“Trace elements and individual particle analysis of atmospheric aerosols from the Antarctic peninsula”. Artaxo P, Rabello MLC, Maenhaut W, Van Grieken R, Tellus 44b, 318 (1992)
Keywords: A3 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
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“Trace elements in the atmospheric aerosols and soils in and around Recife, N.E. Brasil”. Costa Dantas C, Moura de Amorim W, Van 't dack L, Van Grieken R, Ciencia e cultura 32, 1525 (1980)
Keywords: A3 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
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“Trace metal analysis of sediments and particulate matter in sea water by energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence”. Vanderstappen M, Van Grieken R, Fresenius' Zeitschrift für analytische Chemie 282, 25 (1976). http://doi.org/10.1007/BF00443774
Abstract: The capability of energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence was investigated for fast and simple chemical analysis of trace elements in sediments and particulate matter in sea water. Nuclepore 0.4 μm pore-size membranes are recommended as optimal filters for a straightforward collection of suspended material. The collection of suspended trace metals by filtration seemed to give a sufficiently homogeneous filter load (s% <2.5). Data are presented on the concentrations of K, Ca, Ti, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Br, Pb, Rb and Sr with a fair precision (s% < 5.6) and accuracy.
Keywords: A3 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1007/BF00443774
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“Trace metal analysis of water containing humic substances by X-ray fluorescence”. Vanderborght BM, Van Grieken RE, International journal of environmental analytical chemistry 5, 221 (1978). http://doi.org/10.1080/03067317808071147
Abstract: Chelation by oxine followed by adsorption on activated carbon results in the efficient collection of many trace metal ions, independent of the trace metal concentration and of high alkali and alkaline earth ion abundances. Preconcentration factors around 10000 are often achieved. When this preconcentration procedure is combined with energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence, accurate and precise analysis can be carried out, as was proven in several experiments. The technique can also be applied for the determination of divalent ions in natural waters containing up to 10 ppm of humic substances. Trivalent ions can quantitatively be collected from natural water provided suKicient activated carbon is added. Omitting the oxine chelation prior to the activated carbon adsorption step still results in collection of a sometimes important fraction of the trace metal ions from natural waters. This is related to organically bound or colloidal forms of the trace metals.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1080/03067317808071147
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“Trace metal fractionation effects between sea water and aerosols from bubble bursting”. Van Grieken RE, Johansson TB, Winchester JW, Journal de recherches atmosphériques 8, 611 (1974)
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
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“Trace metals in the St-Louis aerosol”. Winchester JW, Meinert DL, Nelson JW, Johansson TB, Van Grieken RE, Orsini C, Kaufmann HC, Akselsson R page 385 (1975).
Keywords: H3 Book chapter; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
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“Tracing the metal pollution history of the Tisza River through the analysis of a sediment depth profile”. Nguyen HL, Braun M, Szaloki I, Baeyens W, Van Grieken R, Leermakers M, Water, air and soil pollution 200, 119 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1007/S11270-008-9898-2
Abstract: The vertical profiles of 20 major and trace metals were investigated along a 180-cm-long sediment core, which was sampled at Kiss-Janosne-Holt Tisza, an oxbow lake located in the upper part of the Tisza River in Hungary. The vertical profiles showed sharp peaks at different depths, reflecting historical pollution events and unusual changes of river water characteristics. Five different groups of metals, containing metals which were strongly correlated and showing a similar behaviour, could be distinguished by factor analysis. Six areas, with variable degrees and types of contamination, were classified in the sediment core with cluster analysis. The most polluted sections were found in the upper 50-cm part (significantly contaminated by Cu, Zn, Pb, Cd and Hg) and the deeper 100120-cm part (characterised by high concentrations of metals associated with mining activities, such as Fe and Mn, as well as Cu, Zn and Pb). In recent years, important pollution events, such as the one which took place in March of 2000, were the reason for pollution of the upper sediment layers, whereas mining activities during the last century were responsible for the pollution of the deeper core sections.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1007/S11270-008-9898-2
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“Transition thinking and business model innovation-towards a transformative business model and new role for the reuse centers of Limburg, Belgium”. Gorissen L, Vrancken K, Manshoven S, Sustainability 8 (2016). http://doi.org/10.3390/SU8020112
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
DOI: 10.3390/SU8020112
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“Transitioning from mesophilic to thermophilic nitrification: shaping a niche for archaeal ammonia oxidizers”. Vandekerckhove T, Courtens ENP, Prat D, Vilchez-Vargas R, Vital M, Pieper DH, Meerbergen K, Lievens B, Boon N, Vlaeminck SE, , 9 p.
T2 (2016)
Keywords: P3 Proceeding; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
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“Transport and deposition of airborne pollutants in exhibition areas located in historical buildings: study in Wawel Castle Museum in Cracow, Poland”. Worobiec A, Samek J, Krata A, van Meel K, Krupińska B, Stefaniak EA, Karaszkiewicz P, Van Grieken R, Journal of cultural heritage 11, 354 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.CULHER.2009.11.009
Abstract: Historical buildings and castles that have been turned nowadays into museums, as an exhibition area for precious cultural heritage (CH) items, need more attention since they are CH objects by themselves. Moreover, the preservation techniques require often, significant interventions; however such changes are not always possible or are very limited. The aim of the present study was to investigate the influence of outdoor air pollution on the composition of particulate matter and gases inside the museum of Wawel Castle in Cracow, Poland. During this study a combination of micro and trace analysis techniques were applied, including energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) and electron probe microanalysis (EPMA). An intensive transport of air pollutants coupled with accumulation of the particles inside the museum was noticed (considerably higher in winter than summer). A high content of carbon and organic matter agglomerated with inorganic particles was determined. Those particles are of special concern because of their adhesive properties and reactivity. It was also noted that the conditions inside the museum favour the reaction of the particles with gaseous pollutants. It was especially the case for nitrate particles.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP)
DOI: 10.1016/J.CULHER.2009.11.009
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“Transport and fractionation of Pb in river sediments from the Indian sub-continent”. Subramanian V, Van Grieken R, Van 't dack L, Journal of the Geological Society of India 30, 217 (1987)
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
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“Trend analysis of the published concentrations of heavy metals in aerosols above the North Sea and the English Channel for the period 1971-1994”. Hoornaert S, Treiger B, Van Grieken R, Laane R, Environmental reviews 7, 191 (1999)
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
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“Ultra-thin window electron probe microanalysis of suspended particles in tributaries of Lake Baikal, Siberia”. Semenov MY, Spolnik Z, Granina L, Van Grieken R, International journal of environmental analytical chemistry 85, 377 (2005). http://doi.org/10.1080/03067310500053944
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1080/03067310500053944
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“Ultrastructural localization of aluminium in liver of aluminium maltol-treated rabbits by laser microprobe mass analysis”. Vandeputte D, Van Grieken RE, Jacob WA, Savory J, Bertholf RL, Wills MR, Biomedical and environmental mass spectrometry 18, 598 (1989). http://doi.org/10.1002/BMS.1200180815
Abstract: By means of laser microprobe mass analysis (LAMMA), we have studied the ultrastructural localization of aluminium in livers of aluminium maltol-treated rabbits. This animal model was developed to study long-term aluminium toxicity using systemic (intravenous) administration of aluminium. We could only detect aluminium in electron-dense inclusion bodies found in large, sometimes multinucleated cells. These results prove that the actual observation of aluminium deposits in liver with LAMMA gives more information than bulk analysis and can be very useful to explore mechanisms of toxicity.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1002/BMS.1200180815
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“Ultrastructural localization of aluminum in patients with dialysis-associated osteomalacia”. Verbueken AH, van de Vijver FL, Van Grieken RE, Paulus GJ, Visser WJ, d'Haese P, de Broe ME, Clinical chemistry : international journal of laboratory medicine and molecular diagnostics 30, 763 (1984)
Abstract: Using laser microprobe mass analysis, we studied the ultrastructural localization of aluminum in liver and bone tissue of chronic-hemodialysis patients with proven aluminum-induced osteomalacia. In the liver, aluminum was observed to be almost exclusively associated with iron. Detectable aluminum and large amounts of iron were found in lysosomes of both hepatocytes and Kupffer cells. In bone, aluminum was localized at the osteoid/calcified-bone interface and also was associated with iron in some cases.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Pharmacology. Therapy; Pathophysiology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP)
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“Unconventional microanalysis for low-Z, volatile and organic aerosol compounds”. Worobiec A, de Hoog J, Osán J, Szalóki I, Joos P, Van Grieken R, Journal of aerosol science 31, 384 (2000)
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP); AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
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“Uncoupling the solids retention times of flocs and granules in mainstream deammonification : a screen as effective out-selection tool for nitrite oxidizing bacteria”. Han M, Vlaeminck SE, Al-Omari A, Wett B, Bott C, Murthy S, De Clippeleir H, Bioresource technology 221, 195 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.BIORTECH.2016.08.115
Abstract: This study focused on a physical separator in the form of a screen to out-select nitrite oxidizing bacteria (NOB) for mainstream sewage treatment. This separation relied on the principle that the NOB prefer to grow in flocs, while anammox bacteria (AnAOB) reside in granules. Two types of screens (vacuum and vibrating) were tested for separating these fractions. The vibrating screen was preferred due to more moderate normal forces and additional tangential forces, better balancing retention efficiency of AnAOB granules (41% of the AnAOB activity) and washout of NOB (92% activity washout). This operation resulted in increased NOB out-selection (AerAOB/NOB ratio of 2.3) and a total nitrogen removal efficiency of 70% at influent COD/N ratio of 1.4. An effluent total nitrogen concentration <10 mg N/L was achieved using this novel approach combining biological selection with physical separation, opening up the path towards energy positive sewage treatment. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
DOI: 10.1016/J.BIORTECH.2016.08.115
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“Understanding air-tight case environments at the National Museum of the American Indian (Smithsonian Institution) by SPME-GC-MS analysis”. Alvarez-Martin A, McHugh K, Martin C, Kavich G, Kaczkowski R, Journal Of Cultural Heritage 44, 38 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.CULHER.2020.01.004
Abstract: Some volatile organic compounds (VOCs), generated and accumulated in exhibition cases, are capable of inducing degradation in historical artifacts. In this context, it is of special importance to distinguish between VOCs emitted by the construction materials and/or the historical objects, with the ultimate goal of proposing an appropriate mitigation strategy. To pursue this goal, a comprehensive analysis based on solid phase microextraction (SPME) coupled to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) has been optimized. The sampling setup used in this study does not require any modification of the exhibition design, and the testing remained nearly invisible and unobtrusive to museum visitors. This methodology has been applied to an issue encountered at the National Museum of the American Indian (Smithsonian Institution), where an unpleasant smell was detected in airtight exhibition cases already on display containing sensitive historical objects. The analysis of the volatiles emitted by construction materials allowed for identification of characteristic markers emitted by each material, and the ability to identify their overall contribution in the exhibition case. Via this method, SPME-GC-MS confirmed via the detection of some specific markers that the unpleasant smell was released by one of the construction materials and had accumulated in the exhibition case. In addition, due to the measurements taken in different positions around the exhibition cases, results were useful to point out the range of efficiency of the sorbent material placed in some of the exhibition cases as a first attempt of mitigation technique. (C) 2020 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Art; History; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 3.1
DOI: 10.1016/J.CULHER.2020.01.004
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“Understanding and optimizing Evolon®, CR for varnish removal from oil paintings”. Baij L, Liu C, Buijs J, Alvarez Martin A, Westert D, Raven L, Geels N, Noble P, Sprakel J, Keune K, Heritage science 9, 155 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1186/S40494-021-00627-9
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Antwerp X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy (AXIS)
DOI: 10.1186/S40494-021-00627-9
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“Understanding the mechanisms of how poly aluminium chloride inhibits short-chain fatty acids production from anaerobic fermentation of waste activated sludge”. Chen Y, Wu Y, Wang D, Li H, Wang Q, Liu Y, Peng L, Yang Q, Li X, Zeng G, Chen Y, Chemical engineering journal 334, 1351 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.CEJ.2017.11.064
Abstract: Poly aluminum chloride (PAC) is accumulated in waste activated sludge at high levels. However, details of how PAC affects short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) production from anaerobic sludge fermentation has not been documented. This work therefore aims to fill this knowledge gap by analyzing the impact of PAC on the aggregate of sludge flocs, disruption of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), and the bio-processes of hydrolysis, acid-ogenesis, and methanogenesis. The relationship between SCFA production and different aluminum species (i.e., Ala, Alb, and Alc) was also identified by controlling different OH/Al ratio and pH in different fermentation systems. Experimental results showed that with the increase of PAC addition from 0 to 40 mg Al per gram of total suspended solids, SCFA yield decreased from 212.2 to 138.4 mg COD/g volatile suspended solids. Mechanism exploration revealed that PAC benefited the aggregates of sludge flocs and caused more loosely-and tightly-bound extracellular polymeric substances remained in sludge cells. Besides, it was found that the hydrolysis, acidiogenesis, and methanogenesis processes were all inhibited by PAC. Although three types of Al species, i.e., Ala (Al monomers, dimer, and trimer), Alb (Al-13(AlO4Al12(OH)(24)(H2O) 7+ 12), and Alc (Al polymer molecular weight normally larger than 3000 Da), were co-existed in fermentation systems, their impacts on SCFA production were different. No correlation was found between SCFA and Ala, whereas SCFA production decreased with the contents of Alb and Alc. Compared with Alb, Alc was the major contributor to the decreased SCFA production ( R-2 = 0.5132 vs R-2 = 0.98). This is the first report revealing the underlying mechanism of how PAC affects SCFA production and identifying the contribution of different Al species to SCFA inhibition.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
DOI: 10.1016/J.CEJ.2017.11.064
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“Understanding ultrafine particles dynamics within a one km urban grid”. Mishra VK, Dons E, Panis LI, Frijns E, van Poppel M, Berghmans P, Bleux N, Wuyts K, Samson R, (2010)
Keywords: P3 Proceeding; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
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“Uneven distribution of inorganic pollutants in marine air originating from ocean-going ships”. Bencs L, Horemans B, Buczyńska AJ, Van Grieken R, Environmental pollution 222, 226 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ENVPOL.2016.12.052
Abstract: The distribution of mass, water-soluble inorganic salts and mineral elements of size-segregated aerosols (PM1, PM2.5-1 and PM10-2.5), precursor gaseous pollutants, black carbon, and nanoparticles (10-300 nm size range) at the Southern Bight of the North Sea has been studied. The concentrations of air pollutants peaked over shipping lanes, open-water anchorage areas and frequently navigated waters, due to the presence of mobile emission sources. A considerable decrease in air pollutant levels was seen when diverting from these marine areas towards remote or coastal banks. These findings showed the rapid dispersion of pollutants in the marine air. The nano-aerosol count, originating from ocean-going ships, peaked at lower average aerodynamic diameters (e.g., approximate to 28 nm) than those, observed from low displacement vessels (45-50 nm, e.g., for fishing boats). The average diameter of nano-PM depended also on weather conditions, e.g., it was higher (approximate to 50 nm) in air of higher humidity. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVPOL.2016.12.052
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“Universal natural shapes : from unifying shape description to simple methods for shape analysis and boundary value problems”. Gielis J, Caratelli D, Fougerolle Y, Ricci PE, Tavkelidze I, Gerats T, PLoS ONE 7, e29324 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0029324
Abstract: Gielis curves and surfaces can describe a wide range of natural shapes and they have been used in various studies in biology and physics as descriptive tool. This has stimulated the generalization of widely used computational methods. Here we show that proper normalization of the Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm allows for efficient and robust reconstruction of Gielis curves, including self-intersecting and asymmetric curves, without increasing the overall complexity of the algorithm. Then, we show how complex curves of k-type can be constructed and how solutions to the Dirichlet problem for the Laplace equation on these complex domains can be derived using a semi-Fourier method. In all three methods, descriptive and computational power and efficiency is obtained in a surprisingly simple way.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0029324
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“Unlocking the full potential of voltammetric data analysis : a novel peak recognition approach for (bio)analytical applications”. Van Echelpoel R, de Jong M, Daems D, van Espen P, De Wael K, Talanta 233, 122605 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.TALANTA.2021.122605
Abstract: Bridging the gap between complex signal data output and clear interpretation by non-expert end-users is a major challenge many scientists face when converting their scientific technology into a real-life application. Currently, pattern recognition algorithms are the most frequently encountered signal data interpretation algorithms to close this gap, not in the least because of their straight-forward implementation via convenient software packages. Paradoxically, just because their implementation is so straight-forward, it becomes cumbersome to integrate the expert's domain-specific knowledge. In this work, a novel signal data interpretation approach is presented that uses this domain-specific knowledge as its fundament, thereby fully exploiting the unique expertise of the scientist. The new approach applies data preprocessing in an innovative way that transcends its usual purpose and is easy to translate into a software application. Multiple case studies illustrate the straight-forward application of the novel approach. Ultimately, the approach is highly suited for integration in various (bio)analytical applications that require interpretation of signal data.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 4.162
DOI: 10.1016/J.TALANTA.2021.122605
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“Unraveling the effect of the aptamer complementary element on the performance of duplexed aptamers : a thermodynamic study”. Dillen A, Vandezande W, Daems D, Lammertyn J, Analytical And Bioanalytical Chemistry 413, 4739 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1007/S00216-021-03444-Y
Abstract: Duplexed aptamers (DAs) are widespread aptasensor formats that simultaneously recognize and signal the concentration of target molecules. They are composed of an aptamer and aptamer complementary element (ACE) which consists of a short oligonucleotide that partially inhibits the aptamer sequence. Although the design principles to engineer DAs are straightforward, the tailored development of DAs for a particular target is currently based on trial and error due to limited knowledge of how the ACE sequence affects the final performance of DA biosensors. Therefore, we have established a thermodynamic model describing the influence of the ACE on the performance of DAs applied in equilibrium assays and demonstrated that this relationship can be described by the binding strength between the aptamer and ACE. To validate our theoretical findings, the model was applied to the 29-mer anti-thrombin aptamer as a case study, and an experimental relation between the aptamer-ACE binding strength and performance of DAs was established. The obtained results indicated that our proposed model could accurately describe the effect of the ACE sequence on the performance of the established DAs for thrombin detection, applied for equilibrium assays. Furthermore, to characterize the binding strength between the aptamer and ACEs evaluated in this work, a set of fitting equations was derived which enables thermodynamic characterization of DNA-based interactions through thermal denaturation experiments, thereby overcoming the limitations of current predictive software and chemical denaturation experiments. Altogether, this work encourages the development, characterization, and use of DAs in the field of biosensing.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 3.431
DOI: 10.1007/S00216-021-03444-Y
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“Unveiling the binding mode of perfluorooctanoic acid to human serum albumin”. Maso L, Trande M, Liberi S, Moro G, Daems E, Linciano S, Sobott F, Covaceuszach S, Cassetta A, Fasolato S, Moretto LM, De Wael K, Cendron L, Angelini A, Protein Science 30, 830 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1002/PRO.4036
Abstract: Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is a toxic compound that is absorbed and distributed throughout the body by noncovalent binding to serum proteins such as human serum albumin (hSA). Though the interaction between PFOA and hSA has been already assessed using various analytical techniques, a high resolution and detailed analysis of the binding mode is still lacking. We report here the crystal structure of hSA in complex with PFOA and a medium-chain saturated fatty acid (FA). A total of eight distinct binding sites, four occupied by PFOAs and four by FAs, have been identified. In solution binding studies confirmed the 4:1 PFOA-hSA stoichiometry and revealed the presence of one high and three low affinity binding sites. Competition experiments with known hSA-binding drugs allowed locating the high affinity binding site in sub-domain IIIA. The elucidation of the molecular basis of the interaction between PFOA and hSA might provide not only a better assessment of the absorption and elimination mechanisms of these compounds in vivo but also have implications for the development of novel molecular receptors for diagnostic and biotechnological applications.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 2.523
DOI: 10.1002/PRO.4036
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“Urban soil exploration through multi-receiver electromagnetic induction and stepped-frequency ground penetrating radar”. Van de Vijver E, Van Meirvenne M, Vandenhaute L, Delefortrie S, De Smedt P, Saey T, Seuntjens P, Environmental science : processes &, impacts 17, 1271 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1039/C5EM00023H
Abstract: In environmental assessments, the characterization of urban soils relies heavily on invasive investigation, which is often insufficient to capture their full spatial heterogeneity. Non-invasive geophysical techniques enable rapid collection of high-resolution data and provide a cost-effective alternative to investigate soil in a spatially comprehensive way. This paper presents the results of combining multi-receiver electromagnetic induction and stepped-frequency ground penetrating radar to characterize a former garage site contaminated with petroleum hydrocarbons. The sensor combination showed the ability to identify and accurately locate building remains and a high-density soil layer, thus demonstrating the high potential to investigate anthropogenic disturbances of physical nature. In addition, a correspondence was found between an area of lower electrical conductivity and elevated concentrations of petroleum hydrocarbons, suggesting the potential to detect specific chemical disturbances. We conclude that the sensor combination provides valuable information for preliminary assessment of urban soils.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
DOI: 10.1039/C5EM00023H
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“Ureolytic activity and its regulation in vibrio campbellii and vibrio harveyi in relation to nitrogen recovery from human urine”. Defoirdt T, Vlaeminck SE, Sun X, Boon N, Clauwaert P, Environmental science and technology 51, 13335 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1021/ACS.EST.7B03829
Abstract: Human urine contains a high concentration of nitrogen and is therefore an interesting source for nutrient recovery. Ureolysis is a key requirement in many processes aiming at nitrogen recovery from urine. Although ureolytic activity is widespread in terrestrial and aquatic environments, very little is known about the urease activity and regulation in specific bacteria other than human pathogens. Given the relatively high salt concentration of urine, marine bacteria would be particularly well suited for biotechnological applications involving nitrogen recovery from urine, and therefore, in this study, we investigated ureolytic activity and its regulation in marine vibrios. Thirteen out of 14 strains showed ureolytic activity. The urease activity was induced by urea, since complete and very rapid hydrolysis, up to 4 g L-1 of urea, was observed in synthetic human urine when the bacteria were pretreated with 10 g L-1 urea, whereas slow hydrolysis occurred when they were pretreated with 1 g L-1 urea (14-35% hydrolysis after 2 days). There was no correlation between biofilm formation and "motility on one hand, and ureolysis on the other hand, and biofilm and motility inhibitors did not affect ureolysis. Together, our data demonstrate for the first time the potential of marine vibrios as fast urea hydrolyzers for biotechnological applications aiming at nutrient recovery from human urine.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
DOI: 10.1021/ACS.EST.7B03829
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“Urine nitrification with a synthetic microbial community”. Christiaens MER, De Paepe J, Ilgrande C, De Vrieze J, Barys J, Teirlinck P, Meerbergen K, Lievens B, Boon N, Clauwaert P, Vlaeminck SE, Systematic and applied microbiology 42, Unsp 126021 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SYAPM.2019.126021
Abstract: During long-term extra-terrestrial missions, food is limited and waste is generated. By recycling valuable nutrients from this waste via regenerative life support systems, food can be produced in space. Astronauts' urine can, for instance, be nitrified by micro-organisms into a liquid nitrate fertilizer for plant growth in space. Due to stringent conditions in space, microbial communities need to be be defined (gnotobiotic); therefore, synthetic rather than mixed microbial communities are preferred. For urine nitrification, synthetic communities face challenges, such as from salinity, ureolysis, and organics. In this study, a synthetic microbial community containing an AOB (Nitrosomonas europaea), NOB (Nitrobacter winogradskyi), and three ureolytic heterotrophs (Pseudomonas fluorescens, Acidovorax delafieldii, and Delftia acidovorans) was compiled and evaluated for these challenges. In reactor 1, salt adaptation of the ammonium-fed AOB and NOB co-culture was possible up to 45 mS cm(-1), which resembled undiluted nitrified urine, while maintaining a 44 +/- 10 mg NH4+-N L-1 d(-1) removal rate. In reactor 2, the nitrifiers and ureolytic heterotrophs were fed with urine and achieved a 15 +/- 6 mg NO3--N L-1 d(-1) production rate for 1% and 10% synthetic and fresh real urine, respectively. Batch activity tests with this community using fresh real urine even reached 29 +/- 3 mg N L-1 d(-1). Organics removal in the reactor (69 +/- 15%) should be optimized to generate a nitrate fertilizer for future space applications. (C) 2019 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
DOI: 10.1016/J.SYAPM.2019.126021
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“The use of a secondary cathode to analyse solid non-conducting samples with direct current glow discharge mass spectrometry: potential and restrictions”. Schelles W, de Gendt S, Maes K, Van Grieken R, Fresenius' journal of analytical chemistry 355, 858 (1996). http://doi.org/10.1007/S0021663550858
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1007/S0021663550858
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