bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heterostructuring Uniform 2D CdS on Ru/Ti3C2‐TiO2 via In situ Oxidized Ru‐Loaded MXene for Boosting Photocatalytic H2 Production
Authors: Liu Qiaona , Han Xin , Qian An , Qian Jiayu , Pu Xin , Ye Lei , Zhan Jinshan , Zhang Jian , Yang Qiang , Liu Jichang
Published: November 2024

Building heterojunctions and exposing more catalytic active sites are effective strategies to enhance the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution activity. Herein, TiO2 nanosheets are oxidized in situ on Ru‐loaded MXene as carriers and subsequently loaded with uniform 2D CdS via hydrothermal method to obtain 2D Ru/Ti3C2‐TiO2/CdS composite photocatalysts that integrate heterojunctions and cocatalysts. The formation of heterojunction between CdS and TiO2 is conducive to promoting the separation and transfer of photogenerated charges, simultaneously, Ru/Ti3C2 with the fully exposed Ru and Ti3C2 can act as effective active sites of photocatalytic hydrogen production reaction. The composite photocatalyst exhibits an improved hydrogen production rate with 5479 µmol g−1 h−1, which is 5, 3, and four times more than that of pristine CdS, CdS loaded Ti3C2‐TiO2 and CdS loaded Ru‐TiO2 respectively. The results reveal that the notable enhancement in performance can primarily be ascribed to the introduction of the TiO2/CdS heterojunction and the efficient cocatalysts of Ru/Ti3C2. Moreover, the 2D Ti3C2 with high conductivity as carriers can increase charge transfer, and its 2D structure can serve as a template for growing 2D photocatalysts with higher activity. The interface engineering with multiple interfaces can offer novel insights for the advancement of efficient hydrogen evolution reaction catalysts.
“Anchoring Capture” Effect Mimicking Proline in Hardy Deep‐Sea Fish to Stabilize the Zinc Anode with Lower Operating Temperature
Authors: Zhu Feng , Wang Dongxu , Dang Yupeng , Wang Ping , Xu Pengcheng , Han Dandan , Wei Yen
Published: November 2024

The low plating/stripping efficiency of zinc anodes, dendrite growth, and high freezing points of aqueous solutions hinder the practical application of aqueous zinc‐ion batteries. This paper proposes a zwitterionic permeable network solid‐state electrolyte based on the “anchor‐capture” effect to address these problems by incorporating proline (Pro, a biological antifreeze agent) into the electrolyte. Extensive validation tests, Quantum Chemistry (QC) calculations, Molecular Dynamics (MD) Simulations, and ab initio molecular dynamics simulations consistently indicate that the amino groups in proline adsorb onto the Zn metal surface, stabilizing the zinc anode‐electrolyte interface, suppressing side reactions from water decomposition, and homogenizing zinc‐ion flux. This electrolyte demonstrates excellent reversibility in Zn‐Mn2O3 cells and Zn‐Zn half‐cells, achieving a high coulombic efficiency of over 99.4% across 2000 cycles in Zn‐Mn2O3 full cells, and delivering a discharge‐specific capacity of 175.2 mAh g−1 at −35 °C and 1 A g−1. Additionally, an appropriate concentration of proline lowers the electrolyte's freezing point to −45 °C through the network's solid‐state effect, ensuring the stable operation of the solid‐state battery at −35 °C. This innovative concept of network solid‐state electrolytes injects new vitality into the development of multifunctional solid‐state electrolytes.
Accelerated Ion‐Electron Transport in Bi‐Heterostructures Constructed Based on Ohmic Contacts for Efficient Bi‐Directional Catalysis of Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Chen Jing‐Zhou , Li Zi‐Ang , Lei Jia‐Ting , Chen Pei‐Pei , Zhao Dong‐Lin
Published: November 2024

Although lithium‐sulfur batteries have satisfactory theoretical specific capacity and energy density, they are difficult to further commercialize due to the shuttle effect of soluble polysulfides and slow sulfur oxidation kinetics. Based on this, in this work, the catalyst MXene‐VS4‐SnS2 (MVS), a dual heterostructured catalyst with ohmic contacts, is prepared by a one‐step hydrothermal method and electrostatic self‐adsorption for lithium‐sulfur battery cathode materials. Experimental and theoretical results show that the ohmic contact induces spontaneous charge rearrangement, resulting in the formation of a fast charge transfer pathway at the MVS heterojunction interface, which helps to reduce the energy barrier for polysulfide reduction and Li2S oxidation during the discharge/charge process. In addition, the inherent sulfophilicity of VS4 and SnS2 promotes the conversion of S species, while the pleated MXene nanosheets not only provide a highly conductive network for the active sulfur but also retain a rich internal space to maintain the integrity of the cathode structure during the continuous cycling process. As a result, the MVS cathode exhibits excellent electrochemical performance even under high sulfur loading. The integration of excellent performance with a facile synthesis process provides a promising approach for designing highly efficient electrocatalysts suitable for the energy field.
Twinned Metal–Organic Framework Nanoplates for Hydrocarbon Separation Membranes
Authors: Kim Jongbum , Kim Minsu , Yu Seungho , Yu Jihee , Yu Chanjong , Kim Taehwan , Lee Nahyeon , Ahn Yun Ho , Kim Yun Ho , Yoo Sungmi , Kim Ki Chul , Kim Dae Woo , Eum Kiwon
Published: November 2024

Filler morphology control is critical for enhancing the gas separation performance of mixed matrix membranes (MMMs). A vertical transport channel using the crystal twinning phenomenon is designed on the zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF) nanoplate. Twinned ZIF‐8 (TZIF‐8) nanoplate is prepared by controlling the shape of ZIF‐L from nanosheet to twinned flake, followed by conversion into the ZIF‐8 phase. With the addition of TZIF‐8 in 6FDA‐DAM polymer, propylene/propane selectivity is dramatically enhanced, showing propylene permeability of 40 Barrer and propylene/propane selectivity of 82. The separation performance surpasses the performance of MMMs reported so far, and the selectivity is comparable to that of polycrystalline ZIF‐8 membranes. A transport mechanism study using mathematical models implies that the percolated twin fillers create rapid and selective gas channels for desired molecules and substantial tortuous pathways for undesired molecules.
TVT‐Based New Building Block with Enhanced π‐Electron Delocalization for Efficient Non‐Fused Photovoltaic Acceptor
Authors: Ren Junzhen , Zhang Shaoqing , Li Huixue , Wang Jianqiu , Ma Lijiao , Chen Zhihao , Wang Tao , Zhang Tao , Hou Jianhui
Published: November 2024

To address the high‐cost issue that impedes the large‐scale fabrication and industrialization of organic solar cells (OSCs), it is crucial to design low‐cost photovoltaic materials with simplified synthesis procedures. In this study, a novel fully non‐fused acceptor, ATVT‐BO, featuring a triisopropylbenzene‐substituted (E)‐1,2‐di(thiophen‐2‐yl)ethene (TVT) unit as the central core is designed and synthesized. A control acceptor, A4T‐BO, with the same alkyl chains but a bithiophene central core, is also synthesized for comparison. Theoretical calculations and practical measurements reveal that compared to A4T‐BO, the insertion of an ethylene bond in ATVT‐BO enhances the molecular planarity and reduces the aromaticity, leading to enhanced π‐electron delocalization and thus improved electron mobility and a red‐shifted optical absorption spectrum. The 3D molecular packing mode of ATVT‐BO, characterized by tight intermolecular interactions, also promotes efficient charge transport in OSCs. Consequently, when paired with the low‐cost polymer PTVT‐T, featuring an ester‐substituted TVT structure, as the photoactive layer, the PTVT‐T:ATVT‐BO‐based device achieves a remarkable power conversion efficiency of 14.8%, distinctly higher than that of PTVT‐T:A4T‐BO‐based cell. The result highlights the significant potential of TVT units in creating both low‐cost polymer donors and fully non‐fused acceptors, which opens up new possibilities for designing low‐cost photoactive materials in OSCs.
Toward Sustainable Utilization and Production of Tartaric Acid
Authors: Li Xiran , Liu Mengyuan , Li Wenhan , Wang Xin , Wang Shiyu , Yin Haoran , Yan Ning , Jin Xin , Yang Chaohe
Published: November 2024

Global efforts toward establishing a circular carbon economy have guided research interests towards exploring renewable technologies that can replace environmentally harmful fossil fuel‐based production routes. In this context, sugar‐based bio‐derived substrates have been identified as renewable molecules for future implementation in chemical industries. Tartaric acid, a special C4 bio‐compound with two hydroxyl and carboxylic groups in the structure, displays great potential for the food, polymer, and pharmaceutical industries due to its unique biological reactivity and performance‐enhancing properties. To this point, there has yet to be a comprehensive literature review and perspective on the applications and synthesis of tartaric acid. As such, we have conducted a detailed and thorough outlook and discussion in terms of biological activity, organic synthesis, catalysis, structural characterization and synthetic routes. Lastly, we provide a critical discussion on the applications and synthesis of tartaric acid to give our insights into developing sustainable chemical technologies for the future.
Paths into and out of STEM fields: A qualitative study of women and students of color at a predominately white institution
Authors: Fredricks Jennifer A. , Cotter David A. , Lafontant Denesha
Published: November 2024

This phenomenological study examines how women and Students of Color who attend a small undergraduate predominately white institution (PWI) make meaning of their experiences in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and how individual and contextual factors influence whether they decide to stay, leave, or add an STEM major. We conducted qualitative interviews with 50 juniors and seniors across three participation pathways: (1) students who entered college with an interest in an STEM major and are still an STEM major, (2) students who entered college with an interest in a non‐STEM major and switched to an STEM major, and (3) students who entered college with an interest in an STEM major and changed to a non‐STEM major. Students' descriptions of the factors that influenced their academic choices support the tenets of the situated expectancy‐value theory. Themes related to expectancies for success, value beliefs, and teachers and peers are presented. Implications of these findings for retaining underrepresented students in STEM majors are discussed.
Dynamics of Shoreline Changes Along the Coast of Subarnarekha and Budhabalanga River Estuary, North Eastern Coast of India Using DSAS Technique: A Geospatial Technology Approach
Authors: Giri Satyaranjan , Tripathy Jagadish Kumar , Mitra Debashis , Senapati Smruti Ranjan
Published: November 2024

The coastal regions represent one of the most significant environmental and economic resources, offering critical ecosystems that support biodiversity. Shoreline change analysis offers critical insights into coastal dynamics, providing trends in erosion and accretion, enabling effective coastal management and hazard mitigation. In the current study, shoreline change is assessed utilizing the Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS) model for Subarnarekha and Budhabalanga river estuaries in Baleswar district, Odisha, India. The shoreline was extracted using multitemporal satellite images like Landsat‐5 and Landsat‐7 for the years 1991, 2000, and 2011. Similarly Sentinel‐2 and Landsat‐8 satellite imagery were used for the year 2022. The satellite data from 1991 to 2022 were processed using Envi, ArcGIS softwares and the shoreline is extracted for each year using band ratioing methods to demarcate shoreline. In the current research, the net accretion and erosion along the coast were analyzed using the GIS (geographic information systems) technique and the DSAS model. The four important statistical parameters of the DSAS model utilized in the study area are end point rate (EPR), net shoreline movement (NSM), linear regression rate (LRR), and least median of squares (LMS). The shoreline change analysis for the coast of Subarnarekha and Budhabalanga river estuary area from 1991 to 2022 reveals that 44% of the coast is under accretion, 7% is under stable coast, and 23% is under erosion. According to the findings, the coastal area of the recent study is both progressive and regressive in nature. For the study area, the average rates of shoreline accretion and erosion are 1.05 m and 0.45 m per year, respectively. The study gives information on erosion and accretion near the Subarnarekha and Budhabalanga river estuaries, which will aid in the development of an adaptive shoreline management strategy and coastal vulnerability assessment.
Surgical and dermatological management of asymptomatic congenital ear canal atresia in a male Wirehaired Pointing Griffon dog
Authors: Cantrall Reanna , Spinner Maureen , Petersen Annette , Ludwig Allison
Published: November 2024

A 1‐year‐old, male, entire Wirehaired Pointing Griffon was evaluated for asymptomatic right congenital ear canal atresia. Head computed tomography confirmed congenital ear canal atresia diagnosis. Surgical resection and anastomosis of the ear canal followed by video otoscopy was performed. An intact, but flaccid tympanic membrane, suspected from impacted ear canal debris, was identified. One week postoperatively, bilateral yeast otitis externa was diagnosed and successfully treated with topical anti‐fungal therapy. Five months postoperatively, the stoma remained patent, the dog was asymptomatic, and computed tomography with video otoscopy revealed a taut tympanic membrane bulging into the horizontal ear canal. Myringotomy, cytology, bacterial cultures, susceptibility testing, middle ear saline lavage and pre‐emptive topical antibiotic therapy were pursued. Cultures yielded no bacterial growth. Four weeks later, the tympanic membrane was visibly normal, and the stoma was unchanged. This case report is the first to describe interdisciplinary management of asymptomatic congenital ear canal atresia and might support early surgical intervention as a reasonable option.
Non‐functional metastatic thyroid carcinoma with oesophageal invasion and ulceration in a cat
Authors: Derré Maxime , Artiles Charles , Fulkerson Caroline V. , Fulkerson Christopher M. , Mello Camila Benaduce Emanuelli , Esmaeilzadeh Hamideh , Sakashita Tsukasa , Lin Tsang‐Long , Srinath Anushri Thirumala , Woolcock Andrew
Published: November 2024

An adult, male, neutered, domestic shorthair cat was presented with a 2‐month history of dysphagia and a movable cervical mass. Cytology of the cervical mass was consistent with carcinoma. Thoracic radiographs revealed pleural effusion, cardiomegaly, diffuse patchy interstitial pattern and pulmonary nodules. Fluid analysis of the pleural effusion was consistent with marked septic neutrophilic inflammation, and Pasteurella multocida was isolated. Contrast‐enhanced cervical and thoracic computed tomography scan revealed a cervical mass in the region of the right thyroid lobe, with circumferential invasion of the oesophageal wall and well‐defined pulmonary nodules consistent with distant metastases. Oesophago‐gastroscopy was performed and revealed a proximal, oesophageal, mural mass causing severe intraluminal obstruction. Humane euthanasia was elected. Postmortem examination with histology and immunohistochemistry confirmed a thyroid carcinoma with oesophageal invasion and pulmonary metastases. The oesophageal mucosa was extensively disrupted and ulcerated by the thyroid carcinoma. Additionally, echocardiogram and postmortem examination confirmed cardiomyopathy and congestive heart failure.
Experimental Study on Identification of Aerodynamic Damping Matrix for the Tower of an Operating Wind Turbine by Artificial Excitation
Authors: Wang Zhaowei , Lu Shengxin , Wu Ningyu , Hua Xugang , Chen Chao
Published: November 2024

Quantitation of damping is of great significance for the design and condition assessment of wind turbines. The authors' previous theoretical and numerical studies showed that compared with damping ratios, a modal aerodynamic damping matrix can better describe the damping coupling in the fore‐aft (FA) and side‐side (SS) tower motions. In the present study, an improved damping identification method was first proposed to identify this damping matrix with artificial exciters and then verified by using OpenFAST simulations under different excitation frequencies, excitation force amplitudes, and turbulent wind fields. Following the numerical study, a scaled wind turbine model with a geometric scale ratio of 1/75 was carefully designed based on the NREL 5‐MW wind turbine prototype, in which the scaled blade design follows the rule in thrust coefficient similarity. An identification study was performed with this scaled model by a series of wind tunnel tests. The modal aerodynamic damping matrix was identified under steady‐state harmonic excitation in the operating state and compared with the identified results by a free decay method and the theoretical values. The results experimentally confirm the correctness of the aerodynamic damping matrix theory under uniform wind and the feasibility of the improved identification method in practice.
An interior inverse generalized impedance problem for the modified Helmholtz equation in two dimensions
Authors: Ivanyshyn Yaman Olha , Özdemir Gazi
Published: November 2024

We consider the inverse interior problem of recovering the surface impedances of the cavity from sources and measurements placed on a curve inside of it. The uniqueness issue is investigated, and a hybrid method is proposed for the numerical solution. The approach takes advantages of both direct and iterative schemes, such as it does not require an initial guess and has an accuracy of a Newton‐type method. Presented numerical experiments demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the approach.
Numerical solutions and stability analysis of hybrid Casson nanofluid flow with MHD and heat transfer effects
Authors: Ramesh Katta , Lund Liaquat Ali , Fadhel Mustafa Abbas , Jayavel Prakash
Published: November 2024

This research addresses the complex dynamics of hybrid Casson nanoliquids in flow and heat transfer applications, focusing on the interaction between fluid dynamics and thermal phenomena in the presence of magnetohydrodynamics (MHD), viscous dissipation, and Joule heating. The motivation behind this study stems from the need to enhance the efficiency of heat transfer processes in various engineering applications, such as cooling systems and electronic devices, where hybrid nanofluids can offer superior thermal performance compared to conventional fluids. The novelty of this work lies in its comprehensive numerical investigation of a hybrid Casson nanoliquid over a moving permeable surface, incorporating a detailed analysis of MHD effects, viscous dissipation, and Joule heating. Using the Tiwari and Das model to formulate the governing equations, the study employs similarity transformations to convert these equations into a system of ordinary differential equations (ODEs). MATLAB is then used to derive numerical solutions, with a stability analysis ensuring the physical dependability of these solutions. Key findings reveal that the temperature distribution of the hybrid nanoliquid shows a positive correlation with both Prandtl and Hartmann numbers. Additionally, a positive relationship between temperature and the Eckert number is observed. These insights offer valuable guidance for engineers aiming to optimize heat transfer processes using hybrid nanofluids, highlighting their potential for improved thermal management in practical applications.
The influence of lymphatic vessels on nanoparticle distribution and heat transfer within tissue
Authors: Ahmed N. F. , Mansour M. A. , Ibrahim F. S. , Ismaeel A. M.
Published: November 2024

This study analytically investigates the dynamics of nanoparticle transport within a three‐dimensional porous cylinder simulating a lymphatic vessel, without external heat sources. The governing equations and boundary conditions are transformed to yield a system of ordinary differential equations, which are solved numerically using MATLAB built‐in function, bvp4c. Key parameters are visually examined and physically interpreted in relation to temperature, velocity, concentration, and Nusselt number profiles. The study reveals that the distribution of temperature and Nusselt number are maximized by increasing the heat transfer coefficient, whereas NP concentration is increased by decreasing it. Furthermore, the Brownian motion parameter enhances both heat transmission and NP concentration. It is also observed that simpler extravasation into lymphatics decreases tissue nanoparticle levels and heat conduction. Ultimately, optimal intra‐lymphatic nanoparticle distribution pathways are achieved by specifically varying heat transfer and interstitial mass flux patterns. By simulating biological barriers and lymphatic drainage, this model enhances our understanding of the underlying transport mechanisms controlling nanoparticle mobilization.
EU Cooperation with Serbia for Externalization of Asylum
Authors: Djurovic Olga , Djurovic Rados
Published: November 2024

Since 2015, the role of the European Union (EU) in Serbia’s domestic migration, asylum, and refugee protection systems has grown significantly. This occurred in the process of Serbia’s accession to the EU, while formal negotiations about Serbia’s accession started in 2014. Serbian institutions refugee reception asylum and migration management systems are propped up by EU support and funding, and Serbian asylum and migration policy, legislative and field practices are aligned with the EU incentives accordingly. The purpose of the paper is to evaluate the scope of EU policy, legal and financial instruments of support to Serbia related to asylum and migration, their purpose, and their effects, and to evaluate their alignment with the EU and international human rights and refugee law, as well as to evaluate their alignment with the principles of UN Global Compact on Refugees.
Tunisia-EU Cooperation in Migration Management: From Mobility Partnership to Containment
Authors: Raach Fatma , Sha’ath Hiba
Published: November 2024

This chapter examines select political, legal, and financial instruments regarding asylum, protection, and mobility between Tunisia and the EU. We have assessed the effectiveness, fairness, and consistency of these instruments, to determine whether they have been successful in achieving their stated aims, have been designed and implemented with accountability mechanisms, and have been aligned with international and regional human rights standards. The chapter concludes that while some of the instruments have achieved their stated results of building the Tunisian state’s capacity to host refugees, they have been lacking in transparency, accountability mechanisms, and compatibility with international and regional human rights laws. With the focus predominantly having been on the containment of refugees to Tunisia through emphasis on border protection programs and readmission agreements, the instruments’ alignment with the Global Compact for Refugees is limited, as there is far more pressure exerted on Tunisia to host a growing number of third country nationals and prevent their onward movement to Europe, with few other initiatives aimed at easing this burden. While the continued absence of asylum legislation has been a barrier to upholding refugees’ rights in the country, we argue that Tunisian officials’ refusal to pass national asylum legislation has been their way of resisting EU pressure to become a safe third country of asylum, as they fear this will pave the way to other EU actions of deporting third country nationals to Tunisia, and to set up offshore asylum processing centres on Tunisian soil. The Chapter critiques the EU’s approach in its mobility partnership with Tunisia to date due to its outsized focus on security and insufficient attention to the needs and perceptions of Tunisian counterparts.
Refugee and Human Rights Law Standards Applicable to Asylum Governance and the Right of Asylum
Authors: Kienast Julia , Tan Nikolas Feith , Vedsted-Hansen Jens
Published: November 2024

This chapter interrogates key standards and trends in asylum governance, exploring the compatibility of emerging asylum regimes with international and regional refugee and human rights law. The chapter takes a global view, while drawing on practice from Bangladesh, Brazil, Canada, Jordan, South Africa and Türkiye, where relevant. First, we briefly set out the most relevant international and regional human rights and refugee law instruments, as well as the relationship between human rights and refugee law in this area and the (potential) impact of the UN GCR on global asylum governance. Second, we provide an account of key binding international and regional standards governing access to asylum, asylum procedures, the scope of protection and content of protection. The following section is devoted to the tension between paradigms of deterrence and containment and admission to territory, including the emergence of pushbacks as a systematic global practice; ‘safe third country’ mechanisms; perceived ‘instrumentalisation’ of asylum; externalisation of asylum; and alternative solutions to moderate containment approaches. Finally, the chapter addresses tendencies related to the temporariness of protection, encompassing differential treatment between groups of protection seekers and refugees, issues of exploitation due to limitations on the right to work and ‘vulnerability’ as a protection issue.
Precarious Lives: Status, Vulnerability and the Right to Work for Protection Seekers in Bangladesh and Jordan
Authors: Hossain M. Sanjeeb , Turner Lewis
Published: November 2024

This chapter brings together, and compares, the research findings of two case studies: Jordan and Bangladesh. In exploring refugee status, vulnerability and (working) rights, we examine how refugee protection is allocated in these two states, both of which, as hosts to large numbers of protection seekers, play important roles in the international refugee regime. Jordan and Bangladesh both deal with deeply protracted refugee situations, but neither have formal ties to international refugee law, although they both engage with some of the norms of the Refugee Convention. In both contexts, the rights of refugees are often unclear, and remain perpetually uncertain. The assigning of various labels to them is a politicised process, which varies over time and by nationality, leading to a precarious status for protection seekers. Based on extensive desk-based research and fieldwork in 2021 and 2022, we relay how refugee status, vulnerability and working rights are dealt with in each context and explore the themes of precarity and (in)formality. Subsequently, we undertake a comparative analysis of the two case studies, exploring contrasts and similarities, and identify the key lessons that can be taken from them, particularly in terms of expanding labour market access for protection seekers.
Status, Vulnerability and Rights in Brazil: Operation Welcome and Its Impacts on Asylum and Social Inclusion of Refugees, Asylum Seekers and Immigrants
Authors: Araújo Natália Medina , Barros Patrícia Ramos
Published: November 2024

This chapter examines migration and asylum governance instruments and how their implementation is affecting status determination, vulnerability, and rights, especially the right to work, in Brazil. Especial interest was devoted to one country-specific asylum governance instrument, “Welcome Operation”, designed to deal with the most significant arrival of refugees in Brazil, caused by the humanitarian crisis in Venezuela. Reflecting upon ASILE’s concerns, the inclusionary and exclusionary aspects of the innovative solutions adopted in Brazil were examined. As for “Welcome Operation”, despite the official labelling being on “welcome”, the militarization of the borders and the security concerns behind the system were made evident. As for the right to work, although formally recognized, asylum seekers and refugees face obstacles in finding formal work and in accessing decent work. In addition, despite prima facie recognition to Venezuelan asylum seekers, protraction in recognizing the refugee status has put pressure on applicants to opt for residency. Finally, structural vulnerabilities that disproportionately affect certain groups—racial, ethnic of gender based—may be reinforced by the same migration governance instruments that are supposed to deal with them.
Identifying Criteria for Complementary Pathways to Provide Sustainable Solutions for Refugees: Two Canadian Case Studies
Authors: Cortinovis Roberto , Fallone Andrew
Published: November 2024

This chapter provides critical insights on the main features and implementation dynamics of two Canadian policy instruments falling within the scope of complementary pathways of admission for refugees: the well-established Private Sponsorship of Refugees (PSR) program, a key component of Canada’s refugee resettlement since the late 1970s, and the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP), an initiative launched in 2018 to enable the resettlement of a relatively small but growing number of refugees through Canada’s existing labour migration channels. The analysis aims to identify a set of normative criteria to assess those two pathways’ alignment with international refugee, human rights and labour law standards. It pays specific attention to aspects of equitable access and procedural fairness in the design and implementation of complementary pathways, including the possibility for refugees to exercise their agency and autonomy when accessing and navigating those programmes. Crucially, the chapter discusses which legal and policy adjustments are needed to ensure that Canadian pathways—as well as similar admission instruments developed elsewhere—not only create safe entry channels for refugees additional to resettlement, but also provide them a clear path towards achieving a durable solution.
Challenging the Notion of Temporary Protection as a Viable Complementary Pathway to Protection: The Case of the Special Zimbabwean Dispensation
Authors: Khan Fatima
Published: November 2024

South Africa’s decision to provide temporary residence permits to Zimbabwean migrants in 2010 was initially hailed as innovative and applauded by migrants as well as some scholars. However, the reasoning employed by government to introduce the Zimbabwean Dispensation Permit (ZDP), (a temporary protection approach) has since been likened to the concept of a humanitarian logic (Moyo I. J Immigr Refug Stud 18(1):60–74, 2020) which hides behind the draconian intentions of immigration legislation to contain mobility rather than provide protection. Since their introduction, the permits have been subject to several renewals and have been given a final date for expiration of 30 June 2023 with no possibility of further renewal. However, this supposedly final date has also been interrupted by legal challenges. While the dispensation at first glance appears to fall within the complementary pathway framework as envisaged by the Global Compact on Refugees (GCR), the research begs the question of whether the dispensation was simply a pathway to get undocumented Zimbabweans out of an irregular status and therefore not meeting the core objectives of the GCR. The theme of precarity and/or hyper-precarity emerged when the situation of Zimbabweans was investigated through the lens of their legal status and their temporary protection in South Africa.
Navigating the Shadows: Syrians under Temporary Protection, Employment, and Hyper-Precarity in Türkiye
Authors: Şanlıer İlke
Published: November 2024

This chapter explores the employment conditions and hyper-precarity faced by Syrians under temporary protection in Türkiye. Using a qualitative approach, the study examines the legislative frameworks, socio-economic challenges, and the impact of the 2016 EU- Türkiye Statement on the labour market integration of Syrian refugees. Findings reveal significant barriers to formal employment, leading to widespread informal work characterized by low wages, poor working conditions, and limited legal protections. The concept of hyper-precarity is used to analyse the compounded vulnerabilities experienced by refugees. Policy recommendations include simplifying work permit processes, incentivizing formal employment, and implementing comprehensive integration programs aligned with the Global Compact on Refugees principles. The chapter concludes by emphasizing the need for a multi-level governance approach to enhance the socio-economic inclusion of Syrian refugees in Türkiye.
Introduction
Authors: Parrilli Davide M.
Published: November 2024

In this chapter we introduce the book, starting with the identification and presentation of the problem background. The research discussed in the book is about informational privacy and service design in the era of massive surveillance and data-driven interactions. The chapter briefly explores why informational privacy in service design is important and introduces the key milestones of the book: the ethical framework of privacy for service design, that helps service designers build a designerly understanding of privacy. We discuss the research questions and objectives addressed in the book, the state of the art of research about informational privacy and service design, and our research approach and strategy. The introduction ends with a chapter overview.
Designing for Human Interactions: An Approach to Service Design
Authors: Parrilli Davide M.
Published: November 2024

In this chapter, we explore the interplay between service design and design culture, tracing the roots of service design within the Italian project-centered design tradition. Through an extensive literature review, we move beyond viewing service design merely as the design of services, emphasizing the importance of interactions. We identify three critical interactions in service design: between users and services, users and touchpoints/interfaces, and users and stakeholders. These interactions are examined through the lenses of dematerialization, servitization, and innovation, highlighting their implications for new service value propositions. We stress the significance of user-stakeholder interactions, analyzing their nature and strength within the context of modernity characterized by liquidity, flexibility, and ambiguity. Ethical considerations in designing for liquid communities and sustainability are underscored. Additionally, we address the often-overlooked aspect of service as experience, and conclude with an operative definition of service design, discussing its challenges and relation to design thinking.
An Ethical Approach to Privacy for Service Design
Authors: Parrilli Davide M.
Published: November 2024

This chapter lays the groundwork for an ethical approach to privacy in service design. It begins by identifying a gap in current service design and human-centered design research regarding informational privacy, and critiques Value Sensitive Design and its practical implications. The author argues that privacy legislation, such as in the EU, is insufficient due to loopholes and its inability to challenge surveillance capitalism. Privacy by Design is also critiqued for its compliance focus without addressing deeper privacy needs in service design. The second part emphasizes the importance of ethics over legislation for protecting informational privacy in service design. The author identifies the need to integrate privacy into service design practice and sustain it through ethics. They explore various moral approaches, ultimately advocating for Luciano Floridi’s information ethics due to its ontological link between information and human identity. This view, supported by intercultural information ethics, positions privacy as a universal human need, culturally specific yet universally relevant.
Three-loop contributions to b → sγ associated with the current-current operators
Authors: Greub Christoph , Asatrian Hrachia M. , Asatryan Hrachya H. , Born Lukas , Eicher Julian
Published: November 2024

Abstract

In a recent work, we calculated all three-loop diagrams contributing to the decay amplitude for b → sγ where none of the gluons touch the b-leg. In the present paper, we complete the calculation by working out all remaining three-loop diagrams (of order $$ {\alpha}_s^2 $$

α
s
2

) associated with the current-current operators O1 and O2 at the physical value of the charm-quark mass mc. Using the programs AMFlow and DiffExp to solve the differential equations for the master integrals, we obtained precise numerical results at 23 values for $$ z={m}_c^2/{m}_b^2 $$
z
=

m
c
2

/

m
b
2

, ranging from z = 1/1000 to z = 1/5, along with asymptotic expansions around z = 0. For certain diagrams, the asymptotic expansion breaks down in the physical z-range, necessitating a Taylor expansion (which we do around z = 1/10). In all expansions, we retained power terms up to z20 and included the accompanying log(z) terms to all powers for asymptotic expansions. Numerical results for the sum of all diagrams (including those calculated in the previous paper) are presented in tabular form, while the mentioned expansions of individual diagram classes are provided electronically. We note that our results for the asymptotic expansions around z = 0 are in good agreement with those recently published by Fael et al. and Czaja et al.
Stringy forces in the black hole interior
Authors: Zigdon Yoav
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Effective field theories break down inside large black holes on macroscopic scales when tidal forces are string-sized. If r0 is the horizon radius and α′ is the square of the string scale, the 4D Schwarzschild interior is strongly curved at (r0α′)1/3. Infalling massless probes that reach this scale stretch and become excited strings. I generalize this picture for a wide class of black hole solutions in string theory. For the black hole dual to the large-N BFSS model in a thermal state, and denoting ℓP the Planck length, tidal forces are stringy at $$ {r}_0{\left(\frac{r_0}{N^{1/3}{\ell}_P}\right)}^{3/11} $$

r
0

r
0

N

1
/
3

ℓ
P

3
/
11

, which is greater than the scale where string perturbation theory breaks down for sufficiently large r0/ℓP. For 4D Kerr, there is a range of spin parameters for which the inner horizon is to the future of the scale of stringy curvature. These results specify the portion of black hole interior solutions where effective field theory can be used; beyond these scales, one must resort to other methods.
Maternal probiotic supplementation protects against PBDE-induced developmental, behavior and metabolic reprogramming in a sexually dimorphic manner: Role of gut microbiome
Authors: Denys Maximillian E. , Kozlova Elena V. , Liu Rui , Bishay Anthony E. , Do Elyza A. , Piamthai Varadh , Korde Yash V. , Luna Crystal N. , Lam Artha A. , Hsiao Ansel , Currás-Collazo Margarita
Published: November 2024

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are endocrine-disrupting persistent organic pollutants (POPs) used as flame retardants in a wide range of commercial applications. We have previously reported neurobehavioral and metabolic reprogramming produced by developmental PBDEs. PBDEs perturb the microbiome, an influencer of life-long health, while probiotic supplementation with Limosilactobacillus reuteri (LR) can avert neurobehavioral and endocrine disruption. We, therefore, tested the hypothesis that perinatal maternal LR supplementation would protect gut microbiome richness and diversity, developmental milestones, adult neurobehavior and metabolic homeostasis in PBDE-exposed offspring. C57BL/6N dams were orally exposed to a commercial penta-mixture of PBDEs, DE-71, at 0.1 mg/kg/day, or corn oil vehicle (VEH/CON) during gestation and lactation. Mice offspring received DE-71 or VEH/CON with or without co-administration of LR (ATCC-PTA-6475) indirectly via their mother from gestational day (GD) 0 until postnatal day (P)21 (Cohort 1), or continued to receive LR directly from P22 through adulthood (Cohort 2). Results of fecal 16S rRNA sequencing indicated age- and sex-dependent effects of DE-71 on gut microbial communities. Maternal LR treatment protected against DE-71-induced reduction in α-diversity in P22 females and against β-diversity alterations in P30 males. In females, DE-71 changed the relative abundance of specific bacterial taxa, such as Tenericutes and Cyanobacteria (elevated) and Deferribacterota (reduced). In males, several Firmicutes taxa were elevated, while Proteobacteria, Chlamydiae, and several Bacteroidota taxa were reduced. The number of disrupted taxa normalized by maternal LR supplementation was as follows: 100% in P22 females and 33% in males at P22 and 25% at P30. Maternal LR treatment protected against DE-71-induced delay of postnatal body weight gain in males and ameliorated the abnormal timing of incisor eruption in both sexes. Further, DE-71 produced exaggerated digging in both sexes as well as locomotor hyperactivity in females, effects that were mitigated by maternal LR only in females. Other benefits of LR therapy included normalization of glucose tolerance, insulin-to-glucose ratio and plasma leptin in adult DE-71 females (Cohort 2). This study provides evidence that probiotic supplementation can mitigate POP-induced reprogramming of neurodevelopment, adult neurobehavior, and glucose metabolism in association with modified gut microbial community structure in a sex-dependent manner.
Sequential topological complexity of aspherical spaces and sectional categories of subgroup inclusions
Authors: Espinosa Baro Arturo , Farber Michael , Mescher Stephan , Oprea John
Published: November 2024

We generalize results from topological robotics on the topological complexity (TC) of aspherical spaces to sectional categories of fibrations inducing subgroup inclusions on the level of fundamental groups. In doing so, we establish new lower bounds on sequential TCs of aspherical spaces as well as the parametrized TC of epimorphisms. Moreover, we generalize the Costa–Farber canonical class for TC to classes for sequential TCs and explore their properties. We combine them with the results on sequential TCs of aspherical spaces to obtain results on spaces that are not necessarily aspherical.
Inner rates of finite morphisms
Authors: Cherik Yenni
Published: November 2024

Let (X, 0) be a complex analytic surface germ embedded in $$({\mathbb {C}}^n,0)$$

(

C

n

,
0
)

with an isolated singularity and $$\Phi =(g,f):(X,0) \longrightarrow ({\mathbb {C}}^2,0)$$

Φ
=

(
g
,
f
)

:

(
X
,
0
)

⟶

(

C

2

,
0
)

be a finite morphism. We define a family of analytic invariants of the morphism $$\Phi $$
Φ
, called inner rates of $$\Phi $$
Φ
. By means of the inner rates we study the polar curve associated with the morphism $$\Phi $$
Φ
when fixing the topological data of the curve $$(gf)^{-1}(0)$$

(
g
f
)

-
1

(
0
)

and the surface germ (X, 0), allowing to address a problem called polar exploration. We also use the inner rates to study the geometry of the Milnor fibers of a non constant holomorphic function $$f:(X,0) \longrightarrow ({\mathbb {C}},0)$$

f
:
(
X
,
0
)
⟶
(
C
,
0
)

. The main result is a formula which involves the inner rates and the polar curve alongside topological invariants of the surface germ (X, 0) and of the curve $$(gf)^{-1}(0)$$

(
g
f
)

-
1

(
0
)

.
Tetracyanoethylene $$\hbox {Na}^+$$/$$\hbox {K}^+$$ radical anion coordination sites unveiled via electronic and vibrational fingerprints
Authors: Coppola Federico , Carfora Raoul , Cimino Paola , Petrone Alessio , Rega Nadia
Published: November 2024

Tetracyanoethylene (TCNE) is a very effective electron acceptor and can form stable complexes with various chemical species and is known for its interesting electronic and optical properties. The formation of the monoanion gives TCNE unique electronic and chemical properties, making it a material of interest for several technological applications including solar cells, organic battery electrodes, sodium/potassium-ion batteries and information storage devices. The chemico-physical characterization of $$\hbox {Na}^+$$

Na
+

and $$\hbox {K}^+$$

K
+

coordination of TCNE in solution is not available so far, although it would be valuable for understanding the molecular mechanisms of charging and discharging processes in innovative battery devices. The present theoretical-computational study characterizes the vibrational and electronic properties of ion-coordinated TCNE in solution. We analyzed the ground electronic state through equilibrium structures, focusing on structural features, stability, optical properties and Raman vibrational modes. The $$\hbox {Na}^+$$

Na
+

and $$\hbox {K}^+$$

K
+

cations, coordinated at two distinct sites, significantly alter the geometry, and modulate electronic and vibrational properties. Using ab initio molecular dynamics simulations, we computed vibrational spectra, finding that TCNE complexes serve as effective probes for detecting environmental variations, with key vibrational modes on CC and CN moieties being sensitive to cation interactions. Additionally, a correlation between C=C bond distances and vibrational frequencies was observed. In conclusion, this study provides further insight into the role of TCNE in optoelectronic applications and nonaqueous battery systems.
Using stem water potential derived from continuous reading sensors for irrigation scheduling: nectarine as a test case
Authors: Nevo Eyal , Rotbart Nativ , Slutsky Alexander , Wallach Rony , Gal Yoni , Naor Amos , Cohen Shabtai
Published: November 2024

We investigated on-site soil and plant based sensors translated to stem water potential for nectarine orchard irrigation control on heavy clay soil. Irrigation targeted predetermined stem water potential (SWP) thresholds for each phenological stage. Sensors were compared to SWP in six trees in a drying and wetting plot where irrigation was withheld periodically, allowing SWP to reach moderate water stress. Other sensor readings were regressed on SWP for those times, and the regressions were used for irrigation scheduling. The latter kept stage I and III SWP at ~ − 0.9 MPa, and moderate water stress in stage II (SWP ~ − 1.5 MPa). Weekly adjustments were made according to the thresholds. Results showed that tensiometers could be used for stages I and III, as they were very sensitive. However, when stress was applied soil water tension exceeded tensiometer range at 30 cm depth.Soil water content sensors had slower responses than the others, so they might be difficult to use for precise irrigation in heavy soils. Dendrometers responded quickly and therefore might be more useful for management even in moderate water stress, even with their sensitivity to climatic conditions. Analysis showed to maintain SWP within ± 0.1 MPa, 2 tensiometers, 10 soil water content sensors and 7 dendrometers stations are needed. Signal-to-noise (SNR) ranks were SWP > 30 cm tensiometers > 60 cm tensiometers > dendrometers > 30 cm soil water content > 60 cm soil water content sensors for the full season. Nonetheless, in some stages tensiometer SNR was greater than that of SWP.