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Titanium nitride (TiN) has recently gained considerable interest because of its remarkable plasmonic properties and for its strong electron–phonon (e–ph) coupling, leading to extremely fast (<100 fs) electron‐lattice cooling. Here, the generation of coherent phonons in TiN films is reported, along with their real‐time detection by means of broadband transient reflection spectroscopy with sub‐15‐fs temporal resolution. The measurements show damped oscillations, superimposed to excited state electronic decay. A coherent vibrational mode is revealed, with ≈10 THz frequency ascribed to defect‐activated normal modes, consistent with spontaneous Raman scattering data, and a dephasing time of ≈250 fs. Two π‐phase flips are also observed located at photon energies corresponding to interband optical transitions (at 3.2 and 2.5 eV), ascribed to selective coupling of the vibrational mode to these transitions; the energy modulation induced by the vibrational coherence is evaluated. It is shown that the displacive excitation of coherent phonons model describes the coherent response in terms of temporal behavior and of spectral amplitude profile. Overall, a comprehensive and detailed analysis of coherent phonons in TiN films, so far undected, is provided and relevant information on TiN photo‐physical properties, potentially useful for its applications, is given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Double metal cation halide perovskites are promising alternatives to lead halide perovskites due to their exceptional compositional flexibility and stability. However, their utilization in solar-light harvesting applications has been hindered by their large band gap and the complexity of producing doped or alloyed materials with desirable optoelectronic properties. In this study, we report the colloidal synthesis of iron-doped Cs2NaInCl6 double perovskite nanocrystals (NCs), leading to a significant extension of the absorption edge from 330 nm to 505 nm. We also demonstrate that simultaneous doping with Fe3+ and Ag+ ions allows significant reduction of the optical band gap and precise tuning of electronic band structures of the resulting NCs. The enhanced absorption in the visible region is attributed to the substitution of In-5s by the Fe-3d state, while the introduction of the Ag 4d state upshifts the valence band maximum, inducing a transformative change in the band structure, as confirmed by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Remarkably, by precisely controlling the band positions of the Fe3+-doped Cs2Ag0.5Na0.5InCl6 NCs, we accomplished the selective photocatalytic reduction of CO2 into CH4, making them readily available for solar-energy conversion technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present investigation, Cu2O-based composites were successfully prepared through a multistep method where cubic Cu2O nanoparticles (CU Cu2O) have been grown on Reduced Graphene Oxide (RGO) nanosheets. The structural and morphological properties of the materials have been studied through a comprehensive characterization, confirming the coexistence of crystalline Cu2O and RGO. Microscopical imaging revealed the intimate contact between the two materials, affecting the size and the distribution of Cu2O nanoparticles on the support. The features of the improved morphology strongly affected the electrochemical behavior of the composites, increasing the activity and the faradaic efficiencies towards the electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction process. CU Cu2O/RGO 2:1 composite displayed selective CO formation over H2, with higher currents compared to pristine Cu2O (−0.34 mA/cm2 for Cu2O and −0.64 mA/cm2 for CU Cu2O/RGO 2:1 at the voltage of −0.8 vs. RHE and in a CO2 atmosphere) and a faradaic efficiency of 50% at −0.9 V vs. RHE. This composition exhibited significantly higher CO production compared to the pristine materials, indicating a favorable *CO intermediate pathway even at lower voltages. The systematic investigation on the effects of nanostructuration on composition, morphology and catalytic behavior is a valuable solution for the formation of effective interphases for the promotion of catalytic properties providing crucial insights for future catalysts design and applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the role of oxygen vacancies in the phase transformation of metal oxide nanomaterials is fundamental to design more efficient opto-electronic devices for a variety of applications, including sensing, spintronics, photocatalysis, and photo-electrochemistry. However, the structural mechanisms behind the phase transformation in reducible oxides remain poorly described. Here, we compare P25 and black TiO2 during the thermal anatase-to-rutile transformation using in situ synchrotron powder diffraction. The precise measurement of the phase fractions, unit cell parameters, and Ti-O bond sheds light on the phase transformation dynamics. Notably, we observe distinct temperature-dependent shifts in the relative phase fractions of anatase and rutile in both materials highlighting the role of the oxygen vacancy in promoting the phase transformation. We employ bond valence concepts for structural modeling, revealing unique trends in temperature evolution of Ti-O distances of black rutile, confirming that this TiO2 phase is preferentially reduced over anatase. These findings not only enhance our understanding of phase transitions in TiO2 but also open new ways for the design of advanced photocatalytic materials through targeted phase control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of metal composites based on plasmonic nanostructures partnered with catalytic counterparts has recently emerged as a promising approach in the field of plasmon-enhanced electrocatalysis. Here, we report on the role of the surface morphology, size, and anchored site of Pd catalysts coupled to plasmonic metasurfaces formed by periodic arrays of multimetallic Ni/Au nanopillars for formic acid electro-oxidation reaction (FAOR). We compare the activity of two kinds of metasurfaces differing in the positioning of the catalytic Pd nanoparticles. In the first case, the Pd nanoparticles have a polyhedron crystal morphology with exposed (200) facets and were deposited over the Ni/Au metasurfaces in a site-selective fashion by limiting their growth at the electromagnetic hot spots (Ni/Au–Pd@W). In contrast, the second case consists of spherical Pd nanoparticles grown in solution, which are homogeneously deposited onto the Ni/Au metasurface (Ni/Au–Pd@M). Ni/Au–Pd@W catalytic metasurfaces demonstrated higher light-enhanced FAOR activity (61%) in comparison to the Ni/Au–Pd@M sample (42%) for the direct dehydrogenation pathway. Moreover, the site-selective Pd deposition promotes the growth of nanoparticles favoring a more selective catalytic behavior and a lower degree of CO poisoning on Pd surface. The use of cyclic voltammetry, energy-resolved incident photon to current conversion efficiency, open circuit potential, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy highlights the role of plasmonic near fields and hot holes in driving the catalytic enhancement under light conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface plasmons have shown increasingly widespread applications in the last decade, especially in the field of solar energy conversion, recently leading to the use of metal nanoparticles as plasmonic photocatalysts. The latter offers great potential in overcoming traditional catalysts by providing localized heating and unconventional reaction pathways leading to improved product selectivity. A complete understanding of the underlying mechanisms remains, however, elusive due to the close resemblance between thermal and non-thermal effects, both leading to enhanced reaction rates. In this tutorial, we will introduce the basic physics of surface plasmons and the interaction mechanisms with surrounding molecules. We will then discuss the main strategies to evaluate photothermal effects and the main signatures of hot electron-driven processes. These aspects will be covered in specific examples of plasmonic photocatalysis for energy-relevant chemical reactions in the case of colloidal suspensions and at the solid/gas interphase in solid pellets, which involve different thermal constraints and thus different experimental strategies to reveal the effects of localized heating and hot electrons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article aims to present the results of a national, cross-sectional, voluntary, online survey on the presence and roles of associations of breast cancer patients and volunteers in Italian specialist breast centres. The survey was developed according to standard methods. The questionnaire was pre-tested by a random sample of three breast centres, loaded onto the SurveyMonkey platform, and piloted by one volunteer breast centre. The breast centre clinical leads were invited to participate via email. A link to the online instrument was provided. No financial incentives were offered. The results were reported using standard descriptive statistics. The response rate was 82/128 (65%). Members of associations were routinely present in 70% Italian breast centres. Breast centres most often reporting their presence were those certified by the European Society of Breast Cancer Specialists. Patient support (reception and information, listening, identification of needs, and psychological support) was the primary area where associations were reported to offer services. The magnitude of this phenomenon warrants a study to investigate the impact of the activities of associations on the quality of life of patients and on the cost–benefit ratio of the service, and the modes of their interactions with the nursing staff and the medical staff. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrafast plasmonics is driving growing interest for the search of novel plasmonic materials, overcoming the main limitations of noble metals. In this framework, titanium nitride (TiN) is brought in the spotlight for its refractory properties combined with an extremely fast electron‐lattice cooling time (<100 fs) compared to gold (≈ 1 ps). Despite the results reported in literature, a clear‐cut explanation of the origin of the ultrafast and giant optical response of TiN‐based materials upon excitation with femtosecond laser pulses is still missing. To address this issue, an original model is introduced, capable of unfolding the modulation of TiN optical properties on a broad bandwidth, starting from the variations of electronic and lattice temperatures following ultrafast photoexcitation. The numerical analysis is validated on ultrafast pump–probe spectroscopy experiments on a simple structure, a TiN film on glass. This approach enables a complete disentanglement of the interband and intraband contributions to the permittivity modulation. Moreover, it is also shown that, varying the synthesis conditions of the TiN film, not only the static, but also the dynamical optical response can be efficiently tuned. These findings pave the way for a breakthrough in the field: the design of TiN‐based ultrafast nanodevices for all‐optical modulation of light. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar-thermal technologies for converting chemicals using thermochemistry require extreme light concentration. Exploiting plasmonic nanostructures can dramatically increase the reaction rates by providing more efficient solar-to-heat conversion by broadband light absorption. Moreover, hot-carrier and local field enhancement effects can alter the reaction pathways. Such discoveries have boosted the field of photothermal catalysis, which aims at driving industrially-relevant chemical reactions using solar illumination rather than conventional heat sources. Nevertheless, only large arrays of plasmonic nano-units on a substrate, i.e., plasmonic metasurfaces, allow a quasi-unitary and broadband solar light absorption within a limited thickness (hundreds of nanometers) for practical applications. Through moderate light concentration (∼10 Suns), metasurfaces reach the same temperatures as conventional thermochemical reactors, or plasmonic nanoparticle bed reactors reach under ∼100 Suns. Plasmonic metasurfaces, however, have been mostly neglected so far for applications in the field of photothermal catalysis. In this Perspective, we discuss the potentialities of plasmonic metasurfaces in this emerging area of research. We present numerical simulations and experimental case studies illustrating how broadband absorption can be achieved within a limited thickness of these nanostructured materials. The approach highlights the synergy among different enhancement effects related to the ordered array of plasmonic units and the efficient heat transfer promoting faster dynamics than thicker structures (such as powdered catalysts). We foresee that plasmonic metasurfaces can play an important role in developing modular-like structures for the conversion of chemical feedstock into fuels without requiring extreme light concentrations. Customized metasurface-based systems could lead to small-scale and low-cost decentralized reactors instead of large-scale, infrastructure-intensive power plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a biennial faecal immunochemical test (FIT) screening programme in reducing annual colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence in its dynamic target population.Methods: The target population included over 1,000,000 persons aged 50-69 living in a region of northern Italy. The average annual response rate to invitation was 51.4%. Each observed annual age-standardised (Europe) rate per 100,000 persons between 2005, the year of introduction of the programme, and 2016 was compared with each expected annual rate as estimated with age-period-cohort (men) and age-period (women) models.Results: For both sexes, the rates observed in 1997-2004 and those expected in 2005-2016 were stable. Observed rates increased in 2005, peaked in 2006 (the first full year of screening), dropped significantly below the expected level in 2009, and continued to decrease until 2013 (the eighth full year), after which no further significant changes occurred. In the pooled years 2013-2016, the observed incidence rate per 100,000 persons was 102.2 [95% CI: 97.4, 107.1] for men, 75.6 [95% CI: 71.6, 79.7] for women and 88.4 [95% CI: 85.3, 91.5] for both sexes combined, with an observed:expected incidence rate ratio of 0.68 [95% CI: 0.65, 0.71], 0.79 [95% CI: 0.76, 0.82] and 0.72 [95% CI: 0.66, 0.81], respectively.Discussion: The study provided multiple consistent proofs of a causal relationship between the introduction of screening and a stable 28% decrease in annual CRC incidence after eight years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plasmonic metasurfaces enable unprecedented manipulation of light by using periodic arrangement of resonant unit cells or nanoantennas. Here, multimetallic metasurfaces made of self‐standing Ni/Au‐Pt nanostructured films are shown to significantly enhance an electrocatalytic oxidation reaction employed in direct alcohol fuel cells. The Ni/Au metasurfaces support photonic and plasmonic modes, which are leveraged for the site‐selective deposition of Pt electrocatalysts within the electromagnetic hot spots, where their reactivity can be strongly increased. The enhanced electrocatalytic activity for the methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) is primarily attributed to electronic effects due to the excitation of hot charge carriers and plasmonic near fields, as supported by electromagnetic simulations and kinetic isotopic experiments. Wavelength‐dependent photoelectrochemical investigations suggest that Ni/Au‐Pt metasurfaces enhances MOR over a broad spectral range and favors different light‐induced reaction mechanisms depending on the selected energy window. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, we report a preparation strategy for hematite phase‐pure photoanodes consisting of Sn‐doped hematite nanoflakes/hematite thin film bilayer nanostructure (Sn‐HB). This approach is based on a two‐step annealing process of pure iron films deposited on fluorine doped tin oxide (FTO) substrates by advanced magnetron sputtering. While the high density hematite ultrathin nanoflakes (HNs) with detrimental iron oxide layers (Fe3O4 and/or FeO) are generated during the first annealing step at 400 °C for two hours, the second thermal treatment at 800 °C for 15 minutes oxidises all the undesired iron oxide phases to a photoactive hematite layer as well as is providing efficient Sn doping of a drop‐casted SnCl4 in order to increase the conductivity. The optimized Sn‐HB shows an around 11 times higher photocurrent density (0.71 mA cm−2 at 1.23 VRHE) compared with a reference hematite photoanode produced from iron foil under the same conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite recommendations, mammography screening is often insufficiently integrated into specialist breast centres. A national, cross-sectional, voluntary, online survey on this issue was carried out among the Italian breast centres associated with Senonetwork, the Italian network of breast cancer services.Methods: A 73-item questionnaire was created, pre-tested and piloted. Centres integrating and not integrating a screening programme were compared using the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model. Centres' clustering was performed using the Gower's distance metric. Groups and clusters were compared with the equality-of-means test.Results: The response rate was 82/128 (65%). Overall, 84% (69/82) breast centres reported a collaboration with a screening programme in performing and/or reading mammograms and in the diagnostic work-up of women with abnormal screening results. The same proportion was observed among those centres responding to all questions (62/74). Performance expectancies (or the perceived usefulness of integration in terms of clinical quality, patient convenience, ease of job, and professional growth), satisfaction and motivation were higher in those centres collaborating with the screening programme. Effort expectancy indicators (or the degree to which the respondents believe that the integration is easy to implement) and those concerning the existence of facilitating conditions were lower both in centres collaborating and not collaborating with the screening programme. Among the former, six clusters of centres, distributed from 'no integration' to 'high', were identified. In cluster analysis, the highest level of integration was associated with higher agreement that integration eases the job, offers better opportunities for professional growth, and makes the working environment more satisfactory. The least integrated cluster assigned the lowest score to the statement that local health authority made available the resources needed.Conclusions: While confirming the positive effects of integrating screening programmes into breast centres, this survey has brought to light specific difficulties that must be faced. The results provide insights into the importance of integration focusing on the perspectives of professional career and motivation. The deficiency of facilitating conditions to integration is modifiable. Screening professionals' societies may have a role as initiators of the integration. Other supporting actions may be included in health laws at the national and regional level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The photocatalytic activity for H2 production from water, without presence of hole scavengers, of thermally reduced TiO2 nanoparticles (H‐500, H‐700) and neat anatase were followed by in‐situ continuous‐wave light‐induced electron paramagnetic resonance technique (CW‐LEPR), in order to correlate the H2 evolution rates with the electronic fingerprints of the photoexcited systems. Under UV irradiation, photoexcited electrons moved from the deep lattice towards the superficially exposed Ti sites. These photogenerated redox sites mediated (e−+h+) recombination and were the crucial electronic factor affecting catalysis. In the best‐performant system (H‐500), a synergic combination of mobile electrons was observed, which dynamically created diverse types of Ti3+ sites, including interstitial Ti3+, and singly ionized electrons trapped in oxygen vacancies (VO.). The interplay of these species fed successfully surface exposed Ti4+ sites, which became a catalytically active, fast reacting Ti4+⇄Ti3+ state that was key for the H2 evolution process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Practical‐scale on‐site production of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) via two‐electron (2e−) oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) relies on efficient, robust, and selective electrocatalysts. Among them, carbon‐based materials are cheap, abundant, durable, and their surface properties can be tuned to favor the 2e− ORR pathways, resulting in higher efficiency and facilitating possible scale‐up towards commercially appealing levels. Here, we demonstrate that the selective installment of carboxyl groups on the surface of N‐doped graphene yielding a material named graphene acid (N‐GA) promotes the catalytic 2e− ORR, achieving a H2O2 faradaic efficiency (FE) as high as 70 % in acidic media (pH=0.96) and a H2O2 productivity in long term bulk electrolysis that could reach 107.8 mmol gcatalyst−1 h−1 under optimized conditions. Extended XPS analysis and density functional theory (DFT) calculations revealed that surface carboxylic acid functional groups play a significant role in achieving the high activity of N‐GA for 2e− ORR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The shape-controlled synthesis of cuprous oxide (Cu2O) photocatalysts with both low or high index crystal planes has received increasing attention due to their unique facet-dependent properties. Since they are cheap and earth abundant, these well-defined Cu2O nanostructures are extensively used for different photocatalytic reactions, also because of their strong visible light absorption capability. However, further development will still be needed to enhance the efficiency and photostability of Cu2O to expand its industrial application. We start this review by summarizing the synthetic advancement in the facet engineering of Cu2O and other associated hybrid Cu2O-based heterostructures with a special emphasis put on their growth mechanism. We then discuss different facet-dependent properties, which are relevant to photocatalysis. In the subsequent section, we present a critical discussion on the photocatalytic performance of faceted Cu2O nanostructures during organic synthesis, hydrogen production, and carbon dioxide photoreduction. The relation between photocatalytic efficiency and product selectivity with exposed crystal facets or with different compositions of hybrid nanostructures is also discussed. Finally, important strategies are proposed to overcome the photostability issue, while outlining the course of future development to further boost the technological readiness of well-defined Cu2O-based photocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study increases the known biodiversity of cnidarian parasites in neotropical bryconid fishes. Two novel Myxobolus species are described based on morphology, ultrastructure and small subunit ribosomal DNA (ssrDNA) sequencing: Myxobolus vetuschicanus n. sp. infecting fins of Salminus franciscanus and Myxobolus mineirus n. sp. infecting the mesentery of Brycon orthotaenia from the São Francisco River basin, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. Ultrastructural analysis of the two species revealed an asynchronous sporogenesis process, with germinative cells and young developmental stages of myxospores in the periphery of the plasmodia. In M. vetuschicanus n. sp., the plasmodia were surrounded by a layer of fibroblasts and in M. mineirus n. sp., the plasmodial membrane had direct contact with the host tissue. The phylogenetic analysis based on the ssrDNA of Henneguya/Myxobolus species showed that the two novel Myxobolus species grouped in subclades together with other parasite species of bryconid fishes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This paper provides morphological and phylogenetic analyses of two new myxobolid species found infecting Piaractus brachypomus from the Amazon basin. The fish were caught in the Tapajós River, in the municipality of Santarém, in the state of Pará, Brazil. The plasmodial development of Henneguya brachypomus n. sp. occurred in the gill lamellae while Myxobolus pirapitingae n. sp. developed in the pyloric cecum. Morphological analyses did not identify inflammatory infiltrate for either species, but H. brachypomus n. sp. induced stretching of the epithelium, compression of the adjacent tissues, and displacement and deformation of the neighboring lamellae. The mature myxospores of H. brachypomus n. sp. were ellipsoid, with a length of 11.7–13.8 μm, a width of 4.0–4.6 μm, and a thickness of 3.5˗4.3 μm. The polar capsules were elongated, with a length of 5.6–7.3 μm and a width of 1.3–2.0 μm, and each contained a polar filament with 8–9 coils. The caudal process was 40.5–48.1 μm long and the total length of the myxospore was 52.4–61.6 μm. Myxobolus pirapitingae n. sp. exhibited rounded mature myxospores measuring 10.0–11.1 μm in length, 7.0–7.6 μm in width, and 5.4–6.3 μm in thickness. The polar capsules were of equal size and occupied less than half the myxospore, measuring 3.5–4.0 μm in length and 2.0–2.6 μm in width, with each containing a polar filament with 6–7 coils. Phylogenetic analysis based on partial small subunit ribosomal DNA (ssrDNA) sequences showed that H. brachypomus n. sp. clustered as a sister species of Henneguya piaractus, while M. pirapitingae n. sp. was grouped in a sub-clade together with Myxobolus matosi and Myxobolus colossomatis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen is a promising alternative renewable fuel for meeting the growing energy demands of the world. Over the past few decades, photoelectrochemical water splitting has been widely studied as a viable technology for the production of hydrogen utilizing solar energy. A solar-to-hydrogen (STH) efficiency of 10% is considered to be sufficient for practical applications. Amongst the wide class of semiconductors that have been studied for their application in solar water splitting, iron oxide (α-Fe2O3), or hematite, is one of the more promising candidate materials, with a theoretical STH efficiency of 15%. In this work, we show experimentally that by utilizing gold nanostructures that support gap-plasmon resonances together with a hematite layer, we can increase the water oxidation photocurrent by two times over that demonstrated by a bare hematite film at wavelengths above the hematite bandgap. Moreover, we achieve a six-fold increase in the oxidation photocurrent at near-infrared wavelengths, which is attributed to hot electron generation and decay in the gap-plasmon nanostructures. Theoretical simulations confirmed that the metamaterial geometry with gap plasmons that was used allows us to confine electromagnetic fields inside the hematite semiconductor and to enhance the surface photochemistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parasites are often hidden in their hosts and exhibit patchy spatial distributions. This makes them relatively difficult to detect and sample. Consequently we have poor knowledge of parasite diversities, distributions, and extinction. We evaluate our general understanding of parasite diversity and highlight the enormous bias in research on parasites such as helminths and arthropods that infect vertebrate hosts. We then focus on Myxozoa as an exemplary case for demonstrating uncharted parasite diversity. Myxozoans are a poorly recognized but speciose clade of endoparasitic cnidarians with complex life cycles that have radiated to exploit freshwater, marine, and terrestrial hosts by adopting strategies convergent to those of parasitic protists. Myxozoans are estimated to represent some 20% of described cnidarian species—greatly outnumbering the combined species richness of scyphozoans, cubozoans, and staurozoans. We summarize limited understanding of myxozoan diversification and geographical distributions, and highlight gaps in knowledge and approaches for measuring myxozoan diversity. We close by reviewing methods and problems in estimating parasite extinction and concerns about extinction risks in view of the fundamental roles parasites play in ecosystem dynamics and in driving host evolutionary trajectories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Over the past years, α‐Fe2O3 (hematite) has re‐emerged as a promising photoanode material in photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting. In spite of considerable success in obtaining relatively high solar conversion efficiency, the main drawbacks hindering practical application of hematite are its intrinsically hampered charge transport and sluggish oxygen evolution reaction (OER) kinetics on the photoelectrode surface. In the present work, we report a strategy that synergistically addresses both of these critical limitations. Our approach is based on three key features that are applied simultaneously: i) a careful nanostructuring of the hematite photoanode in the form of nanorods, ii) doping of hematite by Sn4+ ions using a controlled gradient, and iii) surface decoration of hematite by a new class of layered double hydroxide (LDH) OER co‐catalysts based on Zn–Co LDH. All three interconnected forms of functionalization result in an extraordinary cathodic shift of the photocurrent onset potential by more than 300 mV and a PEC performance that reaches a photocurrent density of 2.00 mA cm−2 at 1.50 V vs. the reversible hydrogen electrode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transfer of semiconductor thin films on transparent and or flexible substrates is a highly desirable process to enable photonic, catalytic, and sensing technologies. A promising approach to fabricate nanostructured TiO2 films on transparent substrates is self-ordering by anodizing of thin metal films on fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO). Here, we report pulsed direct current (DC) magnetron sputtering for the deposition of titanium thin films on conductive glass substrates at temperatures ranging from room temperature to 450 °C. We describe in detail the influence that deposition temperature has on mechanical, adhesion and microstructural properties of titanium film, as well as on the corresponding TiO2 nanotube array obtained after anodization and annealing. Finally, we measure the photoelectrochemical water splitting activity of different TiO2 nanotube samples showing that the film deposited at 150 °C has much higher activity correlating well with the lower crystallite size and the higher degree of self-organization observed in comparison with the nanotubes obtained at different temperatures. Importantly, the film showing higher water splitting activity does not have the best adhesion on glass substrate, highlighting an important trade-off for future optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a lack of agreement about which routine invitation strategy should be adopted in colorectal cancer screening. We conducted an observational study to assess the impact of three invitation strategies on participation. Invitation records for the years 2005–2009 were evaluated. There were 2,234,276 invitations from 1,230,683 individuals. Among first invitations, participation associated with direct mailing of the faecal occult blood test kits was slightly lower (relative risk, RR 0.985; 95% confidence interval 0.979–0.990) than that of the reference invitation strategy, that is, the distribution of the test kits by pharmacies. In repeated invitations/previous non‐responders, the participation associated with the direct mailing of the test kits was even lower (RR 0.914; 95% confidence interval 0.895–0.933) and this was also the case for the distribution of the test kits by primary care centres (RR 0.983; 95% confidence interval 0.971–0.995). In contrast, in repeated invitations/previous responders, the impact of primary care centres and direct mailing of the test kits was greater than the use of pharmacies, showing only modest RRs: 1.021 (95% confidence interval 1.019‐1.023) and 1.029 (95% confidence interval 1.025–1.033) respectively. The faecal occult blood test mailing strategy modestly increased participation in previous responders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A numerical model for the modulation of TiN's optical properties is formulated and validated by ultrafast spectroscopy experiments. Keywords: hot electrons; plasmonic materials; titanium nitride; ultrafast transient absorption spectroscopy; ultrafast plasmonics EN hot electrons plasmonic materials titanium nitride ultrafast transient absorption spectroscopy ultrafast plasmonics 1 1 1 08/10/23 20230801 NES 230801 Titanium nitride (TiN) boasts a hot electron cooling time 10 times faster than gold. [Extracted from the article]

Electrochemical devices for energy conversion and storage are central for a sustainable economy. The performance of electrodes is driven by charge transfer across different layer materials and an understanding of the mechanistics is pivotal to gain improved efficiency. Here, we directly observe the transfer of photogenerated charge carriers in a photoanode made of hematite (α-Fe2O3) and a hydrous iridium oxide (IrOx) overlayer, which plays a key role in photoelectrochemical water oxidation. Through the use of operando X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), we probe the change in occupancy of the Ir 5d levels during optical band gap excitation of α-Fe2O3. At potentials where no photocurrent is observed, electrons flow from the α-Fe2O3 photoanode to the IrOx overlayer. In contrast, when the composite electrode produces a sustained photocurrent (i.e., 1.4 V vs. RHE), a significant transfer of holes from the illuminated α-Fe2O3 to the IrOx layer is clearly demonstrated. The analysis of the operando XAS spectra further suggests that oxygen evolution actually occurs both at the α-Fe2O3/electrolyte and α-Fe2O3/IrOx interfaces. These findings represent an important outcome for a better understanding of composite photoelectrodes and their use in photoelectrochemical systems, such as hydrogen generation or CO2 reduction from sunlight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To assess the impact of ambient temperature on faecal immunochemical test (FIT) performance in the colorectal cancer screening programme of Emilia-Romagna (Italy). Methods A population-based retrospective cohort study on data from 2005 to 2011. Positive rate, detection rate, and positive predictive value rate for cancers and adenomas, and incidence rate of interval cancers after negative tests were analysed using Poisson regression models. In addition to ambient temperature, gender, age, screening history, and Local Health Unit were also considered. Results In 1,521,819 tests analysed, the probability of a positive result decreased linearly with increasing temperature. Point estimates and 95% Confidence Intervals were estimated for six temperature classes (<5, 5 |−10, 10 |−15, 15 |−20, 20|−25 and ≥25℃), and referred to the 5|-10℃ class. The positive rate ratio was significantly related to temperature increase: 0.99 (0.97–1.02), 1, 0.98 (0.96–1.00), 0.96 (0.94–0.99), 0.93 (0.91–0.96), 0.92 (0.89–0.95). A linear trend was also evident for advanced adenoma detection rate ratio: 1.00 (0.96–1.04), 1, 0.98 (0.93–1.02), 0.96 (0.92–1.00), 0.92 (0.88–0.96), 0.94 (0.88–1.01). The effect was less linear, but still important, for cancer detection rates: 0.95 (0.85–1.06), 1, 1.00 (0.90–1.10), 0.94 (0.85–1.05), 0.81 (0.72–0.92), 0.93 (0.80–1.09). No association or linear trend was found for positive predictive values or risk of interval cancer, despite an excess of +16% in the highest temperature class for interval cancer. Conclusions Ambient temperatures can affect screening performance. Continued monitoring is needed to verify the effect of introducing FIT tubes with a new buffer, which should guarantee a higher stability of haemoglobin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Women who were previously treated for breast cancer (BC) are an important particular subgroup of women at intermediate BC risk. Their breast follow-up should be planned taking in consideration a 1.0-1.5 % annual rate of loco-regional recurrences and new ipsilateral or contralateral BCs during 15-20 years, and be based on a regional/district invitation system. This activity should be carried out by a Department of Radiology integrating screening and diagnostics in the context of a Breast Unit. We recommend the adoption of protocols dedicated to women previously treated for BC, with a clear definition of responsibilities, methods for invitation, site(s) of visits, methods for clinical and radiological evaluation, follow-up duration, role and function of family doctors and specialists. These women will be invited to get a mammogram in dedicated sessions starting from the year after the end of treatment. The planned follow-up duration will be at least 10 years and will be defined on the basis of patient's age and preferences, taking into consideration organizational matters. Special agreements can be defined in the case of women who have their follow-up planned at other qualified centers. Dedicated screening sessions should include: evaluation of familial/personal history (if previously not done) for identifying high-risk conditions which could indicate a different screening strategy; immediate evaluation of mammograms by one or, when possible, two breast radiologists with possible addition of supplemental mammographic views, digital breast tomosynthesis, clinical breast examination, breast ultrasound; and prompt planning of possible further workup. Results of these screening sessions should be set apart from those of general female population screening and presented in dedicated reports. The following research issues are suggested: further risk stratification and effectiveness of follow-up protocols differentiated also for BC pathologic subtype and molecular classification, and evaluation of different models of survivorship care, also in terms of cost-effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The specious genus Ceratomyxa Thélodan, 1892, infect mainly gallbladder of marine fishes, with only five species reported infecting species from freshwater environment. This study performed morphological and phylogenetic analyses involving a new Ceratomyxa species ( Ceratomyxa amazonensis n. sp.) found in gallbladder of Symphysodon discus Heckel, 1840 (Perciformes: Cichlidae), an important ornamental fish endemic to Amazon basin. Mature spores were strongly arcuate shaped and measured 7.0 ± 0.3 (6.2-7.6) μm in length, 15.8 ± 0.4 (15.0-16.7) μm in thickness, and polar capsules 3.22 ± 0.34 (2.4-3.6) μm in length and 2.63 ± 0.17 (2.4-2.9) μm in width. This was the first small subunit ribosomal DNA (SS rDNA) sequencing performed to Ceratomyxa species parasite of freshwater fish, and the phylogenetic analysis showed C. amazonensis n. sp. clustering in the early diverging subclade of the ceratomyxids, together with species of parasites of amphidromous/estuaries fishes, suggesting some role of the transition of the fishes between marine/freshwater environments in the evolutionary history of these parasites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Screening mammogram reading volume (SMRV) and total (screening and clinical) mammogram reading volume (TMRV) per year are strongly associated with the radiologist's diagnostic performance in breast cancer screening. The current article reports the prevalence and correlates of a SMRV and a TMRV ≥5000 among Italian breast screening radiologists. Materials and methods: A questionnaire survey was carried out in 2013-2014 by the Italian Group for Mammography Screening (GISMa). The questionnaire included items of information for radiologist's experience-related characteristics and for facility-level factors supposedly associated with SMRV and TMRV. Multivariate analysis was performed using backward stepwise multiple logistic regression models. Results: Data for 235 radiologists from 51 local screening programmes were received. Of the 222 radiologists who were eligible, 133 (59.9 %) reported a SMRV ≥5000 and 163 (73.4 %) a TMRV ≥5000. Multivariate factors positively associated with both characteristics included: the number of years of experience reading mammograms; the percentage of total working time dedicated to breast imaging and breast care; the participation in diagnostic assessment; and the availability of digital tomosynthesis at facility. Full-time dedication to breast imaging and breast care was associated with the highest odds ratio for a SMRV and a TMRV ≥5000, i.e. 11.80 and 46.74, respectively, versus a percentage of time ≤50 %. An early (<2000) year of implementation of the screening programme and the availability of vacuum-assisted biopsy at facility were associated with a SMRV and, respectively, a TMRV ≥5000. Conclusions: Increasing the proportion of radiologists with full-time dedication to breast imaging and breast care qualified as the most effective approach to improve SMRV and TMRV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photocatalysis uses semiconductors to convert sunlight into chemical energy. Recent reports have shown that plasmonic nanostructures can be used to extend semiconductor light absorption or to drive direct photocatalysis with visible light at their surface. In this review, we discuss the fundamental decay pathway of localized surface plasmons in the context of driving solar-powered chemical reactions. We also review different nanophotonic approaches demonstrated for increasing solar-to-hydrogen conversion in photoelectrochemical water splitting, including experimental observations of enhanced reaction selectivity for reactions occurring at the metalsemiconductor interface. The enhanced reaction selectivity is highly dependent on the morphology, electronic properties, and spatial arrangement of composite nanostructures and their elements. In addition, we report on the particular features of photocatalytic reactions evolving at plasmonic metal surfaces and discuss the possibility of manipulating the reaction selectivity through the activation of targeted molecular bonds. Finally, using solar-to-hydrogen conversion techniques as an example, we quantify the efficacy metrics achievable in plasmon-driven photoelectrochemical systems and highlight some of the new directions that could lead to the practical implementation of solar-powered plasmon-based catalytic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Well-designed noble metals and ceramic nanoarchitectures are significantly important for the development of high performance, selective, sensitive and cost effective electrochemical sensors. Here, we report gold (Au) nanoparticles (NPs) uniformly dispersed on hydroxyapatite (HAp) nanorods forming particles on rod nanoarchitectures for sensitive hydrazine sensors. The Au/HAp nanocomposites were prepared by a versatile hydrothermal precipitation method. The precipitated citrate-stabilized Au NPs were 6–8 nm in size and strongly anchored onto rod-shaped HAp with a diameter of 10 nm and length of 65 nm. The structural, chemical, and electrochemical properties and growth mechanism of the Au nanoparticles on the HAp nanorods (NRs) are presented. Progress toward the application of hybrid nanocomposites in electrochemical oxidation of hydrazine is reviewed. Compared to Au NPs, the incorporation of Au NPs into HAp NRs favored the adsorption of hydrazine, thus bringing hydrazine much closer to the catalytic sites of Au NPs and then increasing the efficiency of hydrazine oxidation in neutral solution. The amperometric (i–t) hydrazine sensor, using the as-prepared Au/HAp as the electrochemical catalyst, shows a wide linear response range of 0.5–1429 μM, a lower detection limit (0.017 μM) and very high sensitivity of 0.5 μA μM−1 cm−2. Furthermore, the Au/HAp nanocomposites showed an excellent anti-interference property towards the various organic and inorganic electroactive compounds, and good inter-electrode and intra-electrode reproducibility. Our present technique shows both qualitative and quantitative measurement of hydrazine in various water samples with high sensitivity, cost effectiveness and rapid analysis time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three-dimensional printed multi-purpose electrochemical devices for X-ray absorption spectroscopy are presented in this paper. The aim of this work is to show how three-dimensional printing can be a strategy for the creation of electrochemical cells for in situ and in operando experiments by means of synchrotron radiation. As a case study, the description of two cells which have been employed in experiments on photoanodes for photoelectrochemical water splitting are presented. The main advantages of these electrochemical devices are associated with their compactness and with the precision of the three-dimensional printing systems which allows details to be obtained that would otherwise be difficult. Thanks to these systems it was possible to combine synchrotron-based methods with complementary techniques in order to study the mechanism of the photoelectrocatalytic process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To assess variation in the main colonoscopy quality indicators in organised colorectal cancer (CRC) screening programmes based on faecal immunochemical test (FIT). Design Data from a case-series of colonoscopies of FIT-positive subjects were provided by 44 Italian CRC screening programmes. Data on screening history, endoscopic procedure and histology results, and additional information on the endoscopy centre and the endoscopists were collected. The adenoma detection rate (ADR) and caecal intubation rate (CIR) were assessed for the whole population and the individual endoscopists. To explore variation in the quality indicators, multilevel analyses were performed according to patient/centre/endoscopist characteristics. Results We analysed 75 569 (mean age: 61.3 years; men: 57%) colonoscopies for positive FIT performed by 479 endoscopists in 79 centres. ADR ranged from 13.5% to 75% among endoscopists (mean: 44.8%). ADR was associated with gastroenterology specialty (OR: 0.87 for others, 95% CI 0.76 to 0.96) and, at the endoscopy centre level, with the routine use of sedation (OR: 0.80 if occasional (<33%); 95% CI 0.64 to 1.00) and availability of screening-dedicated sessions (OR: 1.35; 95% CI 1.11 to 1.66). CIR ranged between 58.8% and 100% (mean: 93.1%). Independent predictors of CIR at the endoscopist level were the yearly number of screening colonoscopies performed (OR: 1.51 for endoscopists with >600 colonoscopies; 95% CI 1.11 to 2.04) and, at the endoscopy centre level, screeningdedicated sessions (OR: 2.18; 95% CI 1.24 to 3.83) and higher rates of sedation (OR: 0.47 if occasional; 95% CI 0.24 to 0.92). Conclusions The quality of colonoscopy was affected by patient-related, endoscopist-related and centre-related characteristics. Policies addressing organisational issues should improve the quality of colonoscopy in our programme and similar programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. To report the accuracy of colposcopically directed biopsy in an internet-based colposcopy quality assurance programme in northern Italy. Methods. A web application was made accessible on the website of the regional Administration. Fifty-nine colposcopists out of the registered 65 logged in, viewed a posted set of 50 digital colpophotographs, classified them for colposcopic impression and need for biopsy, and indicated the most appropriate site for biopsy with a left-button mouse click on the image. Results. Total biopsy failure rate, comprising both nonbiopsy and incorrect selection of biopsy site, was 0.20 in CIN1, 0.11 in CIN2, 0.09 in CIN3, and 0.02 in carcinoma. Errors in the selection of biopsy site were stable between 0.08 and 0.09 in the three grades of CIN while decreasing to 0.01 in carcinoma. In multivariate analysis, the risk of incorrect selection of biopsy site was 1.97 for CIN2, 2.52 for CIN3, and 0.29 for carcinoma versus CIN1. Conclusions. Although total biopsy failure rate decreased regularly with increasing severity of histological diagnosis, the rate of incorrect selection of biopsy site was stable up to CIN3. In multivariate analysis, CIN2 and CIN3 had an independently increased risk of incorrect selection of biopsy site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exploiting plasmonic Au nanoparticles to sensitize TiO2 to visible light is a widely employed route to produce efficient photocatalysts. However, a description of the atomic and electronic structure of the semiconductor sites in which charges are injected is still not available. Such a description is of great importance in understanding the underlying physical mechanisms and to improve the design of catalysts with enhanced photoactivity. We investigated changes in the local electronic structure of Ti in pure and N-doped nanostructured TiO2 loaded with Au nanoparticles during continuous selective excitation of the Au localized surface plasmon resonance with X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and resonant inelastic X-ray scattering (RIXS). Spectral variations strongly support the presence of long-lived charges localized on Ti states at the semiconductor surface, giving rise to new laser-induced low-coordinated Ti sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]