Ritt’s theorem and the Heins map in hyperbolic complex manifolds

Let X be a Kobayashi hyperbolic complex manifold, and assume that X does not contain compact complex submanifolds of positive dimension (e.g., X Stein). We shall prove the following generalization of Ritt’s theorem: every holomorphic self-map f:X→X such that f(X) is relatively compact in X has a unique fixed point τ(f) ∈ X, which is attracting. Furthermore, we shall prove that τ(f) depends holomorphically on f in a suitable sense, generalizing results by Heins, Joseph-Kwack and the second author.     

Thermal decomposition of pentacoordinate uranium(VI) complexes

The thermal decomposition of some mixed uranyl complexes with Schiff bases and DMSO, EtOH or (Ph)₃PO as neutral ligand, were investigated and the corresponding activation energy, E*_a, and enthalpy of dissociation, ΔH_d, values were calculated.

The results obtained indicate that for the same neutral ligand, the thermal stability of the uranyl complexes is influenced by the Schiff base used; for the same Schiff base, the presence of (Ph)₃PO results in a greater thermal stability of the mixed complexes than when the other two neutral ligands are present.     

Progress,highlights and perspectives on NiO in perovskite photovoltaics

The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of NiO based perovskite solar cells has recently hit a record 22.1% with a hybrid organic–inorganic perovskite composition and a PCE above 15% in a fully inorganic configuration was achieved. Moreover, NiO processing is a mature technology, with different industrially attractive processes demonstrated in the last few years. These considerations, along with the excellent stabilities reported, clearly point towards NiO as the most efficient inorganic hole selective layer for lead halide perovskite photovoltaics, which is the topic of this review. NiO optoelectronics is discussed by analysing the different doping mechanisms, with a focus on the case of alkaline and transition metal cation dopants. Doping allows tuning the conductivity and the energy levels of NiO, improving the overall performance and adapting the material to a variety of perovskite compositions. Furthermore, we summarise the main investigations on the NiO/perovskite interface stability. In fact, the surface of NiO is commonly oxidised and reactive with perovskite, also under the effect of light, thermal and electrical stress. Interface engineering strategies should be considered aiming at long term stability and the highest efficiency. Finally, we present the main achievements in flexible, fully printed and lead-free perovskite photovoltaics which employ NiO as a layer and provide our perspective to accelerate the improvement of these technologies. Overall, we show that adequately doped and passivated NiO might be an ideal hole selective layer in every possible application of perovskite solar cells.

The power conversion efficiency of NiO based perovskite solar cells has recently hit a record 22.1%. Here, the main advances are reviewed and the role of NiO in the next breakthroughs is discussed.     

Preparation of the Enantiomerically Enriched Isomers of the Odorous Cyclic Ethers Clarycet ®, Florol ®, and Rhubafuran ® by Enzymatic Catalysis

All the enantiomerically enriched stereoisomers of Clarycet ^® ( 1 ), Florol ^® ( 2 ), and Rhubafuran ^® ( 3 ) were prepared by biocatalysis routes. Their absolute configurations were established, and their olfactory properties were fully evaluated.     

Enthalpimetric measurements in solid—solid reactions. Part II. Study of the uranyl nitrate-urea system by DSC

The enthalpy values associated with solid—solid interactions of uranyl nitrate—urea in closed reaction vessels are studied by DSC. Results are compared with those obtained previously by DTA with open reaction vessels and a dynamic atmosphere of nitrogen. It is found that the different experimental conditions affect the results both qualitatively and quantitatively to a very marked extent.     

Photodissociation spectroscopy of Zn+(H2O) and Zn+(D2O)

We report on a study of the photodissociation spectroscopy of weakly bound Zn+(H2O) and Zn+(D2O) complexes. The work is supported by ab initio electronic structure calculations of the ground and low-lying excited energy surfaces. We assign two molecular absorption bands in the near UV correlating to Zn+ (4s-4p)-based transitions, and identify vibrational progressions associated with both intermolecular and intramolecular vibrational modes of the cluster. Partially resolved rotational structure is consistent with a C(2V) equilibrium complex geometry. Experimental spectroscopic constants are in very good agreement with ab initio theoretical predictions. Results are compared with previous work on main group and transition metal ion-H2O clusters.     

Enthalpimetric measurements in solid—solid reactions. Part V. study of the mixed complexes of uranyl nitrate with urea and thiourea

The enthalpy values associated with solid—solid interactions of uranyl nitrate with both urea and thiourea to form mixed complexes are studied. The tendency of the urea to substitute the thiourea molecules bonded with the uranyl ion was observed. A greater facility of the ligand (hard or soft) to coordinate with the UO²⁺₂ ion in those complexes in which a greater number of ligand molecules are present was found.     

Thermal behaviour of Uranium(VI) complexes. Uranyl acetate dihydrate-thiourea system: Synthesis and decomposition

The solid-state syntheses of uranyl acetate adducts with thiourea were attempted directly in a DSC apparatus according to the scheme: UO₂Ac₂·2 H₂O_(s)+n thiourea_(s) → → UO₂Ac₂·thiourea_n(s)+2 H₂O_(v) (n=1–6), and the correspondingδH values were evaluated. At all stoichiometric ratios the same UO₂Ac₂·thÌourea product was obtained, to which a pentagonal bipyramidal structure was attributed. Thermoanalytical (TG and DTG) and infrared spectra measurements were also performed and agree with the DSC results.     

Photoluminescence of 6- and 7-aminoquinolines

The fluorescences of 6- and 7-aminoquinoline and 6-dimethylaminoquinaldine were studied in media of different acidities, polarities, hydrogen-bonding capabilities and temperatures. The excited state acidities and solvent dependences of the fluorescences of these compounds are typical of aminoquinolines substituted in the homocyclic ring. The acidities of the doubly protonated cations are so great in the lowest excited singlet state, however, that prototropic dissociation in the excited state occurs even in rigid media at 195°K. The lowest triplet state of the singly charged cation of 6-aminoquinoline is found to be nearly degenerate with the lowest excited singlet state of the same molecule. This is attributed to the great charge-transfer component of the S₁←S₀ transition which is not present in the T₁←S₀ transition, and the interaction of the S₁ state with the polar solvent.     

Lights and Shadows of DMSO as Solvent for Tin Halide Perovskites

In 2020 dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), the ever-present solvent for tin halide perovskites, was identified as an oxidant for Sn^II. Nonetheless, alternatives are lacking and few efforts have been devoted to replacing it. To understand this trend it is indispensable to learn the importance of DMSO on the development of tin halide perovskites. Its unique properties have allowed processing compact thin-films to be integrated into tin perovskite solar cells. Creative approaches for controlling the perovskite crystallization or increasing its stability to oxidation have been developed relying on DMSO-based inks. However, increasingly sophisticated strategies appear to lead the field to a plateau of power conversion efficiency in the range of 10–15 %. And, while DMSO-based formulations have performed in encouraging means so far, we should also start considering their potential limitations. In this concept article, we discuss the benefits and limitations of DMSO-based tin perovskite processing.