Search

Proton radiation effects in vertical SiGe HBTs fabricated on CMOS-compatible silicon-on-insulator (SOI) are investigated for the first time. Proton irradiation at 63 MeV is found to introduce base leakage current at low base-emitter voltage, delay the onset of Kirk effect at high injection, and increase the frequency response of SiGe HBTs on SOI. The latter two effects are in contrast to those found in conventional bulk SiGe HBTs. Proton irradiation also generates positive fixed oxide and interface charge in the buried oxide, which alters both M-1 and BVCEO in the SiGe HBT by modulating the electric field in the collector region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tracking detectors at future high luminosity hadron colliders are expected to be able to stand unprecedented levels of radiation as well as to efficiently reconstruct a huge number of tracks and primary vertices. To face the challenges posed by the radiation damage, new extremely radiation hard materials and sensor designs will be needed, while the track and vertex reconstruction problem can be significantly mitigated by the introduction of detectors with excellent timing capabilities. Indeed, the time coordinate provides extremely powerful information to disentangle overlapping tracks and hits in the harsh hadronic collision environment. Diamond 3D pixel sensors optimised for timing applications provide an appealing solution to the above problems as the 3D geometry enhances the already outstanding radiation hardness and allows to exploit the excellent timing properties of diamond. We report here the first full timing characterisation of 3D diamond sensors fabricated by electrode laser graphitisation in Florence. Results from a 270 Me V pion beam test of a first prototype and from tests with a β source on a recently fabricated 55 × 55 μ m 2 pitch sensor are discussed. First results on sensor simulation are also presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal working fluids represent a threat for workers and for the environment. In this paper an innovative technological and preventive approach is presented relying on the substitution of the base fluids with natural vegetable oil based esters. The results confirmed similar or better technical features of these fluids and a significant reduction of air pollution in particular for polycyclic aromatics. An innovative selective hydrogenation process to improve the oxidative stability of rapeseed oil is also presented. In this way a very significant increase in the oxidative stability of the parent oil, determined by Rotary Bomb Oxidative Test, was observed. The hydrogenated oil is even more stable than High Oleic Sunflower Oil while keeping acceptable cold properties. [Display omitted] • Vegetable oil based lubricants are safe for the workers and for the environment. • Oxidative stability can be improved through hydrogenation. • Only a selective hydrogenation process guarantees to keep fluidity. • This hydrogenation process allows one to use low cost vegetable oils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a concise review of recent experimental results concerning the conditional implementation of coherent superpositions of single-photon additions onto distinct field modes. Such a basic operation is seen to give rise to a wealth of interesting and useful effects, from the generation of a tunable degree of entanglement to the birth of peculiar correlations in the photon numbers and the quadratures of multimode, multiphoton, states of light. The experimental investigation of these properties will have an impact both on fundamental studies concerning, for example, the quantumness and entanglement of macroscopic states, and for possible applications in the realm of quantum-enhanced technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Nanostructured palladium electrocatalyst promotes efficient alcohol electrooxidation. • Selective mono electrooxidization of hydroxo-functionality of dialcohols. • Hydrogen production with very low electrical energy input. • Remarkably high conversion for alcohols into hydroxyacids. The development of low-cost and sustainable hydrogen production is of primary importance for a future transition to sustainable energy. In this work, the selective and simultaneous production of pure hydrogen and chemicals from renewable alcohols is achieved using an anion exchange membrane electrolysis cell (electrochemical reforming) employing a nanostructured Pd-CeO 2 /C anode. The catalyst exhibits high activity for alcohol electrooxidation (e.g. 474 mA cm−2 with EtOH at 60 °C) and the electrolysis cell produces high volumes of hydrogen (1.73 l min−1 m−2) at low electrical energy input (E cost = 6 kWh kg H 2 −1 with formate as substrate). A complete analysis of the alcohol oxidation products from several alcohols (methanol, ethanol, 1,2-propandiol, ethylene glycol, glycerol and 1,4-butanediol) shows high selectivity in the formation of valuable chemicals such as acetate from ethanol (100%) and lactate from 1,2-propandiol (84%). Importantly for industrial application, in batch experiments the Pd-CeO 2 /C catalyst achieves conversion efficiencies above 80% for both formate and methanol, and 95% for ethanol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of tableting process parameters, i.e. turret rotation speed, pre-compaction and main compaction pressures, and their interactions on layer adhesion of bilayer tablets. The elastic recovery after compaction was used as estimation for the elasticity of the material. Three potential pharmaceutical formulations were evaluated as combinations of immediate (microcrystalline cellulose, lactose, calcium phosphate, pregelatinized starch) and controlled drug release excipients (ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, polyvinyl acetate/polyvinylpyrrolidone). A 3-levels 3-factors central composite Design of Experiment was performed on each formulation, with layer adhesion selected as response. A custom-made shear test was used to determine the tablet tendency to delaminate. Main compaction and turret rotation speed were the most important parameters to be optimized during tablet manufacturing. Main compaction was the principal parameter leading to delamination in case of formulations with plastic materials, particularly at high pressures where the difference in elasticity of excipients had a major impact and was followed by turret rotation speed. The rotation speed did not have an effect on layer adhesion in the case of formulations with brittle excipients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In-field demonstrations in real-world scenarios boost the development of a rising technology towards its integration in existing infrastructures. Although quantum key distribution (QKD) devices are already adopted outside the laboratories, current field implementations still suffer from high costs and low performances, preventing this emerging technology from a large-scale deployment in telecommunication networks. Here we present a simple, practical and efficient QKD scheme with finite-key analysis, performed over a 21 dB-losses fiber link installed in the metropolitan area of Florence (Italy). Coexistence of quantum and weak classical communication is also demonstrated by transmitting an optical synchronization signal through the same fiber link. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) is a promising technology for combining CO2 reutilization and renewable electricity storage. For economic feasibility, better catalysts are required to overcome current limitations such as high overpotentials, poor faradaic efficiencies (FEs), and low current densities. Herein, size‐ and composition‐controlled gold (Au)–palladium (Pd) bimetallic alloy nanoparticles prepared by a metal vapor synthesis technique together with the monometallic Au and Pd equivalent materials are investigated. X‐ray diffraction and high‐angle annular dark‐field scanning transmission electron microscopy energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy analyses confirm the Au–Pd alloy formation with an average atomic ratio of 76 Pd wt% and 24 Au wt%. These bimetallic and the monometallic catalysts are characterized and tested for the electroreduction of CO2 in electrochemical cells and also in a complete CO2 electrolysis cell. Analysis of the reduction products shows a 100% CO2RR selectivity for CO. The FE for CO with respect to H2 as high as 90% is obtained with Au–Pd/C by tuning the electrode structure. The Au/C and Pd/C catalysts also show a better selectivity for CO with no evidence of other CO2RR products. The Au–Pd alloy formation improves the FE of Pd for CO by suppressing the parasitic H2 evolution reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invited for the cover of this issue are the groups of Hansjörg Grützmacher at ETH, Zürich, Switzerland, and Francesco Vizza at ICCOM‐CNR in Florence, Italy. The cover image shows a single courageous fish swimming against the main school of fish. This fish represents the few examples of organometallic electrocatalysts that have been successfully used in a fuel cell or in an electrolyzer. Swimming against mainstream thinking is challenging and hard work but can lead to exciting and revolutionary technologies... Read more about the story behind the cover in the Cover Profile and about the research itself in the Microreview by M. Bellini, H. Grützmacher, F. Vizza et al. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Front Cover shows a single courageous fish swimming against the main school of fish. This fish represents the few examples of organometallic electrocatalysts that have been successfully used in a fuel cell or in an electrolyzer. Well‐known noble metal nanoparticles are the "main stream" electrocatalysts that have many limitations, some of which can be overcome by using an organometallic approach. More information can be found in the Microreview by M. Bellini, H. Grützmacher, F. Vizza et al. For more on the story behind the cover research, see the Cover Profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we report the analysis of the electrochemical detection of electroactive species with band microelectrodes that operate under controlled convection. The study focuses on the determination of the collection efficiency of the analyte as a function of inlet flow velocity and microband geometry (inlaid, bumped and recessed), also providing a straightforward method for the theoretical determination of the lower detection limit. The analysis has been carried out by simulating the dimensionless mass transport with the finite element method, delivering the stationary limiting current density. Simulations have been performed on systems consisting of single and double band electrodes to investigate the trail effect on the electrochemical detection. We show that the obtained dimensionless results can be easily turned into dimensional data, providing a tool for the design of devices. The proposed method is general and can easily be extended to systems with different geometry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deactivation is one the main causes still preventing the full exploitation of palladium electrocatalysts in alkaline direct alcohol fuel cells and the electrochemical reforming of alcohols. While often attributed to the adsorption of poisoning species generated in the alcohols oxidation, in the present work we demonstrate that deactivation is provoked by the formation of palladium oxides. A combined approach including i) fuel cell runs, ii) cyclic voltammetry and iii) near edge X-ray absorption spectroscopy has enabled us to draw the conclusions reported in the paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Investigation of the filtration unit for parenteral drug products during the filling process. • A 3D computational replica of a sterilizing filter was developed, reproducing its permeability, porosity and pore size distribution. • Evolution of shear stress for massless tracers was examined and the average shear stress was assessed. • Insights into the scale-down strategy of the filtration unit are provided. This study investigates the impact of shear stress on protein-based parenteral drug products, particularly during the filling process, with a focus on the filtration unit. A 3D computational replica of a real sterilizing filter was developed using a stochastic geometry generation methodology, able to replicate realistic values of permeability, porosity, and pore size distribution. Computational Fluid Dynamics simulations were employed to analyze fluid dynamics within the filtration unit. The evolution of shear stress for massless tracers was examined to assess average shear stress in the sterilizing filtration unit. The results provide insights into shear stress dynamics and suggest potential scale-down strategies for industrial applications. The presented analysis is novel compared to most estimations of shear stress in sterilizing filtration units, which generally rely on mathematical calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Ceria-supported nanostructured Palladium electrocatalysis for alcohol electrooxidation. • Hydrogen production through allyl alcohol electroreforming. • Selective acrilic acid production through allyl alcool partial electrooxidation. • Energy efficient hydrogen production through alcohol electroreforming. Acrylic acid is widely used in the chemical, polymer, cosmetic and food industries. Typically, it is produced through processes with a high environmental impact. In this paper, we demonstrate the co-production of the potassium acrylate salt and hydrogen gas from allyl alcohol in a liquid flow fed anion exchange membrane electrolysis cell operating at 60 °C and ambient pressure. We compare in electrolysis cell tests, two electrocatalysts Pd/C and Pd-CeO 2 /C evaluating the activity and selectivity for acrylate production. Electrolysis cell parameters are tuned obtaining a maximum conversion of allyl alcohol of 96% and a selectivity to acrylate of 50% at an operating cell voltage of 1 V. Operating at a lower cell potential (0.7 V) the selectivity for acrylate increases to 74%. Hydrogen gas is produced in the separated cathode compartment at an energy cost of 26 KWh kg H2 -1, which is around half when compared to state-of-the-art water electrolyzers. The electrochemical oxidation mechanism of allyl alcohol is also studied and discussed, providing for the first time an insight into the pathways for formation of acrylate with respect to the other principle oxidation products (propionate and 3-hydroxypropionate). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a scheme, based on the delocalized heralded addition of a single photon, to entangle two or more distinct field modes, each containing arbitrary light states. A high degree of entanglement can in principle endure light states of macroscopic intensities and is expected to be particularly robust against losses. We experimentally establish and measure significant entanglement between two identical weak laser pulses containing up to 60 photons each. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single-photon-added coherent states are the result of the most elementary amplification process of classical light fields by a single quantum of excitation. Being intermediate between a single-photon Fock state (fully quantum-mechanical) and a coherent (classical) one, these states offer the opportunity to closely follow the smooth transition between the particle-like and the wavelike behavior of light. We report the experimental generation of single-photon-added coherent states and their complete characterization by quantum tomography. Besides visualizing the evolution of the quantum-to-classical transition, these states allow one to witness the gradual change from the spontaneous to the stimulated regimes of light emission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the sluggish kinetics of the hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) in alkaline electrolytes, the development of more efficient HOR catalysts is essential for the next generation of anion‐exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs). In this work, CeOx is selectively deposited onto carbon‐supported Pd nanoparticles by controlled surface reactions, aiming to enhance the homogenous distribution of CeOx and its preferential attachment to Pd nanoparticles, to achieve highly active CeOx‐Pd/C catalysts. The catalysts are characterized by inductively coupled plasma–atomic emission spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), electron energy loss spectroscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy to confirm the bulk composition, phases present, morphology, elemental mapping, local oxidation, and surface chemical states, respectively. The intimate contact between Pd and CeOx is shown through high‐resolution STEM maps. The oxophilic nature of CeOx and its effect on Pd are probed by CO stripping. The interfacial contact area between CeOx and Pd nanoparticles is calculated for the first time and correlated to the electrochemical performance of the CeOx‐Pd/C catalysts. Highest recorded HOR specific exchange current (51.5 mA mg−1Pd) and H2–O2 AEMFC performance (peak power density of 1,169 mW cm−2 mgPd−1) are obtained with a CeOx‐Pd/C catalyst with Ce0.38/Pd bulk atomic ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the field of histopathology, the microtomy procedure yields thin sections of tissue embedded in paraffin blocks, then to be further processed for diagnostic purposes. Within microtomy, trimming is an initial but critical process in which the excess paraffin covering the tissue of interest is removed by continuous cutting routines, until the tissue is suitably exposed and ready for sectioning. Trimming is currently a time-consuming process that is manually held by technicians. In this paper, we present a method to automatize this process, by analyzing tissue block surface images resulting from each cyclic cutting routine. Two types of Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) were fine-tuned: one for binary segmentation, the other for multi-class classification tasks, by exploring and optimizing lightweight architectures to provide fast analytical results on cost-effective edge computing. Two sequential online conditions followed the CNNs to output the current stage of the block surface and rule if the trimming-end cutting routine was reached. We compared the results obtained through our method with the ones obtained by three skilled technicians processing 75 tissue blocks. The proposed method identified the trimming-end cutting routine approximately as accurate as the technicians did, yielding up to 90% of trimmed blocks of optimal quality and evidencing the potential of this tool in future automated trimming instruments. We deployed our method to an Edge TPU hardware accelerator to showcase its capability to provide immediate and objective results at every microtomy station applied with an ad hoc hardware, potentially guaranteeing a throughput 50% higher than manual trimming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A decrease in the release rate over time is typically encountered when dealing with hydrophilic matrix systems for oral prolonged release due to progressive increase of the distance the drug molecules have to cover to diffuse outwards and reduction of the area of the glassy matrix at the swelling front. In order to solve this issue, a novel formulation approach based on non-uniform distribution of the active ingredient throughout the swellable polymer matrix was proposed and evaluated. Various physical mixtures of polymer (high-viscosity hypromellose) and drug tracer (acetaminophen), having decreasing concentrations of the latter, were applied by powder-layering onto inert core seeds. The resulting gradient matrices showed to possess satisfactory physico-technological characteristics, with spherical shape and consistent thickness of the layers sequentially applied. The non-uniform matrix composition pursued was confirmed by Raman mapping analysis. As compared with a system having uniform distribution of the drug tracer, the multi-layer formulations were proved to enhance linearity of release. The simple design concept, advantageous technique, which involves no solvents nor high-impact drying operations, and the polymeric material of established use make the delivery platform hereby proposed a valuable strategy to improve the performance of hydrophilic matrix systems. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Getting inspiration from the 'waste to resource' strategic theme of circular economy, herein, we present the upcycling of the critical raw material i.e. Co-containing waste cathode from spent lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) into platinum group metal-free (PGM-free) electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Lithium cobalt oxide-based cathode was recovered from spent LIBs (Waste LCOd) and subsequently treated with choline chloride: citric acid 1:1 deep eutectic solvent (DES) to obtain the full degradation of the LCO-type structure and, post thermal treatments, cobalt oxide in a carbonaceous matrix (ChCl.Citric). HER and ORR activities of derived materials were investigated in alkaline media using the rotating disk electrode (RDE) and rotating ring disk electrode (RRDE), respectively. To elucidate the role of cobalt present in the derived electrocatalysts, inks were prepared by supporting the electrocatalysts with different proportions of Ketjenblack (10:90 and 50:50 ratios). Waste LCOd closely followed the electrochemical response of commercial LCO and demonstrated the least overpotential (277 mV at −10 mA cm−2) for HER with an electrode configuration of 50:50. Whereas, ChCl.Citric 50:50 outperformed the other counterparts for ORR and exhibited a remarkable onset potential of 0.85 V (vs RHE) with the least peroxide production. • Lithium ion battery (LIB) waste cathode was used as electrocatalyst for HER and ORR. • LIB cathode contains cobalt, carbon, fluorine and traces of other elements. • LIB cathode was compared with commercial LiCoO 2 and LIB cathode treated with DES. • LIB cathode showed an overpotential of 277 mV @ −10 mA cm−2 for HER. • LIB cathode treated with DES had an E 1/2 of 0.76 V vs RHE during ORR. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal-nitrogen-carbons (M-N-Cs) as a reliable substitution for platinum-group-metals (PGMs) for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) are emerging candidates to rationalize the technology of fuel cells. The development of M-N-Cs can further be economized by consuming waste biomass as an inexpensive carbon source for the electrocatalyst support. Herein, we report the simple fabrication and in-depth characterization of electrocatalysts using lignin-derived activated char. The activated char (LAC) was functionalized with metal phthalocyanine (FePc and MnPc) via atmosphere-controlled pyrolysis to produce monometallic M-N-Cs (L_Mn and L_Fe) and bimetallic M1-M2-N-Cs (L_FeMn) electrocatalysts. Raman spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed a defect-rich architecture. XPS confirmed the coexistence of various nitrogen-containing active moieties. L_Fe and L_FeMn demonstrated appreciable ORR in both acidic and alkaline conditions whereas L_FeMn helped in restricting the peroxide yield, particularly in alkaline media. L_Fe and L_FeMn demonstrated remarkable onset potential (E onset) of ∼0.942 V (vs RHE) with an E 1/2 of 0.874 V (vs RHE) in 0.1 M KOH. In acid, L_FeMn had an E onset of 0.817 V (vs RHE) and an E 1/2 of ∼0.76 V (vs RHE). Finally, the L_FeMn as a cathode electrocatalyst was integrated and tested in PEMFC and AEMFC. AEMFC demonstrated optimistic performance with a peak power density of 261 mW cm−2 at the current density of ∼577 mA cm−2. • Waste lignin was valorized through pyrolysis and high surface area char was synthesized. • The biochar was functionalized by Fe-, Mn- and Fe–Mn phthalocyanine. • Fe- and FeMn- catalysts showed superior ORR compared to Mn-catalyst. • Integration of PGM-free FeMn-catalyst in PEMFC reached a P max of ∼72 mW cm−2. • Integration of PGM-free FeMn-catalyst in AEMFC reached a P max of ∼261 mW cm−2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we present and discuss simulation and experimental results obtained from investigating the impact of local alterations of the electric field profile in the power device planar junction termination region. Such local modifications are due to possible various extrinsic causes (manufacturing, operational or environmental) and are shown to have a critical influence on the device voltage blocking capability and reliability. The results point towards junction termination sensitivity to locally modified fields especially under voltage switching conditions due to higher leakage current densities in the modified area compared to the rest of the JT region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability to manipulate light at the level of single photons, its elementary excitation quanta, has recently made it possible to produce a rich variety of tailor-made quantum states and arbitrary quantum operations, of high interest for fundamental science and applications. Here we present a concise review of the progress made over the last few decades in the engineering of quantum light states. Although far from exhaustive, this review aims at providing a sufficiently wide and updated introduction that may serve as the entry point to such a fascinating and rapidly evolving field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The possibility of arbitrarily ‘adding’ and ‘subtracting’ single photons to and from a tight field may give access to a complete engineering of quantum states and to fundamental quantum phenomena. We experimentally implemented simple alternated sequences of photon creation and annihilation on a thermal field and used quantum tomography to verify the peculiar character of the resulting light states. In particular, as the final states depend on the order in which the two actions are performed, we directly observed the noncommutativity of the creation and annihilation operators, one of the cardinal concepts of quantum mechanics, at the basis of the quantum behavior of light. These results represent a step toward the full quantum control of a field and may provide new resources for quantum information protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In spite of its fundamental importance in quantum science and technology, the experimental certification of nonclassicality is still a challenging task, especially in realistic scenarios where losses and noise imbue the system. Here, we present the first experimental implementation of the recently introduced phase-space inequalities for nonclassicality certification, which conceptually unite phase-space representations with correlation conditions. We demonstrate the practicality and sensitivity of this approach by studying nonclassicality of a family of noisy and lossy quantum states of light. To this end, we experimentally generate single-photon-added thermal states with various thermal mean photon numbers and detect them at different loss levels. Based on the reconstructed Wigner and Husimi Q functions, the inequality conditions detect nonclassicality despite the fact that the involved distributions are nonnegative, which includes cases of high losses (93%) and cases where other established methods do not reveal nonclassicality. We show the advantages of the implemented approach and discuss possible extensions that assure a wide applicability for quantum science and technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Au nanoparticles, generated by the metal vapor synthesis technique, were supported onto cerium oxycarbonate monohydrate (Ce 2 O(CO 3) 2 ·H 2 O) giving Au@Ce 2 O(CO 3) 2 ·H 2 O. The obtained heterogeneous catalyst was used in the aerobic allyl alcohol oxidation reaction performed in toluene, showing a notably higher catalytic substrate conversion and isomerization activity compared to Au onto ceria, which is the reference catalyst for this type of catalysis. Results originating from catalytic recycling experiments and PXRD, HRTEM and XPS measurements carried out on recovered Au@Ce 2 O(CO 3) 2 ·H 2 O, confirmed the stability of the catalyst under aerobic oxidation reaction conditions and hence its recyclability, without the need of a regeneration step. Unlabelled Image • Au NPs onto Ce 2 O(CO 3) 2 ·H 2 O were synthesized by metal vapor synthesis technique. • High catalytic activity in the aerobic allyl alcohol oxidation was observed in toluene. • High allyl alcohol isomerization occurred with sterically less hindered allyl alcohols. • The catalytic performance was maintained without the need of a regeneration step. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ni nanoparticles supported on graphene-based materials were tested as catalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) to be used in anion exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs). The introduction of N into the graphene structure produced an enhancement of electrocatalytic activity by improving electron transfer and creating additional active sites for the ORR. Materials containing both N and S demonstrated the highest stability, showing only a 3% performance loss after a 10 h stability test and therefore achieving the best overall performance. This long-term durability is attributed to the synergetic effect of Ni nanoparticles and bi-doped (S/N)-reduced graphene oxide. The findings suggest that the strategic incorporation of both nitrogen and sulphur into the graphene structure plays a crucial role in optimising the electrocatalytic properties of Ni-based catalysts.

Diamine-capped PtCu nanoparticles have been synthesized by the simultaneous reduction of the corresponding bis-imine metal complexes with hydrogen and supported onto a high-surface-area carbon. The obtained heterogeneous catalyst was tested in thermally conducted aerobic oxidation of ethanol to acetic acid in water as well as in the electrochemical oxidation of ethanol. Both types of catalyses mediated by the PtCu alloy confirmed a notable increase in catalytic activity compared to the pure Pt- and Cu-based counterparts due to a clear bimetallic effect.

We present a study on the radiation tolerance and timing properties of 3D diamond detectors fabricated by laser engineering on synthetic Chemical Vapor Deposited (CVD) plates. We evaluated the radiation hardness of the sensors using Charge Collection Efficiency (CCE) measurements after neutron fluences up to 1016 n/cm2 (1 MeV equivalent.) The radiation tolerance is significantly higher when moving from standard planar architecture to 3D architecture and increases with the increasing density of the columnar electrodes. Also, the maximum applicable bias voltage before electric breakdown increases significantly after high fluence irradiation, possibly due to the passivation of defects. The experimental analysis allowed us to predict the performance of the devices at higher fluence levels, well in the range of 1016 n/cm2. We summarize the recent results on the time resolution measurements of our test sensors after optimization of the laser fabrication process and outline future activity in developing pixel tracking systems for high luminosity particle physics experiments.

The principle of microscopic reversibility lies at the core of fluctuation theorems, which have extended our understanding of the second law of thermodynamics to the statistical level. In the quantum regime, however, this elementary principle should be amended as the system energy cannot be sharply determined at a given quantum phase space point. In this Letter, we propose and experimentally test a quantum generalization of the microscopic reversibility when a quantum system interacts with a heat bath through energy-preserving unitary dynamics. Quantum effects can be identified by noting that the backward process is less likely to happen in the existence of quantum coherence between the system's energy eigenstates. The experimental demonstration has been realized by mixing coherent and thermal states in a beam splitter, followed by heterodyne detection in an optical setup. We verify that the quantum modification for the principle of microscopic reversibility is critical in the low-temperature limit, while the quantum-to-classical transition is observed as the temperature of the thermal field gets higher.

The dinuclear Ru diazadiene olefin complex, [Ru 2 (OTf)(μ-H)(Me 2 dad)(dbcot) 2 ], is an active catalyst for hydrogen evolution in a Polymer Exchange Membrane (PEM) water electrolyser. When supported on high surface area carbon black and at 80 °C, [Ru 2 (OTf)(μ-H)(Me 2 dad)(dbcot) 2 ]@C evolves hydrogen at the cathode of a PEM electrolysis cell (400 mA cm -2 , 1.9 V). A remarkable turn over frequency (TOF) of 7800 mol H 2 mol catalyst -1 h -1 is maintained over 7 days of operation. A series of model reactions in homogeneous media and in electrochemical half cells, combined with DFT calculations, are used to rationalize the hydrogen evolution mechanism promoted by [Ru 2 (OTf)(μ-H)(Me 2 dad)(dbcot) 2 ]., Competing Interests: There are no conflicts of interest to declare., (This journal is © The Royal Society of Chemistry.)

A novel route for the valorization of waste into valuable products was developed. Surgical masks commonly used for COVID 19 protection by stopping aerosol and droplets have been widely used, and their disposal is critical and often not properly pursued. This work intended to transform surgical masks into platinum group metal-free electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) as well as into crude oil. Surgical masks were subjected to controlled-temperature and -atmosphere pyrolysis, and the produced char was then converted into electrocatalysts by functionalizing it with metal phthalocyanine of interest. The electrocatalytic performance characterization towards ORR and HER was carried out highlighting promising activity. At different temperatures, condensable oil fractions were acquired and thoroughly analyzed. Transformation of waste surgical masks into electrocatalysts and crude oil can open new routes for the conversion of waste into valuable products within the core of the circular economy., (© 2021 The Authors. ChemSusChem published by Wiley-VCH GmbH.)

Color vision is considered a marker of cone function and its assessment in patients with retinal pathology is complementary to the assessments of spatial vision [best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA)] and contrast detection (perimetry). Rod-cone and chorioretinal dystrophies-such as choroideremia-typically cause alterations to color vision, making its assessment a potential outcome measure in clinical trials. However, clinical evaluation of color vision may be compromised by pathological changes to spatial vision and the visual field. The low vision Cambridge Color Test (lvCCT) was developed specifically to address these latter issues. We used the trivector version of the lvCCT to quantify color discrimination in a cohort of 53 patients with choroideremia. This test enables rapid and precise characterization of color discrimination along protan, deutan, and tritan axes more reliably than the historically preferred test for clinical trials, namely the Farnsworth Munsell 100 Hue test. The lvCCT demonstrates that color vision defects-particularly along the tritan axis-are seen early in choroideremia, and that this occurs independent of changes in visual acuity, pattern electroretinography and ellipsoid zone area on optical coherence tomography (OCT). We argue that the selective loss of tritan color discrimination can be explained by our current understanding of the machinery of color vision and the pathophysiology of choroideremia., Competing Interests: RM is a consultant in retinal gene therapy to Novartis, Gyroscope Therapeutics, and Biogen, but these companies had no input into the work presented. The remaining authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2021 Jolly, Simunovic, Dubis, Josan, Robson, Bellini, Bloch, Georgiadis, da Cruz, Bridge and MacLaren.)

The aim of this study was to assess whether wet bead milling of dexamethasone and tacrolimus suspensions leads to a lower degree of crystallinity of nanocrystals, and if the degree of crystallinity affects the drug solubility, in addition to particle size. Powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) was used to determine the degree of crystallinity of the particles, which decreased during milling until reaching a plateau: the particles had ∼79% degree of crystallinity after 5 h milling. Different milling times were required for the two drugs in order to reach their plateaux, 2 h for dexamethasone and 3 h for tacrolimus. These results could be explained with the brittleness of the drugs. Dexamethasone was more brittle than tacrolimus, with an apparent elastic modulus of 16 GPa compared to ∼12 GPa of tacrolimus. Freeze-drying the nanosuspensions resulted in a reduction in the degree of crystallinity to ∼35% for dexamethasone and to ∼45% for tacrolimus in comparison to non-freeze-dried particles. Solubility studies were performed with a Sirius® inForm based on in situ UV/VIS spectroscopy. The reduced degree of crystallinity of nanocrystals after milling was responsible, in addition to the nanoparticle size, for the solubility increase. Indeed, while the smallest particle size (394 nm for dexamethasone and 240 nm for tacrolimus) did not always result in the highest increase in solubility (factor of 1.04 for dexamethasone and 1.3 with tacrolimus), the smallest degree of crystallinity was always characteristic of the maximum solubility obtained (factor of 1.15 for dexamethasone and 1.7 for tacrolimus).

To achieve complete oxidation of ethanol (EOR) to CO2, higher operating temperatures (often called intermediate-T, 150-200 °C) and appropriate catalysts are required. We examine here titanium oxycarbide (hereafter TiOxCy) as a possible alternative to standard carbon-based supports to enhance the stability of the catalyst/support assembly at intermediate-T. To test this material as electrocatalyst support, a systematic study of its behavior under electrochemical conditions was carried out. To have a clear description of the chemical changes of TiOxCy induced by electrochemical polarization of the material, a special setup that allows the combination of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and electrochemical measurements was used. Subsequently, an electrochemical study was carried out on TiOxCy powders, both at room temperature and at 150 °C. The present study has revealed that TiOxCy is a sufficiently conductive material whose surface is passivated by a TiO2 film under working conditions, which prevents the full oxidation of the TiOxCy and can thus be considered a stable electrode material for EOR working conditions. This result has also been confirmed through density functional theory (DFT) calculations on a simplified model system. Furthermore, it has been experimentally observed that ethanol molecules adsorb on the TiOxCy surface, inhibiting its oxidation. This result has been confirmed by using in situ Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIRS). The adsorption of ethanol is expected to favor the EOR in the presence of suitable catalyst nanoparticles supported on TiOxCy.

Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of FOLFOX-4 combination chemotherapy, followed by leucovorin (LV)/bolus and continuous infusion 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) as maintenance chemotherapy in elderly (≥ 75 years) patients with advanced oesophagogastric cancer with impaired performance status (PS)., Materials and Methods: Patients with a PS score >1 were included in this study. PS evaluations were performed by a geriatrician and two medical oncologists. FOLFOX-4 consisted of oxaliplatin concurrently with LV/bolus and continuous infusion 5-FU every 2 weeks. After a maximum of six FOLFOX-4 cycles, patients with no evidence of disease progression received maintenance treatment with LV/bolus and continuous infusion 5-FU every 2 weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity., Results: Thirty-eight patients were enrolled in this study. Of these, 32 (84.2%) patients had a PS score of 2 and six (15.7%) patients had a PS score of 3. After completion of FOLFOX-4, 18 (47.3%) patients achieved a partial response and 14 (36.8%) patients had stable disease. Thirty-two patients (84.2%) received maintenance chemotherapy for a median of eight cycles (range one to 26 cycles). The 6-month disease-control rate was 47.3% [95% confidence interval (CI) 30.9-64.1]. The median progression-free survival was 5.9 months (95% CI 4.7-6.8) and the median overall survival was 9.6 months (95% CI 8.1-11.7). Grade 3 neutropenia occurred in six patients (15.7%), and Grade 3 anaemia and thrombocytopenia occurred in two patients (5.2%)., Conclusion: FOLFOX-4 followed by LV/bolus and continuous infusion 5-FU as maintenance chemotherapy seems to be an active and well-tolerated first-line treatment strategy for elderly patients with advanced oesophagogastric cancer and impaired PS., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Among the health risk for workers employed in metal working those related to cutting fluids were traditionally prominent. The main effects concerned respiratory and dermal pathologies from irritative-allergic (both chemical and biological) to mutagen and carcinogenic. These two latest effects have been demonstrated to increase with time of use. The attempt to reduce the chemical risks due to cutting fluid historically moved trough the constant decrease of mineral oil components by increasing their refinery. The innovative technological and preventive approach here presented consists on the contrary in changing the fluid basis with natural vegetal esters. The results confirmed similar or better technical characteristics of the fluids and a significant reduction of air pollution for example for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) mixture, i.e. the most measured and studied toxic agents exposure to metal cutting fluid.