Abstract: A method of analysing a structure of a composition of matter in a sample includes obtaining a data set comprising a plurality of spectra from the composition, from a first method of analysis, dividing each of the spectra into a plurality of bins, determining a control parameter or parameters indicative of synchronised fluctuations in signal intensity across some or all channels, resulting in universal correlation between said bins, and determining a partial covariance of different bins across the plurality of spectra using the control parameter to correct the correlation of intensity fluctuations between said bins.

Abstract: A method of analysing a structure of a composition of matter in a sample includes obtaining a data set comprising a plurality of spectra from the composition, from a first method of analysis, dividing each of the spectra into a plurality of bins, determining a control parameter or parameters indicative of synchronised fluctuations in signal intensity across some or all channels, resulting in universal correlation between said bins, and determining a partial covariance of different bins across the plurality of spectra using the control parameter to correct the correlation of intensity fluctuations between said bins.

Abstract: A method of multidimensional spectroscopy has a controllable excitation source parameter and comprises controlling said controllable parameter to excite a vibrational mode of the sample, generating a homodyne reflected signal from the sample and obtaining a spectrum of the sample from the reflected signal.

Abstract: A porous sample support provides a matrix into the pores or interstitial spaces of which a sample to be subjected to a spectroscopic analysis can be introduced. 2 D infrared spectroscopy can then be carried out on the sample at higher concentrations with minimized background.

Abstract: A high energy photon source for generating EUV radiation comprises a nozzle emitting a supersonic stream of source material, a laser or electrical/magnetic pre-ionization mechanism and a laser or electrical/magnetic excitation mechanism and a skimmer plate between them providing a collimated high density beam of source material for excitation.

Abstract: A laser is disclosed which includes a gain medium, a switch element, and a pulse controller. In one embodiment laser light of differing polarizations pass along respective paths and a pulsed laser output is generated via an electro-optical element. In another embodiment light of differing polarizations passes in differing directions through a cyclical path. The invention can make use of a prism-shaped polarizer having a polarization selection face and two further faces. Yet further initial pulses can be controlled to reduce energy, for example by progressively increasing the period or amplitude of successive pulses. As a result an efficient and high power laser apparatus is realized.

Abstract: A high energy photon source for generating EUV radiation comprises a nozzle emitting a supersonic stream of source material, a laser or electrical/magnetic pre-ionization mechanism and a laser or electrical/magnetic excitation mechanism and a skimmer plate between them providing a collimated high density beam of source material for excitation.

Abstract: An extreme ultraviolet radiation generator is disclosed in which Xenon gas is continuously ejected from a high pressure nozzle into a low pressure chamber to generate Xenon atom clusters which are irradiated with a high repetition rate pulsed laser to form a plasma and yield quasi-continuous EUV generation. The nozzle has a beveled outer rim to enable the focus point of the laser light to be brought close to the nozzle. The nozzle is cooled to a temperature at which background Xenon gas condenses onto the nozzle forming a protective layer. A gas compressor serves to recirculate the Xenon gas and batch purification triggered by a mass spectrometer monitoring gas purity may be periodically applied.

Abstract: The invention includes an edible confectionery product that has at least two parts. The first part is a base unit formed of a first confectionery and having a top, a bottom, and between five to twelve sides when viewed from above. The second part is a center inclusion formed of a second confectionery. The center inclusion is partially embedded in the base unit and extends above the top of the base unit. The center inclusion is set in, as viewed from the top, from any side of the base unit. The first confectionery has a different composition and preferably has a different texture than the second confectionery. In one preferred embodiment, a plurality of base units are shearably joined.

Abstract: A food product made of a sugar wafer that is preferably cone-shaped having a filling including a mass of a substantially water-free fat-based confectionery material. Also, a process for preparing this product by filling the sugar wafer with the substantially water-free fat-based confectionery material in a molten mass and allowing the filling to harden such as into a non-flowable material in the sugar wafer prior to consumption.

Abstract: A food product made of a sugar wafer that is preferably cone-shaped and that has a filling of a substantially water-free fat-based confectionery material. Also, a process for preparing this product by filling the sugar wafer with the substantially water-free fat-based confectionery in a molten, semi-liquid or semi-solid mass, and allowing the filling to harden.

Abstract: The invention includes an edible confectionery product that has at least two parts. The first part is a base unit formed of a first confectionery and having a top, a bottom, and between five to twelve sides when viewed from above. The second part is a center inclusion formed of a second confectionery. The center inclusion is partially embedded in the base unit and extends above the top of the base unit. The center inclusion is set in, as viewed from the top, from any side of the base unit. The first confectionery has a different composition and preferably has a different texture than the second confectionery. In one preferred embodiment, a plurality of base units are shearably joined.

Abstract: A process for lightening the color of cocoa nibs or cocoa liquor which comprises treating the cocoa nibs or cocoa liquor with hydrogen peroxide for a period of time sufficient to lighten the color to the desired level.