. With air as the carrier fluid and different solid particle beds as the secondary phase, STARVOC reached bed azimuthal velocities up to four-fold compared to those reached in Gas-Solid Vortex Units with fully static geometry. These results show its potential to improve interfacial heat and mass transfer rates and take advantage of flow energy and angular momentum. Due to its process intensification capabilities, STARVOC is a promising alternative for the state-of-the-art chemical industry.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000704946900008 Publication Date 2021-09-17  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0255-2701 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 2.234 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 2.234  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:181062 Serial 8111  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Segura, P.C.; De Meur, Q.; Alloul, A.; Tanghe, A.; Onderwater, R.; Vlaeminck, S.E.; Vande Wouwer, A.; Wattiez, R.; Dewasme, L.; Leroy, B. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Preferential photoassimilation of volatile fatty acids by purple non-sulfur bacteria : experimental kinetics and dynamic modelling Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2022 Publication Biochemical engineering journal Abbreviated Journal Biochem Eng J  
  Volume 186 Issue Pages (down) 108547-10  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)  
  Abstract Purple non-sulfur bacteria (PNSB) are known for their metabolic versatility and thrive as anoxygenic photoheterotrophs. In environmental engineering and resource recovery, cells would grow on mixtures of volatile fatty acids (VFA) generated by anaerobic fermentation of waste streams. In this study, we aim to better understand the behavior of Rhodospirillum rubrum, a model PNSB species, grown using multiple VFA as carbon sources. We highlighted that assimilation of individual VFA follows a sequential pattern. Based on observations in other PNSB, this seems to be specific to isocitrate lyase-lacking organisms. We hypothesized that the inhibition phenomenon could be due to the regulation of the metabolic fluxes in the substrate cycle between acetoacetyl-CoA and crotonyl-CoA. Developed macroscopic dynamic models showed a good predictive capability for substrate competition for every VFA mixture containing acetate, propionate, and/or butyrate. These novel insights provide valuable input for better design and operation of PNSB-based waste treatment solutions.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000891992900005 Publication Date 2022-07-21  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1369-703x; 1873-295x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor 3.9 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.9  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:192741 Serial 7332  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Campos, R.; Thiruvottriyur Shanmugam, S.; Daems, E.; Ribeiro, R.; De Wael, K. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Development of an electrochemiluminescent oligonucleotide-based assay for the quantification of prostate cancer associated miR-141-3p in human serum Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2023 Publication Bioelectrochemistry: an international journal devoted to electrochemical aspects of biology and biological aspects of electrochemistry Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 153 Issue Pages (down) 108495-108496  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)  
  Abstract MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small oligonucleotides (18–25 bases), biologically relevant for epigenetic regulation of key processes, particularly in association with cancer. Research effort has therefore been directed towards the monitoring and detection of miRNAs to progress (early) cancer diagnoses. Traditional detection strategies for miRNAs are expensive, with a lengthy time-to-result. In this study we develop an oligonucleotide-based assay using electrochemistry for the specific, selective and sensitive detection of a circulating miRNA (miR-141) associated with prostate cancer. In the assay, the excitation and readout of the signal are independent: an electrochemical stimulation followed by an optical readout. A ‘sandwich’ approach is incorporated, consisting of a biotinylated capture probe immobilised on streptavidin-functionalised surfaces and a detection probe labelled with digoxigenin. We show that the assay allows the detection of miR-141 in human serum, even in the presence of other miRNAs, with a LOD of 0.25 pM. The developed electrochemiluminescent assay has, therefore, the potential for efficient universal oligonucleotide target detection via the redesign of capture and detection probes.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001031760700001 Publication Date 2023-06-30  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1567-5394 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor 5 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access: Available from 01.01.2024  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 5; 2023 IF: 3.346  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:197615 Serial 8849  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Deylgat, E.; Chen, E.; Fischetti, M.V.; Sorée, B.; Vandenberghe, W.G. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Image-force barrier lowering in top- and side-contacted two-dimensional materials Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2022 Publication Solid state electronics Abbreviated Journal Solid State Electron  
  Volume 198 Issue Pages (down) 108458-4  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)  
  Abstract We compare the image-force barrier lowering (IFBL) and calculate the resulting contact resistance for four different metal-dielectric-two-dimensional (2D) material configurations. We analyze edge contacts in three different geometries (a homogeneous dielectric throughout, including the 2D layer; a homogeneous dielectric surrounding the 2D layer, both ungated and back gated) and also a top-contact assuming a homogeneous dielectric. The image potential energy of each configuration is determined and added to the Schottky energy barrier which is calculated assuming a textbook Schottky potential. For each configuration, the contact resistivity is calculated using the WKB approximation and the effective mass approximation using either SiO2 or HfO2 as the surrounding dielectric. We obtain the lowest contact resistance of 1 k Omega mu m by n-type doping an edge contacted transition metal-dichalcogenide (TMD) monolayer, sandwiched between SiO2 dielectric, with similar to 1012 cm-2 donor atoms. When this optimal configuration is used, the contact resistance is lowered by a factor of 50 compared to the situation when the IFBL is not considered.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000876289800003 Publication Date 2022-09-22  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0038-1101 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor 1.7 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 1.7  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:191556 Serial 7312  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Moro, G.; Campos, R.; Daems, E.; Moretto, L.M.; De Wael, K. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Haem-mediated albumin biosensing : towards voltammetric detection of PFOA Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2023 Publication Bioelectrochemistry: an international journal devoted to electrochemical aspects of biology and biological aspects of electrochemistry Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 152 Issue Pages (down) 108428-7  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)  
  Abstract The haem group is a promising redox probe for the design of albumin-based voltammetric sensors. Among the endogenous ligands carried by human serum albumin (hSA), haem is characterised by a reversible redox behaviour and its binding kinetics strongly depend on hSA’s conformation, which, in turn, depends on the presence of other ligands. In this work, the potential applicability of haem, especially hemin, as a redox probe was first tested in a proof-of-concept study using perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) as model analyte. PFOA is known to bind hSA by occupying Sudlow’s I site (FA7) which is spatially related to the haem-binding site (FA1). The latter undergoes a conformational change, which is expected to affect hemin’s binding kinetics. To verify this hypothesis, hemin:albumin complexes in the presence/absence of PFOA were first screened by UV–Vis spectroscopy. Once the complex formation was verified, haem was further characterised via electrochemical methods to estimate its electron transfer kinetics. The hemin:albumin:PFOA system was studied in solution, with the aim of describing the multiple equilibria at stake and designing an electrochemical assay for PFOA monitoring. This latter could be integrated with protein-based bioremediation approaches for the treatment of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances polluted waters. Overall, our preliminary results show how hemin can be applied as a redox probe in albumin-based voltammetric sensing strategies.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000971630400001 Publication Date 2023-03-27  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1567-5394 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor 5 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 5; 2023 IF: 3.346  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:195069 Serial 8876  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Voordeckers, D.; Meysman, F.J.R.; Billen, P.; Tytgat, T.; Van Acker, M. url  doi
openurl 
  Title The impact of street canyon morphology and traffic volume on NO₂ values in the street canyons of Antwerp Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2021 Publication Building And Environment Abbreviated Journal Build Environ  
  Volume 197 Issue Pages (down) 107825-10  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Research Group for Urban Development; Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)  
  Abstract Air pollution remains a major environmental and health concern in urban environments, especially in street canyons that show increased pollution levels due to a lack of natural ventilation. Previous studies have investigated the relationship between street canyon morphology and in-canyon pollution levels. However, these studies are typically limited to the scale of a single street canyon and city-wide assessments on this matter are scarce. In 2018, NO2 concentrations were measured in 321 street canyons in the city of Antwerp (Belgium) as part of the large-scale citizen-science project “CurieuzeNeuzen”. In our research, this data was used to study the correlation between morphological indices (e.g. aspect ratio (AR), lateral aspect ratio (LAR), presence of trees) and the traffic volumes on a city-wide scale. The maximum hourly traffic volume (TVmax) and AR correlated significantly with the measured NO2 values, making them useful indicators for air quality in street canyons. For street canyons with AR > 0.65, a TVmax of 300 vehicles/hour was found as a threshold value to guarantee acceptable air quality. No significant correlations were found for the other parameters. Finally, a number of typical street canyon types were defined, which can be of fundamental interest for further research and spatial policy making.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000663167900003 Publication Date 2021-03-27  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0360-1323 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 4.053 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.053  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:176925 Serial 8064  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Neven, L.; Barich, H.; Rutten, R.; De Wael, K. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Novel (photo)electrochemical analysis of aqueous industrial samples containing phenols Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2022 Publication Microchemical journal Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 181 Issue Pages (down) 107778-11  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)  
  Abstract Phenols are considered as toxic pollutants and their discharge into the environment by industries is regulated by a concentration limit. As these limits are in the low mg L−1 to µg L−1-range, sensitive methods are necessary to detect these phenols. Here, aqueous industrial phenolic samples throughout a cleaning process were analyzed by two novel electrochemical sensors. Both the photoelectrochemical (PEC) sensor and the square wave voltammetric (SWV) sensor could successfully follow the decrease of the concentration of phenols along the industrial cleaning process. The discharge sample (μg L−1) could only be analyzed by the PEC sensor and not by the SWV sensor, as the phenolic concentration was close to the LOD of the latter. With HPLC-diode array detector (DAD) measurements, classical phenols such as phenol (PHOH), hydroquinone, resorcinol and o-cresol could be identified in the industrial samples, and their presence could be linked to the electrochemical responses. At last, the performance of the PEC and SWV sensors were compared with commercial colorimetric and chemical oxygen demand (COD) test kits. This comparison demonstrated the high sensitivity of the PEC sensor in the μg L−1 concentrated phenolic samples. Together with the identification of the redox peaks through HPLC-DAD analysis, the SWV sensor can be a powerful tool in the qualitative analysis of mg L−1 concentrated phenolic samples due to its speed, simplicity and absence of laborious sample pre-treatment steps.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000837838400003 Publication Date 2022-07-20  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0026-265x; 0026-265x 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:189428 Serial 8906  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Moro, G.; Bottari, F.; Liberi, S.; Covaceuszach, S.; Cassetta, A.; Angelini, A.; De Wael, K.; Moretto, L.M. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Covalent immobilization of delipidated human serum albumin on poly(pyrrole-2-carboxylic) acid film for the impedimetric detection of perfluorooctanoic acid Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2020 Publication Bioelectrochemistry Abbreviated Journal Bioelectrochemistry  
  Volume 134 Issue Pages (down) 107540  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)  
  Abstract The immobilization of biomolecules at screen printed electrodes for biosensing applications is still an open challenge. To enrich the toolbox of bioelectrochemists, graphite screen printed electrodes (G-SPE) were modified with an electropolymerized film of pyrrole-2-carboxilic acid (Py-2-COOH), a pyrrole derivative rich in carboxylic acid functional groups. These functionalities are suitable for the covalent immobilization of biomolecular recognition layers. The electropolymerization was first optimized to obtain stable and conductive polymeric films, comparing two different electrolytes: sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) and sodium perchlorate. The G-SPE modified with Py-2-COOH in 0.1 M SDS solution showed the required properties and were further tested. A proof-of-concept study for the development of an impedimetric sensor for perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) was carried out using the delipidated human serum albumin (hSA) as bioreceptor. The data interpretation was supported by size exclusion chromatography and small-angle X-ray scattering (SEC-SAXS) analysis of the bioreceptor-target complex and the preliminary results suggest the possibility to further develop this biosensing strategy for toxicological and analytical studies.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000579727300004 Publication Date 2020-04-27  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1567-5394 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 5 Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 5; 2020 IF: 3.346  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:172494 Serial 6477  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Larraín, M.; Billen, P.; Cifuentes, L.; Van Passel, S. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Economic and environmental implications of policy instruments for the circular economy : a case study for postconsumer polyethylene film recycling in Europe Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Resources, conservation and recycling Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 204 Issue Pages (down) 107519-11  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)  
  Abstract The objective of this paper is to examine the recycling rates for mechanical and thermochemical recycling of postconsumer polyethylene flexible packaging after the implementation of different policy instruments. The study uses a supply chain equilibrium model that incorporates market data and techno-economic assessments to simulate market equilibrium. It combines this with a life cycle assessment to explore the environmental implications of implementing different policy instruments. The results show that instruments that do not target a specific technology are more likely to increase thermochemical recycling than mechanical recycling. Furthermore, a higher recycling rate is not equivalent to a better environmental outcome. An increased collection target that ensures a supply of plastic waste would increase the overall recycling rates the most. A recycled content standard for mechanical recycling would lead to the highest increase in mechanical recycling, with top results for environmental indicators, but low results for economic indicators.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date 2024-02-29  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor 13.2 Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 13.2; 2024 IF: 3.313  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:203485 Serial 9202  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
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. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  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 (down) 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  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000809675500010 Publication Date 2022-04-26  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  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
 

 
Author Van Oijstaeijen, W.; Van Passel, S.; Back, P.; Cools, J. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title The politics of green infrastructure : a discrete choice experiment with Flemish local decision-makers Type Administrative Services
  Year 2022 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal Ecol Econ  
  Volume 199 Issue Pages (down) 107493-18  
  Keywords Administrative Services; A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Being confronted with increasing and expanding urbanisation and the loss of natural green spaces, our living environment is threatened more and more by the effects of global climate change. Green infrastructure is often thought of as the solution to increase climate resilience and reinforce the quality of the lived environment simultaneously. While the benefits, or ecosystem services, that are generated through green infrastructure have been studied intensively, forces that influence green infrastructure decision-making have been far less subjected to thorough research. In this study a discrete choice experiment was conducted with local decision makers in Flemish municipalities to reveal crucial factors in the decision process applied to green infrastructure projects. Flanders is one of the most densely built regions in Europe, stressing the urgency to understand local spatial decision factors to guarantee green space. 568 decision makers active in the local administration of 235 Flemish municipalities participated in the experiment, set in a hypothetical neighbourhood park. Every choice alternative exists of five attributes: investment cost, maintenance cost, deferred investment, recreational value, and climate impact. We find that barriers hampering Flemish munipalities' GI implementation, differ over size of the municipality: smallers municipalities are more affected by knowledge gaps, while larger municipalities are experiencing prioritization issues. Results from hierarchical Bayes choice models indicate that municipal decisions on green infrastructure are highly – almost solely -cost-driven, rarely consider the full range of benefits, and centre around short-term and immediate arguments. Moreover, interaction models reveal that a municipalities' financial result is a key determinant of its willingness to invest in public greening and consider long term benefits, suggesting that GI is a luxury good. The results expose some of the heuristics in GI decision making and can be used to inform higher authorities on ways to overcome barriers towards informed decision-making and to facilitate GI investment.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000811715200008 Publication Date 2022-06-08  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0921-8009; 1873-6106 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 7 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 7  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189018 Serial 7371  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Tschulkow, M.; Pizzol, M.; Compernolle, T.; Van den Bosch, S.; Sels, B.; Van Passel, S. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title The environmental impacts of the lignin-first biorefineries : a consequential life cycle assessment approach Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Resources, conservation and recycling Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 204 Issue Pages (down) 107466-107469  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract The emerging reductive catalytic fractionation biorefinery which is currently under development aims to convert woody biomass efficiently into high-value products. Despite its potential, the environmental consequences of its implementation are not well known. Therefore, a forward-looking consequential life cycle assessment examines greenhouse gas emissions associated with its products (pulp, phenolic monomers, and oligomers) compared to alternative market options. Findings indicate that current greenhouse gas emissions exceed those of the existing alternatives, with by-products and the gaseous waste stream as major contributors. Process adaption to (i) produce higher-valued products (bleached pulps, phenols, and propylene) and (ii) incinerate gaseous waste stream for energy are proposed, potentially reducing emissions by up to 50 %, outperforming alternative options. Compared to land-based transportation, waterways can increase feedstock availability by up to 1000 km without an increase in emissions. In conclusion, the consequential approach provides valuable insights for enhancing and optimizing the environmental performance of the process.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001186282000001 Publication Date 2024-02-14  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor 13.2 Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 13.2; 2024 IF: 3.313  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205493 Serial 9234  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Bjørnåvold, A.; David, M.; Bohan, D.A.; Gibert, C.; Rousselle, J.-M.; Van Passel, S. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Why does France not meet its pesticide reduction targets? Farmers' socio-economic trade-offs when adopting agro-ecological practices Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2022 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal Ecol Econ  
  Volume 198 Issue Pages (down) 107440-28  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Despite substantial policy efforts made by the French government to reduce dependence on pesticides, farming practices are only changing slowly. This paper analyses the socio-economic trade-offs that 110 farmers are currently facing in the transition to agro-ecological practices. A mixed-method approach – a quantitative discrete choice experiment (DCE) and qualitative interviews – was set up to understand these farmers' motivations and perspectives, and how policy can improve to accompany them on the road to low chemical input farming. Results of the DCE indicate that the majority of the farmers in our sample are keen to change practices but are at a loss as to how this can be done, as a number of preferences for this transition came out as inconclusive. Qualitative interviews with a representative sample of the farmers that took part in the DCE complemented this result by illustrating a deep uncertainty for the future and a disconnect felt between authorities and themselves as a group. We argue that this uncertainty contributed to a lack of clear-cut solutions established through the DCE. The indepth discussions with farmers illustrated the wish for concrete and local policy measures based on farmers' networks and peer support.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000802083900003 Publication Date 2022-05-07  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0921-8009; 1873-6106 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor 7 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 7  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:188764 Serial 7375  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Gestels, A.; Van der Snickt, G.; Caen, J.; Nuyts, G.; Legrand, S.; Vanmeert, F.; Detry, F.; Janssens, K.; Steenackers, G. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Combined MA-XRF, MA-XRPD and SEM-EDX analysis of a medieval stained-glass panel formerly from Notre Dame, Paris reveals its material history Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2022 Publication Microchemical journal Abbreviated Journal Microchem J  
  Volume 177 Issue Pages (down) 107304  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Art; Antwerp Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES); Antwerp X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy (AXIS)  
  Abstract As part of its conservation-restoration, the 13th century stained-glass panel ‘the Annunciation’, was examined at the micro- and macro level. This window, since 1898 in the collection of the Museum Mayer Van den Bergh (Antwerp, B), was formerly a part of the southern Rose window of the Notre Dame Cathedral (Paris, F). The insigths emerging from a first phase of the analysis, comprising non-invasive analysis techniques such as optical microscopy combined with macroscopic X-ray fluorescence (MA-XRF) and X-ray diffraction (MA-XRPD) mapping, were used to select sampling positions for the second phase of investigation that involved micro-invasive analysis, namely scanning-electron microscopy coupled to energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM-EDX). The aim of the investigation was fourfold: (1) to assess the applicability of MA-XRF scanning for the characterisation of stained glass windows prior to any conservation or restoration procedure, (2) to assess the applicability of MA-XRPD scanning to identify the degradation products formed on the surface of stained glass windows, (3) to establish a method to limit the set of sampled glass fragments taken from a glass panel for quantititive analysis while maintaining sufficient representativeness and (4) to distinguish the original glass panes and grisaille paint from non-original glass panes that were inserted during various past interventions. Most of the panes in this window proved to consist of medieval potash glass, consistent with the 13th c. origin of the window while a limited number of panes were identified as non-original infills, with divergent glass compositional types and/or colorants. Most panes derive their color from the pot metal glass (i.e. homogenously colored) they were made of. Some of the panes that originally had a red flashed layer on their surface, completely or partially lost this layer due to weathering. Three main compositional glass families with similar color could be defined. With the exception of the yellow and orange panes, the chromophoric elements responsible for the dark(er) and light(er) blue (Co), green (Cu), purple (Mn) and red colors (Cu) were identified. Two different grisaille paints were encountered, part of which were restored during the 19th century. On the basis of this information, all missing pieces were replaced by glass panes with appropriate colors and the panel could be successfully conserved to its former glory. On the surface of several panes, typical glass degradation products such as calcite, syngenite and gypsum were identified, together with lead based degradation products such as anglesite and palmierite. In addition, the presence of hematite and melanotekite in the grisailles was observed; also the presence of Zn, uncorrelated to Cu, in the grissailes on the right side of the window became apparent.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000850000900001 Publication Date 2022-02-22  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  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  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:187493 Serial 7138  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Moretti, M.; Vanschoenwinkel, J.; Van Passel, S. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Accounting for externalities in cross-sectional economic models of climate change impacts Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2021 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal Ecol Econ  
  Volume 185 Issue Pages (down) 107058  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Environmental effects and natural resources depletion associated with agriculture production affect the agriculture response to climate change. Traditional cross-sectional climate response models ignore this requirement. This research estimates the impact of climate on European agriculture using a continental scale Ricardian analysis. We correct farm income by accounting for resources (energy, fertilisers, pesticides, and water) use intensity and calculate the sustainable value for a sample of 9497 specialized field crop farms. Compared with the traditional Ricardian method, the marginal effects of temperature remain positive (but less positive) in Northern countries, while it leads to less damages in Southern countries when net revenue and farms? sustainable values are used as dependent variables. Accounting for the environmental effects and depletion of natural capital improves the ability of the Ricardian method to estimate agriculture climate response functions in the long run.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000647544700012 Publication Date 2021-04-05  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0921-8009; 1873-6106 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor 2.965 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 2.965  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:178955 Serial 6911  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Wittner, N.; Gergely, S.; Slezsák, J.; Broos, W.; Vlaeminck, S.E.; Cornet, I. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Follow-up of solid-state fungal wood pretreatment by a novel near-infrared spectroscopy-based lignin calibration model Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2023 Publication Journal of microbiological methods Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 208 Issue Pages (down) 106725-106727  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)  
  Abstract Lignin removal plays a crucial role in the efficient bioconversion of lignocellulose to fermentable sugars. As a delignification process, fungal pretreatment has gained great interest due to its environmental friendliness and low energy consumption. In our previous study, a positive linear correlation between acid-insoluble lignin degradation and the achievable enzymatic saccharification yield has been found, hereby highlighting the importance of the close follow-up of lignin degradation during the solid-state fungal pretreatment process. However, the standard quantification of lignin, which relies on the two-step acid hydrolysis of the biomass, is highly laborious and time-consuming. Vibrational spectroscopy has been proven as a fast and easy alternative; however, it has not been extensively researched on lignocellulose subjected to solid-state fungal pretreatment. Therefore, the present study examined the suitability of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIR) for the rapid and easy assessment of lignin content in poplar wood pretreated with Phanerochaete chrysosporium. Furthermore, the predictive power of the obtained calibration model and the recently published ATR-FTIR spectroscopy-based model were compared for the first time using the same fungus-treated wood data set. PLSR was used to correlate the NIR spectra to the acid-insoluble lignin contents (19.9%-27.1%) of pretreated wood. After normalization and second derivation, a PLSR model with a good coefficient of determination (RCV2 = 0.89) and a low root mean square error (RMSECV = 0.55%) were obtained despite the heterogeneous nature of the fungal solid-state fermentation. The performance of this PLSR model was comparably good to the one obtained by ATR-FTIR (RCV2 = 0.87) while it required more extensive spectral pre-processing. In conclusion, both methods will be highly useful for the high-throughput and user-friendly monitoring of lignin degradation in a solid-state fungal pretreatment-based biorefinery concept.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000983287400001 Publication Date 2023-04-13  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0167-7012 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor 2.2 Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 2.2; 2023 IF: 1.79  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:195814 Serial 9038  
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Author Van Schoubroeck, S.; Chacon, L.; Reynolds, A.M.; Lavoine, N.; Hakovirta, M.; Gonzalez, R.; Van Passel, S.; Venditti, R.A. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Environmental sustainability perception toward obvious recovered waste content in paper-based packaging : an online and in-person survey best-worst scaling experiment Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2023 Publication Resources, conservation and recycling Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 188 Issue Pages (down) 106682-13  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract This study explores consumers' visual sustainability impressions of paper-based packaging that has incorporated obvious waste content. Two research questions were addressed concerning (i) the environmental sustainability perception of noticeable waste content in packaging and (ii) the impact of the presentation format (i.e., online versus in-person surveys) when studying these perceptions. Best-worst scaling experiments were conducted, which made respondents choose the 'most' and 'least' environmentally friendly package. Packages were designed using paperboard substrates blending either brown linerboard or white hardwood pulp with different recovered waste materials. The results showed that consumers perceive obvious waste-containing packaging as more environmentally friendly than classical packaging (with no visual waste). Samples with a brown base and agricultural waste were perceived as more sustainable compared to white packaging and the use of paper waste. In addition, the presentation format changed respondents' perception, and should therefore be carefully considered when designing surveys.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000867675200002 Publication Date 2022-09-30  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 13.2 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 13.2; 2023 IF: 3.313  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:191509 Serial 7357  
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Author Borms, L.; Brusselaers, J.; Vrancken, K.C.M.; Deckmyn, S.; Marynissen, P. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Toward resilient organizations after COVID-19 : an analysis of circular and less circular companies Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2023 Publication Resources, conservation and recycling Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 188 Issue Pages (down) 106681-15  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic had large repercussions for our economy and organizations. Improved resilience can give organizations the ability to withstand crises and build back better and faster. This article assesses resilience of organizations and sole proprietorships in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic with eight circular strategies as explanatory variables. Furthermore, these eight circular strategies are also used to assess the organizations' and sole proprietorships' resilience outside of the COVID-19 pandemic. This analysis is conducted to explain how circular strategies can help companies and sole proprietorships maintain stability. The analysis was performed by means of a survey conducted between May and June 2020 in Flanders (Belgium), using a sample of 542 respondents. After performing a regression analysis combined with expert opinions collected through interviews, we find that companies and sole proprietorships with a higher circularity score have a significantly higher resilience score during crises and during normal times, compared to less circular companies. Furthermore, we find that the size of the company does not matter during a crisis to adapt and react flexibly, while it is important when there is no crisis. Finally, we argue that it is the combination of different circular strategies which yields to the highest results for the organizations' resilience and we provide policy recommendations based on the most asked support measures.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000867675200008 Publication Date 2022-09-21  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 13.2 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 13.2; 2023 IF: 3.313  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:191513 Serial 7344  
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Author Raes, A.; Ninakanti, R.; Van den Bergh, L.; Borah, R.; Van Doorslaer, S.; Verbruggen, S.W. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Black titania by sonochemistry : a critical evaluation of existing methods Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2023 Publication Ultrasonics sonochemistry Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 100 Issue Pages (down) 106601-106609  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Theory and Spectroscopy of Molecules and Materials (TSM²); Laboratory of adsorption and catalysis (LADCA)  
  Abstract In the field of photocatalysis, the fabrication of black titania is a booming topic, as it offers a system with improved solar light harvesting properties and increased overall efficiency. The darkening of white TiO2 powders can be ascribed to surface hydroxylation, oxygen vacancies, Ti3+ centres, or a combination thereof. A handful of studies suggests these defects can be conveniently introduced by acoustic cavitation, generated during sonochemical treatment of pristine TiO2 powders. In reproducing these studies, P25 TiO2 samples were ultrasonicated for various hours with a power density of 8000 W/L, resulting in powders that indeed became gradually darker with increasing sonication time. However, HAADF–STEM revealed that extensive erosion of the sonotrode tip took place and contaminated the samples, which appeared to be the primary reason for the observed colour change. This was confirmed by UV–Vis DRS and DRIFTS, that showed no significant alteration of the catalyst surface after sonication. EPR measurements showed that only an insignificant fraction of Ti3+ centres were produced, far less than in a TiO2 sample that was chemically reduced with NaBH4. No evidence of the presence oxygen vacancies could be found. The enhanced photocatalytic activities of ultrasonicated materials reported in literature can therefore not be ascribed to the synthesis of actual black (defected) TiO2, but rather to specific changes in morphology as a result of acoustic cavitation. Also, this study underlines the importance of considering probe erosion in sonochemical catalyst synthesis, which is an unavoidable side effect that can have an important impact on the catalyst appearance, properties and performance.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001084391500001 Publication Date 2023-09-15  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1350-4177 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 8.4 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 8.4; 2023 IF: 4.218  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:198848 Serial 8838  
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