No abstract

We have proposed a new model, generalizing the class of the Drude-Lorentz-like models, for describing the conductors in nanostructured form. Now we have performed the quantum version of this model, presenting an interesting mathematical elegance. This version is adequately inserted in the context of the already existing quantum models which regard this sector, and describes very well the dynamic behaviour, as extracted by time resolved techniques.

Recently, an approach for converting nanoscale mechanical energy into electrical energy has been suggested by using piezoelectric zinc oxide (ZnO) nanowire arrays. Such devices have been shown to convert ultrasonic energy into electric energy by a deflection of the nanowires via a corrugated electrode operated up and down by the ultrasound. A typical approximately 1 pW output power for a device of a approximately 1 mm2 area and a density of approximately 10(7)/mm2 nanowires can be obtained. In order to reach the approximately 10 nW power needed to operate a nanodevice, nanogenerators of this kind need to be optimized. With the aim of fabricating low cost to efficiency ratio nanogenerators, we have considered ZnO films grown by an electrochemical technique, based on the direct precipitation of Zn hydroxide on a conducting ITO/glass substrate and subsequent heat treatment, and TiO2 films deposited from a colloidal suspension of anatase/rutile commercial powders. These methods allowed us to obtain disordered but quite uniform arrays distributed on the surface of the substrate. Preliminary results on the electrical properties are presented. Under input mechanical strain we find output powers of approximately 10(-9)/cm2 W, which are comparable to those obtained with the ZnO nanoarrays. Possible interpretations of results in terms of piezoelectricity (ZnO) and incipient ferroelectricity (TiO2) are presented and improvements of the devices are discussed.

No abstract

The relation between quantum physics and higher brain functions, including the consciousness, is in recent years a top subject of deep discussions from a scientific, philosophical, psychological and existential point of view. Reality is in continuous motion, life is continuously becoming, a movement of propagating energy waves. The quantum revolution undermined the solid nature of reality, opening the door to the primary role of mind, and proposing scenarios with unexpected features. In this paper interesting aspects of quantum physics are considered, with inevitable repercussions on our lives, which can decisively influence our actions and future. These findings underline the importance of building a cognitive resilience with mindfulness training, for improving the ability to regulate emotions, attention to the true surrounding reality, mood and well-being in life.

No abstract

Aim. Today we have the need to develop more effective teaching methods, where thestudent is no longer just a user, but becomes an integral part of the training process by creating,selecting and processing experiences in a personal way. Digital teaching has become/isbecoming part of the school scenario along with the wealth of digital technologies and toolsthat have spread over the past decades. Today’s society has changed and even the schoolmust be able to exploit all resources that social networks make available for capturing theattention of “digital natives”.Methods. The student becomes an active constructor of knowledge, integrating it in apersonal way. We talk about “didactics 2.0”, i.e. the study and improvement of teachingactivity achievable with the use of ICT tools. To create a learning environment, we musttake into account the collaboration of several parties (teachers, experts in the fi eld, students,parents), not forgetting the complexity and multiplicity of the surrounding reality. Thislearning environment can profi tably use social networks; students show to learn better ifthey fi nd meaningful the subjects they are studying.Results. The paper illustrates tools and forms of collaboration achievable with thedigital educational school environment. Social networks are used by students to thepoint of becoming a real language for “digital natives”. When we talk about digitalculture, we want to highlight the participation and digitalisation of traditional culturalprocesses, from which the educational environment does not escape. In the “school2.0” approach there are some peculiarities leading the school system towards the newgenerations.Conclusions. The need to “digitise” the school is a current hot topic, also if in everydayreality the work to do is still a lot: non-existent or obsolete computer labs, teachers who donot consider computers as a resource. Digitised teaching can be realised according to multiplechannels that have different characteristics and purposes.

No abstract