Abstract: Catalytic process for producing alkylene epoxide, selected between ethylene oxide or propylene oxide, from the corresponding alkylene carbonate, selected between ethylene carbonate or propylene carbonate, comprising the decomposition reaction of alkylene carbonate, in the presence of sodium bromide as catalyst, in which: the reaction temperature is between 207 and 245° C., and the catalyst is in amounts comprised between 5×10?4 and 8×10?3 moles per mole of alkylene carbonate. This process can be carried out continuously. A further object of the invention is the modular plant which allows carrying out such a process.

Abstract: A fragrance-containing microparticle of water-insoluble polymeric material, the polymer having a glass transition temperature of from 0° C. to 50° C. and a zeta potential lying within the ranges ?40 mV to ?5 mV and +5 mV to +45 mV. The microparticles have enhanced substantivity to hair, resulting in a longer-lasting fragrance.

Abstract: A fluid for controlling the permeability of a subterranean formation having an aqueous solution of at least one thermo-responsive polymer with block structure A-B-A?, wherein A and A?, the same as or different from one another, each represent a thermo-responsive oligomer group, and B is an oligomer group having n repeat units, the same as or different from one another. At least one of the repeat units has a solubility of the corresponding monomer, in water at 20° C., equal to or greater than 120 g/l, and n is a whole number within the range 30-1000. The fluid is also used in a method for controlling the permeability of a subterranean formation.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions and methods for targeting cells for therapeutic and/or diagnostic purposes, e.g., delivery of therapeutic and/or diagnostic agents to a cell. Nanoparticles and polymers functionalized with capture molecules, reporter molecules, and/or therapeutic agents are provided for the treatment or prevention of disease, including neurological diseases associated with neuroinflammation, and cancer.