bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organoamido- and Aryloxo-lanthanoids. IV. Synthesis and X-Ray Structures of Low-Coordinate [Yb(O-2,4,6-But3C6H2)3(thf)] and [Yb(O-2,4,6-But3C6H2)2(μ-OH)(thf)]2 (thf = Tetrahydrofuran)
Authors: Deacon GB , Feng TC , Nickel S , Ogden MI , White AH
Published: September 2010

Reaction of Yb ( Otbp )2( thf )3( tbp = 2,4,6 But3C6H2; thf = tetrahydrofuran ) with TlOtbp in tetrahydrofuran at room temperature yields thallium metal and Yb( Otbp )3( thf ) (1), which was also obtained by redox transmetallation between TlOtbp and ytterbium metal in refluxing tetrahydrofuran . Some [ Yb ( Otbp )2( �-OH) (thf)]2 (2) was also isolated from the first synthesis and is derived from hydrolysis of Yb ( Otbp )3( thf ) by traces of water. The X-ray crystal structure of (1) [triclinic, P1, a 21.78(1), b 13.89(2), c 10.461(4)� , α; 109.03(5), β 99.03(3), γ; 98.34(5)�, Z 2, No = 4354 'observed' data refined to R 0.0711 shows novel distorted tetrahedral four coordination for ytterbium [0-Yb-0 angles 90.6(5)-121.8(4)�, which is bonded more strongly to the aryl oxide [Yb-0 1.97(1), 2.02(1), 2.09(1) � ] than to thf [Yb-0 2.35(1) �. The X-ray structure of (2) [triclinic, P1, a 15.61(1), b 13.84(2), c 11.085(4) �, α 99.25(9),, β 94.46(4), γ 96.42(9), Z 1, No = 4718 'observed' data refined to R 0.050] indicates a centrosymmetric hydroxo -bridged dimer with a YbO2Yb core. Ytterbium has irregular five coordination with two bridging hydroxide oxygens [Yb-0 2.217(6), 2.199(6) A; 0-Yb-0' 70.2(2)�, Yb-O-Yb, 109.8(3)�, non-bonding Yb…Yb 3.614(2) A], two phenoxide oxygens [2.047(7), 2.073(6) �], and a more distant thf oxygen [2.363(8) � ].
Oxidation of Manganese(II) by Peroxomonosulfuric Acid in Aqueous Solution in the Presence of Molybdate. Crystal-Structure of the K6[MnMo9O32].6H2O Product
Authors: Dunne SJ , Burns RC , Hambley TW , Lawrance GA
Published: September 2010

Oxidation of Mn2+aq by HSO5- to manganese(IV) in the presence of molybdate ion in acetate buffer involves the formation of the soluble heteropolymolybdate anion [MnMo9O32]6-. This was crystallized as K6[MnMo9O32].6H2O from the reaction mixture in the rhombohedra1 space group R32, a 15.569(1), c 12.432(1) � , and the structure was determined by X-ray diffraction methods, refined to a residual of 0.028 for 1032 independent 'observed' reflections. Unlike the oxidation reaction in the absence of molybdate , which displays classical autocatalytic kinetics and generates manganese dioxide, no MnO2 is formed with Mn /Mo ≤ 1:12, the red heteropolymolybdate being the only isolated product. The kinetics of the oxidation were examined at 40�C over the pH range 4.0-5.3, and non-linear dependences on [HSO5-] and l/[H+] observed. The influence of variation of the manganese-to-molybdenum ratio between 1 : 12 and 1 : 50 on the observed rate constant was very small at pH 4.54, a result supporting the view that the manganese exists initially as the known [MnMo6O24H6]4- or a close analogue in solution. A rate expression of the form -d[Mn11dt = ko [HSO5-]+ k1 [HSO5-]2 where k0 = 0.021 dm3 mol-1 s-1 and k1 = 0.041 dm6 mol-1s-1 was observed at pH 4.54. Cyclic voltammetry identified the oxidation of the manganese(II) cluster as an irreversible process which occurs at +1.035 V (v. Ag/ AgCl ) at pH 3.95, becoming progressively more negative with increasing pH (+0.84 V at pH 5.3), the variation presumably related to variation in protonation of the cluster, which also governs the non-linear dependence of the chemical oxidation on [H+].
Synthesis and Characterization of a Series of Liquid Crystal Monomers Containing a Novel Spacer Group Based on Vinylacetic Acid
Authors: Jacobs HA , Day GM , Jackson WR , Simon GP , Watson KG , Zheng S
Published: September 2010

A series of liquid crystal monomers with side chains involving a vinylacetic acid unit have been prepared, and their thermal and optical properties compared with those of related compounds containing the same mesogenic unit but a conventional polymethylene spacer group based on a terminal alkene.
Group 15 Metal Complexes With Carboxylic Acids. Preparation and Crystal Structure of Polymeric Ammonium Aquabis[(+)-tartrato(2-)]bismuthate(III) Hydrate
Authors: Sagatys DS , Oreilly EJ , Patel S , Bott RC , Lynch DE , Smith G , Kennard CHL
Published: September 2010

The crystal structure of the bismuth(III) complex with (+)-tartaric acid, ammonium aquabis [(+)-tartrato (2-)] bismuthate (III) hydrate, has been determined by X-ray methods and refined to a residual R 0.020 for 1288 observed reflections. Crystals are orthorhombic, space group P 212121 with Z 4 in a cell of dimensions a 7.4712(4), b 10.856(1), c 17.609(3) � . Each nine-coordinate MO9 bismuth centre comprises three bidentate α-hydroxy carboxy residues from two tartrato (2-) ligands (with one bridging), an asymmetric bidentate carboxylato (O,O') group, and a water. The Bi-O range is 2.372(7)-2.738(6) � [mean 2.509(6) >� ]. The resultant structure is a linear polymer which is stabilized by extensive hydrogen-bonding interactions.
Self-Aggregation of a Synthetic Amphiphilic Porphyrin
Authors: Arnold DP , Bartley JP , James DA
Published: September 2010

The cationic amphiphile meso-tetrakis (1-octyloxycarbonylmethyl-4-pyridinio) porphyrin has been prepared by quaternization of tetra(4-pyridyl) porphyrin . Its self-aggregation into columnar face-to-face stacks is indicated by n.m.r. and electronic absorption spectra in chloroform and chloroform/methanol mixtures. In 10 mole % CD3OD/CDCl3 solution, concentration-dependent dimerization occurs, with an association constant Kd 5.81×103 dm3 mol-1. In pure methanol, chemical shifts are concentration dependent, but do not fit a simple dimerization model. In water/methanol mixtures, aggregation occurs so that the hydrocarbon chains approach the porphyrin core, but the macrocycles do not stack in a face-to-face manner.
Rearrangements Involving the Tricyclo[3.1.1.03,6]heptyl and Tricyclo[3.2.1.03,6]octyl Systems. Single-Electron Transfer in the Reduction of a Bridgehead Tosylate With Lithium Aluminum Hydride
Authors: Della EW , Janowski WK , Pigou PE
Published: September 2010

The attempted conversion of tricyclo [3.1.1.03,6]heptane-6-methanol (9) into the corresponding tosylate (7) leads instead to a rearranged isomer tricyclo [3.2.1.03,6]oct-6-yl tosylate (10). Treatment of 10 with lithium aluminium hydride affords a mixture of the parent alcohol tricyclo[3.2.1.03,6]octan-6-ol (15) and endo-bicyclo[3.2.l]octan-6-ol. The available evidence suggests that the latter arises by a process which appears to be mediated by alkoxy radicals rather than anions.
The Synthesis and Properties of an Encapsulated Ruthenium(II) Ion by an N3S3 Macrobicyclic Ligand
Authors: Bernhard P , Bull DJ , Robinson WT , Sargeson AM
Published: September 2010

The complex [ Ru(capten)]2+ ( capten = 1-methyl-3,13,16-trithia-6,10,19-triazabicyclo[6.6.6]- icosane ) has been synthesized from [ Ru ( dmf )6]2+ ( dmf = N,N- dimethylformamide ) and the free ligand . An X-ray crystallographic analysis of [ Ru ( capten )] (CF3SO3)2 at 138 K reveals a lel3 conformation of the ligand with an average II-N bond length of 2.136(5) � and an average RuII-S bond length of 2.284(8) � . Visible spectra and the redox potential (1.26 V v. n.h.e .) show that the RuII state is stabilized by c. 0.9 V relative to the complex with six nitrogen donor atoms. Oxidation of Ru11 to RuIIIin acetonitrile leads to dehydrogenation of the ligand to form an imine. Successive oxidations lead to a triimine species where all the imines are located in the ligand cap. These oxidation processes are inferred to take place through RuIV intermediates which decay by intramolecular 2e- steps to the imine.
Synthesis of Epihalohydrins by Dehydrohalogenation of Glycerol Dihalohydrins - Utilization of a Basic Ion-Exchange Resin
Authors: Dargelos M , Borredon ME , Gaset A
Published: September 2010

Dehydrohalogenation of a mixture of glycerol 1,3- and 2,3-dihalohydrins by a strong basic ion-exchange resin (IRA 440 and A 26) at room temperature in an organic medium quantitatively leads to the corresponding epihalohydrin (1a; X = Cl), and (1b; X = Br) in a very short reaction time. Hydrolysis of the epihalohydrin does not occur under these conditions.
Crystal Structures of Complex Lanthanide Sulfides With Built-in Non-Commensurability
Authors: Makovicky E
Published: September 2010

Non-commensurability on the boundaries of adjacent structural layers (rods, blocks) represents an important structure-building principle for several structural families of complex lanthanide sulfides. In the layer-misfit sulfides 'ABS3', pseudotetragonal layers with lanthanide ions alternate with octahedral layers or trigonal prismatic layers. Among more complex, fragment-recombination structures based on similar layer strips, (A) a family of derivatives of the structure of Yb3S4, (B) structures that represent anti-(out-of-)phase modulated non-commensurate layer sequences, and (c) lanthanide sulfosalts (with bismuth and antimony) are described in some detail. Layer-match modes, their relationships to the ratios of cation radii, and relations to simpler archetypal structures are analysed.
Self-Dual Plane Nets in Crystal Chemistry
Authors: Okeeffe M
Published: September 2010

A self-dual net is one that is identical to its dual. It is shown that some of the more commonly occurring binary and ternary intermetallic crystal structure types can be very simply described as a stacking of self-dual nets. Common structure types discussed include those of CrB , Cu2Sb (= PbClF ), BaAl4 (=ThCr2Si2) and CoSi2 (= SrMgSi ).
The Synthesis of 7-t-Butylisobenzofuran-4,5-dione
Authors: Sims CG , Wege D
Published: September 2010

The title compound has been prepared by a route in which the key step is the decarbonylation and subsequent Alder- Rickert cleavage of the adduct between 8-t-butyl-1,4-dihydro-1,4 epoxynaphthalene-5,6-dione and tetraphenylcyclopentadienone.
Synthesis of 2,7-Dimethylanthracene by a Route Which Is Potentially a General One
Authors: Lai YH , Peck TG
Published: September 2010

A synthetic route to specifically substituted anthracenes was attempted by using a selectively substituted o- bromobenzaldehyde derivative as the precursor. 2,7-Dimethylanthracene was successfully prepared. H9 and H10 in 2,7-dimethylanthracene were readily assigned by n.O.e. experiments.
Two New Depsidones From the Lichen Erioderma phaeorhizum Vainio sensu lato
Authors: Binhamat A , Bindin L , Binsamsudin MW , Elix JA
Published: September 2010

The depsidones hypophysciosporin (methyl 2-chloro-3,8-dihydroxy-1,4,6,9-tetramethyl-11-oxo-11H-dibenzo[ b,e ][1,4]dioxepin-7-carboxylate) (9) and 3-O-methylhypophysciosporin (methyl 2-chloro-8-hydroxy-3-methoxy-1,4,6,9-tetra-11-oxo-11H-dibenzo[ b,e ][1,4]dioxepin-7-carboxylate)(10) have been isolated from the lichen Erioderma phaeorhizum and the structures of these metabolites have been established by comparison with synthetic material. In addition the chroman, vitamin E acetate (14), has been isolated from Erioderma tomentosum, the first reported occurrence of this compound in a lichen.
Intramolecular Oxidative Coupling of Aromatic Compounds. V. para-para Diphenolic Oxidative Coupling as a Possible Route to the Eupodienone Skeleton
Authors: Carroll AR , Krauss AS , Taylor WC
Published: September 2010

The synthesis of (2RS,3RS)-1,4-bis(4-hydroxy-3,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-2,3-dimethylbutan-1-one (9) is described. Diphenolic oxidative coupling of (9) gave the unstable dienone (24), which decomposed in methanol to give what is believed to be the acetal (26). Synthesis of the related diarylbutane (10) was also achieved, but diphenolic coupling gave no useful result. The claimed formation of the bis ( spiro dienone ) (7) on oxidation of 4,4′-(butane-1,4-diyl) bisphenol could not be confirmed.
The Hydrolysis of Bis(2-chloroethyl) Sulfide (Sulfur Mustard) in Aqueous Mixtures of Ethanol, Acetone and Dimethyl Sulfoxide
Authors: Tilley RI
Published: September 2010

The rate of hydrolysis of bis (2-chloroethyl) sulfide (sulfur mustard) in aqueous
mixtures of ethanol, acetone and dimethyl sulfoxide has been measured and compared with previously reported values. Rate constants in water at 25°C for the two consecutive hydrolysis reactions undergone by sulfur mustard were estimated to be (2.93�0.15)×10-3 and (3.87�0.14)×10-3 s-1. Charge separation of 0.42 in the transition states was indicated together with significant solvation of the positive end of the transition state dipoles.
New Macrocyclic Ligands. III. Pendant 2-Pyridylmethyl and Diethylaminoethyl Arm Derivatives of Dibenzo-Substituted O2N2-Donor Rings. The X-Ray Structure of a Pendant 2-Pyridylmethyl Derivative
Authors: Lindoy LF , Skelton BW , Smith SV , White AH
Published: September 2010

The syntheses and characterization of eight new 14 to 17-membered macrocycles
incorporating O2N2-donor sets in the rings and pendant 2-pyridylmethyl or diethylaminoethyl groups, attached at one or both ring nitrogens , are reported. The X-ray structure of the mono(2-pyridylmethyl) derivative of the 15-membered macrocycle at c. 120 K is also described.
Studies of Australian Ascidians. I. Six New Lamellarin-Class Alkaloids From a Colonial Ascidian, Didemnum sp.
Authors: Carroll AR , Bowden BF , Coll JC
Published: September 2010

Six new polyaromatic alkaloids, lamellarin I (3), J (6), K (7), L (9), M (11) and the triacetate (13) of lamellarin N, and four known alkaloids, lamellarin A (I), B (15), C (16) and the triacetate (14) of lamellarin D, have been isolated from the marine ascidian Didemnum sp. The structures were deduced by high-field n.m.r. spectroscopy including 13C-1H shift-correlated two-dimensional (2D) n.m.r. experiments and n.O.e . measurements. The triacetates (8) and (10) of two of the compounds, lamellarin K (7) and lamellarin L (9), were dehydrogenated in high yield by treatment with 2,3-dichloro-5,6-dicyano-1,4-benzoquinone in ethanol heated under reflux. The products obtained were identical in all respects to the triacetates of lamellarin M and N, respectively. The re-isolation of lamellarins A-D, which were previously obtained from the prosobranch mollusc Lamellaria sp., lends further support for the idea that these molluscs sequester the compounds from ascidians as food sources.
Crystal Structure of a Luminescent Europium(III) Complex: Probing the Active Species in Dissociation-Enhanced Lanthanide Fluoroimmunoassay
Authors: Dearie CM , Dyson RM , Hambley TW , Lawrance GA , Maeder M , Tannock GA
Published: September 2010

The highly luminescent complex [ Eu ( fnac )2( topo )2(NO3)], which contains the two component ligands [ fnac, the anion of 4,4,4-trifluoro-1-(2-naphthyl)butane-1,3-dione, and topo, trioctylphosphine oxide] of the luminescent species in the dissociation-enhanced lanthanide fluoroimmunoassay method, has been prepared and defined by an X-ray crystal structure analysis. The complex crystallizes in the Ccmm space group, a 17.064(18), b 30.254(21) and c 16.391(4) Ǻ, Z = 4, and a single-crystal X-ray structure determination refined to R 0.056 for 1772 independent 'observed' reflections. The complex exhibits a dodecahedral EuO8 structure with bidentate nitrate ion [ Eu -O 2.512(10)Ǻ], two bidentate substituted acetylacetonate ( fnac )[ Eu -O 2.379(9), 2.400(9)Ǻ], and two monodentate long-chain phospine oxide ( topo ) ligands [ Eu -O 2.295(9)Ǻ].
Synthesis of Organothiophosphate Antigens for the Development of Specific Immunoassays
Authors: Mcadam DP , Skerritt JH
Published: September 2010

By use of t-butyl 3-[ chloro ( methoxy ) phosphorothioylamino ] propanoate (1), a general method was developed that allowed the preparation of analogues of specific organothiophosphates ; these analogues are suitable for use as haptens in the development of tests for detection of the individual organophosphates. The bifunctional reagent (1) was conveniently prepared from readily available starting materials.
Reaction of Dienophiles With a 5,6-Bismethylenenorborn-2-en-7-one: the Synthesis of a Stable Norborna-2,5-dien-7-one
Authors: Warrener RN , Pitt IG , Russell RA
Published: September 2010

Reaction of hemicyclone (10) with (E)-1,4-dibromobut-2-ene (9) under forcing conditions yielded a 1:1 adduct (11) which served as the precursor for the 5,6-bismethylenenorborn-2-en-7-one (12) through fluoride-promoted dehydrobromination. The conjugated diene group in (12) enters into Diels-Alder reactions with reactive dienophiles to produce intermediate norbornadienones en route to aromatic products. It has been possible to identify the norborna-2,5-dien-7-one (16) resulting from the reaction of (12) with N- tolyltriazoline dione (15), thereby offering authentic evidence for the rare norborna-2,5-dien-7-one ring system. In addition, (12) has been used as a reagent to evaluate facial selectivity in its reaction with the transient Dewar benzene (24). The cyclobutamaleimide moiety in (24) is screened on each face, yet facial discrimination in its reaction with (12) is high (7: 1). Thermolysis of the 5,6-bismethylenenorborn-2-en-7-one (12) yields the substituted benzocyclobutene (14), a reaction which may involve the o-xylylene (13) as intermediate.
A Novel Clerodane Ascorbate Adduct From Brachyglottis bidwillii
Authors: Bloor SJ , Gainsford GJ
Published: September 2010

Investigation of the antibacterial activity of extracts from Brachyglottis bidwillii var. bidwillii revealed the major activity to be associated with four compounds (1)-(4). Two of these compounds are novel diterpene-ascorbate adducts, 5-O-acetyl-2-C-(cleroda-3,13-dien-15-yl)-β-L-xylo-3-hexulofuranosonic acid γ- lactone (1) and the 5-hydroxy equivalent (2). The structures of (1) and (2) were determined from X-ray and spectroscopic data. The two other compounds are known diterpenes labda-7,13-dien-15-ol (3) and kolavenol (4).
Organomercury Compounds. XXXI. Preparations and 199Hg N.M.R. Spectra of Organomercury Derivatives of 2-Phenylpyridine, Benzo[h]quinoline, 1-Phenylpyrazole and 3,4,5-Trimethyl-1-phenylpyrazole, and the X-Ray Crystal Structure of Bis[2-(pyridin-2'-yl)phenyl]mercury
Authors: Black DS , Deacon GB , Edwards GL , Gatehouse BM
Published: September 2010

2-(Pyridin-2'-yl) phenylmercuric acetate has been prepared by mercuration of 2-phenylpyridine. Symmetrization of the corresponding chloride by alkaline sodium stannite gave bis [2-(pyridin-2'-yl)phenyl]mercury, which was also prepared from 2-(2'-aminophenyl)pyridine by the diazo method and treatment of the initial product with copper powder and aqueous ammonia. Mercuration of benzo [h] quinoline and 3,4,5-trimethyl-1-phenylpyrazole with mercuric acetate followed by treatment with lithium chloride yielded benzo [h]quinolin-10-ylmercuric chloride and 2-(3',4',5'-trimethylpyrazol-1'-yl) phenylmercuric chloride respectively. Treatment of the former product with tribromide ions gave 10-bromobenzo[h] quinoline. The exchange Grignard reaction between 1-phenylpyrazole and ethylmagnesium bromide to give 2-(pyrazol-1'-yl) phenylmagnesium bromide has been monitored by reactions with benzonitrile and D2O to establish optimum conditions for reaction with mercuric bromide giving bis [2-(pyrazol-1'-yl)phenyl]mercury. The 199Hg n.m.r. chemical shifts of the majority of mercurials are shifted substantially downfield relative to the corresponding simple phenylmercurials consistent with weak intramolecular coordination by the heterocyclic nitrogen donor atoms, but a small upfield shift is observed for bis [2-(pyrazol-1'-yl)phenyl]mercury. The X-ray crystal structure of bis [2-(pyridin-2′-yl)phenyl]mercury [monoclinic, space group P21/n, a 12.746(2), b 11.660(2), c 5.698(1) Ǻ, β 92.81(1)′, V 845.8 Ǻ3] shows a centrosymmetric molecule with strong linear two coordination [Hg-C 2.098(8) Ǻ; C-Hg-C 180.0°] and significant but much weaker Hg-N interactions [Hg-N 2.798(7) Ǻ; N-Hg-N 180.0°] giving overall distorted square planar stereochemistry. The phenyl rings are mutually coplanar, whilst the two pyridin-2'-yl rings are parallel and inclined at 10.8° to the phenyl groups.
Molecular Cocrystals of Carboxylic Acids. XIII. Spectral Characterization of the Adducts of Triphenylphosphine Oxide With Substituted Benzoic Acids and the Crystal Structures of the 1 : 1 Adducts With 2,4,6-Trinitrobenzoic Acid and 3,5-Dinitrobenzoic Acid
Authors: Lynch DE , Smith G , Calos NJ , Kennard CHL , Whittaker AK , Jack KS , Willis AC
Published: September 2010

The 1:1 adducts of triphenylphosphine oxide with the 2-, 3- and 4-nitro-, 3,5-dinitro-, and 2,4,6-trinitro-substituted benzoic acids have been prepared, and characterized by infrared and 31P n.m.r. spectroscopy. The crystal structures of two of these adducts, (triphenylphosphine oxide-3,5-dinitrobenzoic acid) and ( triphenylphosphine oxide-2,4,6-trinitrobenzoic acid), have been determined by X-ray diffraction. In all examples, the presence of single directed hydrogen bonds between the phosphoryl oxygen and the carboxylic acid proton is confirmed. For the X-ray structures, the O…O distances are 2.54(4) and 2.55(1)Ǻ respectively. Solid-state 31P n.m.r. spectroscopy has also proved a convenient technique for the detection of the presence of a single conformational adduct type in cocrystals.
The Chemistry of Pyrrolic Compounds. LXIX. A Synthesis of One of the Naturally Occurring Benzoporphyrins
Authors: Clezy PS , Leung CWF
Published: September 2010

The naturally occurring benzoporphyrin (1a) has been prepared by ring synthesis utilizing an oxidative cyclization of an intermediate bilene-b to assemble the porphyrin macrocycle.
New Macrocyclic Ligands. IV. Dibenzo-Substituted Rings Incorporating Five Donor Atoms. X-Ray Structures of an N4O-Donor Macrocycle, Its Protonated Form, and Its Complex With Barium Perchlorate
Authors: Duckworth PA , Lindoy LF , Mcpartlin M , Tasker PA
Published: September 2010

The syntheses and characterization of four dibenzo-substituted macrocycles incorporating N5-, N4O-or N4S-donor sets are reported. The new systems extend the range of related (potentially pentadentate ) macrocyclic systems of this general structure reported previously. For the 17-membered macrocycle incorporating an N4O-donor set, X-ray structure determinations of the free ligand and its salt of type [LH]ClO4 confirm the structure of this compound predicted from physical measurements. The diperchloratobarium complex of this macrocycle is shown to have the barium nine-coordinate; the coordination sphere is composed of the N4O-donors of the macrocycle and four oxygen atoms derived from a monodentate as well as a bidentate perchlorate group and an ethanol molecule.
Bismuth Ruthenium Oxides. Neutron Diffraction and Photoelectron Spectroscopic Study of Bi2Ru2O7 and Bi3Ru3O11
Authors: Facer GR , Elcombe MM , Kennedy BJ
Published: September 2010

The structures of Bi3Ru3O11, a = 9.3050(2)Ǻ, Pn3, and Bi2Ru2O7, a = 10.2957(1)Ǻ, Fd3m, have been redetermined by Rietveld analysis of powder neutron diffraction data. For both compounds there is no evidence for appreciable oxygen non- stoichiometry . X-Ray photoelectron spectra of both compounds show unusual line shapes. In the case of Bi3Ru3O11 this is a result of the mixed valency and surface oxidation. In Bi2Ru2O7 final state effects appear to be important.
Oxidation of α-Farnesene
Authors: Spicer JA , Brimble MA , Rowan DD
Published: September 2010

The sesquiterpene α- farnesene increases rapidly in apples during cold storage and its autoxidation appears to play an important role in the production of the storage disorder superficial scald. To aid the identification of α- farnesene oxidation products formed in stored fruit, the oxidation of α- farnesene has been studied. A variety of reagents for photochemical allylic oxidation, hydroxylation and epoxidation have been screened to determine the site selectivity of the oxidation process.
The Preparation and Characterization of Colloidal Polypyrrole
Authors: Baker P , Matthews D , Hope A
Published: September 2010

This paper describes the preparation and properties of colloidal polypyrrole. The polypyrrole was prepared by the oxidation of pyrrole with potassium persulfate in acidic, 25% aqueous, ethanol at 95°C. Absorption spectra showed that the reaction produced both unoxidized polypyrrole (ppy0) and oxidized polypyrrole ( ppy +), which were separated by precipitating the ppy + with water. The resulting ppy + was readily redispersed in ethanol to yield a strongly coloured , transparent, dispersion. Cyclic voltammetry of the dispersion yielded well defined peaks for reduction and reoxidation with a standard reduction potential of approximately -0.39 V v . s.c.e . The ppy + was also characterized by fluorescence spectroscopy, proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy and electron microscopy.
Studies of Australian Ascidians. IV. Mollamide, a Cytotoxic Cyclic Heptapeptide From the Compound Ascidian Didemnum molle
Authors: Carroll AR , Bowden BF , Coll JC , Hockless DCR , Skelton BW , White AH
Published: September 2010

A new cytotoxic cyclic heptapeptide, mollamide, has been isolated from the compound ascidian Didemnum molle. The structure of mollamide was initially deduced from one-dimensional and two-dimensional n.m.r . experiments at 300 MHz. The structure was confirmed by an X-ray crystallographic study, which showed the relative stereochemistry of the cyclic peptide. Hydrolysis of mollamide , and characterization of the amino acids by derivatization with Nα -(5-fluoro-2,4-dinitrophenyl)-L- alaninamide (FDAA; Marfey's reagent) gave the absolute stereochemistry; all constituent amino acids were the L-isomers. Cytotoxicity data are reported.
C60 Framework Response to Halogen Addition: the Stable Isomers of C60Br2m
Authors: Peel JB , Rothwell RG
Published: September 2010

The isolation and spectroscopic characterization of halogenated fullerene-60 compounds has not advanced greatly during the 2 years of effort in this area. While the fully fluorinated C60F60 has been studied in some detail, other halogen addition processes have indicated chlorination up to C60Cl24 and bromination up to C60Br24. However, definitive structural information has to date only been provided for three compounds, namely C60Br6, C60Br6 and C60Br24. Iodine does not appear to form genuine addition compounds. In the work reported here semiempirical calculations using the AM1 approximation with the MOPAC molecular orbital program have been directed to comparing the possible stable isomers of the 1:1 addition compounds C60X2 for X = F, Cl and Br. The favoured isomers can be described as 1,2-additions (to a double bond at a hexagon-hexagon fusion) and 1,4-additions (to the terminal carbons of a butadiene moiety) with higher-energy isomers resulting from 1,6- and 1,8-additions. The other isomers represented by 1,3- 1,5- and 1,7-additions are only stable relative to dissociation in the case of the fluorine addition compounds. By contrast for Br2 addition only the 1,2- and 1,4-isomers are stable toward dissociation. The calculations show that, at and near the addition site carbons, X2 addition is adequately described in terms of local distortion of the C60 sphere. The elementary model of C60 as comprising formal single and double bonds is relevant since C60 behaves as a 'poly- alkene ', with sp3 carbons replacing sp2 carbons at the addition sites. This model offers an explanation for the unique structures observed for C60Br6 and C60Br24 which the AM1calculations show to be very stable toward dissociation. However, the experimental C60Br8 structure is found to be relatively less stable than another isomer. Also high-stability isomers of C60Br4, C60Br10, C60Br12 and C60Br18 are predicted.
Fast Atom Bombardment Mass Spectra of Some N-α-(t-Butoxycarbonyl)-O-(diorganylphosphono)-L-serines and O-(Diorganylphosphono)seryl-Containing Dipeptides and Tripeptides
Authors: Perich JW , Liepa I , Chaffee AL , Johns RB
Published: September 2010

Positive and negative ion fast atom bombardment ( f.a.b .) mass spectrometry were found to be useful methods for the analysis and structural characterization of five Nα-(t- butoxycarbonyl )-O-( diorganylphosphono )-L- serines ( organyl = Ph, Et, Me, Bzl , But), especially in the case of the sensitive benzyl and t-butyl phosphono derivatives. Under positive ion operating conditions, high intensity pseudo-molecular ions were obtained in the f.a.b . mass spectra, and the fragmentation pathway of the phenyl, ethyl and methyl derivatives was established by parent/daughter linked scanning studies to involve (a) the two-step loss of the t- butoxycarbonyl group, (b) loss of the amino acid as the neutral fragment from the [MH]+, [MH-56]+, [MH-100]+ and [MH-146]+ ions by a four- centred β-elimination rearrangement, and (c) cleavage of the phosphono phenyl and ethyl groups from only the [(RO)2P(OH)2]+ and [NH=CHCH2PO3R2+H]+ fragments. Parent/daughter linked scanning studies of the benzyl derivative showed that the prominent fragmentation involved loss of the benzyl group as the tropylium ion and that the 'apparent' [MH-90]+ peak observed in its f.a.b. mass spectrum resulted from cleavage of the phosphono benzyl group in the matrix during the bombardment process. In the case of the t-butyl derivative, parent/daughter linked scanning studies showed that the prominent fragmentation involved successive 'in-flight' loss of the phosphono t-butyl groups as isobutene. Negative ion f.a.b. mass spectrometry of the five derivatives gave f.a.b. mass spectra which displayed distinct [M-H]- anions along with high intensity [M-H-R]- and [(RO)2PO2]- fragment anions, the f.a.b . mass spectrum of the t-butyl derivative containing an additional [M-H-But-But]- fragment anion. Parent/daughter linked scanning studies established that the majority of the observed fragment anions resulted from extensive fragmentation of the Boc -Ser(PO3R2)-OH derivatives in the matrix phase followed by sputtering of the resultant fragments into the gas phase. In addition, positive ion f.a.b . mass spectrometry was found to be useful for the analysis of a series of protected O-( diorganylphosphono ) seryl-containing dipeptides and tripeptides ( organyl = Ph, Et, Me, Bzl ). The obtained spectra showed that β-elimination fragmentation of the Ser(PO3R2) residue was more pronounced with the tripeptide series and indicated that there was increased sensitivity of the O-( diorganylphosphono ) seryl residue with replacement of the Boc group by an amino acyl residue at its N-terminus.
Structural Systematics of Rare Earth Complexes. II. Structural Characterization of Lanthanoid(III) Picrate Hydrates: the Triclinic P1, 11.5 Hydrates of the Later Rare Earths and Yttrium
Authors: Harrowfield JM , Lu WM , Skelton BW , White AH
Published: September 2010

Picrates of dysprosium(III), holmium(III), erbium(III), thulium(III), ytterbium(III), lutetium(III) and yttrium(III) have been found to crystallize as needles from aqueous solution, seemingly best described as 11.5 hydrates. Single-crystal X-ray structure determinations have been performed at c. 295 K on the Dy , Er , Lu and Y species, and show them to be isomorphous , triclinic, Pī , a 20.043(7) → 20.019(5), b 11.533(2) → 11.471(2), c 8.1567(7) → 8.1538(8) Ǻ, α 88.60(1) → 88.40(1), β 87.12(2) → 87.06(1), γ 75.07(2) → 75.05(2)°, V 1819 → 1807 Ǻ3 ( Dy → Lu; the Y and Er values are intermediate). Complex ions [ Ln ( pic )(OH2)7]2+ are observed, with a pair of uncoordinated picrate anions and 4.5 lattice water molecules; this result is in contrast to that of the monoclinic, P 21/c, series found for La → Pr and Nd → Tb, in which the complex cation contains two picrate anions.
Intramolecular Catalysis of Dialkyl ω-Aminoalkylphosphonate Hydrolysis
Authors: Leslie DR , Pantelidis S
Published: September 2010

The influence that intramolecular catalysis of hydrolysis of O-alkyl S-[2-( dialkylamino )ethyl] alkylphosphonothioates by amino groups may have on the product distribution of the reaction is investigated by study of a series of model compounds. The hydrolysis of diethyl [ω-( ethylamino )alkyl] phosphonates and diethyl [ω-( diethylamino )alkyl] phosphonates has been investigated at 75°C over the pH range 8.21-11.45. Contributions to hydrolysis of the ethoxy groups by intramolecular catalysis by the amino groups have been identified for [2-(amino)ethyl]- and [3-(amino) propyl ]- phosphonates. Secondary and tertiary amino groups assist hydrolysis through general base catalysis. An additional contribution to hydrolysis of the secondary amino compounds by intramolecular nucleophilic catalysis is also observed.
Structural Study of ( - )-Isopimara-9(11),15-diene-3-β,19-diol
Authors: Ghisalberti EL , Skelton BW , White AH
Published: September 2010

The structure of (-)-isopimara-9(11),15-diene-3β,19-diol (1) has been confirmed by single crystal X-ray crystallographic methods. The conformations in the solid state and in solution are similar.
Metal Chelate Systems as Catalysts for Olefin and Carbon Monoxide Conversion Reactions
Authors: Cavell KJ
Published: September 2010

The application of non-phosphine-based chelating ligands in homogeneous catalyst systems is a surprisingly recent and relatively unexplored area of research. Chelating ligands can concurrently stabilize intermediates, control catalyst activity and direct the product distribution far more effectively than monodentate ligands. In this review our studies with catalyst systems containing chelate ligands primarily of the β-diketonate type [dithio-β-diketonate (sacsac); monothio-β-diketonate (sacac); and imino β-diketonate (nacac) ligands] is discussed. Examples of the catalyst systems show enzyme-like superactivity. Studies modelling these catalyst systems have provided valuable information relating the effects of ligand modifications to reaction pathways and to activities. Our most recent investigations of simple chelating ligands based on picolinic acid are also discussed. Studies modelling CO/ethene insertion/elimination with extremely labile alkylplatinum picolinate complexes led to the development of new single-component nickel oligomerization catalysts.
Ritter Reactions. IX. Transannular Addition of Nitriles to the 5H-Dibenzo[a,d]cycloheptene Ring System
Authors: Pich KC , Bishop R , Craig DC , Scudder ML
Published: September 2010

The 5H-dibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5-ols (1a-e) undergo sequential intramolecular and conventional Ritter reactions with acetonitrile to afford the {5,10-(nitrilometheno)-5H-dibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-11-yl}acetamides (6a-e). Typical yields for these one-flask conversions are 52-64%, except for the reaction of (1a) where production of the dimeric substance (4a) is favoured. Alcohol (1a) can provide either type of product in good yield, depending on the conditions employed, when reacted with benzonitrile. The molecular skeleton present in the adducts (6) has been confirmed by determination of the crystal structure of (6c) [C25H22N2O, Pī, a 9.188(3), b 14.632(5), c 16.563(9) Ǻ, α 115.64(2), β 90.92(2), γ 96.29(2)°, Z 4, R 0.043].
The Inclusion of Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids by α- and β-Cyclodextrins
Authors: Anderton N , Gosper JJ , May C
Published: September 2010

The association constants of α- and β- cyclodextrins with several pyrrolizidine alkaloids have been determined at pH 1.5 and 9.2 by using competitive spectrophotometry and solubility studies, respectively. Evidence of the nature of the pyrrolizidine alkaloids inclusion within the cyclodextrin cavity is presented.
The Pyrolytic Rearrangement of 1-Alkynoyl-3-methylpyrazoles: Synthesis of Pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyridin-5-ols and Related Compounds
Authors: Brown RFC , Eastwood FW , Fallon GD , Lee SC , Mcgeary RP
Published: September 2010

Flash vacuum pyrolysis of 1-(alkyn-2′-oyl)-3-methylpyrazoles at 650°/0.03 mm forms pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyridin-5-ols, often in high yield, which may bear substituents at C2, C3 or C7. In the absence of a 3-methyl group in the precursor, N-ethynylpyrazoles are formed in low yield. The formation of both types of product is interpreted as involving 3-(N-pyrazolyl)propadienones formed by N1 → N2 migration of the N-alkynoyl group with inversion of the three-carbon chain. The fused-ring structure of 2-methylpyrazolo[1,5-a]pyridin-5-ol (25) was established by X-ray crystallography of the O-benzoyl derivative (27).
Potential Antimalarials. XX. Mannich Base Derivatives of 2-[7-Chloroquinolin-4-ylamino and 7-Bromo(and 7-trifluoromethyl)-1,5-naphthyridin-4-ylamino]-4-chloro(or 4- or 6-t-Butyl or 4- or 5-fluoro)phenols and 4(or 6)-t-Butyl-2-(7-trifluoromethylquinolin-4-ylamino)phenol
Authors: Bawrlin GB , Ireland SJ , Nguyen TMT , Kotecka B , Rieckmann KH
Published: September 2010

Syntheses are reported for some mono- and di-Mannich base derivatives of 4-chloro-, 3- or 4-fluoro-, or 2- or 4-t-butyl-substituted 2-(7′-chloroquinolin-4′-ylamino)phenols and 2-[7′-bromo(and 7′-trifluoromethyl)-1′,5′-naphthyridin-4′-ylamino]phenols. In tests against the FC-27 isolate of Plasmodium falciparum, the most active compound was 2-(7′-chloroquinolin-4′-ylamino)-5-fluoro-4,6-bis(piperidin-1′-ylmethyl)phenol (16) with IC50 12.2 nM.
An E.P.R and Kinetic Investigation of Tricyclo[3.1.1.03,6]hept-6-yl and Tricyclo[3.1.1.03,6]hept-6-ylmethyl Radicals
Authors: Binmore GT , Della EW , Janowski WK , Mallon P , Walton JC
Published: September 2010

Tricyclo [3.1.1.03,6]hept-6-yl radicals were generated by bromine abstraction from 6-bromo-tricyclo[3.1.1.03,6] heptane , and observed by e.p.r. spectroscopy. In spite of their high ring strain the radicals were found not to rearrange readily but to take part in bimolecular combination reactions and to abstract hydrogen from the methylene groups of triethylsilane. Similar treatment of 6-bromomethyltricyclo[3.1.1.03,6] heptane gave tricyclo [3.1.1.03,6]hept-6- ylmethyl radicals, which rearranged so rapidly that only the product of β-scission, the 6-methylenebicyclo[3.1.1]hept-3-yl radical, was observed spectroscopically . The rate constant for β-scission of the tricyclo [3.1.1.03,6]hept-6-ylmethyl radical, estimated from e.p.r. experiments and also from reduction of 6-bromomethyltricyclo[3.1.1.03,6] heptane with tributyltin hydride, was found to be >5×109 s-1 at 298 K.
Intramolecular Oxidative Coupling of Aromatic Compounds. VII. A Convenient Synthesis of (±)-Deoxyschizandrin
Authors: Carroll AR , Read RW , Taylor WC
Published: September 2010

A convenient synthesis of (�)-deoxyschizandrin was achieved through the key step of reductive coupling of the bisacetonylbiphenyl (3). The latter compound was synthesized by oxidative cleavage of the bis olefin (5) formed by Claisen rearrangement of the bismethallyl ether of 2,2′,4,4′-tetramethoxybiphenyl-3,3′-diol. The synthesis of 2,2′,4,4′-tetramethoxy-6,6′-di(prop 1-enyl)biphenyl-3,3′-diol (2) is also described. The diphenolic oxidation of (2) did not lead to products with β,β′ carbons linked.
Further New Metabolites From Lichens
Authors: Elix JA , Elix JA , Venables DA , Venables DA , Lumbsch HT , Lumbsch HT , Brako L , Brako L
Published: September 2010

The new depsidones didechlorolecideoidin (1) [methyl 3,8-dihydroxy-1,6-dimethyl-11-oxo-11H-dibenzo[ b,e ][1,4]dioxepin-7-carboxylate] and 4-dechlorogangaleoidin (2) [methyl 2-chloro-3-hydroxy-8-methoxy-1,6-dimethyl-11-oxo-11H-dibenzo[ b,e ][1,4]dioxepin-7-carboxylate] have been detected in the lichens Lecanora argentata and L. californica respectively, and the structure of these metabolites has been established by chromatographic comparisons with synthetic material. The compound (1) has also been shown to occur in the lichen Tylothallia pahiensis. In addition the dibenzofuran, furfuraceic acid [3,7-dihydroxy-1,9-di(2′-oxoheptyl)dibenzofuran-2-carboxylic acid] (9) has been isolated from the lichen Phyllopsora furfuracea, and the structure established by spectroscopic methods.
Nucleosides. III. Investigation of the Electrochemical Synthesis of N4, O5'-Diacetyl-2',3'-dideoxy-2',3'-didehydrocytidine
Authors: Johansen O , Marcuccio SM , Mau AWH
Published: September 2010

The influence of the reaction conditions on the yield of N4,O5′-diacetyl-2′,3′-dideoxy-2′,3′-didehydrocytidine (3), by electrochemical synthesis from N4,O2′,O5′-triacetyl-3′-bromo-3′-deoxycytidine (2), has been studied in order to evaluate the potential of this reaction for synthesis on a larger scale. We have characterized the half-wave potentials of the precursor (2) and the product (3) by polarography under various conditions, and found that reduction in the base moiety can easily take place giving by-products. Furthermore, this reduction consumes protons leading to rapid solvolysis in protic solvents. We have demonstrated for the first time that (3) can be formed near quantitatively in both protic and aprotic solvents. The success of the synthesis of (3) as well as of other 2′,3′-dideoxy 2′,3′-didehydro nucleosides also depends to a large extent on how uniform the current density across the working electrode surface can be maintained during electrolysis.
Intermediate Products of the Reaction of (4,4,9,9-Tetramethyl-5,8-diazadodecane-2,11-dione dihydrazone)nickel(II) With Butane-2,3-dione; the Structure of cis-Aqua(3,4,7,9,9,14,14,16-octamethyl-1,2,5,6,10,13-hexaazacyclohexadeca-1(16),4,6-tien-3-Ol)nickel(II) Perchlorate Trihydrate
Authors: Curtis NF , Davis AR , Einstein FWB
Published: September 2010

Intermediate products have been isolated from the reaction of (4,4,9,9-tetramethyl-5,8-diazadodecane-2,11-dione dihydrazone )nickel(II) perchlorate with butane-2,3-dione which finally yields the macrocyclic product (3,4,7,9,9,14,14,16-octamethyl-1,2,5,6,10,13-hexaazacyclohexa-deca-2,4,6,16-tetraene)nickel(II) perchlorate , [Ni( omht )] (ClO4)2. An initial violet product is assigned a structure with the macrocyclic ligand 3-acetyl-3,6,8,8,13,13,15-heptamethyl-1,2,4,5,9,12-hexaazacyclopentadeca-5,15-diene. In water this converts into an equilibrium mixture of the tautomeric cations blue cis-aqua(3,4,7,9,9,14,14,16-octamethyl-1,2,5,6,10,13-hexaazacyclohexadeca-1(16),4,6-trien-3-ol)nickel(II), cis-[Ni(L2)(H2O)]2+, and orange (3,6,8,- 8,13,13-hexamethyl-4,5,9,12-tetraazahexadeca-3,5-diene-2,15-dione 15-hydrazone)nickel(II), [Ni(L3)]2+. The rates at 25°C of the forward and reverse reactions of this tautomerism, and of the slower conversion of the equilibrium mixture to [Ni( omht )](ClO4)2, are reported. The structure of cis -[Ni(L2)(H2O)](ClO4)2.3H2O
has been determined by X-ray diffractometry (monoclinic, space group P21/n, a 9.694(8), b 19.218(14), c 16.652(9) Ǻ, β 94.88(1)°, R 0.079 for 3254 reflections). This has NiII in octahedral coordination by secondary amine nitrogen atoms 10 and 13, hydrazone nitrogen atoms 1 and 6, and the carbinolamine oxygen substituent at position 3 of the pentadentate macrocyclic ligand L2, with a water molecule coordinated cis to the hydroxy group. Compounds of the tautomeric cations [Ni(L2)]2+ and [Ni(L3)]2+ with coordinated thiocyanate, azide, nitrite, oxalate and acetate are described.
Experiments Directed Towards the Synthesis of Anthracyclinones. XXIV. Homochiral Intermediates for Vineomycin Syntheses
Authors: Pausler MG , Rutledge PS
Published: September 2010

Homochiral intermediates suitable for the synthesis of vineomycins have been prepared by a titanium-mediated addition of an enolate of (-)-menthyl acetate to the furano ketones (12) and (13). The absolute configurations of the menthyl butanoates (14) and (15) have been established by comparison of their 1H n.m.r. spectra in the presence of Eu ( hfc )3 with those of the corresponding fridamycin derivatives (20) and (21). 1H n.m.r. comparisons of the methyl esters (16), (17), (22) and (23) in the presence of (R)-2,2,2-trifluoro-1-(9-anthryl)ethanol confirmed the configurations. The use of chiral sulfoxides for the construction of the butanoate side chain was thwarted when (28) could not be desulfurized, and when attempts to add (27) to the trimethoxyanthracene (29) were unsuccessful.
A New Alkaloid From an Australian Marine Sponge, Spongosorites sp.
Authors: Urban S , Capon RJ , Hooper JNA
Published: September 2010

A specimen of a marine sponge, Spongosorites sp., collected in Port Phillip Bay, Victoria, Australia, has yielded the alkaloid (2). The structure of (2) was secured by spectroscopic analysis, chemical derivatization and synthesis of a dihydro derivative (4). The antibiotic property of the crude ethanol extract of this sponge was attributed to (2).
Isolation and Structure Determination of Demethylchodatin—a New Lichen Xanthone
Authors: Elix JA , Elix JA , Robertson F , Robertson F , Wardlaw JH , Wardlaw JH , Willis AC , Willis AC
Published: September 2010

The structure of demethylchodatin, a xanthone from the lichen Lecanora pachysoma, has been established by X-ray analysis of the corresponding triacetate derivative. Crystals of demethylchodatin triacetate are monoclinic, P 21/a, a 10.120(3), b 11.278(3), c 19.173(4) Ǻ, β 94.68(3)°; Z 4. Refinement of 1411 data with I > 3σ(I) gave conventional R factors of 0.041 and 0.033.
Carbon-based nanoscience and nanotechnology: where are we, where are we heading?
Authors: Patrick G Soukiassian  , M S Ramachandra Rao
Published: September 2010

'Without carbon, life cannot exist', the saying goes, and not only life. For technological development, carbon was the ultimate material of the 19th century. It allowed the beginnings of the industrial revolution, enabling the rise of the steel and chemical industries, it made the railways run, and it played a major role in the development of naval transportation. Silicon, another very interesting material which makes up a quarter of the earth's crust, became the material of the 20th century in its turn. It gave us the development of high performance electronics and photovoltaics with large fields of applications and played a pivotal role in the evolution of computer technology. The increased device performance of information and data processing systems is changing our lives on a daily basis, producing scientific innovations for a new industrial era. However, success breeds its own problems, and there is ever more data to be handled—which requires a nanoscience approach. This cluster aims to address various aspects, prospects and challenges in this area of great interest for all our futures.

Carbon exists in various allotropic forms that are intensively investigated for their unusual and fascinating properties, from both fundamental and applied points of view. Among them, the sp
2 (fullerenes, nanotubes and graphene) and sp
3 (diamond) bonding configurations are of special interest since they have outstanding and, in some cases, unsurpassed properties compared to other materials. These properties include very high mechanical resistance, very high hardness, high resistance to radiation damage, high thermal conductivity, biocompatibility and superconductivity. Graphene, for example, possesses very uncommon electronic structure and a high carrier mobility, with charge carriers of zero mass moving at constant velocity, just like photons. All these characteristics have put carbon and carbon-related nanomaterials in the spotlight of science and technology research. The main challenges for future understanding include i) material growth, ii) fundamental properties, and iii) developing advanced applications.

The reviews in this Cluster Issue of Journal of Physics D: Applied Physics cover carbon nanoparticles and nanotubes, graphene, nano-diamond and films. They address the most current aspects and issues related to their fundamental and outstanding properties, and describe various classes of high-tech applications based on these promising materials. Future prospects, difficulties and challenges are addressed. Important issues include growth, morphology, atomic and electronic structure, transport properties, superconductivity, doping, nanochemistry using hydrogen, chemical and bio-sensors, and bio-imaging, allowing readers to evaluate this very interesting topic and draw perspectives for the future.