bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Stochasticity may generate coherent motion in bird flocks
Authors: Reynolds Andy M 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
Murmurations along with other forms of flocking have come to epitomize collective animal movements. Most studies into these stunning aerial displays have aimed to understand how coherent motion may emerge from simple behavioral rules and behavioral correlations. These studies may now need revision because recently it has been shown that flocking birds, like swarming insects, behave on the average as if they are trapped in elastic potential wells. Here I show, somewhat paradoxically, how coherent motion can be generated by variations in the intensity of multiplicative noise which causes the shape of a potential well to change, thereby shifting the positions and strengths of centres of attraction. Each bird, irrespective of its position in the flock will respond in a similar way to such changes, giving the impression that the flock behaves as one, and typically resulting in scale-free correlations. I thereby show how correlations can be an emergent property of noisy, confining potential wells. I also show how such wells can lead to high density borders, a characteristic of flocks, and I show how they can account for the complex patterns of collective escape patterns of starling flocks under predation. I suggest swarming and flocking do not constitute two distinctly different kinds of collective behavior but rather that insects are residing in relatively stable potential wells whilst birds are residing in unstable potential wells. It is shown how, dependent upon individual perceptual capabilities, bird flocks can be poised at criticality.
Photobiomodulation on extracellular matrix
Authors: da Silva Sergio Luiz Philippe , de Souza da Fonseca Adenilson , Mencalha Andre Luiz , de Paoli Flavia 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a three-dimensional multicomponent, and a structural meshwork constituted of many specialized macromolecules. Such macromolecules provide an essential scaffold to tissue cells and chemical signals involved in cell proliferation, survival, migration, and differentiation, which are crucial to tissue morphogenesis, homeostasis, and functions. Photobiomodulation (PBM) is based on non-ionizing radiations in the visible and infrared spectrum, emitted from low-power lasers, light-emitting diodes, and broadband light sources. PBM has been used for improving tissue repair, and successful results have been reported from experimental studies. In this review, studies were accessed by PubMed, and their findings on PBM-induced effects on the ECM were summarized. The results showed that low-power violet-red lights and near-infrared radiation modulate gene expression, cell proliferation, adhesion and differentiation, factors and enzymes, and structural constituents in the ECM. These results showed a dependence on radiation wavelength, fluence, irradiance, exposure time, emission mode, and cellular and tissue conditions. Such results suggest that the irradiation parameters, biological tissue type, and conditions should be considered for an effective therapeutic protocol aiming at tissue repair based on PBM-induced extracellular matrix remodeling.
Frequency doubling of femtosecond laser pulses in three dimensional nonlinear photonic crystals
Authors: Vyunishev A M , Arkhipkin V G , Chirkin A S 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
Quasi-phase matched nonlinear frequency conversion in three dimensional nonlinear photonic crystals (NPCs) has been considered for implementation of the second harmonic generation of transform-limited and chirped femtosecond laser pulses. Spatial distribution of the second harmonic intensity is shown to be caused by Cherenkov- and Raman–Nath-type nonlinear diffraction. These types of nonlinear diffraction may occur simultaneously resulting in an efficient multi-order nonlinear diffraction in the Bragg regime, which can be realized by a proper choice of the modulation period of NPC structure in longitudinal direction for considered transverse diffraction order. Three dimensional NPCs open up new possibilities for ultrafast nonlinear photonics and parametric interactions in optics.
Relativistic polytropic models of charged anisotropic compact objects
Authors: Nazar H. , Azam M. , Abbas G. , Ahmed Riaz , Naeem R. 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
In this paper, we introduce new viable solutions to the Einstein-Maxwell field equations by incorporating the features of anisotropic matter distributions within the realm of the general theory of relativity (

). To obtain these solutions, we employed the Finch-Skea spacetime, along with a generalized polytropic equation of state (

). We constructed various models of generalized polytropes by assuming different values of the polytropic index, i.e.,

, and

. Next, numerous physical characteristics of these considered models were studied via graphical analysis, and they were found to obey all the essential conditions for astrophysical compact objects. Furthermore, such outcomes of charged anisotropic compact star models could be reproduced in various other cases including linear, quadratic, and polytropic
Spherical harmonics representation of the steady-state membrane potential shift induced by tDCS in realistic neuron models
Authors: Galan-Gadea Adrià , Salvador Ricardo , Bartolomei Fabrice , Wendling Fabrice , Ruffini Giulio 
Published: February 2023

Abstract

Objective. We provide a systematic framework for quantifying the effect of externally applied weak electric fields on realistic neuron compartment models as captured by physiologically relevant quantities such as the membrane potential or transmembrane current as a function of the orientation of the field. Approach. We define a response function as the steady-state change of the membrane potential induced by a canonical external field of 1 V m−1 as a function of its orientation. We estimate the function values through simulations employing reconstructions of the rat somatosensory cortex from the Blue Brain Project. The response of different cell types is simulated using the NEURON simulation environment. We represent and analyze the angular response as an expansion in spherical harmonics. Main results. We report membrane perturbation values comparable to those in the literature, extend them to different cell types, and provide their profiles as spherical harmonic coefficients. We show that at rest, responses are dominated by their dipole terms (

ℓ
=
1

), in agreement with experimental findings and compartment theory. Indeed, we show analytically that for a passive cell, only the dipole term is nonzero. However, while minor, other terms are relevant for states different from resting. In particular, we show how

ℓ
=
0

and

ℓ
=
2

terms can modify the function to induce asymmetries in the response. Significance. This work provides a practical framework for the representation of the effects of weak electric fields on different neuron types and their main regions—an important milestone for developing micro- and mesoscale models and optimizing brain stimulation solutions.
High voltage consolidation of the temperature measurement channels of the LHC superconducting current leads
Authors: Trikoupis N. , Casas-Cubillos J. , Bustamante E. 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
Recurrent dielectric breakdowns on the cryogenics instrumentation during the CERN LHC Electrical Quality Assurance (ELQA) campaigns led to an investigation of their root causes. During the CERN Long Shutdown 2 (LS2), several weaknesses were identified like floating wires or cable screens, cabling non-conformities, connector assembly issues, and weakness of the electronic conditioning cards. The paper presents the cabling layout from the sensor till the acquisition cards and the actions undertaken to increase the robustness against dielectric ruptures. These actions include rebuild of the cabling and connectors using a laser stripping machine, new wiring patterns and upgrades on the electronic cards.
Progress and promise of cell sheet assisted cardiac tissue engineering in regenerative medicine
Authors: Abdolahzadeh Hadis , Rad Niloofar Khoshdel , Shpichka Anastasia , Golroo Reihaneh , Rahi Kosar , Timashev Peter , Hassan Moustapha , Vosough Massoud 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the most common leading causes of premature deaths in all countries. To control the harmful side effects of CVDs on public health, it is necessary to understand the current and prospective strategies in prevention, management, and monitoring CVDs. In vitro, recapitulating of cardiac complex structure with its various cell types is a challenging topic in tissue engineering. Cardiac tissue engineering (CTE) is a multi-disciplinary strategy that has been considered as a novel alternative approach for cardiac regenerative medicine and replacement therapies. In this review, we overview various cell types and approaches in cardiac regenerative medicine. Then, the applications of cell-sheet-assisted CTE in cardiac diseases were discussed. Finally, we described how this technology can improve cardiac regeneration and function in preclinical and clinical models.
3D printing of ‘green’ thermo-sensitive chitosan-hydroxyapatite bone scaffold based on lyophilized platelet-rich fibrin
Authors: Sui Xin , Zhang Huili , Yao Jingjing , Yang Liuqing , Zhang Xiao , Li Lingfeng , Wang Jue , Li Meihui , Liu Zhihui 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
The critical bone defect is still an urgent problem in the field of bone repair. Here, we reported a new type of chitosan (CS)–hydroxyapatite (HAP) scaffolds based on lyophilized platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) for releasing abundant growth factors to realize their respective functions. It also has strong mechanical properties to maintain the stability of the bone repair environment. However, acid-soluble CS hydrogels often contain toxic and organic solvents. Moreover, chemical agents may be used for cross-linking for better mechanical properties, further increasing cytotoxicity. In this study, we used an alkali/urea dissolution system to dissolve CS, which improved its mechanical properties and made it thermo-sensitive. Finally, the L-PRF-CS-HAP (P-C-H) composite scaffold was constructed by extrusion-based printing. The results showed that the printing ink had desirable printability and temperature sensitivity. The compressive properties of the scaffolds exhibited a trend of decline with L-PRF content increasing, but all of them could meet the strength of cancellous bone. Meanwhile, the scaffolds had high hydrophilicity, porosity, and could be degraded stably in vitro. The antibacterial properties of the scaffolds were also verified, greatly reducing the risk of infection during bone repair. It was also demonstrated that the release time of growth factor from L-PRF was significantly prolonged, and growth factor could still be detected after 35 d of sustained release. The capacity of cells to proliferate increased as the number of L-PRF components increased, indicating that L-PRF still exhibited biological activity after 3D printing.
A global review of the development and application of soil erosion control techniques
Authors: Wen Xin , Zhen Lin , Jiang Qun’ou , Xiao Yu 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
Various soil erosion control techniques (SECTs) have been applied for decades. Yet, dynamic development of SECTs on a global scale has not been fully explored in the literature. We identified 779 publications to summarize spatial and temporal patterns of SECT development across the world. To achieve this goal, we asked (a) how many SECTs have been applied in the real world? (b) How do susceptible erosion areas use SECTs? And (c) what are the temporal patterns of SECT development? We found 183 sub-categories of SECTs, including 85 sub-categories of engineering techniques, 76 sub-categories of cropping techniques, and 22 sub-categories of biological techniques. In contrast, there is a great deal of interest in the evaluation of biological techniques and cropping techniques for soil erosion control. SECT research has evolved from an initial focus on a single SECT evaluation to a combination of SECTs evaluations (e.g. a combination of conservation tillage and mulch). Likewise, 64% of SECT cases were found in six countries with a different focal SECT among them: China and Spain targeted vegetation restoration, Brazil and the United States focused on conservation tillage, Ethiopia prioritized mixed SECTs, and India emphasized on check dam. Lastly, SECT application started from site erosion control (1930s–1980s), watershed management (1980s–2010s), to sustainable management (after 2010s). We identify the gaps between SECT application and research and a lack of an international platform for knowledge sharing, and propose that a combination of different SETCs in a balanced way is a reliable approach to obtaining the goal of sustainable soil management.
Contributory science reveals insights into metal pollution trends across different households and environmental media
Authors: Dietrich Matthew , Wood Leah R , Shukle John T , Herrmann Angela , Filippelli Gabriel M 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
Heavy metals are prevalent in urban settings due to many legacy and modern pollution sources, and are essential to quantify because of the adverse health effects associated with them. Of particular importance is lead (Pb), because there is no safe level of exposure, and it especially harms children. Through our partnership with community scientists in the Marion County (Indiana, United States) area (n = 162 households), we measured Pb and other heavy metal concentrations in soil, paint, and dust. Community scientists completed sampling with screening kits and samples were analyzed in the laboratory via x-ray fluorescence by researchers to quantify heavy metal concentrations, with Pb hazards reported back to participants. Results point to renters being significantly (p ≤ 0.05) more likely to contain higher concentrations of Pb, zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu) in their soil versus homeowners, irrespective of soil sampling location at the home. Housing age was significantly negatively correlated with Pb and Zn in soil and Pb in dust across all homes. Analysis of paired soil, dust, and paint samples revealed several important relationships such as significant positive correlations between indoor vacuum dust Pb, dust wipe Pb, and outdoor soil Pb. Our collective results point to rental status being an important determinant of metal pollution exposure in Indianapolis, with housing age being reflective of both past and present Zn and Pb pollution at the household scale in dust and soil. Thus, future environmental pollution work examining renters versus homeowners, as well as other household data such as home condition and resident race/ethnicity, is imperative for better understanding environmental disparities surrounding not just Pb, but other heavy metals in environmental media as well.
‘Gukurahundi Continues’: Violence, Memory, and Mthwakazi Activism in Zimbabwe
Authors: Reim Lena 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
One effect of Zimbabwe’s 2017 coup was to unleash a new wave of public engagement with the unresolved state repression of the 1980s, known as Gukurahundi. This wave was led by the ‘post-Gukurahundi generation’ and particularly by activists whose narratives of Gukurahundi were entwined with calls for a separate ‘Mthwakazi nation’. This article explores these activists’ stories of Gukurahundi and asks why they broke through into the public realm after decades of relative silence. It argues that Mthwakazi activists’ engagement relied on an interpretation of Gukurahundi not simply as a discrete historical event, but as the clearest expression of an ongoing ‘Grand Plan’ of ethnic marginalization. This narrative was foundational to the construction of a moral order that divided the country along ethnic and regional fault lines, ultimately legitimizing Mthwakazi nationalism. The paper roots this narrative’s emergence in two interrelated processes. Speaking to the role of silencing in keeping conflicts alive across generations, it examines how the ‘noisy silence’ that has surrounded Gukurahundi in both public and private has meant that Gukurahundi lingered as a readily available interpretative lens. This lens became meaningful when the second generation, faced with political and economic marginalization, was grappling for meaning and political belonging.
Trends in Public Awareness and Knowledge of Drinking Guidelines: a Representative Population Survey in England, 2016–2022
Authors: Jackson Sarah E , Guo Xiaotang , Holmes John , Brown Jamie 
Published: February 2023

AbstractAimTo examine trends in public awareness and knowledge of drinking guidelines in the UK since their revision in 2016, which had moved from a daily to a weekly guideline, made the guideline the same for men and women, and reduced the guideline for men by around one-third.MethodData were from a representative, repeat cross-sectional survey. We analysed changes in awareness and knowledge of drinking guidelines among 8168 adult drinkers between 2016 and 2022 and associations with sociodemographic characteristics, smoking status and level of alcohol consumption.ResultsThe proportion of drinkers aware of guidelines declined from 86.0% (95%CI 84.0–88.0%) in 2016 to 81.7% (79.5–84.0%) in 2019, then increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, peaking at 91.6% (90.1–93.1%) in 2020. The proportion who correctly identified the guideline as a maximum of exactly 14 units/week remained at around a quarter from 2016 (25.0%, 22.4–27.5%) to 2018 (25.8%, 23.2–28.3%), whereas the proportion who gave a figure of 14 units or fewer rose from 52.1 (49.2–55.0%) to 57.4% (54.6–60.3%). However, by 2022, guideline knowledge had worsened significantly, with these figures falling to 19.7 (17.4–21.9%) and 46.5% (43.6–49.4%), respectively. Changes over time were similar across subgroups. Odds of guideline awareness and knowledge were higher among drinkers who were aged ≥35, female, more educated and from more advantaged social grades.ConclusionsThe majority of adult drinkers in the UK are aware of low-risk drinking guidelines. However, 6 years since their announcement, knowledge of the revised drinking guidelines remains poor. Less than a quarter know the recommended weekly limit and only around half think it is 14 units or less. Inequalities have persisted over time, such that disadvantaged groups remain less likely to know the guidelines.
Systemic stablecoin and the brave new world of digital money
Authors: Morgan Jamie 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
New forms of money invite informed speculation regarding future possibilities. In this extended commentary, we explore five issue-areas that the growth of cryptocurrency and, more particularly, stablecoin have evoked. This new form of digital money has the potential to change the form and functioning of payments technologies and thus alter not just how something is paid for but what can be paid for. Moreover, as the now shelved plans for Facebook/Meta’s Libra/Diem indicate, there is scope for a major corporation or coalition of corporations to issue their own stablecoin and this greatly increases the likelihood of a ‘systemic’ stablecoin. This, in turn, could change where power resides and who exercises it in banking, finance and society. Concern with power leads to issues regarding the nature of change and thus to concern with possible financial, economic and social disruptions ranging across the nature of trust, bank business models, the effectiveness of central bank policy and security of payments systems. Given these issues, cryptocurrency and stablecoin have become a growing concern for regulators and this concern extends to the case for a retail central bank digital currency (CBDC). Finally, a new form of money invites discussion of its implications for the nature of money and this leads to matters of philosophical or social theory interest.
Financial cycles and fiscal policy in developing and emerging economies: an evaluation of the Brazilian case (1997–2018)
Authors: Guedes Dyeggo Rocha , Cunha André Moreira , Peruffo Luiza 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
This article investigates the existence of a link between financial cycles and fiscal cycles, and discusses possible policy implications for developing and emerging economies (DEEs). It empirically analyses the impact of financial cycle shocks on the short-term dynamics of Brazil’s fiscal policy by estimating a vector autoregressive (VAR) model for the period 1997–2018. The results indicate that financial cycles have pro-cyclical effects on the fiscal policy. This suggests that a fiscal policy should consider not only the cyclical behaviour of the output, but also its role in minimising financial factors. By explicitly linking Brazil’s fiscal performance with Brazil’s higher vulnerability to the financial cycle, this article adds to the literature that strives to understand the policy implications of the financialisation process in DEEs. It also contributes to the more general empirical literature on DEEs’ fiscal dynamics.
Filgotinib Improved Health-Related Quality of Life and Led to Comprehensive Disease Control in Individuals with Ulcerative Colitis: Data from the SELECTION Trial
Authors: Schreiber Stefan , Feagan Brian G , Peyrin-Biroulet Laurent , Vermeire Séverine , Faes Margaux , Harris Kristina , Oortwijn Alessandra , Daniele Patrick , Patel Haridarshan , Danese Silvio 
Published: February 2023

AbstractBackground and AimsUlcerative colitis [UC] impacts patients’ health-related quality of life [HRQoL]. We assessed HRQoL and an exploratory patient-level composite endpoint (‘Comprehensive Disease Control’ [CDC]) in individuals receiving filgotinib [an oral JAK1 preferential inhibitor] in the SELECTION trial.MethodsIn SELECTION [NCT02914522], a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, phase 2b/3 trial, adults with moderately to severely active UC received once-daily filgotinib 200 mg, filgotinib 100 mg or placebo for 11 weeks in Induction Study A [biologic-naïve] or B [biologic-experienced]. Filgotinib responders [week 10 clinical remission/response] were re-randomized to their filgotinib regimen or placebo for the 48-week Maintenance Study. We assessed week 10 and week 58 SF-36, EQ-5D, WPAI and IBDQ scores. Achievement of CDC (patient-level partial Mayo Clinic Score [pMCS] remission [pMCS ≤2, no individual rectal bleeding, stool frequency or physician’s global assessment subscore &gt;1], endoscopic improvement [endoscopic subscore ≤1], faecal calprotectin &lt;150 µg/g and IBDQ score ≥170) and its association with HRQoL and histological outcomes were also explored.ResultsAnalyses included 382 biologic-naïve and 404 biologic-experienced patients. Filgotinib 200 mg induced and maintained improvements vs placebo in SF-36, EQ-5D, WPAI and IBDQ scores, and restored HRQoL by week 10. Proportionally more filgotinib 200 mg- than placebo-treated patients achieved CDC at weeks 10 and 58 [p &lt; 0.01]. CDC was associated with clinically important improvements in HRQoL and histological remission over both periods.ConclusionsFilgotinib 200 mg results in short- and long-term improvements in HRQoL. High-level improvement of HRQoL relates to a stringent composite endpoint suggesting meaningful disease control in a subset of filgotinib-treated individuals.ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02914522