bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La Convention du Conseil de l’Europe sur la lutte contre la traite des êtres humains face au droit de l’Union européenne
Authors: Delas Olivier , Plouffe-Malette Kristine
Published: May 2013

La traite des êtres humains n’épargne plus aucun État ; tous sont qualifiés d’États de départ, de transit ou de destination. L’Europe constitue toutefois une plaque tournante en ce que des pays de toute nature s’y trouvent et que les trafiquants y ont implanté leurs routes. Par conséquent, le Conseil de l’Europe (CE) était l’institution toute désignée pour adopter un instrument de lutte contre la traite des êtres humains en réponse à l’insuffisance de la communauté internationale qui n’a guère fait mieux que le Protocole de Palerme, largement critiqué. La Convention du Conseil de l’Europe sur la lutte contre la traite des êtres humains (Convention CE) se veut une première réelle tentative de protéger adéquatement les victimes de traite. Le texte est ambitieux, mais des obstacles majeurs pourraient obstruer sa mise en oeuvre. Au nombre de ceux-ci, on trouve principalement l’adoption de deux directives de l’Union européenne (UE) en matière de lutte contre la traite des êtres humains. L’articulation de celles-ci fait resurgir le problème récurrent de la mise en oeuvre d’un traité international de protection des victimes. En effet, alors qu’il était possible pour les États de l’UE, lesquels forment la majorité des membres du CE, d’adopter un moyen concret de lutte contre la traite des êtres humains, ils n’auront pas réussi à s’extirper du dilemme migratoire. C’est ainsi que l’adoption de directives de l’UE scelle et distingue le sort des victimes de traite des êtres humains migrantes en territoire européen. Cet article présente, d’un point de vue juridique, les percées, mais, également, les obstacles à la mise en oeuvre de la Convention CE en fonction de la protection des victimes.
Le mariage forcé au Canada : la criminalisation, une solution ?
Authors: Lamboley Madeline , Jimenez Estibaliz , Cousineau Marie-Marthe , Wemmers Jo-Anne
Published: May 2013

Cet article met en exergue les nombreuses difficultés éprouvées par les femmes victimes de mariage forcé. Celles-ci sont doublement vulnérables du fait, d’une part, des formes d’abus et d’exploitation dont elles peuvent être l’objet et, d’autre part, de leur statut parfois précaire d’immigrantes, en particulier lorsqu’elles sont parrainées par leur conjoint. Des études menées dans certains pays européens, notamment en Norvège et en Belgique, ont mis au jour une situation inattendue, vu l’ampleur que prenait la problématique, signalant une certaine urgence d’agir. Ces pays ont alors fait le choix de criminaliser la pratique des mariages forcés. Le Canada n’a pas pris une telle initiative. À partir d’une étude menée à la fois auprès de femmes vivant, ayant vécu ou étant menacées d’une situation de mariage forcé et d’informateurs clés provenant de divers milieux de pratique oeuvrant auprès d’elles, nous posons la question : la criminalisation est-elle la bonne, voire la seule, solution au problème envisagé ?
Fast‐rate output feedback control system design with adaptive output estimator for nonuniformly sampled multirate systems
Authors: Mizumoto I. , Fujimoto Y.
Published: May 2013

Multirate sampled system can be seen in many industries and several kinds of control method using lifting method have been proposed. Unfortunately, it was difficult to deal with nonuniformly sampled multirate systems. In this paper, we will propose a design scheme of output feedback control with a simple structure for nonuniformly sampled systems based on almost strictly positive real properties. A design method of a fast‐rate output feedback control system for nonuniformly sampled multirate systems with a fast uniform input updating rate and slow nonuniform output sampling rates. An adaptive output estimator will be proposed so as to realize a fast‐rate output feedback control for nonuniformly sampled systems at the fast sampling period of the input updating rate, and then, a design scheme of a fast‐rate adaptive output feedback control at the fast sampling period of the input updating rate will be proposed for nonuniformly sampled systems utilizing the proposed adaptive output estimator. We also analyze the stability of the obtained fast‐rate output feedback control system based on almost strictly positive real properties of the controlled system. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Film Morphology of High Efficiency Solution‐Processed Small‐Molecule Solar Cells
Authors: Love John A. , Proctor Christopher M. , Liu Jianhua , Takacs Christopher J. , Sharenko Alexander , van der Poll Thomas S. , Heeger Alan J. , Bazan Guillermo C. , Nguyen Thuc‐Quyen
Published: May 2013

Morphological control over the bulk heterojunction (BHJ) microstructure of a high‐efficiency small molecule photovoltaic system is demonstrated using both thermal treatment and solvent additive processing. Single crystal X‐ray diffraction is utilized to understand molecular interactions in the solid state and the BHJ morphology is examined using bright field, high‐resolution, and cross‐section transmission electron microscopy techniques. Controlling the domain size, while maintaining good molecular order within the semiconducting donor material, is found to be crucial in achieving high performance and over 90% internal quantum efficiency exhibited under the optimized conditions.
In Situ Monitoring the Role of Working Metal Catalyst Nanoparticles for Ultrahigh Purity Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Chen Tian‐Chi , Zhao Meng‐Qiang , Zhang Qiang , Tian Gui‐Li , Huang Jia‐Qi , Wei Fei
Published: May 2013

The high‐end applications of single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) are hindered by the existence of large amount of impurities, especially the graphene layers encapsulating metal nanoparticles (metal@C NPs). The role of working metal catalysts during chemical vapor deposition (CVD) growth and post purifications by oxidation are not yet fully understood. Herein, the in situ monitoring the role of working metal catalyst NPs for ultrahigh purity SWCNTs by CVD growth and CO2 purifications is carried out in an online thermogravimetric reactor attached with a mass spectrometer. The growth of SWCNTs almost stops after the initial 2 min, then, the mass increase of the samples mainly originates from the metal@CNP formation. Therefore, high‐purity SWCNTs (98.5 wt%) with few metal@CNPs can be available by 2 min CVD growth. Furthermore, CO2 oxidation of the SWCNTs is also investigated in a thermogravimetric reactor. The oxidation of graphene layers surrounding the metal NPs and the SWCNTs occurs during distinct temperature ranges, which is further demonstrated by the significant differences among their oxidation activation energies. Ultrahigh purity of SWNCT with a carbon content of 99.5 wt% can be available by a CO2‐assited purification method. The in situ study of the CVD growth and CO2 oxidation of SWCNTs provides the real time information on the working catalyst during reaction and the reactivity information of metal@CNPs and SWCNTs under an oxidizing atmosphere. The success for the preparation of high‐purity SWCNT lies in the efficient growth of SWCNTs with a low amount of nanocarbon impurities and partial oxidation of metal@CNPs by catalytic CO2 oxidation with proper operation parameters.
Detection of rarely identified multiple mutations in MECP2 gene do not contribute to enhanced severity in rett syndrome
Authors: Chapleau Christopher A. , Lane Jane , Kirwin Susan M. , Schanen Carolyn , Vinette Kathy M.B. , Stubbolo Danielle , MacLeod Patrick , Percy Alan K.
Published: May 2013

The objective of our study was to characterize the influence of multiple mutations in the MECP2 gene in a cohort of individuals with Rett syndrome. Further analysis demonstrated that nearly all resulted from de novo in cis mutations, where the disease severity was indistinguishable from single mutations. Our methods involved enrolling participants in the RTT Natural History Study (NHS). After providing informed consent through their parents or principal caretakers, additional molecular assessments were performed in the participants and their parents to assess the presence and location of more than one mutation in each. Clinical severity was assessed at each visit in those participants in the NHS. Non‐contiguous MECP2 gene variations were detected in 12 participants and contiguous mutations involving a deletion and insertion in three participants. Thirteen of 15 participants had mutations that were in cis; four (of 13) had three MECP2 mutations; two (of 15) had mutations that were both in cis and in trans (i.e., on different alleles). Clinical severity did not appear different from NHS participants with a single similar mutation. Mutations in cis were identified in most participants; two individuals had mutations both in cis and in trans. The presence of multiple mutations was not associated with greater severity. Nevertheless, multiple mutations will require greater thought in the future, if genetic assignment to drug treatment protocols is considered. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cardiac fat‐containing lesions are common in tuberous sclerosis complex
Authors: Shaaya Elias A. , Hirshberg Jacqueline S. , Rabe Olivia T. , Thibert Ronald L. , Inglessis Ignacio , Sharma Amita , Thiele Elizabeth A.
Published: May 2013

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a highly variable, multisystem, genetic disorder that affects approximately 1:6,000 individuals. It has previously been thought that the cardiac manifestation of TSC is congenital rhabdomyomas, which occur during infancy and typically regress during childhood. Recently, there have been findings of cardiac fat‐containing lesions in adult TSC patients that appear distinct from the presence of cardiac rhabdomyomas. We review the chest CT scans of 73 individuals with TSC to check for cardiac fat‐containing lesions. Fat‐containing lesions were found in the heart of approximately one‐third of adolescents and adults with TSC. In this population with cardiac fat‐containing lesions, no statistically significant difference was observed between the genders and between the different mutation types. Compared to those without cardiac fat findings, those with cardiac fat were more than twice as likely to have another abdominal manifestation of TSC. The results indicate that it may be appropriate to consider these cardiac fat foci as a clinical criterion for the diagnosis of TSC, given their frequency in our population. Our findings also suggest that a relation exists between the cardiac fat‐containing lesions and other abdominal angiomyolipomas. More research regarding these cardiac fat‐containing lesions is needed to better characterize their origin and clinical significance. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Recent progress in determination of fundamental constants and fundamental physics at low energies
Authors: Karshenboim Savely G.
Published: May 2013

A brief overview on determination of the values of fundamental constants by means of atomic physics is given. Recommended values of CODATA‐2010 least square adjustment are discussed as well as the related input data.
Synthesis of bismuth sulfide nanostructures by using bismuth(III) monosalicylate precursor and fabrication of bismuth sulfide based p–n junction solar cells
Authors: Salavati‐Niasari Masoud , Behfard Zeynab , Amiri Omid
Published: May 2013

Bi2S3 hierarchical columniform structures assembled by nanothorns have been first synthesized by a hydrothermal method through the reaction between bismuth(III) monosalicylate [BiO(C7H5O3)] as the precursor and sodium thiosulfate in H2O at 180 °C without any surfactants. These new Bi2S3 structures were characterized by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, photoluminescence spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectra, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and energy‐dispersive x‐ray microanalysis. The influences of the synthetic parameters were discussed, and a possible growth mechanism for the formation of these complex structures was proposed. © 2013 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Amplitude Change Detection with ENVISAT ASAR to Image the Cultural Landscape of the Nasca Region, Peru
Authors: Cigna Francesca , Tapete Deodato , Lasaponara Rosa , Masini Nicola
Published: May 2013

Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) amplitude information from ENVISAT C‐band advanced SAR (ASAR) data was used to analyse the cultural landscape of the Nasca region, southern Peru. A multispatial environmental analysis was performed over the whole drainage basin of the Rio Grande, by extracting the radar backscattering coefficient (σ0) of both natural and anthropogenic features between 2003 and 2005. Co‐registration of the ASAR scenes to a single master resulted in precisions of less than 0.1 pixels along both the range and azimuth directions. Four different products were generated based on the co‐registered ASAR stack: (i) temporally averaged radar signatures of the targets between 2003 and 2005; (ii) time series of spatially averaged radar signatures within selected areas of interest; (iii) amplitude change detection products based on (iii) image ratios and (iv) RGB colour composites between different scenes. Comparisons of annual and seasonal records through amplitude change detection maps highlighted σ0 changes over the floodplains of the Rio Ingenio and Rio Nazca, which correlate well with evidence from Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) data acquired in 2003, 2004 and 2007. Inferences about land use and soil conditions were retrieved from the σ0 change patterns, thereby proving the capability of this approach to support landscape evolution studies, even with SAR imagery of medium resolution (~30 m). Our results also demonstrated actual potential for monitoring mass movements and land surface processes, to assess the susceptibility of archaeological heritage and cultural landscape to natural hazards. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Data architectures for an organizational memory information system
Authors: Dow Kevin E. , Hackbarth Gary , Wong Jeffrey
Published: May 2013

A framework is developed that supports the theoretical design of an organizational memory information system (OMIS). The framework provides guidance for managing the processing capabilities of an organization by matching knowledge location, flexibility, and processing requirements with data architecture. This framework is tested using three different sets of data attributes and data architectures from 147 business professionals that have experience in IS development. We find that trade‐offs exist between the amount of knowledge embedded in the data architecture and the flexibility of data architectures. This trade‐off is contingent on the characteristics of the set of tasks that the data architecture is being designed to support. Further, the match is important to consider in the design of OMIS database architecture.
Double Functionalization of Carbon Nanotubes with Purine and Pyrimidine Derivatives
Authors: Singh Prabhpreet , Ménard‐Moyon Cécilia , Battigelli Alessia , Toma Francesca Maria , Raya Jesus , Kumar Jitendra , Nidamanuri Nagapradeep , Verma Sandeep , Bianco Alberto
Published: May 2013

Herein, we have developed a synthetic strategy for the covalent double functionalization of single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) with a combination of purine–pyrimidine and purine–purine nucleobase systems. The nucleobases were introduced on the sidewall of oxidized SWCNTs through 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition and by amidation of the carboxylic acids located at the tips and defect sites of the nanotubes. The new nanohybrids were characterized by transmission electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, FTIR and Raman spectroscopy, magic‐angle spinning NMR spectroscopy, and Kaiser test. The nucleobase/SWCNT conjugates can be envisaged for the modulation of the interactions with nucleic acids by means of base pairing, thereby opening new possibilities in the development of DNA/CNT nanobioconjugates.
Regional Stability and Stabilization of Time‐Delay Systems with Actuator Saturation and Delay
Authors: Fu Yan‐Ming , Zhou Bin , Duan Guang‐Ren
Published: May 2013

This paper is concerned with regional stability analysis and regional stabilization of time‐delay systems subject to both actuator saturation and delay. By using a novel Lyapunov‐Krasovskii functional, the corresponding conditions for regional stability and stabilization are derived. The free parameters in the solutions are optimized to maximize the domain of attraction of the closed‐loop system. It is shown that, even in the absence of actuator delay, the obtained result is less conservative than the existing results. Two numerical examples are presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Determinants of fluoroscopy time for invasive coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention: Insights from the NCDR®
Authors: Fazel Reza , Curtis Jeptha , Wang Yongfei , Einstein Andrew J. , Smith‐Bindman Rebecca , Tsai Thomas T. , Chen Jersey , Shah Nilay D. , Krumholz Harlan M. , Nallamothu Brahmajee K.
Published: May 2013

Objectives

Identifying the distributions and determinants of fluoroscopy time for invasive coronary angiography (ICA) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Background

ICA and PCI are significant contributors to radiation exposure from medical imaging in the US. Fluoroscopy time is a potentially modifiable determinant of radiation exposure for these procedures, but has not been well characterized in contemporary practice.

Methods

We evaluated the distribution of fluoroscopy time in patients undergoing ICA and/or PCI in the CathPCI Registry®, stratifying patients by numerous clinical scenarios. Hierarchical models were used to determine patient, procedure, operator and hospital‐level factors associated with fluoroscopy time for these procedures.

Results

Our study included a total of 3,295,348 ICA and PCI procedures performed by 9,600 operators from January 2005 through June 2009. There was wide variation in fluoroscopy times for these procedures with median [IQR] fluoroscopy times of 2.6 [1.7–4.5] minutes for ICA, 6.7 [4.2–10.8] minutes for ICA in patients with prior coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), 10.1 [6.0–17.4] minutes for PCI, 10.7 [7.0–16.9] minutes for PCI with ICA, and 16.0 [10.6–24.0] minutes for PCI and ICA in patients with prior CABG. Prolonged fluoroscopy times (>30 minutes) were rare for ICA, but occurred in 6.7% of PCIs and 14.7% of PCIs in patients with prior CABG. After accounting for patient characteristics and procedure complexity, operator and hospital‐level factors explained nearly 20% of the variation in fluoroscopy time.

Conclusions

Fluoroscopy times vary widely during ICA and PCI with operator and hospital‐level factors contributing substantially to these differences. A better understanding of potentially modifiable sources of this variation will elucidate opportunities for enhancing the radiation safety of these procedures. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hemodynamics of large ventricular septal defect and coexisting chronic constrictive pericarditis masquerading as Eisenmenger's syndrome
Authors: Gupta Saurabh Kumar , Ramakrishnan Sivasubramanian , Kothari Shyam S. , Saxena Anita , Airan Balram
Published: May 2013

The presence of right to left shunting due to elevated pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) in a patient with large ventricular septal defect (VSD) is conventionally considered as Eisenmenger's syndrome. The recognition of reversible causes of elevated PVR is important. We report hemodynamics of a child in whom unusual coexistence of large VSD and chronic constrictive pericarditis (CCP) mimicked Eisenmeneger's syndrome. The strategy of stepwise hemodynamic evaluation led to good clinical outcome.© 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Randomized trial of surgical cutdown versus percutaneous access in transfemoral TAVR
Authors: Holper Elizabeth M. , Kim Rebeca J. , Mack Michael , Brown David , Brinkman William , Herbert Morley , Stewart Wells , Vance Kaitlyn , Bowers Bruce , Dewey Todd
Published: May 2013

Objectives

To compare iliofemoral arterial complications with transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TF‐TAVR) utilizing surgical cutdown versus percutaneous access with closure devices in a randomized trial.

Background

Major vascular complications following TAVR are a significant risk of the procedure. There are no randomized data comparing whether access method in TF‐TAVR influences the risk of such complications.

Methods

From June to December 2011, 30 consecutive patients undergoing TF‐TAVR were randomized to either surgical cutdown (C) or percutaneous (P) access. Subjects underwent preoperative CT scans, pre‐ and post‐operative bilateral femoral arterial ultrasound and angiography. The primary endpoint was the composite of major and minor vascular complications at 30 days, as defined by the Valve Academic Research Consortium‐2. Multivariate predictors of vascular complications were identified.

Results

Of the 30 subjects enrolled, 27 were treated with the randomized method of access as randomized. Iliofemoral complications were observed in eight patients (26.7%; C = 4, P = 4), all of which were dissections and/or stenoses that required percutaneous and/or surgical intervention. There were two (13.3%) major and two (13.3%) minor complications in each group. Two covariates that were significantly associated with vascular complications included female sex and baseline femoral arterial velocity on ultrasound.

Conclusions

While surgical cutdown in TF‐TAVR is the recommended access for new centers initiating a TAVR program, this small randomized pilot study suggests the lesser invasive percutaneous method in an experienced center is equivalent in safety to the surgical method. Doppler ultrasound may be useful in predicting complications prior to the procedure. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Development of mitral stenosis after single mitraclip insertion for severe mitral regurgitation
Authors: Cockburn James , Fragkou Paraskevi , Hildick‐Smith David
Published: May 2013

We report the first case of mitral stenosis following Mitra‐Clip insertion in a patient with symptomatic NYHA IV heart failure, secondary to severe mitral regurgitation (MR). A 79‐year‐old female with a history of prior aortic valve replacement underwent percutaneous mitral valve (MV) repair. A single clip was advanced coaxially down onto the MV under TOE guidance, with the anterior and posterior leaflets clipped together between A2 and P2. TOE confirmed a significant reduction in MR (grade 4 to grade 1). Despite initial symptomatic relief, she represented 3 months later with similar symptoms. Repeat TOE confirmed a well positioned Mitra‐Clip with mild residual MR. However, the possibility of significant mitral stenosis was raised due to the presence of significant turbulence through the bi‐orifice valve, with a peak gradient of 25 mm Hg. In addition there was evidence of severe functional tricuspid valve (TV) regurgitation with elevated pulmonary artery pressures (PAP 90 mm Hg), confirmed on subsequent right heart catheterization. After repeated heart team discussions and a failure of optimal medical therapy, and despite a logistic EuroScore of 35.5, minimally invasive surgical replacement of the MV and simultaneous TV repair was undertaken via a right thoracotomy. Despite procedural success and initial good postoperative response, the patient died subsequently from a combination of hospital‐acquired pneumonia and significant gastrointestinal bleeding (post operative day 35). Mitra‐Clip is a promising novel approach to MV repair. The establishment of further clinical and echocardiographic based selection criteria will help identify the correct patients for this treatment. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Morphology of the patent ductus arteriosus does not preclude successful patent ductus arteriosus stent implantation in high‐risk patients undergoing hybrid stage I palliation: Recommendations to optimize ductal stent positioning
Authors: Recto Michael R. , Doyle Sandy , Guerra Vitor C. , Gui Yang Song , Yeh Thomas
Published: May 2013

Objective

To describe patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) stenting regardless of ductal morphology in high risk patients with hypoplast physiology undergoing hybrid stage I palliation (PDA stenting and placement of bilateral pulmonary artery bands).

Background

Hybrid palliation is an accepted alternative for patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome. Patients weighing less than 2.5 kg, history of prematurity, intracranial hemorrhage, and chromosomal abnormality belong to a high‐risk group who otherwise might not be ideal candidates for traditional surgical repair (Norwood Operation).

Methods

Between May 2005 and February 2013, a series of 13 high‐risk patients with hypoplast physiology with varying types of ductal morphology underwent PDA stenting as part of hybrid stage I palliation.

Results

Three major types of ductal morphology were identified: (1) short and semi horizontal, (2) long and semi horizontal, and (3) tortuous. All patients underwent successful PDA stenting. One patient developed proximal coarctation from inadequate coverage of the pulmonary end of the PDA and was successfully treated with a balloon expandable stent 69 days after the initial procedure.

Conclusions

Mid‐ to long‐term follow‐up indicates that PDA stents remain widely patent regardless of ductal morphology until comprehensive stage II repair. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Coil embolization of a symptomatic left internal mammary arteriovenous fistula
Authors: Lee Candice Y. , Knight Peter A. , Ling Frederick S.
Published: May 2013

Internal mammary artery (IMA) arteriovenous fistulae (AVF) are exceedingly rare. There have been a few case reports documenting incidences of IMA AVFs arising from traumatic, iatrogenic, and congenital causes. Recommendations for management of IMA AVFs vary from open surgical ligation‐excision to transcatheter embolization to observation. We present an unusual case of a patient who presented with ventricular arrhythmias and heart failure symptoms due to a left IMA AVF that formed after open heart surgery. The patient ultimately underwent percutaneous embolization of the fistulous connection. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Photodegradation by a Heterogeneous Mixture of Micro‐Sized Anatase and Truncated Rhomboid Anatase Hollow Spheres
Authors: Yang Min‐Han , Tsai Min‐Chiao , Chang Yuan‐Wei , Chang Ya‐Chen , Chiu Hsin‐Tien , Lee Chi‐Young
Published: May 2013

Highly uniform hollow spheres were assembled from truncated rhomboid anatase TiO2 nanoparticles (HS), which were synthesized from the hydrothermal treatment of a NaF solution by using amorphous TiO2 spheres as a precursor and template. The submicron hollow spheres with highly photocatalytic active surfaces exhibited excellent photocatalytic behavior. In this investigation, the factors that enhanced the photocatalytic performance were examined in terms of light harvesting, photoefficiency, and reaction activity. The photocatalytic performance was increased by a factor of approximately 1.5 for the scattering structure of submicron hollow spheres than that of nanofragments of submicron hollow sphere powder. The rate constant of anatase TiO2 with specific photoactive surfaces at {0 0 1} and {1 0 1} was approximately six times higher than that of randomly exposed TiO2 particles. Furthermore, a heterogeneous mixture of the submicron hollow spheres and micro‐sized anatase TiO2 (HS@micro‐sized TiO2) prohibited electron–hole recombination in the catalyst during the degradation reaction. The rate constant for the heterojunction system was 3.4 times greater than that of the individual constituents. The rate constant for HS@micro‐sized TiO2 (k=0.175 min−1) was 1.8 times larger than that of commercial P25 (k=0.099 min−1). HS@micro‐sized TiO2 is a promising photocatalytic material.
Quantum Chemical Study of the Reactions between Pd+/Pt+ and H2O/H2S
Authors: Lakuntza Oier , Matxain Jon M. , Ruipérez Fernando , Ugalde Jesus M. , Armentrout Peter B.
Published: May 2013

The study of the reactions of water and hydrogen sulfide with palladium and platinum cations has been completed in this work, in both low‐ and high‐spin states. Our calculations predict that only the formation of platinum sulfide is exothermic (in both spin states), whereas for the remaining species the oxides and sulfides are found to be more reactive than their corresponding bare metal cations. An in‐depth analysis of the reaction paths leading to metal oxide and sulfide species is given, including various minima, and several important transition states. All results have been compared with existing experimental and theoretical data, and earlier works covering the reaction of nickel cation with water and hydrogen sulfide to observe the trends for the group 10 transition metals.
Effect of Gaseous Chlorine Dioxide on Student Cafeteria Bioaerosols
Authors: Hsu Ching‐Shan , Lu Ming‐Chun , Huang Da‐Ji
Published: May 2013

Microbial aerosols cause various human and animal health problems, and thus their control is a major scientific and technological concern. The air quality within student cafeteria in Taiwan should comply with the guidelines laid down by the Taiwan Environmental Protection Agency. Accordingly, this study performed an experimental investigation into the efficiency of gaseous chlorine dioxide (ClO2) in disinfecting a local student cafeteria. The air quality before and after disinfection was evaluated in terms of the bioaerosol levels of bacteria and fungus, respectively. The average background levels of bacteria and fungus in the indoor area of the cafeteria prior to treatment were found to be 741.0 ± 311.4 and 799.9 ± 302.7 CFU/m3, respectively, during the semester and 381.7 ± 165.8 and 974.4 ± 294.6 CFU/m3, respectively, during vacation. Following a one‐off application of gaseous ClO2, the average background levels of bacteria and fungus reduced to 661.0 ± 356.5 and 626.0 ± 265.1 CFU/m3, respectively, during the semester and 349.1 ± 183.2 and 853.4 ± 351 CFU/m3, respectively, during vacation. The disinfection efficiency of the ClO2 during the semester was reduced as the result of cooking, dishwashing, the passage of people, the ventilation system, and so on. Similarly, during vacation, the disinfection efficiency was reduced as the result of a greater accumulation of residual fungus due to a lack of regular cleaning. Therefore, the results obtained in this study suggest that a regular (i.e., daily) application of ClO2 is a more suitable protocol for maintaining an acceptable air quality in student cafeteria than a periodic, one‐off application.
The thermal stability of anodic alumina membranes at high temperatures
Authors: Wang Danli , Ruan Yongfeng , Zhang Lingcui , Zhu Wei , Wang Pengfei
Published: May 2013

Nano‐structured anodic alumina membranes are ideal templates and have wide applications. However, anodic alumina materials begin to curl up at high temperatures. To better understand and overcome this problem, the thermal stability of anodic alumina membranes was investigated. Anodic alumina membranes obtained in oxalic acid electrolyte were heat treated in air at different annealing temperatures up to 1200 °C. Our results show that the sub‐pores produced during the annealing process are responsible for the curling. The repulsive forces between neighboring pores caused by mechanical stress at the metal nucleus/oxide interface promote the formation of the sub‐pores. Annealing under a suitable pressure provided thermal stability to the membranes, because it avoided or minimized curling and cracking phenomena. Scanning electron microscopy images showed that the sub‐pores disappeared when annealed under a suitable pressure.
Novel mixed–solvothermal synthesis of MoS2 nanosheets with controllable morphologies
Authors: Feng X. , Tang Q. , Zhou J. , Fang J. , Ding P. , Sun L. , Shi L.
Published: May 2013

MoS2 nanosheets with controllable morphologies were successfully synthesized via a novel mixed–solvothermal approach based on interfusing organic solvent in the solution. The morphology of the MoS2 nanosheets was lamellar–like using the mixed water/ethanol/N–Methyl pyrrolidone solvents, whereas that prepared with the mixed water/ethano/ethylene glycol solvents changes to fullerene–like. Because of the structure‐directing ability of organic molecules, the mixed solvents were proposed to be responsible for the formation of such different morphologies. The average size of MoS2 nanosheets was approximately 90 nm, and the thickness was about 10–20 nm. The results indicated that the crystalline phase and morphology were largely influenced by calcination and reaction system.
Growth, crystal structure and spectrum of a novel rare‐earth orthophosphate crystal: Yb:LuPO4
Authors: De‐gao Zhong , Bing Teng , Li‐feng Cao , Wang Chao , Lin‐xiang He , Jian‐hong Li , Shi‐ming Zhang , Yu‐yi Li
Published: May 2013

Yb: LuPO4 crystals with the size up to 6×2×0.5mm3 were grown by the flux growth process using lead pyrophosphate Pb2P2O7 as the high‐temperature solvent. The crystal structure of Yb: LuPO4 crystals at room temperature was refined by using single crystal X‐ray diffraction data. Crystal structure analysis showed that Yb: LuPO4 crystals possessed the tetragonal xenotime structure. The polarized absorption spectra of Yb: LuPO4 were tested at room temperature. The results showed that the absorption spectral region of Yb: LuPO4 crystal was well matched for pumping with readily available diode lasers.
AlxTayOz Mixture Coatings Prepared Using Atomic Layer Deposition for Corrosion Protection of Steel
Authors: Härkönen Emma , Díaz Belén , Światowska Jolanta , Maurice Vincent , Seyeux Antoine , Fenker Martin , Tóth Lajos , Radnóczi György , Marcus Philippe , Ritala Mikko
Published: May 2013

Atomic layer deposited (ALD) 50 nm AlxTayOz mixture coatings are grown on steel for corrosion protection. In morphological and compositional analyses the coatings are found to be uniform, conformal, well‐adhered, and low in defect density. Corrosion protection properties are evaluated with polarization measurements and neutral salt spray (NSS) testing. The sealing properties of the mixtures improve with increasing aluminum oxide content, whereas the protection durability improves with increasing tantalum oxide content. In comparison to single‐layer and nano‐laminate ALD Al2O3 and Ta2O5 coatings, all mixtures are found to have better protective properties.
Molecular Layer Deposition of Zircone and ZrO2/Zircone Alloy Films: Growth and Properties
Authors: Lee Byoung H. , Anderson Virginia R. , George Steven M.
Published: May 2013

Hybrid organic/inorganic polymer films based on zirconium are grown using molecular layer deposition (MLD) techniques. The zirconium alkoxide films, known as “zircones”, are grown using sequential exposures of zirconium tert‐butoxide (ZTB) and ethylene glycol (EG) as the reactants at temperatures from 105 to 195°C. In‐situ quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) and ex‐situ X‐ray reflectivity (XRR) experiments confirm linear growth versus the number of reaction cycles. The growth rates decrease versus temperature from 1.6 Å per cycle at 105°C to 0.3 Å per cycle at 195°C. The measured density is ∼2.17 g cm−3 for all the growth temperatures. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images reveal very uniform and conformal zircone films. ZrO2/zircone alloys are also fabricated by combining ZrO2 atomic layer deposition (ALD) and zircone MLD at 145°C. The composition of the ZrO2/zircone alloy is varied by adjusting the relative number of ZrO2 ALD and zircone MLD cycles in the reaction sequence. The ZrO2/zircone alloys display varying density, refractive index, elastic modulus, and hardness. The refractive index and elastic modulus change progressively from n = 1.63 and E= 27 ± 0.6 GPa for pure zircone MLD films, to n = 1.86 and E= 97 ± 5 GPa for pure ZrO2 ALD films, respectively. In capacitor structures, the zircone films display low leakage currents and a dielectric constant of ∼6.7. The zircone films are also utilized as the dielectric layer in pentacene‐based thin film transistors (TFTs), which display a high field effect mobility of 2.11 cm2 V−1 s−1 operating at −3 V with an on/off current ratio of ∼103. The zircone and ZrO2/zircone alloy films provide a new class of hybrid organic/inorganic polymer films for many functional film applications.
Stability of 11 prevalent synthetic cannabinoids in authentic neat oral fluid samples: glass versus polypropylene containers at different temperatures
Authors: Kneisel Stefan , Speck Michael , Moosmann Bjoern , Auwärter Volker
Published: May 2013

Although synthetic cannabinoids have been intensively investigated in recent years and oral fluid testing is becoming increasingly popular in suspected driving under the influence of drugs cases, only scarce data on their stability in authentic neat oral fluid (nOF) samples are yet available. However, especially for these new psychoactive drugs, investigations focusing on stability issues are necessary as inappropriate storage conditions may lead to considerable analytical problems. Since it has been shown for Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol that adsorption to plastic surfaces may lead to considerable drug loss, we aimed to evaluate whether adsorption also has to be taken into account for synthetic cannabinoids in nOF samples.

In this paper, the results of investigations on the recovery of 11 prevalent synthetic cannabinoids from authentic nOF samples stored over 72 h in RapidEASE (high quality borosilicate glass) and Sciteck Saliva Split Collector (polypropylene) tubes at 4 and 25 °C are presented. Our findings clearly demonstrate that lipophilic synthetic cannabinoids present in nOF samples adsorb to the surface of polypropylene containers when stored at room temperature, leading to considerable drug loss. Hence, when using polypropylene tubes, samples should be shipped cooled in order to avoid a substantial decrease of the analyte concentration during transportation. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transgenic retinoic acid sensor lines in zebrafish indicate regions of available embryonic retinoic acid
Authors: Mandal Amrita , Rydeen Ariel , Anderson Jane , Sorrell Mollie R.J. , Zygmunt Tomas , Torres‐Vázquez Jesús , Waxman Joshua S.
Published: May 2013

Background: Retinoic acid (RA) signaling plays a critical role in vertebrate development. Transcriptional reporters of RA signaling in zebrafish, thus far, have not reflected the broader availability of embryonic RA, necessitating additional tools to enhance our understanding of the spatial and temporal activity of RA signaling in vivo. Results: We have generated novel transgenic RA sensors in which a RA receptor (RAR) ligand‐binding domain (RLBD) is fused to the Gal4 DNA‐binding domain (GDBD) or a VP16‐GDBD (VPBD) construct. Stable transgenic lines expressing these proteins when crossed with UAS reporter lines are responsive to RA. Interestingly, the VPBD RA sensor is significantly more sensitive than the GDBD sensor and demonstrates there may be almost ubiquitous availability of RA within the early embryo. Using confocal microscopy to compare the expression of the GDBD RA sensor to our previously established RA signaling transcriptional reporter line, Tg(12XRARE:EGFP), illustrates these reporters have significant overlap, but that expression from the RA sensor is much broader. We also identify previously unreported domains of expression for the Tg(12XRARE:EGFP) line. Conclusions: Our novel RA sensor lines will be useful and complementary tools for studying RA signaling during development and anatomical structures independent of RA signaling. Developmental Dynamics 242:989–1000, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Getting the biggest birch for the bang: restoring and expanding upland birchwoods in the Scottish Highlands by managing red deer
Authors: Tanentzap Andrew J. , Zou James , Coomes David A.
Published: May 2013

High deer populations threaten the conservation value of woodlands and grasslands, but predicting the success of deer culling, in terms of allowing vegetation to recover, is difficult. Numerical simulation modeling is one approach to gain insight into the outcomes of management scenarios. We develop a spatially explicit model to predict the responses ofBetulaspp. to red deer (Cervus elaphus) and land management in the Scottish Highlands. Our model integrates a Bayesian stochastic stage‐based matrix model within the framework of a widely used individual‐based forest simulation model, using data collected along spatial and temporal gradients in deer browsing. By initializing our model with the historical spatial locations of trees, we find that densities of juvenile trees (<3 m tall) predicted after 9–13 years closely match counts observed in the field. This is among the first tests of the accuracy of a dynamical simulation model for predicting the responses of tree regeneration to herbivores. We then test the relative importance of deer browsing, ground cover vegetation, and seed availability in facilitating landscape‐level birch regeneration using simulations in which we varied these three variables. We find that deer primarily control transitions of birch to taller (>3 m) height tiers over 30 years, but regeneration also requires suitable ground cover for seedling establishment. Densities of adult seed sources did not influence regeneration, nor did an active management scenario where we altered the spatial configuration of adults by creating “woodland islets”. Our results show that managers interested in maximizing tree regeneration cannot simply reduce deer densities but must also improve ground cover for seedling establishment, and the model we develop now enables managers to quantify explicitly how much both these factors need to be altered. More broadly, our findings emphasize the need for land managers to consider the impacts of large herbivores rather than their densities.
Activating Azides and Alkynes for the Click Reaction with [Cu(aNHC)2I] or [Cu(aNHC)2]+ (aNHC = Triazole‐Derived Abnormal Carbenes): Structural Characterization and Catalytic Properties
Authors: Hohloch Stephan , Scheiffele Damaris , Sarkar Biprajit
Published: May 2013

Neutral, iodido‐containing copper(I) complexes [Cu(aNHC)2I] {aNHC = 1‐benzyl‐3‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3‐triazol‐5‐ylidene (for 6) and 3‐methyl‐1‐[2‐(methylthio)phenyl]‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3‐triazol‐5‐ylidene (for 7)} and cationic, halide‐free copper(I) complexes [Cu(aNHC)2](BF4) {aNHC = 1‐benzyl‐3‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3‐triazol‐5‐ylidene (for 8), 3‐methyl‐1,4‐diphenyl‐1,2,3‐triazol‐5‐ylidene (for 9), 3‐methyl‐1‐[2‐(methylthio)phenyl]‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3‐triazol‐5‐ylidene (for 10), and 1‐mesityl‐3‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3‐triazol‐5‐ylidene (for 11)}, both containing two monodentate abnormal‐carbene ligands (aNHC), were synthesized from [Cu(CH3CN)4](BF4) and the corresponding triazolium salts. It was possible to selectively synthesize both kinds of complexes by simply variing the counter‐anion of the triazolium salts and keeping the metal precursor the same. All complexes were characterized by elemental analysis and spectroscopic methods. 6 and 11 were studied with single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analyses. In 6, the copper(I) center is tricoordinated, and its geometry is in between trigonal planar and T‐shaped. In halide‐free 11, the copper(I) center is linearly coordinated by two abnormal‐carbene ligands. All complexes were tested as catalysts in the Huisgen [3+2] cycloaddition reaction between azides and alkynes, and they showed excellent efficiencies under neat conditions. A comparison between the efficiencies of the halide‐containing complexes 6 and 7 and the halide‐free cases 8–11, shows that the halide‐free Cu–aNHC complexes are significantly more efficient than their halide‐containing counterparts. The best catalyst was used for a substrate screening by utilizing a variety of azides and a couple of alkynes. The efficiency of the catalyst was maintained with loadings as low as 0.005 mol‐%. Mechanistic studies were carried out as well.
Small‐Molecule Activation with Molybdenum(0) Complexes Supported by Mixed Imidazol‐2‐Ylidene/Phosphanyl Hybrid Ligands – Electronic and Structural Consequences of Substituting a Phosphane by a Carbene Group
Authors: Gradert Christian , Krahmer Jan , Sönnichsen Frank D. , Näther Christian , Tuczek Felix
Published: May 2013

By employing a series of mixed bi‐ and tridentate N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC)/phosphane ligands, the new molybdenum(0) carbonyl complexes [Mo(CO)4(CP)] [1, CP = 3‐(2‐diphenylphosphanylethyl)‐1‐ethylimidazol‐2‐ylidene], fac‐[Mo(CO)3(PCP)] [2, PCP = 1,3‐bis(2‐diphenylphosphanylethyl)imidazol‐2‐ylidene], and fac‐[Mo(CO)3(CPC)] [3, CPC = bis(1‐ethyl‐3‐ethyleneimidazol‐2‐ylidene)phenylphosphane] have been synthesized. The compounds were investigated by X‐ray structure analysis and vibrational and NMR spectroscopy in conjunction with DFT calculations. For comparison, the complexes [Mo(CO)4(CC)] [4, CC = di(1‐ethylimidazol‐2‐ylidene)methane], fac‐[Mo(CO)3(dpepp)] [5, dpepp = bis(2‐diphenylphosphanylethyl)phenylphosphane], and [Mo(CO)4(dppp)] [6, dppp = 1,3‐bis(diphenylphosphanyl)propane] have also been prepared and investigated. In contrast to the phosphane donors, which exhibiting metal–ligand backbonding interactions, the π‐acceptor interactions of the carbene moieties are exactly cancelled by π‐donor interactions. The σ‐donor strengths of phosphane and carbene groups, on the other hand, are found to be comparable. The implications of this result with respect to the activation of small molecules (e.g., N2) are discussed.
Redox‐Induced Carbon–Carbon Bond Formation by Using Noninnocent Ligands
Authors: Myers Thomas W. , Yee Gereon M. , Berben Louise A.
Published: May 2013

The control of radical reactions to afford selective carbon–carbon bond formation is a significant synthetic challenge with applications ranging from small‐molecule activation to natural product synthesis. Oxidation of (IP–)2Al(CH3) (1, IP = iminopyridine) with TrBPh4 (Tr = trityl) afforded the C–C coupled product [(IP)(Tr‐IP)Al(CH3)][BPh4] (2) in which the trityl radical and the IP– radical have undergone C–C bond formation. In contrast, oxidation of 1 with TrBArF24 {BArF24 = tetrakis[(3,5‐trifluoromethyl)phenyl]borate} or TrB(C6F5)4 affords cationic [(IP)(IP–)Al(CH3)][BArF24] (3a) or [(IP)(IP–)Al(CH3)][B(C6F5)4] (3b), respectively . The different reaction outcomes provided by the different counteranions of Tr+ imply that a difference in stability of the products or of the intermediate mixed‐valent [(IP)(IP‐)Al(CH3)]+ state exists. We speculate that the most likely factor is the difference in solubility afforded by the different anions of the products that are formed. We also show that the formation of stable, cationic biradical complexes is possible and that these complexes do not undergo C–C radical coupling at the IP ligand. Cationic [(IP–)2Al(OEt2)][BArF24] (4) was obtained by protonolysis of 1 with H(OEt2)2BArF24, and two‐electron oxidation of [(IP2–)2Al]– (5) afforded [(IP–)2Al(thf)][BArF24] (6).
P4 Activation by Lanthanum and Lutetium Naphthalene Complexes Supported by a Ferrocene Diamide Ligand
Authors: Huang Wenliang , Diaconescu Paula L.
Published: May 2013

Two rare‐earth (La and Lu) naphthalene complexes supported by a ferrocene diamide ligand activate P4 under ambient conditions to form M3P7 species exclusively. The resulting complexes feature a Zintl‐type polyphosphide P73– unit stabilized by three lanthanide fragments. The reported metal complexes were characterized by X‐ray crystallography, multinuclear NMR spectroscopy, and elemental analysis.