Thermodynamics of quantum information scrambling
  Scrambling of quantum information can be conveniently quantified by so called out-of-time-order-correlators (OTOCs), whose measurements presents a formidable experimental challenge. Here we report on a method for the measurement of OTOCs based on the so-called two-point measurements scheme developed in the field of non-equilibrium quantum thermodynamics. The scheme is of broader applicability than methods employed in current experiments and also provides a clear-cut interpretation of quantum information scrambling in terms of non-equilibrium fluctuations of thermodynamic quantities such as work. Furthermore, we provide a numerical example on a spin chain which highlights the utility of our thermodynamic approach when understanding the differences between integrable and ergodic behavior. We also discuss connections to some recent experiments. 
Michele Campisi and John Goold
quant-ph cond-mat.stat-mech hep-th