“Phonon band structure of Si nanowires: a stability analysis”. Peelaers H, Partoens B, Peeters FM, Nano letters 9, 107 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1021/nl802613p
Abstract: We present full ab initio calculations of the phonon band structure of thin Si nanowires oriented along the [110] direction. Using these phonon dispersion relations, we investigate the structural stability of these wires. We found that all studied wires were stable also when doped with either B or P, if the unit cell was taken sufficiently large along the wire axis. The evolution of the phonon dispersion relations and of the sound velocities with respect to the wire diameters is discussed. Softening is observed for acoustic modes and hardening for optical phonon modes with increasing wire diameters.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 12.712
Times cited: 51
DOI: 10.1021/nl802613p
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“Coherent three-level mixing in an electronic quantum dot”. Payette C, Yu G, Gupta JA, Austing DG, Nair SV, Partoens B, Amaha S, Tarucha S, Physical review letters 102, 026808 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.102.026808
Abstract: We observe magnetic-field-induced level mixing and quantum superposition phenomena between three approaching single-particle states in a quantum dot probed via the ground state of an adjacent quantum dot by single-electron resonant tunneling. The mixing is attributed to anisotropy and anharmonicity in realistic dot confining potentials. The pronounced anticrossing and transfer of strengths (both enhancement and suppression) between resonances can be understood with a simple coherent level mixing model. Superposition can lead to the formation of a dark state by complete cancellation of an otherwise strong resonance, an effect resembling coherent population trapping in a three-level-system of quantum and atom optics.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 8.462
Times cited: 26
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.102.026808
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“Transmission electron microscopy investigation of microstructures in low-hysteresis alloys with special lattice parameters”. Delville R, Schryvers D, Zhang Z, James RD, Scripta materialia 60, 293 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.scriptamat.2008.10.025
Abstract: A sharp drop in hysteresis is observed for shape memory alloys satisfying the compatibility condition between austenite and martensite, i.e. ë2 = 1, where ë2 is the middle eigenvalue of the transformation strain matrix. The present work investigates the evolution of microstructure by transmission electron microscopy as the composition of the Ti50Ni50−xPdx system is systemically tuned to achieve the condition ë2 = 1. Changes in morphology, twinning density and twinning modes are reported along with twinless martensite and exact austenitemartensite interfaces.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.747
Times cited: 56
DOI: 10.1016/j.scriptamat.2008.10.025
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“Expanded graphite as a support for Ni/carbon composites”. Afanasov IM, Shornikova ON, Avdeev VV, Lebedev OI, Van Tendeloo G, Matveev AT, Carbon 47, 513 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.carbon.2008.10.034
Abstract: Expanded graphite decorated with nickel oxide particles (EGNiO) has been synthesized through electrochemical oxidation of natural graphite in an aqueous nickel nitrate solution followed by a heat treatment. EGNiO was used to prepare nickel/carbon composites using two techniques: (a) hydrogen reduction of nickel oxide particles loaded on the expanded graphite surface and (b) pyrolysis of coal tar pitch-impregnated EGNiO blocks. The EGNiO as well as the nickel/carbon composites have been characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and selected area electron diffraction.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 6.337
Times cited: 45
DOI: 10.1016/j.carbon.2008.10.034
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“Exposure assessment of a cyclist to PM10 and ultrafine particles”. Berghmans P, Bleux N, Int Panis L, Mishra VK, Torfs R, Van Poppel M, The science of the total environment 407, 1286 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2008.10.041
Abstract: Estimating personal exposure to air pollution is a crucial component in identifying high-risk populations and situations. It will enable policy makers to determine efficient control strategies. Cycling is again becoming a favorite mode of transport both in developing and in developed countries due to increasing traffic congestion and environmental concerns. in Europe, it is also seen as a healthy sports activity. However, due to high levels of hazardous pollutants in the present day road microenvironment the cyclist might be at a higher health risk due to higher breathing rate and proximity to the vehicular exhaust. In this paper we present estimates of the exposure of a cyclist to particles of various size fractions including ultrafine particles (UFP) in the town of Mol (Flanders, Belgium). The results indicate relatively higher UFP concentration exposure during morning office hours and moderate UFP levels during afternoon. The major sources of UFP and PM(10) were identified, which are vehicular emission and construction activities, respectively. We also present a dust mapping technique which can be a useful tool for town planners and local policy makers. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2008.10.041
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“Ordered end-member of ZSM-48 zeolite family”. Kirschhock CEA, Liang D, Van Tendeloo G, Fécant A, Hastoye G, Vanbutsele G, Bats N, Guillon E, Martens JA, Chemistry of materials 21, 371 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1021/cm802614x
Abstract: ZSM-48 and related zeolites are considered to be highly disordered structures. Different polytypes can be clearly distinguished by simulation of high-resolution electron microscopy images. Synthesis of phase-pure polytypes was attempted. One of the investigated samples crystallized via seeding designated as COK-8 consisted of nanoscopic, needlelike crystals with a very large length/width ratio, growing along the pore direction. These specimens are phase-pure polytype 6 (PT6, numbering according to Lobo and van Koningsveld). Aggregates of these nanoneedles occasionally contained a second polytype: PT1. The latter polytype occurred more abundantly in larger crystal rods in an IZM-1 sample crystallized in ethylene glycol. Here too, the isolated crystallites mainly consist of large, defect-free regions of PT6. A simulation of polytype lattice energies offers a rational explanation for the observed polytypical intergrowth formation.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 9.466
Times cited: 30
DOI: 10.1021/cm802614x
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“Control of the persistent currents in two interacting quantum rings through the Coulomb interaction and interring tunneling”. Castelano LK, Hai G-Q, Partoens B, Peeters FM, Physical review : B : solid state 78, 195315 (2008). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.78.195315
Abstract: The persistent current in two vertically coupled quantum rings containing few electrons is studied. We find that the Coulomb interaction between the rings in the absence of tunneling affects the persistent current in each ring and the ground-state configurations. Quantum tunneling between the rings alters significantly the ground state and the persistent current in the system.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 28
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.78.195315
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“Particulate matter and gaseous pollutants in residences in Antwerp, Belgium”. Stranger M, Potgieter-Vermaak SS, Van Grieken R, The science of the total environment 407, 1182 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2008.10.019
Abstract: This comprehensive study, a first in Flanders, Belgium, aimed at characterizing the residential indoor air quality of subgroups that took part in the European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS I1991 and ECHRS II1996) questionnaire-based asthma and related illnesses studies. This pilot study aimed at the evaluation of particulate matter and various inorganic gaseous compounds in residences in Antwerp. In addition personal exposure to the gaseous compounds of one individual per residence was assessed. The main objective was to obtain some base-line pollutant levels and compare these with studies performed in other cities, to estimate the indoor air quality in residences in Antwerp. Correlations between the various pollutant levels, indoor:outdoor ratios and the micro-environments of each residence were investigated. This paper presents results on indoor and ambient PM1, PM2.5 and PM10 mass concentrations, its elemental composition in terms of K, Ca, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Br, Pb, Al, Si, S and Cl and the water-soluble ionic concentrations in terms of SO42−, NO32−, Cl−, NH4+ K+, Ca2+. In addition, indoor, ambient and personal exposure levels of the gases NO2, SO2, and O3 were determined. Elevated indoor:outdoor ratios were found for NO2 in residences containing gas stoves. In smoker's houses increased PM concentrations of 58 and 43% were found for the fine and coarse fractions respectively. Contrary to the fact that all I/O ratios of the registered elements in each individual house were significantly correlated to each other, no correlation could be established between the I/O ratios of the different houses, thus indicating a unique micro-environment for each residence. Linear relationships between the particulate matter elemental composition, SO2 and O3 levels indoors and outdoors could be established. No linear relationships between indoor and outdoor NO2 and particulate mass concentrations were found.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2008.10.019
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“Reporter gene-expressing bone marrow-derived stromal cells are immune-tolerated following implantation in the central nervous system of syngeneic immunocompetent mice”. Bergwerf I, de Vocht N, Tambuyzer B, Verschueren J, Reekmans K, Daans J, Ibrahimi A, Van Tendeloo V, Chatterjee S, Goossens H, Jorens PG, Baekelandt V, Ysebaert D, Van Marck E, Berneman ZN, Van Der Linden A, Ponsaerts P, BMC biotechnology (2009). http://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6750-9-1
Abstract: Background Cell transplantation is likely to become an important therapeutic tool for the treatment of various traumatic and ischemic injuries to the central nervous system (CNS). However, in many pre-clinical cell therapy studies, reporter gene-assisted imaging of cellular implants in the CNS and potential reporter gene and/or cell-based immunogenicity, still remain challenging research topics. Results In this study, we performed cell implantation experiments in the CNS of immunocompetent mice using autologous (syngeneic) luciferase-expressing bone marrow-derived stromal cells (BMSC-Luc) cultured from ROSA26-L-S-L-Luciferase transgenic mice, and BMSC-Luc genetically modified using a lentivirus encoding the enhanced green fluorescence protein (eGFP) and the puromycin resistance gene (Pac) (BMSC-Luc/eGFP/Pac). Both reporter gene-modified BMSC populations displayed high engraftment capacity in the CNS of immunocompetent mice, despite potential immunogenicity of introduced reporter proteins, as demonstrated by real-time bioluminescence imaging (BLI) and histological analysis at different time-points post-implantation. In contrast, both BMSC-Luc and BMSC-Luc/eGFP/Pac did not survive upon intramuscular cell implantation, as demonstrated by real-time BLI at different time-points post-implantation. In addition, ELISPOT analysis demonstrated the induction of IFN-ã-producing CD8+ T-cells upon intramuscular cell implantation, but not upon intracerebral cell implantation, indicating that BMSC-Luc and BMSC-Luc/eGFP/Pac are immune-tolerated in the CNS. However, in our experimental transplantation model, results also indicated that reporter gene-specific immune-reactive T-cell responses were not the main contributors to the immunological rejection of BMSC-Luc or BMSC-Luc/eGFP/Pac upon intramuscular cell implantation. Conclusion We here demonstrate that reporter gene-modified BMSC derived from ROSA26-L-S-L-Luciferase transgenic mice are immune-tolerated upon implantation in the CNS of syngeneic immunocompetent mice, providing a research model for studying survival and localisation of autologous BMSC implants in the CNS by real-time BLI and/or histological analysis in the absence of immunosuppressive therapy.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Antwerp Surgical Training, Anatomy and Research Centre (ASTARC); Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP); Bio-Imaging lab; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 2.415
Times cited: 33
DOI: 10.1186/1472-6750-9-1
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“CFD modelling of small particle dispersion: the influence of the turbulence kinetic energy in the atmospheric boundary layer”. Gorlé, C, van Beeck J, Rambaud P, Van Tendeloo G, Atmospheric environment : an international journal 43, 673 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.atmosenv.2008.09.060
Abstract: When considering the modelling of small particle dispersion in the lower part of the Atmospheric Boundary Layer (ABL) using Reynolds Averaged Navier Stokes simulations, the particle paths depend on the velocity profile and on the turbulence kinetic energy, from which the fluctuating velocity components are derived to predict turbulent dispersion. It is therefore important to correctly reproduce the ABL, both for the velocity profile and the turbulence kinetic energy profile. For RANS simulations with the standard kå model, Richards and Hoxey (1993. Appropriate boundary conditions for computational wind engineering models using the kå turbulence model. Journal of Wind Engineering and Industrial Aerodynamics 4647, 145153.) proposed a set of boundary conditions which result in horizontally homogeneous profiles. The drawback of this method is that it assumes a constant profile of turbulence kinetic energy, which is not always consistent with field or wind tunnel measurements. Therefore, a method was developed which allows the modelling of a horizontally homogeneous turbulence kinetic energy profile that is varying with height. By comparing simulations performed with the proposed method to simulations performed with the boundary conditions described by Richards and Hoxey (1993. Appropriate boundary conditions for computational wind engineering models using the kå turbulence model. Journal of Wind Engineering and Industrial Aerodynamics 4647, 145153.), the influence of the turbulence kinetic energy on the dispersion of small particles over flat terrain is quantified.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.629
Times cited: 79
DOI: 10.1016/j.atmosenv.2008.09.060
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“Comparative assessment of air quality in two health resorts using carbon isotopes and palynological analyses”. Górka M, Jedrysek MO, Maj J, Worobiec A, Buczyńska A, Stefaniak E, Krata A, Van Grieken R, Zwozdziak A, Sówka I, Zwozdziak J, Lewicka-Szczebak D, Atmospheric environment 43, 682 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ATMOSENV.2008.09.056
Abstract: This paper describes results of applying the palynological and carbon isotopic analysis of the organic fraction of Total Suspended Particles (TSP) to discriminate distinct pollution sources and assess the anthropogenic impact for the investigated areas. The samples of atmospheric particles were collected in Czerniawa and Cieplice (two health resorts in Lower Silesia, SW Poland) twice a year in summer and winter season (from July 2006 to February 2008). The palynological spectra represent in the vast majority local plant communities without a noticeable contribution of long-transported plant particles. Palynological analysis revealed also differences in the specificity of the two sampling areas, i.e. the higher contribution of identified organic material in Czerniawa stands for more natural character of this site, but is also responsible for the higher allergic pressure when compared to Cieplice. The carbon isotopic composition of TSP varied seasonally (ä13C value from −27.09 in summer to −25.47 in winter). The increased ä13C value in winter (heating period) is most probably caused by uncontrolled contribution of coal soot. On the basis of isotopic mass balance the calculated contribution of anthropogenic organic particles in the atmosphere reached in winter season 72% in Czerniawa and 79% in Cieplice.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP)
DOI: 10.1016/J.ATMOSENV.2008.09.056
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“Control and readout of current-induced magnetic flux quantization in a superconducting transformer”. Kerner C, Hackens B, Golubović, DS, Poli S, Faniel S, Magnus W, Schoenmaker W, Bayot V, Maes H, Superconductor science and technology 22, 025001 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1088/0953-2048/22/2/025001
Abstract: We demonstrate a simple and robust method for inducing and detecting changes of magnetic flux quantization in the absence of an externally applied magnetic field. In our device, an isolated ring is interconnected with two access loops via permalloy cores, forming a superconducting transformer. By applying and tuning a direct current at the first access loop, the number of flux quanta trapped in the isolated ring is modified without the aid of an external field. The flux state of the isolated ring is simply detected by recording the evolution of the critical current of the second access loop.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 2.878
Times cited: 2
DOI: 10.1088/0953-2048/22/2/025001
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“Variation of K X-ray fluorescence cross-sections of Cu, Y and Ba in YBa2Cu3O7-\delta superconductor”. Baltas H, Čevik U, Solid state communications 149, 231 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SSC.2008.11.010
Abstract: K X-ray fluorescence cross-sections of Cu, Y and Ba elements were measured in CuO, Y(2)O(3), BaCO(3) Compounds and YBa(2)Cu(3)O(7-delta) superconductor samples (nonreacted agent, calcined and sintered states). A superconductor sample of YBa(2)Cu(3)O(7-delta) was prepared by using a solid-state reaction technique. The samples were excited by gamma rays of energy 59.5 keV from a (241)Am radioisotope source. The Cu, Y and Ba K X-ray intensities counted with a Si(Li) detector were measured in different solid-state conditions. The obtained values of K X-ray fluorescence cross-section were compared with the theoretical values of pure Cu, Y and Ba elements. We found that the K X-ray fluorescence cross-section of Cu, Y and Ba in YBa(2)Cu(3)O(7-delta) sample is changed in different solid-state conditions, depending on the mixture (nonreacted agent), calcined and sintered states. (c) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/J.SSC.2008.11.010
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“Temperature and magnetic field dependence of the voltagein GaAs films with superconducting Ga grains”. Willems BL, Taylor DMJ, Fritzsche J, Malfait M, Vanacken J, Moshchalkov VV, Montoya E, Van Tendeloo G, European physical journal : B : condensed matter and complex systems 66, 25 (2008). http://doi.org/10.1140/epjb/e2008-00386-3
Abstract: We have studied granular films consisting of nanoscale Ga droplets formed on GaAs films via a method of vacuum annealing to promote As evaporation. For temperatures and magnetic fields below the bulk Ga critical parameters, the samples are very sensitive towards external microwave radiation when two point voltage measurements are performed. Together with the observation of an oscillating magnetic field dependence of the voltage, a scenario in which the samples consist of Josephson-coupled loops seems to be the most likely one for explaining the obtained results.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 1.461
DOI: 10.1140/epjb/e2008-00386-3
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“Andreev-type states induced by quantum confinement”. Shanenko AA, Croitoru MD, Mints RG, Peeters FM, Journal of Surface Investigation. X-ray, Synchrotron and Neutron Techniques 2, 611 (2008). http://doi.org/10.1134/S1027451008040216
Abstract: The properties of a clean superconductor with nanoscale dimensions are governed by quantum confinement of the electrons. This results in a spatially inhomogeneous superconducting condensate and in the formation of new Andreev-type quasiparticle states. These states are mainly located beyond regions where the superconducting condensate is enhanced. A numerical self-consistent solution of the Bogoliubov-de Gennes equations for a cylindrical metallic nanowire shows that these new Andreev-type states decrease the ratio of the energy gap to the critical temperature.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT); Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1134/S1027451008040216
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“Dislocations and plasticity of experimentally deformed coesite”. Idrissi H, Cordier P, Jacob D, Walte N, European journal of mineralogy 20, 665 (2008). http://doi.org/10.1127/0935-1221/2008/0020-1849
Abstract: Dislocation microstructures have been characterized by transmission electron microscopy in polycrystalline coesite deformed experimentally at 4 GPa, 1200 degrees C. Burgers vectors have been determined by large-angle convergent-beam electron diffraction. Sample orientation was assisted by precession electron diffraction to overcome difficulties arising from pseudo-hexagonal symmetry. The results are explained by using a pseudo-hexagonal setting. We found that most dislocations observed are of the 1/3 < 2 (1) over bar(1) over bar0 > type. No clear glide plane was identified, suggesting that climb is activated under these conditions. This conclusion is supported by the observation of numerous subgrain boundaries. We have also observed some [00011 dislocations. Finally, the C12/cl space group to which coesite belongs being centred, an additional slip system is observed: 1/6[(1) over bar2 (1) over bar3](01 (1) over bar1) (1/2[(1) over bar 10](110) in the monoclinic setting).
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 1.362
Times cited: 5
DOI: 10.1127/0935-1221/2008/0020-1849
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“Microstructure of surface and subsurface layers of a Ni-Ti shape memory microwire”. Tian H, Schryvers D, Shabalovskaya S, van Humbeeck J, Microscopy and microanalysis 15, 62 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1017/S1431927609090059
Abstract: The microstructure of a 55 Êm diameter, cold-worked Ni-Ti microwire is investigated by different transmission electron microscopy techniques. The surface consists of a few hundred nanometer thick oxide layer composed of TiO and TiO2 with a small fraction of inhomogeneously distributed Ni. The interior of the wire has a core-shell structure with primarily B2 grains in the 1 Êm thick shell, and heavily twinned B19 martensite in the core. This core-shell structure can be explained by a concentration gradient of the alloying elements resulting in a structure separation due to the strong temperature dependence of the martensitic start temperature. Moreover, in between the B2 part of the metallic core-shell and the oxide layer, a Ni3Ti interfacial layer is detected.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 1.891
Times cited: 15
DOI: 10.1017/S1431927609090059
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“Vortex matter in oblate mesoscopic superconductors with a hole: broken symmetry vortex states and multi-vortex entry”. Xu B, Milošević, MV, Peeters FM, New journal of physics 11, 013020 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1088/1367-2630/11/1/013020
Abstract: Using three-dimensional (3D) numerical discretization of the GinzburgLandau (GL) equations, we investigate the superconducting state of a sphere with a piercing hole in the presence of a magnetic field. In the case of samples with central perforation, in axially applied homogeneous magnetic field, we realized unconventional vortex states of broken symmetry due to complex, 3D competing interactions, which depend on the GL parameter ê. For certain sizes of the sample, non-hysteretic multi-vortex entry and exit is predicted with the non-existence of some vorticities as stable states. In a tilted magnetic field, we studied the gradual transformation of 3D flux patterns into 1D vortex chains, where vortices align along the perforation, and the evolvement of the multi-vortex entry as well. We analyze the flux-guiding ability of the hole in a tilted field, which leads to fractional flux response in magnetization M(H) curves.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.786
Times cited: 8
DOI: 10.1088/1367-2630/11/1/013020
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“Composite vortex ordering in superconducting films with arrays of blind holes”. Berdiyorov GR, Milošević, MV, Peeters FM, New journal of physics 11, 013025 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1088/1367-2630/11/1/013025
Abstract: The pinning properties of a superconducting thin film with a square array of blind holes are studied using the nonlinear GinzburgLandau theory. Although blind holes provide a weaker pinning potential than holes (also called antidots), several novel vortex structures are predicted for different size and thickness of the blind holes. Orientational dimer and trimer vortex states as well as concentric vortex shells can nucleate in the blind holes. In addition, we predict the stabilization of giant vortices that may be located both in the pinning centers and/or at the interstitial sites, as well as the combination of giant vortices with sets of individual vortices. For large blind holes, local vortex shell structures inside the blind holes may transfer their symmetry to interstitial vortices as well. The subtle interplay of shell formation and traditional Abrikosov vortex lattices inside the blind holes is also studied for different numbers of trapped vortices.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.786
Times cited: 33
DOI: 10.1088/1367-2630/11/1/013025
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“Atmospheric BTEX-concentrations in an area with intensive street traffic”. Buczyńska AJ, Krata A, Stranger M, Godoi AFL, Kontozova-Deutsch V, Bencs L, Naveau I, Roekens E, Van Grieken R, Atmospheric environment : an international journal 43, 311 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ATMOSENV.2008.09.071
Abstract: The major threat to clean air in developed and industrializing countries is now posed by traffic emissions. The effects of traffic road modifications on the air quality are, however, rarely reported in the literature. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of the modernization and renovation of a traffic artery in the region of Mortsel (Antwerp, Belgium) on the concentration of volatile organic compounds such as: benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and m-, p-, o-xylenes (BTEX). The original goal of the reconstruction works was to reduce the traffic lanes of one of the busiest streets in Antwerp, in order to discourage the road traffic and in consequence also to improve the air quality in this region. The average concentrations of BTEX before these works in 2003 were: 1.6, 7.0, 0.9, 2.3, and 0.9 ìg/m3, for benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, m + p xylenes, and o-xylene, respectively. However, after the completion of the works, in 2005, they were slightly higher: 2.5, 9.5, 1.6, 3.4, and 1.3 ìg/m3, respectively. The scatter plots of benzene against toluene, ethylbenzene and xylenes in 2003 and 2005 showed very good correlations. This fact indicated that all of the measured compounds originated from the same source, namely the road traffic. Moreover, the data obtained from an air-monitoring station at less than 6 km distance from the sampling site (operated by the Flemish Environment Agency, and located in Borgerhout, Antwerp), confirmed the lack of influence of background concentrations of BTEX. The obtained results led to the conclusion that the reduction of the number of traffic lanes had apparently increased the traffic jams and also increased the emission from cars. Therefore, these modernization works had even a negative impact on the local concentration of traffic-related pollutants as BTEX.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/J.ATMOSENV.2008.09.071
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“EPXMA survey of shelf sediments (Southern Bight, North Sea): a glance beyond the XRD-invisible”. de Maeyer-Worobiec A, Dekov VM, Laane RWPM, Van Grieken R, Microchemical journal 91, 21 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.MICROC.2008.07.001
Abstract: Shelf sediments of the southern North Sea, were studied with a microanalytical [electron probe X-ray microanalysis (EPXMA)] and two bulk [X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF)] techniques. The investigation proved that the promptness of the microanalytical method is combined with a reasonable analytical reliability. XRD studies of such a type of sediments with monotonous mineral composition are not able to provide mineralogical information beyond the main well-crystalline minerals and the mineralogical quantitative characteristic of the sediment based on XRD estimations are incorrect. The EPXMA mineralogical interpretations are based on the statistical evaluation of a huge data set (thousands of mineral particles) and provide a rather correct quantitative determination of the main minerals. The comparative EPXMAXRF study revealed that the Al, Si, K, Ca, Fe and to some extent Ti contents estimated by EPXMA are fairly reliable. In this respect the accuracy of the EPXMA-based mineral identification of the pure silicates, pure aluminosilicates, and Al-, Ca-, Fe- and Ti-containing minerals with simple composition is very high. Mg-calcite, augite and apatite determinations are assessed to be correct. The supposed accuracy of the clay mineral determinations is slightly lower (7080%) than that of the other main minerals due to the complex and varying composition of the clays. The identification of XRD-invisible accessory minerals and quantification of their presence in the sediments is an essential advantage of the EPXMA, which makes it a useful approach in tracing the origin of the sediments, the pathways of their transport and the geochemical processes they have undergone. However, the EPXMA has several flaws, which need to be solved in the future sediment investigations: (1) calibration with natural standards is needed in order to provide a higher accuracy of the mineral determinations; (2) any EPXMA study of sediments needs to be secured with XRF examinations of selected samples since EPXMA gives only semi-quantitative information about the abundance of the elements; (3) ultra-thin window EPXMA of low-Z elements has to be used since some of them (O, C) are always present in the main sediment components: silicates, aluminosilicates, carbonates and metal oxyhydroxides; (4) the interpretations of the clay fraction have to be supported with detailed XRD investigations of selected samples, while the mineralogy of the silt and sand fractions needs to be backed up with optical microscopy studies. The information from different analytical techniques (EPXMA with XRFXRD-optical microscopy of selected samples) combined with the knowledge about the most possible minerals in a given environment, would give the most reliable results in studying mineralogical composition of shelf sediments.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP); AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/J.MICROC.2008.07.001
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“Collective vortex phases in periodic plus random pinning potential”. Pogosov WV, Misko VR, Zhao HJ, Peeters FM, Physical review : B : solid state 79, 014504 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.79.014504
Abstract: We study theoretically the simultaneous effect of regular and random pinning potentials on the vortex lattice structure at filling factor of 1. This structure is determined by a competition between the square symmetry of regular pinning array, by the intervortex interaction favoring a triangular symmetry, and by the randomness trying to depin vortices from their regular positions. Both analytical and molecular-dynamics approaches are used. We construct a phase diagram of the system in the plane of regular and random pinning strengths and determine typical vortex lattice defects appearing in the system due to the disorder. We find that the total disordering of the vortex lattice can occur either in one step or in two steps. For instance, in the limit of weak pinning, a square lattice of pinned vortices is destroyed in two steps. First, elastic chains of depinned vortices appear in the film; but the vortex lattice as a whole remains still pinned by the underlying square array of regular pinning sites. These chains are composed into fractal-like structures. In a second step, domains of totally depinned vortices are generated and the vortex lattice depins from regular array.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 14
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.79.014504
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“Tunneling, conductance, and wavevector filtering through magnetic barriers in bilayer graphene”. Masir MR, Vasilopoulos P, Peeters FM, Physical review : B : solid state 79, 035409 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.79.035409
Abstract: We evaluate the transmission and conductance through magnetic barrier structures in bilayer graphene. In particular we consider a magnetic step, single and double barriers, -function barriers, as well as barrier structures that have average magnetic field equal to zero. The transmission depends strongly on the direction of the incident electron or hole wavevector and gives the possibility to construct a direction-dependent wavevector filter. The results contrast sharply with previous results on single-layer graphene. In general, the angular range of perfect transmission becomes drastically wider and the gaps narrower. This perfect transmission range decreases with the number of barriers, the barrier width, and the magnetic field. Depending on the structure, a variety of transmission resonances occur that are reflected in the conductance through the structure.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 80
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.79.035409
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“Electric field tuning of the band gap in graphene multilayers”. Avetisyan AA, Partoens B, Peeters FM, Physical review : B : solid state 79, 035421 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.79.035421
Abstract: A perpendicular electric field applied to multilayers of graphene modifies the electronic structure near the K point and may induce an energy gap in the electronic spectrum. This gap is tunable by the gate voltage and its size depends on the number of layers. We use a tight-binding approach to calculate the band structure and include a self-consistent calculation in order to obtain the density of charge carriers. Results are presented for systems consisting of three and four layers of graphene. The effect of the circular asymmetry of the band structure on the gap is critically examined.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 106
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.79.035421
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“Synthesis, crystal structure and magnetic properties of the Sr2Al0.78Mn1.22O5.2 anion-deficient layered perovskite”. d' Hondt H, Hadermann J, Abakumov AM, Kalyuzhnaya AS, Rozova MG, Tsirlin AA, Tan H, Verbeeck J, Antipov EV, Van Tendeloo G, Journal of solid state chemistry 182, 356 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.jssc.2008.11.002
Abstract: A new layered perovskite Sr2Al0.78Mn1.22O5.2 has been synthesized by solid state reaction in a sealed evacuated silica tube. The crystal structure has been determined using electron diffraction, high-resolution electron microscopy, and high-angle annular dark field imaging and refined from X-ray powder diffraction data (space group P4/mmm, a=3.89023(5) Å, c=7.8034(1) Å, RI=0.023, RP=0.015). The structure is characterized by an alternation of MnO2 and (Al0.78Mn0.22)O1.2 layers. Oxygen atoms and vacancies, as well as the Al and Mn atoms in the (Al0.78Mn0.22)O1.2 layers are disordered. The local atomic arrangement in these layers is suggested to consist of short fragments of brownmillerite-type tetrahedral chains of corner-sharing AlO4 tetrahedra interrupted by MnO6 octahedra, at which the chain fragments rotate over 90°. This results in an averaged tetragonal symmetry. This is confirmed by the valence state of Mn measured by EELS. The relationship between the Sr2Al0.78Mn1.22O5.2 tetragonal perovskite and the parent Sr2Al1.07Mn0.93O5 brownmillerite is discussed. Magnetic susceptibility measurements indicate spin glass behavior of Sr2Al0.78Mn1.22O5.2. The lack of long-range magnetic ordering contrasts with Mn-containing brownmillerites and is likely caused by the frustration of interlayer interactions due to presence of the Mn atoms in the (Al0.78Mn0.22)O1.2 layers.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.299
Times cited: 12
DOI: 10.1016/j.jssc.2008.11.002
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“Hepatocellular transport and gastrointestinal absorption of lanthanum in chronic renal failure”. Bervoets ARJ, Behets GJ, Schryvers D, Roels F, Yang Z, Verberckmoes SC, Damment SJP, Dauwe S, Mubiana VK, Blust R, de Broe ME, d' Haese PC, Kidney international 75, 389 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1038/ki.2008.571
Abstract: Lanthanum carbonate is a new phosphate binder that is poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and eliminated largely by the liver. After oral treatment, we and others had noticed 23 fold higher lanthanum levels in the livers of rats with chronic renal failure compared to rats with normal renal function. Here we studied the kinetics and tissue distribution, absorption, and subcellular localization of lanthanum in the liver using transmission electron microscopy, electron energy loss spectrometry, and X-ray fluoresence. We found that in the liver lanthanum was located in lysosomes and in the biliary canal but not in any other cellular organelles. This suggests that lanthanum is transported and eliminated by the liver via a transcellular, endosomal-lysosomal-biliary canicular transport route. Feeding rats with chronic renal failure orally with lanthanum resulted in a doubling of the liver levels compared to rats with normal renal function, but the serum levels were similar in both animal groups. These levels plateaued after 6 weeks at a concentration below 3 g/g in both groups. When lanthanum was administered intravenously, thereby bypassing the gastrointestinal tract-portal vein pathway, no difference in liver levels was found between rats with and without renal failure. This suggests that there is an increased gastrointestinal permeability or absorption of oral lanthanum in uremia. Lanthanum levels in the brain and heart fluctuated near its detection limit with long-term treatment (20 weeks) having no effect on organ weight, liver enzyme activities, or liver histology. We suggest that the kinetics of lanthanum in the liver are consistent with a transcellular transport pathway, with higher levels in the liver of uremic rats due to higher intestinal absorption.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Pathophysiology
Impact Factor: 8.395
Times cited: 29
DOI: 10.1038/ki.2008.571
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“Natural and artificial radioactivity measurements in Eastern Black Sea region of Turkey”. Celik N, Čevik U, Celik A, Koz B, Journal of hazardous materials 162, 146 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.JHAZMAT.2008.05.017
Abstract: In the present work, naturally occurring radionuclides of (226)Ra, (232)Th and (40)K were measured in soil samples collected from the Eastern Black Sea region of Turkey. It was found that the activity concentrations ranged from 12 to 120 Bq kg(-1) for (226)Ra, from 13 to 121 Bq kg(-1) for (232)Th and from 204 to 1295 Bq kg(-1) for (40)K. Besides naturally occurring radionuclides, (137)Cs activity concentration was measured in soil, lichen and moss samples and it was found that (137)Cs activity concentration ranged from 27 to 775 Bq kg(-1) with for soil, from 29 to 879 Bq kg(-1) for lichen and from 67 to 1396 Bq kg(-1) for moss samples. Annual effective doses due to the naturally occurring radionuclides and (137)CS were estimated. Ecological half-lives of (137)CS in lichen and moss species were estimated. The decrease of the activity concentrations in the present measurements (2007) relative to those in 1993 indicated ecological half-lives between 1.36 and 2.96 years for lichen and between 1.35 and 2.85 years for moss species. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/J.JHAZMAT.2008.05.017
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“Analysis of indoor gaseous formic and acetic acid, using radial diffusive samplers”. Stranger M, Potgieter-Vermaak S, Sacco P, Quaglio F, Pagani D, Cocheo C, Godoi AFL, Van Grieken R, Environmental monitoring and assessment 149, 411 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1007/S10661-008-0217-6
Abstract: A diffusive sampling method for the determination of gaseous acetic and formic acids, using a radial symmetry diffusive sampler, has been optimised for a 7-day exposure time in this study. Sampling rate determinations were performed on data obtained from a dynamic exposure chamber, simulating the indoor conditions of an empty, closed, room, at room temperature and minimal wind speed. Analysis has been performed by means of ion chromatography. The sampling rates for formic acid concentrations of 128 ìg m−3 and 1248 ìg m−3 were determined to be 91.2 ± 3.9 ml min−1 and 111.6 ± 2.8 ml min−1, respectively. The acetic acid sampling rate was independent of the concentration in the range 160 ìg m−31564 ìg m−3, and amounted to 97.3 ± 3.1 ml min−1. Experimentally determined sampling rates showed deviations of 3% for acetic acid, and 321% for formic acid, in relation to theoretically derived values. The blank values were as low as 1.69 ± 0.07 ìg for formic acid and 1.21 ± 0.14 ìg for acetic acid, and detection limits lower than 0.5 ìg m−3 could be achieved, which is an improvement of 9899% compared to previously validated diffusive sampling methods. This study describes the first step of an extended validation program in which the applicability of these types of samplers for the measurement of organic acids will be validated and optimised for the environmental conditions typical for museum showcases.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1007/S10661-008-0217-6
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“A scanning electron microscopy study on hollow silica microspheres: defects and influences of the synthesis composition”. Liu S, Wei M, Sui X, Cheng X, Cool P, Van Tendeloo G, Journal of sol-gel science and technology 49, 373 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1007/s10971-008-1875-0
Abstract: Defects on hollow silica spheres synthesized in a tetraethylorthosilicate-octylamine-HCl-H2O system were recorded by scanning microscope. Based on the results, influences of synthesis composition on the formation of these defects are discussed. It is evidenced that products prepared with different octylamine-to-tetraethylorthosilicate ratios may have surface depressions, cracks and non-hollow microspheres. However, by changing water and acid additions, these defects could be reduced or eliminated. Generally, samples synthesized with a large octylamine addition commonly exhibit surface depressions. A small octylamine or a large water addition benefits the formation of solid silica microspheres among the product. Acid, although is not indispensable for the formation of hollow spheres, helps to eliminate or reduce depressions on the hollow shells. It is explained that the added acid gives rise to a relative localized fast hydrolysis versus condensation, facilitating an easy mobility of hydrolyzed silica species, and consequently the shell surface is smoothened.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Laboratory of adsorption and catalysis (LADCA); Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 1.575
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1007/s10971-008-1875-0
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“Numerical study of the sputtering in a dc magnetron”. Kolev I, Bogaerts A, Journal of vacuum science and technology: A: vacuum surfaces and films 27, 20 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1021/jp8058992
Abstract: Molecular dynamics simulations were used to investigate the size-dependent melting mechanism of nickel nanoclusters of various sizes. The melting process was monitored by the caloric curve, the overall cluster Lindemann index, and the atomic Lindemann index. Size-dependent melting temperatures were determined, and the correct linear dependence on inverse diameter was recovered. We found that the melting mechanism gradually changes from dynamic coexistence melting to surface melting with increasing cluster size. These findings are of importance in better understanding carbon nanotube growth by catalytic chemical vapor deposition as the phase state of the catalyst nanoparticle codetermines the growth mechanism.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 4.536
Times cited: 66
DOI: 10.1021/jp8058992
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