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Author Fang, C.; Verbrigghe, N.; Sigurdsson, B.D.D.; Ostonen, I.; Leblans, N.I.W.; Maranon-Jimenez, S.; Fuchslueger, L.; Sigurosson, P.; Meeran, K.; Portillo-Estrada, M.; Verbruggen, E.; Richter, A.; Sardans, J.; Penuelas, J.; Bahn, M.; Vicca, S.; Janssens, I.A. doi  openurl
  Title Decadal soil warming decreased vascular plant above and belowground production in a subarctic grassland by inducing nitrogen limitation Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2023 Publication New phytologist Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 240 Issue 2 Pages 565-576  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change  
  Abstract Below and aboveground vegetation dynamics are crucial in understanding how climate warming may affect terrestrial ecosystem carbon cycling. In contrast to aboveground biomass, the response of belowground biomass to long-term warming has been poorly studied. Here, we characterized the impacts of decadal geothermal warming at two levels (on average +3.3 degrees C and +7.9 degrees C) on below and aboveground plant biomass stocks and production in a subarctic grassland. Soil warming did not change standing root biomass and even decreased fine root production and reduced aboveground biomass and production. Decadal soil warming also did not significantly alter the root-shoot ratio. The linear stepwise regression model suggested that following 10 yr of soil warming, temperature was no longer the direct driver of these responses, but losses of soil N were. Soil N losses, due to warming-induced decreases in organic matter and water retention capacity, were identified as key driver of the decreased above and belowground production. The reduction in fine root production was accompanied by thinner roots with increased specific root area. These results indicate that after a decade of soil warming, plant productivity in the studied subarctic grassland was affected by soil warming mainly by the reduction in soil N.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language (up) Wos 001043561400001 Publication Date 2023-08-07  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0028-646x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:198443 Serial 9199  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Mazhar, R.; Azadi, H.; Van Passel, S.; Varnik, R.; Pietrzykowski, M.; Skominas, R.; Wei, Z.; Xuehao, B. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Does contract length matter? The impact of various contract-farming regimes on land-improvement investment and the efficiency of contract farmers in Pakistan Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2023 Publication Agriculture (Basel) Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 13 Issue 9 Pages 1651-16  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Land-tenure security is integral to local communities' socioeconomic development. It has been a center of debate in academia and for legislators and advocates to implement reforms to enhance efficient and sustainable development in land management. Yet, knowledge gaps remain in how various contract-farming regimes contribute to land-improvement investment and technical efficiency. This study used a data set of 650 farm households collected through a two-stage stratified sampling to investigate the influence of three contract-farming regimes: long-term, medium-term, and short-term contracts, on the land-improvement investment, productivity, and technical efficiency of contract farmers in Punjab, Pakistan. The study used multivariate probit and ordinary least square regression models to examine the posit relationships. The findings highlight that farmers with long-term land contracts have higher per hectare yield, income and profit than those with medium-term and short-term contracts. The results confirm that farmers with medium- and long-term contracts tend to invest more in land-improvement measures, i.e., organic and green manure. Further, the study findings demonstrate that long-term land tenures are more effective when farmers make decisions regarding the on-farm infrastructure, like tube-well installation, tractor ownership, and holding farm logistics. Last, the study results confirm that long-term contracts are more robust regarding technical efficiency. Moreover, the findings support the Marshallian inefficiency hypothesis and extend the literature on contract farming, land-improvement investment, and land use policy, and offer coherent policy actions for stakeholders to improve farmers' productivity, technical efficiency, and income.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language (up) Wos 001071045300001 Publication Date 2023-08-22  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2077-0472 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:200373 Serial 9201  
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 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 (up) 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 Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:203485 Serial 9202  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Chekol Zewdie, M.; Moretti, M.; Tenessa, D.B.; Van Passel, S. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Farmers' preferences and willingness to pay for improved irrigation water supply program : a discrete choice experiment Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2023 Publication Environment, development and sustainability Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages 1-24  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract This study examines smallholder farmers' preferences and willingness to pay for an improved irrigation water supply program in northwest Ethiopia. We employed a discrete choice experiment with five attributes and three levels. Data were collected from randomly selected sample households of both irrigation users and non-users. A total of 379 respondents participated, and a mixed logit model was used to analyze the household-level survey data. The result indicates that to deviate from the business-as-usual scenario, smallholder farmers are willing to pay between 3,228 and 8,327 Ethiopian Birr per hectare of irrigated land. Furthermore, the results showed a strong public preference for access to produce cash crops, followed by irrigation water availability in the dry season, and adequate access to improved farm inputs. The results also provide useful information for policymakers and suggested possibilities for generating finance from farmers to cover the operation and maintenance costs of irrigation schemes. Also, this study result reveals that irrigation development and expansion must be integrated into a comprehensive support package that combines irrigation water with access to improved farm inputs and access to produce cash crops on farmers' farm plots.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language (up) Wos 001048896000004 Publication Date 2023-08-14  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1387-585x; 1573-2975 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:198283 Serial 9204  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Vasilakou, K.; Nimmegeers, P.; Billen, P.; Van Passel, S. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Geospatial environmental techno-economic assessment of pretreatment technologies for bioethanol production Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2023 Publication Renewable and sustainable energy reviews Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 187 Issue Pages 113743-16  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)  
  Abstract Second-generation biofuels, starting from lignocellulosic biomass, are considered as a renewable alternative for fossil fuels with lower environmental impact and potentially higher supply and energy security. The economic and environmental performance of second-generation bioethanol production from corn stover in the European Union (EU) is studied, starting in Belgium as base case. A comparative environmental techno-economic assessment has been conducted, with process simulations in Aspen Plus and corn stover availability data in thirteen EU countries to calculate minimum ethanol selling prices (MESP) and Greenhouse gas emissions (GHGe). In this analysis, the emphasis is on the comparison of different pretreatment technologies, namely (i) dilute acid, (ii) alkaline, (iii) steam explosion and (iv) liquid hot water. Dilute acid showed the best economic and environmental performance for the base case scenario. Within the EU, Hungary and Romania presented the lowest MESP for the steam explosion model at 0.39 and 0.43 EUR/L respectively. Poland showed the lowest GHGe, at 0.46 kg CO2eq/L for the alkaline model, mainly due to the avoided product allocation on electricity and its high carbon intensity in the electricity generation sector. The second lowest GHGe were obtained in France for the dilute acid model and are attributed to its low agricultural emissions intensity. This study identifies a location-dependence of the economic and environmental performance of pretreatment technologies, which can be extrapolated from the EU to other large regions around the world and should be taken into consideration by decision-makers.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language (up) Wos 001082526000001 Publication Date 2023-09-15  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1364-0321; 1879-0690 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:198804 Serial 9205  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Van Oijstaeijen, W. url  isbn
openurl 
  Title Green infrastructure and local implementation : (green) bridging the gap between research and practice Type Administrative Services
  Year 2023 Publication Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages xvii, 194 p.  
  Keywords Administrative Services; Doctoral thesis; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Climate change is an ever-increasing threat to our planet, with the urbanisation of previously open spaces exacerbating the issue. The loss of open space leads to a decrease in ecosystem services, which negatively impacts the liveability in urbanised environments, and beyond. The incorporation of green infrastructure (GI) into the built environment is acknowledged as an effective and multi-functional measure to make our living environment resilient and future-proof. Notwithstanding that the local level is essential for effective GI implementation, research into local decision making is very limited. This thesis therefore aims to address two significant gaps in the implementation of GI. The first objective is to bridge the science-policy gap by integrating scientific knowledge on ES and GI into local decision-making processes. In this context, the policy dimension within this thesis involves the process of translating overarching policy objectives into practical actions within local decision-making practices, abstracting from the intricacies of higher-level policymaking itself. The second objective focuses on the people-policy gap, which involves understanding stakeholders' perspectives and priorities regarding GI and its associated ecosystem services. Through stated preference valuation techniques (discrete choice experiments and a best-worst scaling experiment), multi-stakeholder GI perceptions are gathered. Finally, a novel tool to GI valuation is developed, acknowledging the different stakeholder views and building on the insights of collaborative tool development and design. By gaining insights into the demand, prioritisation, and provision of GI from the two most important stakeholder groups at the local level (residents and local decision-makers), this research aims to foster effective communication and alignment between public preferences and policy implementation. Ultimately, addressing these gaps will contribute to more informed planning and decision-making practices related to green infrastructure. The overall goal of this thesis is to enhance the uptake of GI knowledge in the local decision-making context, proposing pathways to facilitate and optimise investments in public GI.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language (up) Wos Publication Date  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN ISBN 978-90-5728-814-2 Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:199925 Serial 9206  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Debie, Y.; van Audenaerde, J.R.M.; Vandamme, T.; Croes, L.; Teuwen, L.-A.; Verbruggen, L.; Vanhoutte, G.; Marcq, E.; Verheggen, L.; Le Blon, D.; Peeters, B.; Goossens, M.; Pannus, P.; Ariën, K.K.; Anguille, S.; Janssens, A.; Prenen, H.; Smits, E.L.J.; Vulsteke, C.; Lion, E.; Peeters, M.; Van Dam, P.A. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Humoral and cellular immune responses against SARS-CoV-2 after third dose BNT162b2 following double-dose vaccination with BNT162b2 versus ChAdOx1 in patients with cancer Type University Hospital Antwerp
  Year 2023 Publication Clinical cancer research Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 29 Issue 3 Pages 635-646  
  Keywords University Hospital Antwerp; A1 Journal article; Laboratory for Experimental Hematology (LEH); Center for Oncological Research (CORE)  
  Abstract Purpose: Patients with cancer display reduced humoral responses after double-dose COVID-19 vaccination, whereas their cellular response is more comparable with that in healthy individuals. Recent studies demonstrated that a third vaccination dose boosts these immune responses, both in healthy people and patients with cancer. Because of the availability of many different COVID-19 vaccines, many people have been boosted with a different vaccine fromthe one used for double-dose vaccination. Data on such alternative vaccination schedules are scarce. This prospective study compares a third dose of BNT162b2 after double-dose BNT162b2 (homologous) versus ChAdOx1 (heterologous) vaccination in patients with cancer. Experimental Design: A total of 442 subjects (315 patients and 127 healthy) received a third dose of BNT162b2 (230 homologous vs. 212 heterologous). Vaccine-induced adverse events (AE) were captured up to 7 days after vaccination. Humoral immunity was assessed by SARS-CoV-2 anti-S1 IgG antibody levels and SARSCoV- 2 50% neutralization titers (NT50) against Wuhan and BA.1 Omicron strains. Cellular immunity was examined by analyzing CD4þ and CD8þ T-cell responses against SARS-CoV-2–specific S1 and S2 peptides. Results: Local AEs were more common after heterologous boosting. SARS-CoV-2 anti-S1 IgG antibody levels did not differ significantly between homologous and heterologous boosted subjects [GMT 1,755.90 BAU/mL (95% CI, 1,276.95–2,414.48) vs. 1,495.82 BAU/mL (95% CI, 1,131.48–1,977.46)]. However, homologous- boosted subjects show significantly higher NT50 values against BA.1 Omicron. Subjects receiving heterologous boosting demonstrated increased spike-specific CD8þ T cells, including higher IFNg and TNFa levels. Conclusions: In patients with cancer who received double-dose ChAdOx1, a third heterologous dose of BNT162b2 was able to close the gap in antibody response.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language (up) Wos 000928414200001 Publication Date 2022-11-07  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1078-0432; 1557-3265 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:192500 Serial 9207  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Gebremariam, Y.A.; Dessein, J.; Wondimagegnhu, B.A.; Breusers, M.; Lenaerts, L.; Adgo, E.; Van Passel, S.; Minale, A.S.; Frankl, A. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Listen to the radio and go on field trips : a study on farmers' attributes to opt for extension methods in Northwest Ethiopia Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication AIMS Agriculture and Food Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 9 Issue 1 Pages 3-29  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Pharmacology. Therapy; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Extension professionals are expected to help disseminate agricultural technologies, information, knowledge and skills to farmers. In order to develop valuable and long-lasting extension services, it is essential to understand the methods of extension that farmers find most beneficial. This understanding helps adopt improved practices, overcome barriers, provide targeted interventions and continuously improve agricultural extension programs. Thus, assessing factors affecting farmers' choice of agricultural extension methods is essential for developing extension methods that comply with farmers' needs and socio-economic conditions. Therefore, we analyzed the factors affecting farmers' preferences in extension methods, using cross-sectional data collected from 300 households in two sample districts and 16 Kebelles in Ethiopia between September 2019 and March 2020. Four extension methods, including training, demonstration, office visits and phone calls were considered as outcome variables. We fitted a multivariate probit model to estimate the factors that influence farmers' choice of extension methods. The results of the study showed that the number of dependents in the household head, formal education and membership of Idir (an informal insurance program a community or group runs to meet emergencies) were negatively associated with farmers' choices to participate in different extension methods compared to no extension. On the other hand, the sex of the household head, farm experience, participation in non-farm activities, monetary loan access, owning a mobile phone, radio access and membership of cooperatives were found to have a statistically significant positive impact on farmers' choices of extension methods. Based on these findings, the government and the concerned stakeholders should take farmers' socio-economic and institutional traits into account when selecting and commissioning agricultural extension methods. This could help to develop contextually relevant extension strategies that are more likely to be chosen and appreciated by farmers. Furthermore, such strategies can aid policymakers in designing extension programs that cater to farmers' needs and concerns. In conclusion, farmers' socio-economic and institutional affiliation should be taken into consideration when selecting agricultural extension methods.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language (up) Wos 001124466300001 Publication Date 2023-12-13  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2471-2086 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202154 Serial 9209  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Finizola e Silva, M.; Van Schoubroeck, S.; Cools, J.; Aboge, D.O.; Ouma, M.; Olweny, C.; Van Passel, S. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Local actors' perspectives on sustainable food value chains : evidence from a Q-methodology study in Kenya Type Administrative Services
  Year 2024 Publication Journal of Environmental Studies and Sciences Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 14 Issue 1 Pages 36-51  
  Keywords Administrative Services; A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Governments and international organizations are increasingly determined to create more sustainable food value chains (SFVCs). However, only little empirical evidence is available on how SFVCs are understood. Enquiring African food value chain actors allows gathering valuable insights into their perception of sustainability, which characteristics of sustainable food value chains they prioritize, and which obstacles to a sustainable transformation they identify. By means of a Q-methodology involving interviews with 33 Kenyan respondents, four perspectives were distinguished. The first perspective, “economic productivity and growth,” prioritizes economic growth and has only limited attention to the social dimension of sustainability. The second perspective, “food security and food availability,” believes that ensuring food security should be the key goal of SFVCs. The third perspective, “environment first,” is dedicated to the environmental dimension of sustainability; the perspective implies that protecting natural resources is the primary way to sustain this level of production. The fourth perspective, “transformative knowledge,” entails that by innovating and sharing knowledge, food value chains can become more sustainable in different areas. Overall, this study provides reliable insights into how Kenyan food value chain actors perceive sustainability in their sector and which elements they believe should be prioritized when rethinking food systems. The study results are valuable for policy-making to further define an SFVC in Kenya and to pave the way for a sustainable transformation of the food sector in developing countries.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language (up) Wos 001063371200001 Publication Date 2023-09-11  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2190-6483 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:199200 Serial 9210  
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 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 (up) 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 Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:195257 Serial 9211  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author De Keyzer, M.; Soens, T.; Verbruggen, C. file  isbn
openurl 
  Title Mens en natuur : een geschiedenis Type MA2 Book as author
  Year 2024 Publication Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages 313 p.  
  Keywords MA2 Book as author; History; Centre for Urban History  
  Abstract Onze relatie met de natuur om ons heen is, op zijn zachtst gezegd, ingewikkeld. Mensen gingen niet plots een bedreiging vormen voor het leven op aarde nadat ze er eeuwenlang mee in harmonie hadden geleefd. Verschillende ideeën over de omgang met de natuurlijke omgeving – sommige duurzaam, andere ronduit desastreus – hebben altijd naast elkaar bestaan. We waren er ons al verrassend vroeg van bewust dat ons handelen een nefaste impact kon hebben op de natuur. Maar die bezwaren werden geregeld aan de kant geschoven. Deze inleiding tot de milieugeschiedenis helpt de lezer te begrijpen hoe onze hedendaagse problematische omgang met de natuur en ons milieu tot stand is gekomen. Het is een introductie tot het recente onderzoek naar de relatie tussen mens en natuur doorheen de eeuwen, in de Lage Landen en ver daarbuiten.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language (up) Wos Publication Date  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN ISBN 978-94-014-0395-5 Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205213 Serial 9212  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Li, L.; Lin, Q.; Nijs, I.; De Boeck, H.; Beemster, G.T.S.; Asard, H.; Verbruggen, E. file  url
doi  openurl
  Title More persistent weather causes a pronounced soil microbial legacy but does not impact subsequent plant communities Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2023 Publication The science of the total environment Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 903 Issue Pages 166570-166578  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Integrated Molecular Plant Physiology Research (IMPRES); Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change  
  Abstract A soil history of exposure to extreme weather may impact future plant growth and microbial community assembly. Currently, little is known about whether and how previous precipitation regime (PR)-induced changes in soil microbial communities influence plant and soil microbial community responses to a subsequent PR. We exposed grassland mesocosms to either an ambient PR (1 day wet-dry alternation) or a persistent PR (30 days consecutive wet-dry alternation) for one year. This conditioned soil was then inoculated as a 10 % fraction into 90 % sterilized “native” soil, after which new plant communities were established and subjected to either the ambient or persistent PR for 60 days. We assessed whether past persistent weather-induced changes in soil microbial community composition affect soil microbial and plant community responses to subsequent weather persistence. The historical regimes caused enduring effects on fungal communities and only temporary effects on bacterial communities, but did not trigger soil microbial legacy effects on plant productivity when exposed to either current PR. This study provides experimental evidence for soil legacy of climate persistence on grassland ecosystems in response to subsequent climate persistence, helping to understand and predict the influences of future climate change on soil biota.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language (up) Wos 001116596100001 Publication Date 2023-08-24  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0048-9697; 1879-1026 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:200463 Serial 9213  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Smets, B.; Boschker, H.T.S.; Wetherington, M.T.; Lelong, G.; Hidalgo-Martinez, S.; Polerecky, L.; Nuyts, G.; De Wael, K.; Meysman, F.J.R. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Multi-wavelength Raman microscopy of nickel-based electron transport in cable bacteria Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Frontiers in microbiology Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 15 Issue Pages 1208033-16  
  Keywords A1 Journal article  
  Abstract Cable bacteria embed a network of conductive protein fibers in their cell envelope that efficiently guides electron transport over distances spanning up to several centimeters. This form of long-distance electron transport is unique in biology and is mediated by a metalloprotein with a sulfur-coordinated nickel (Ni) cofactor. However, the molecular structure of this cofactor remains presently unknown. Here, we applied multi-wavelength Raman microscopy to identify cell compounds linked to the unique cable bacterium physiology, combined with stable isotope labeling, and orientation-dependent and ultralow-frequency Raman microscopy to gain insight into the structure and organization of this novel Ni-cofactor. Raman spectra of native cable bacterium filaments reveal vibrational modes originating from cytochromes, polyphosphate granules, proteins, as well as the Ni-cofactor. After selective extraction of the conductive fiber network from the cell envelope, the Raman spectrum becomes simpler, and primarily retains vibrational modes associated with the Ni-cofactor. These Ni-cofactor modes exhibit intense Raman scattering as well as a strong orientation-dependent response. The signal intensity is particularly elevated when the polarization of incident laser light is parallel to the direction of the conductive fibers. This orientation dependence allows to selectively identify the modes that are associated with the Ni-cofactor. We identified 13 such modes, some of which display strong Raman signals across the entire range of applied wavelengths (405–1,064 nm). Assignment of vibrational modes, supported by stable isotope labeling, suggest that the structure of the Ni-cofactor shares a resemblance with that of nickel bis(1,2-dithiolene) complexes. Overall, our results indicate that cable bacteria have evolved a unique cofactor structure that does not resemble any of the known Ni-cofactors in biology.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language (up) Wos 001189511900001 Publication Date 2024-03-08  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1664-302x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205115 Serial 9214  
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 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 (up) 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 Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205117 Serial 9215  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Vasilakou, K.; Billen, P.; Van Passel, S.; Nimmegeers, P. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title A Pareto aggregation approach for environmental-economic multi-objective optimization applied on a second-generation bioethanol production model Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Energy conversion and management Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 303 Issue Pages 118184-11  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)  
  Abstract Multi-objective optimization is an important decision-making tool for energy processes, as multiple targets need to be achieved. These objectives are usually conflicting since a single solution cannot be optimal for all objectives, resulting in a set of Pareto-optimal solutions. Multiple indicators might be available to describe a sustainability objective, such as the environmental impact which is commonly evaluated by performing a life cycle assessment. In this study, Pareto aggregation is proposed as a method which employs a novel multi-objective optimization-based approach as an alternative to the classically used aggregation in life cycle assessment. This method identifies conflicting environmental indicators and performs an aggregation among those that require a trade-off. An environmental-economic optimization of a second-generation bioethanol plant is used to illustrate and evaluate the proposed method. Process parameters from a biochemical conversion pathway flowsheet simulation model are chosen as optimization variables. To reduce the computational time, surrogate models, based on artificial neural networks, are used. Out of the eighteen ReCiPe Midpoint environmental indicators, five were identified as conflicting, resulting in an aggregated environmental objective, which was then traded off with the economic objective function, chosen as the levelized cost of ethanol. Comparison with the widely used single-score EcoIndicator99 showed that the Pareto aggregation method can reduce most of the environmental indicators by up to 6.5%. This research provides an insight on non-redundant objective functions, aiming at reducing the dimensionality of multi-objective optimization problems, while taking into consideration decision-makers’ preferences.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language (up) Wos 001185718400001 Publication Date 2024-02-10  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0196-8904; 1879-2227 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:203046 Serial 9216  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Vallicrosa, H.; Lugli, L.F.; Fuchslueger, L.; Sardans, J.; Ramirez-Rojas, I.; Verbruggen, E.; Grau, O.; Brechet, L.; Peguero, G.; Van Langenhove, L.; Verryckt, L.T.; Terrer, C.; Llusia, J.; Ogaya, R.; Marquez, L.; Roc-Fernandez, P.; Janssens, I.; Penuelas, J. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Phosphorus scarcity contributes to nitrogen limitation in lowland tropical rainforests Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2023 Publication Ecology Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 104 Issue 6 Pages e4049-12  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change  
  Abstract There is increasing evidence to suggest that soil nutrient availability can limit the carbon sink capacity of forests, a particularly relevant issue considering today's changing climate. This question is especially important in the tropics, where most part of the Earth's plant biomass is stored. To assess whether tropical forest growth is limited by soil nutrients and to explore N and P limitations, we analyzed stem growth and foliar elemental composition of the five stem widest trees per plot at two sites in French Guiana after 3 years of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and N + P addition. We also compared the results between potential N-fixer and non-N-fixer species. We found a positive effect of N fertilization on stem growth and foliar N, as well as a positive effect of P fertilization on stem growth, foliar N, and foliar P. Potential N-fixing species had greater stem growth, greater foliar N, and greater foliar P concentrations than non-N-fixers. In terms of growth, there was a negative interaction between N-fixer status, N + P, and P fertilization, but no interaction with N fertilization. Because N-fixing plants do not show to be completely N saturated, we do not anticipate N providing from N-fixing plants would supply non-N-fixers. Although the soil-age hypothesis only anticipates P limitation in highly weathered systems, our results for stem growth and foliar elemental composition indicate the existence of considerable N and P co-limitation, which is alleviated in N-fixing plants. The evidence suggests that certain mechanisms invest in N to obtain the scarce P through soil phosphatases, which potentially contributes to the N limitation detected by this study.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language (up) Wos 000977760600001 Publication Date 2023-04-11  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0012-9658; 1939-9170 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:196804 Serial 9218  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Clavel, J. url  openurl
  Title Plant-mycorrhizal interactions and their role in plant invasions in mountains Type Doctoral thesis
  Year 2024 Publication Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages 182 p.  
  Keywords Doctoral thesis; Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change  
  Abstract Non-native species invasions are one of the most impactful drivers of biodiversity and ecosystem services loss worldwide. One aspect of plant species invasion, which is only recently starting to be recognized as a determinant of invasion success, is the symbiosis between plant and mycorrhizal fungi. Here, I focus on anthropogenic disturbance in mountain ecosystems and its impact on plant communities and mycorrhizal fungi to answer how these communities are impacted by disturbance and whether non-native plants can benefit to establish and spread. To this end I used a combination of different approaches: 1) repeated surveys of plants and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi along disturbed roadsides in the mountains of Norway, 2) combining a global dataset of native and non-native plants along mountain roads with a database associating plants with their mycorrhizal types, and 3) an in-situ experiment measuring non-native plant success and changes in fungal community following different types of disturbances. Through these methods, I could assess the effects of anthropogenic disturbance on mycorrhizal symbiosis and non-native plant species at multiple scales and resolutions. We found that road disturbance has a globally consistent effect on mycorrhizal types in mountain systems, as plants associated with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi were more abundant following disturbance. Conversely, vegetation associated with either ectomycorrhizal (EcM) or ericoid mycorrhizal (ErM) fungi was less abundant in disturbed sites. In the regional study, AM fungi were most abundant and diverse in the roots of plant communities affected by road disturbance. Non-native plants were also restricted to these disturbed sites. The experimental results showed that physical disturbance and nutrient addition have negative effects on EcM fungi and positive effects on fungal pathogens, and facilitate non-native plant success. Our results show that anthropogenic disturbance does have an effect on mycorrhizal fungi that in turn impacts the distribution of plant species in disturbed mountain systems. The resulting shift in mycorrhizal fungi benefiting AM fungi and AM plant species could have implications for non-native plant invasions. Indeed, we know that non-native plants predominantly form associations with AM fungi. Therefore, anthropogenic disturbance can facilitate non-native plant success through disruption of the native fungal communities, and especially so in high elevation and cold climate regions which are naturally less dominated by AM plants. I believe this highlights the importance of mycorrhizal symbiosis in understanding plant invasions and emphasizes the importance of monitoring sources of anthropogenic disturbance in mountains to prevent future establishment of non-native plants.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language (up) Wos Publication Date  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:204154 Serial 9219  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Raes, A.; Minja, A.C.; Ag, K.R.; Verbruggen, S.W. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Recent advances in metal-doped defective TiO₂ for photocatalytic CO₂ conversion Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Current Opinion in Chemical Engineering Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 44 Issue Pages 101013-11  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology  
  Abstract Introducing defects in TiO2-based photocatalytic materials is a promising strategy for improving light-driven CO2 reduction. However, defects such as oxygen vacancies are generally unstable. As a solution and to further enhance the photocatalytic activity, metal doping has been applied. This mini review aims to summarize recent progress in this particular field. Herein, we have classified metal-doped architectures into three different categories: single metal doping, alloy- and co-doping, and doping of morphologically nanoengineered TiO2−x substrates. The direct relationship between specific metals and product selectivity remains complex, as selectivity can vary significantly among seemingly similar materials. However, numerous methods do show promise in fine-tuning selectivity towards either CO or CH4. In terms of photocatalytic turnover, remarkable yields have been reported in isolated reports, but insufficient experimental data and divergent reaction conditions hamper a true comparison. This puts an emphasis on the need for standardized activity testing.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language (up) Wos Publication Date 2024-03-16  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2211-3398 ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:204462 Serial 9221  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Vermeulen, S.; Cools, J.; Staes, J.; Van Passel, S. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title A review of economic assessments of drought risk reduction approaches in agriculture Type Administrative Services
  Year 2023 Publication Journal of environmental management Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 345 Issue Pages 118909-118912  
  Keywords Administrative Services; A1 Journal article; Economics; Ecosphere; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Due to climate change, the frequency and intensity of droughts are expected to increase. To improve resilience to droughts, proactive drought management is essential. Economic assessments are typically included to decide on the drought risk-reducing investments to make. The choice of both methods and scope of economic assessments influences the outcome, and thus the investment choice. This paper aims to identify how comprehensively economic assessments are applied in practice. Through a systematic literature review, 14 actual economic assessments are identified and their methods are evaluated based on seven criteria for economic assessments as derived from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The results show that in practice, economic assessments rarely address all criteria. Applying a limited number of criteria reduces the scope and narrows the approach, possibly leading to the underestimation of drought risk reduction approaches’ related benefits. Applying the seven criteria in practice will improve the results of economic assessments of drought risk reduction measures, allowing for optimal investment selection. Based on the different criteria, a Framework for Economic Assessments of Drought Risk-Reducing Applications (FEADRRA) is proposed. Applying the criteria of the framework can support decision-makers in drought risk management and in carrying out the most fitting drought interventions.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language (up) Wos 001080044100001 Publication Date 2023-08-31  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0301-4797 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:199661 Serial 9222  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Okamura, I.; Van Passel, S.; Fabri, C.; Senda, T. url  doi
openurl 
  Title A Ricardian analysis of climate change impacts on Japan's agriculture : accounting for solar radiation Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2023 Publication Climate change economics Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 14 Issue 4 Pages 2350022-2350025  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract This study evaluates the effects of climate change on the net revenue of farmers in Japan. We adopted the Ricardian model, which implicitly accounts for farmers’ full adaptation. The main findings of this study are as follows. First, the Ricardian regression shows that changes in temperature significantly impact farmers’ net revenue. In contrast, changes in precipitation have limited effects on farmers’ net revenue. The results of future predictions showed that the effects of climate change are positive across the country, with varying degrees between north and south. These results are more optimistic than those in the existing literature, which frequently reveal negative climate change impacts in southern Japan. However, it should be noted that this model assumes full adaptation and does not consider the transition costs of farmers, and understanding the actual adaptive measures is an important remaining issue.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language (up) Wos 001075308800001 Publication Date 2023-08-06  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2010-0086 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:199659 Serial 9223  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Clavel, J.; Lembrechts, J.; Lenoir, J.; Haider, S.; McDougall, K.; Nunez, M.A.; Alexander, J.; Barros, A.; Milbau, A.; Seipel, T.; Pauchard, A.; Fuentes-Lillo, E.; Backes, A.R.; Dar, P.; Reshi, Z.A.; Aleksanyan, A.; Zong, S.; Sierra, J.R.A.; Aschero, V.; Verbruggen, E.; Nijs, I. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Roadside disturbance promotes plant communities with arbuscular mycorrhizal associations in mountain regions worldwide Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Ecography Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages e07051-14  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change  
  Abstract We assessed the impact of road disturbances on the dominant mycorrhizal types in ecosystems at the global level and how this mechanism can potentially lead to lasting plant community changes. We used a database of coordinated plant community surveys following mountain roads from 894 plots in 11 mountain regions across the globe in combination with an existing database of mycorrhizal-plant associations in order to approximate the relative abundance of mycorrhizal types in natural and disturbed environments. Our findings show that roadside disturbance promotes the cover of plants associated with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi. This effect is especially strong in colder mountain environments and in mountain regions where plant communities are dominated by ectomycorrhizal (EcM) or ericoid-mycorrhizal (ErM) associations. Furthermore, non-native plant species, which we confirmed to be mostly AM plants, are more successful in environments dominated by AM associations. These biogeographical patterns suggest that changes in mycorrhizal types could be a crucial factor in the worldwide impact of anthropogenic disturbances on mountain ecosystems. Indeed, roadsides foster AM-dominated systems, where AM-fungi might aid AM-associated plant species while potentially reducing the biotic resistance against invasive non-native species, often also associated with AM networks. Restoration efforts in mountain ecosystems will have to contend with changes in the fundamental make-up of EcM- and ErM plant communities induced by roadside disturbance.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language (up) Wos 001198654900001 Publication Date 2024-04-09  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0906-7590 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205605 Serial 9224  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Vervoort, P.; Grymonprez, H.; Bouckaert, N.; Derijcke, D.; De Wael, W. isbn  openurl
  Title Ruimte en gezondheidsongelijkheid aanpakken : een kwestie van sociale rechtvaardigheid Type H2 Book chapter
  Year 2023 Publication Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages  
  Keywords H2 Book chapter; Sociology; Law; Centre for Research on Environmental and Social Change  
  Abstract De bijdrage gaat dieper in op de relatie tussen ruimte en gezondheidsongelijkheid, bespreekt gezondheidsongelijkheid vanuit een rechtenperspectief en illustreert een aantal praktijken waarin de aandacht voor ruimte en gezondheidsongelijkheid samenkomen.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language (up) Wos Publication Date  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN ISBN 978-2-509-04324-5 Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:200534 Serial 9225  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Vetters, J.; Thomassen, G.; Van Passel, S. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Sailing through end-of-life challenges : a comprehensive review for offshore wind Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Renewable and sustainable energy reviews Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 199 Issue Pages 114486-16  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Over the past thirty years, European offshore wind farm development surged, yet end-of-life and decommissioning considerations were overshadowed by initial climate and energy security objectives during design and construction. As the first major projects near their final decade, numerous unanswered questions persist. Through a comprehensive literature review, this study identifies, maps, and evaluates challenges across technical, economic, environmental, social, and policy dimensions spanning five end-of-life phases: planning, dismantling, transport and logistics, waste management, and site recovery. Examining 42 publications reveals 46 distinct challenges affecting stakeholders such as the end-of-life supply chain, policy makers, and society. While 33% of the challenges manifested in the technical dimension, 48% of the challenges covered the planning phase. Notably, the economic challenge of vessel cost and availability was raised most often. Less-explored challenges underscore the importance of consideration before the end-of-life phase intensifies. The study illustrates the complex interconnection of numerous end-of-life challenges across phases, dimensions, and disciplines, emphasizing the imperative of addressing bottlenecks in a comprehensive and integrated manner. The results of this study help steering future research, while also improving awareness of challenges for stakeholders, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts between governmental bodies and industry stakeholders to address imminent challenges through transparent guidelines, data exchange, and circular design principles. The novelty of this study lies in its holistic, multidisciplinary approach, systematic framework for identifying challenges, and critical perspective unveiling interconnectedness.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language (up) Wos Publication Date 2024-05-02  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1364-0321; 1879-0690 ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205652 Serial 9226  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Labey, E.; Fonteyn, F.; Wilmot, A.; El Amouri, S.; Gjurova, A.; De Cock, W.; De Wael, F. isbn  openurl
  Title Shaping utopia through law: how the law does (not) provide an answer to societal challenges Type ME2 Book as editor or co-editor
  Year 2023 Publication Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages 210 p.  
  Keywords ME2 Book as editor or co-editor; Law; Government and Law  
  Abstract  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language (up) Wos Publication Date  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN ISBN 978-94-000-1654-5 Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:198938 Serial 9227  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Le Noir de Carlan, C.; Kaarlejarvi, E.; De Tender, C.; Heinecke, T.; Eskelinen, A.; Verbruggen, E. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Shifts in mycorrhizal types of fungi and plants in response to fertilisation, warming and herbivory in a tundra grassland Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication New phytologist Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change  
  Abstract Climate warming is severely affecting high-latitude regions. In the Arctic tundra, it may lead to enhanced soil nutrient availability and interact with simultaneous changes in grazing pressure. It is presently unknown how these concurrently occurring global change drivers affect the root-associated fungal communities, particularly mycorrhizal fungi, and whether changes coincide with shifts in plant mycorrhizal types. We investigated changes in root-associated fungal communities and mycorrhizal types of the plant community in a 10-yr factorial experiment with warming, fertilisation and grazing exclusion in a Finnish tundra grassland. The strongest determinant of the root-associated fungal community was fertilisation, which consistently increased potential plant pathogen abundance and had contrasting effects on the different mycorrhizal fungal types, contingent on other treatments. Plant mycorrhizal types went through pronounced shifts, with warming favouring ecto- and ericoid mycorrhiza but not under fertilisation and grazing exclusion. Combination of all treatments resulted in dominance by arbuscular mycorrhizal plants. However, shifts in plant mycorrhizal types vs fungi were mostly but not always aligned in their magnitude and direction. Our results show that our ability to predict shifts in symbiotic and antagonistic fungal communities depend on simultaneous consideration of multiple global change factors that jointly alter plant and fungal communities.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language (up) Wos 001220955000001 Publication Date 2024-05-14  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0028-646x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:206016 Serial 9228  
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 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 (up) 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 Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205281 Serial 9229  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Metze, D.; Schnecker, J.; Le Noir de Carlan, C.; Bhattarai, B.; Verbruggen, E.; Ostonen, I.; Janssens, I.A.; Sigurdsson, B.D.; Hausmann, B.; Kaiser, C.; Richter, A. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Soil warming increases the number of growing bacterial taxa but not their growth rates Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Science Advances Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 10 Issue 8 Pages eadk6295-14  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change  
  Abstract Soil microorganisms control the fate of soil organic carbon. Warming may accelerate their activities putting large carbon stocks at risk of decomposition. Existing knowledge about microbial responses to warming is based on community-level measurements, leaving the underlying mechanisms unexplored and hindering predictions. In a long-term soil warming experiment in a Subarctic grassland, we investigated how active populations of bacteria and archaea responded to elevated soil temperatures (+6°C) and the influence of plant roots, by measuring taxon-specific growth rates using quantitative stable isotope probing and 18 O water vapor equilibration. Contrary to prior assumptions, increased community growth was associated with a greater number of active bacterial taxa rather than generally faster-growing populations. We also found that root presence enhanced bacterial growth at ambient temperatures but not at elevated temperatures, indicating a shift in plant-microbe interactions. Our results, thus, reveal a mechanism of how soil bacteria respond to warming that cannot be inferred from community-level measurements.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language (up) Wos Publication Date 2024-02-23  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2375-2548 ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:204459 Serial 9230  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Kummamuru, N.B.; Ciocarlan, R.-G.; Houlleberghs, M.; Martens, J.; Breynaert, E.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Cool, P.; Perreault, P. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Surface modification of mesostructured cellular foam to enhance hydrogen storage in binary THF/H₂ clathrate hydrate Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Sustainable energy & fuels Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages 1-15  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Laboratory of adsorption and catalysis (LADCA)  
  Abstract This study introduces solid-state tuning of a mesostructured cellular foam (MCF) to enhance hydrogen (H-2) storage in clathrate hydrates. Grafting of promoter-like molecules (e.g., tetrahydrofuran) at the internal surface of the MCF resulted in a substantial improvement in the kinetics of formation of binary H-2-THF clathrate hydrate. Identification of the confined hydrate as sII clathrate hydrate and enclathration of H-2 in its small cages was performed using XRD and high-pressure H-1 NMR spectroscopy respectively. Experimental findings show that modified MCF materials exhibit a similar to 1.3 times higher H-2 storage capacity as compared to non-modified MCF under the same conditions (7 MPa, 265 K, 100% pore volume saturation with a 5.56 mol% THF solution). The enhancement in H-2 storage is attributed to the hydrophobicity originating from grafting organic molecules onto pristine MCF, thereby influencing water interactions and fostering an environment conducive to H-2 enclathration. Gas uptake curves indicate an optimal tuning point for higher H-2 storage, favoring a lower density of carbon per nm(2). Furthermore, a direct correlation emerges between higher driving forces and increased H-2 storage capacity, culminating at 0.52 wt% (46.77 mmoles of H-2 per mole of H2O and 39.78% water-to-hydrate conversions) at 262 K for the modified MCF material with fewer carbons per nm(2). Notably, the substantial H-2 storage capacity achieved without energy-intensive processes underscores solid-state tuning's potential for H-2 storage in the synthesized hydrates. This study evaluated two distinct kinetic models to describe hydrate growth in MCF. The multistage kinetic model showed better predictive capabilities for experimental data and maintained a low average absolute deviation. This research provides valuable insights into augmenting H-2 storage capabilities and holds promising implications for future advancements.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language (up) Wos 001208396000001 Publication Date 2024-04-15  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205764 Serial 9232  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Finizola e Silva, M.; Cools, J.; Cools, J.; Van Passel, S. url  doi
openurl 
  Title A systematic review identifying the drivers and barriers to the adoption of climate-smart agriculture by smallholder farmers in Africa Type Administrative Services
  Year 2024 Publication Frontiers in environmental economics Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 3 Issue Pages 1356335-14  
  Keywords Administrative Services; A3 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Climate change impact, food security concerns, and greenhouse gas emissions are pressuring agricultural production systems in developing countries. There is a need for a shift toward sustainable food systems. One of the concepts introduced to drive this shift is climate-smart agriculture (CSA), endorsed by international organizations to address multifaceted challenges. Despite widespread attention and support, the adoption of CSA among African farmers remains low. This systematic literature review aims to shed light on the factors influencing CSA adoption amongst African farmers. Within the articles identified as relevant, over 50 CSA practices and more than 40 factors influencing CSA adoption were distinguished. These influencing factors can be categorized as personal, farm- related, financial, environmental, and informational. The focus of this review is to identify and explain the overall impact (positive, negative, or mixed) of these factors on CSA adoption. Overall, many factors result in mixed effects, only some factors have an unambiguous positive or negative effect on CSA adoption. For instance, educational level emerges as a key personal factor, positively impacting CSA adoption, along with positive influences from farmers’ experience and farm size among farm-related factors. Financial factors reveal distinct patterns, with income from farming and access to credit positively influencing adoption, while off-farm income exhibits a negative effect. Environmental factors, though less researched, indicate positive impacts related to changes in rainfall patterns, temperature, and droughts. Lastly, informational factors consistently exhibit a positive effect on CSA adoption, with training, access to extension, group memberships, climate information, and CSA awareness playing crucial roles. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers seeking to enhance CSA adoption in Africa, offering a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted dynamics at play.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language (up) Wos Publication Date 2024-04-03  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205017 Serial 9233  
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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 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 (up) 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 Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205493 Serial 9234  
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