bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Research on blasting cumulative dynamic damage of surrounding rock in step construction tunnel
Authors: Cui Yaozhong , Wu Bo , Meng Guowang , Xu Shixiang 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
In tunnel excavation by blasting, the reserved surrounding rock produces irreversible damage accumulation under the action of cyclic blasting. It is essential to clarify the characteristics of blasting dynamic cumulative damage of surrounding rock for safe drilling and blasting tunnel construction. Based on the ABAQUS simulation software and the data transfer method between solvers, the cumulative damage evolution of the reserved surrounding rock was calculated under the action of seven cyclic blasting excavations. The cumulative dynamic damage characteristics of the reserved surrounding rock were obtained by combining the field sonic wave test results. The results show that the whole reserved surrounding rock of the cyclic blasting excavation section has periodic damage characteristics. Each periodic damage area presents a funnel shape along the longitudinal direction of the tunnel, with a length of 160cm, which is 1.07 times the excavation footage. The blasting effect of the latter excavation footage on the damaged area of the reserved surrounding rock of the previous excavation footage is 40 cm in length, with three cumulative damage patterns. The research can provide relevant theoretical guidance for the blasting scheme design and support lining design of the step-blasting construction tunnel.
Time Series Prediction: Comparative Study of ML Models in the Stock Market
Authors: Goverdhan Gaurav , Khare Sarthak , R Manoov 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Analyzing the Stock Market is a perpetual process and hard to grasp, especially for newcomers looking to invest in the market. This paper will be useful for novice investors to learn to invest in the stock market based on various factors that dictate prices. The paper’s target is to create a program that analyses previous stock data of companies. This also includes identifying factors affecting the share market. We generate the patterns from large data sets of data of the stock market and predict an approximate value of share price. The stock market can have a significant impact on individuals and the economy as a whole. Therefore, accurately predicting stock trends can minimize loss risk and maximize profit. The primary objective of this paper is to generate an approximate forecasting output and a general idea of future values by generating a pattern from historical data. The scope of this paper extends to model a suggestion tool based on ARIMA, XGBoost, and LSTM and give critical insights into their relative advantages and disadvantages, finally determining the best tool for forecasting the trend or even the future. The trend chart will adequately guide all prospective investors. We have analyzed data from the stock market collected from Yahoo Finance. The performance of the models was evaluated using metrics such as MSE, MAE, RMSE, and MAPE. During our trials, we found XGBoost to perform the best with an accuracy of 98.92%.
The hydroxyapatite modified 3D printed poly L-lactic acid porous screw in reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament of rabbit knee joint: a histological and biomechanical study
Authors: Tian Ke , 王 亚飞 , Bi Fanggang , Wang Zhiyuan , Ren Chengzhen , Li Pengju 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Background
To observe the changes of bone mass in bone tunnel and the healing of tendon-bone interface after reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament with hydroxyapatite (HA) modified 3D-printed PLLA porous screw and autogenous tendon graft in rabbits.
Methods
The PLLA porous screws which meet the requirements of the experiment are prepared by 3D printing technology. The PLLA porous screws were prepared by surface modification of PLLA-HA porous screws by electrostatic layer by layer self-assembly (ELSA) technology. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to observe the surface morphology of scaffolds before and after modification. Determination of porosity of Screw support by liquid replacement method. Forty male New Zealand white rabbits were randomly divided into two groups. The right ACL was reconstructed with autologous tendons and the tendons were fixed with porous screws in the lateral femoral tunnel: PLLA group was fixed with PLLA screw bracket, and PLLA-HA group was fixed with PLLA-HA porous screw. Micro-CT scans were performed at 12 weeks after operation to measure the osteogenesis of the femoral tunnel in each group. Histological examination was performed to observe the tendon bone healing in the femoral tunnel. Biomechanical experiments were carried out to observe and compare the failure load and stiffness after transplantation.
Result
The preparation of PLLA porous screws by 3D printer meets the design requirements, and the voids in the stents are uniformly distributed and interconnected. After surface modification, HA is uniformly distributed in PLLA screw stents. At 12 weeks after operation, the bone formation indexes (BV/TV, Tb.N,Tb.Th) in PLLA-HA group were higher than those in PLLA group, while Tb.Sp was lower than that in PLLA group. The new bone is uniformly distributed in the bone tunnel along the screw channel. Histology showed that there was more type I collagen bone in PLLA-HA group than in PLLA group. Biomechanical experiments showed that the failure load and stiffness of PLLA-HA group were significantly higher than those of PLLA group (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
HA modified 3D printed bioabsorbable screws can promote tendon healing in bone tunnel by increasing bone growth.
Study protocol for a feasibility study of an online educational programme for people working and living with persistent low back pain
Authors: Marley Joanne , Larsson Caroline , Piccininic Flavia , Howes Sarah , Casoni Elisa , Ekvall-Hansson Eva , McDonough Suzanne 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Background

Low back pain (LBP) is the main cause of activity limitation and work absence across the world, leading to a high social and economic burden for individuals, families, the labour market and society. The overall aim of this multicenter study is to test the usability, acceptability and feasibility of an evidence-based, digital education programme for people living and working with persistent LBP who are in sedentary or physically demanding jobs, and need advice on ergonomics, self-management of pain and healthy behavioral strategies.

Methods

This is the protocol of a multinational, multicenter, prospective uncontrolled feasibility study targeting people with persistent LBP in Lithuania, Northern Ireland, Italy, Sweden and Portugal. Eligible participants will be offered the opportunity to use the MyRelief educational platform as part of their care and will undergo evaluations at baseline (enrollment) and one-month follow-up. Feasibility will be assessed using measures of recruitment and retention, intervention engagement, outcome measure completion rates and within group effect sizes in response to the digital education programme.

Discussion

This study will identify the challenges and implications of delivering a digital training program in advance of potentially delivering the programme via an online educational platform available on mobile devices. The findings will inform the design of a future randomised controlled trial if it proves feasible.
Trial registration: ClinicalTrial.gov, NCT04673773. Registered 17 December 2020, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04673773
Significance of distinct liquid biopsy compartments in evaluating somatic mutations for targeted therapy selection in cancer of unknown primary
Authors: Kolbinger Fiona R. , Bernard Vincent , Lee Jaewon J. , Stephens Bret M , Branchi Vittorio , Raghav Kanwal P.S. , Maitra Anirban , Guerrero Paola A. , Semaan Alexander 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Cancer of unknown primary (CUP) account for 2-5% of all cancer diagnoses, wherein standard investigations fail to reveal the original tumor site. Basket trials allocate targeted therapeutics based on actionable somatic mutations, independent of tumor entity. These trials, however, mostly rely on variants identified in tissue biopsies from solid tumors. Since liquid biopsies (LB) represent the overall tumor genomic landscape, they may provide an ideal diagnostic source in patients with CUP. The most informative liquid biopsy compartment, however, remains to be identified. We aimed to compare the utility of genomic variant analysis for therapy stratification in CUP patients in two liquid biopsy compartments: circulating cell-free (cf) and extracellular vesicle (ev) DNA. CfDNA and evDNA from 23 patients with CUP were analyzed contemporaneously using a targeted gene panel covering 151 cancer-associated genes. LB revealed a total of 22 somatic mutations in evDNA and/or cfDNA in 11/23 patients. Out of the 22 identified somatic variants, 14 are classified as Tier I druggable somatic variants according to the MetaKB knowledgebase. Comparison of variants identified in evDNA and cfDNA revealed an overlap of 58% of somatic variants in both LB compartments, whereas over 40% of variants were only found in one or the other compartment. In our cohort, we observed substantial overlap between somatic variants identified in evDNA and cfDNA of CUP patients. Nonetheless, interrogation of both LB compartments can potentially increase the rate of druggable alterations, stressing the significance of liquid biopsies for possible primary-independent basket and umbrella trial inclusion.
Significance
Analysis of genomic variants in liquid biopsies has potential as a diagnostic tool for CUP samples. We compared cfDNA and evDNA by a targeted NGS approach and identified druggable targets that could help to stratify patients for inclusion into clinical trials.
Prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum among infants in Nsukka Metropolis, South East Nigeria and to ascertain reliability of available diagnostic techniques
Authors: Agu Ozioma P. , Ugwu Kenneth , Agu Ifunanya C. 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Background
Malaria infection is of public health concern accounting for 90% annual deaths among under-5 children in sub-Saharan Africa region. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum among infants in Nsukka metropolis and also ascertain the more effective diagnostic choice.
Methods
Three private hospitals and one government hospital were purposively selected for the study. A total of 150 infants aged 2–12 months, were sampled between August to September, 2019 and January to March 2020 to represent the two main seasonal episodes in Nigeria. Demographic and health related data were obtained from the infants’ parents/guardians using a structured pre-tested questionnaire. Presence of P. falciparum was screened in the blood samples drawn from these infants using microscopy (thick and thin films) and the Rapid diagnostic test kit (RDT).
Results
Our findings showed that out of the 150 samples obtained from the infants, 47(31.3%) were positive to P. falciparum when counted all together (RDT and microscopy), 31(20.7%) were positive in both microscopy and RDT. However, 46(30.7%) and 32(21.3%) tested positive for RDT and microscopy respectively. For gender, 33(22.0%) males and 15(10.0%) females tested positive in both RDT and microscopy. The highest infection burden was seen in infants 8–12 months, 23(15.3%), majority of the positive results obtained in the rainy season, 39(26.0%) in both microscopy and RDT with no significant difference 150.000(0.000).
Conclusion
The prevalence of P. falciparum among infants in Nsukka was moderately high 47(31.3%) and the two diagnostic methods used in the study were equally effective.
Analysis of (sub-)Riemannian PDE-G-CNNs
Authors: Bellaard Gijs , Bon Daan L. J. , Pai Gautam , Smets Bart M. N. , Duits Remco 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Group equivariant convolutional neural networks (G-CNNs) have been successfully applied in geometric deep learning. Typically, G-CNNs have the advantage over CNNs that they do not waste network capacity on training symmetries that should have been hard-coded in the network. The recently introduced framework of PDE-based G-CNNs (PDE-G-CNNs) generalises G-CNNs. PDE-G-CNNs have the core advantages that they simultaneously 1) reduce network complexity, 2) increase classification performance, and 3) provide geometric interpretability. Their implementations primarily consist of linear and morphological convolutions with kernels.
In this paper we show that the previously suggested approximative morphological kernels do not always accurately approximate the exact kernels accurately. More specifically, depending on the spatial anisotropy of the Riemannian metric, we argue that one must resort to sub-Riemannian approximations. We solve this problem by providing a new approximative kernel that works regardless of the anisotropy. We provide new theorems with better error estimates of the approximative kernels, and prove that they all carry the same reflectional symmetries as the exact ones.
We test the effectiveness of multiple approximative kernels within the PDE-G-CNN framework on two datasets, and observe an improvement with the new approximative kernels. We report that the PDE-G-CNNs again allow for a considerable reduction of network complexity while having comparable or better performance than G-CNNs and CNNs on the two datasets. Moreover, PDE-G-CNNs have the advantage of better geometric interpretability over G-CNNs, as the morphological kernels are related to association fields from neurogeometry.
Quadratic Costs and Innovation: The Role of Technology
Authors: Mishra Suryaprakash 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
In a Cournot oligopoly set up with constant marginal cost and linear demand, innovation is rewarding. In this paper we show that the same is not true when marginal costs are increasing. We endogenize the success probability of R&D and its response to the intensity of competition and specifically show that if the technology is already advanced and competition intensifies then firms wouldn’t innovate. We attempt to capture and explain the interaction of technology with the possibility of innovation via the intensity of competition. We finally suggest ‘monitored competition’, wherein initially (at initial stages of innovation) competition is encouraged and then (at later stages of innovation) curtailed, to encourage innovation and thus welfare, as a suitable policy measure. Thus, entry should be restricted in order to foster innovation while innovation itself encourages entry.
JEL Codes: L11; L13; L21.
Impact of anthropogenic changes and rainfall variability on river discharge in tropical central Africa
Authors: Ebode Valentin Brice 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Climate variability and anthropogenic changes are key factors that influence river flow variability. However, understanding the simultaneous impact of these factors on flow variability remains limited in most parts of the world including central Africa. To shed light on this issue, the objective of this study is to investigate the effects of rainfall variability and anthropogenic changes on river discharge in the Benoue and the Logone river basins over the last 7 decades (1950–2018). To achieve this goal, hydro-meteorological data from these basins were analyzed using the Pettitt test. Likewise, land use change in these basins was also analysed using supervised classifications of Landsat satellite images over different periods (1987 and 2018). Our results show that the Sahel drought that occurred towards the end of the 1960s affected the Benoue and Logone basins, with remarkable persistence in streamflows. Negative rupture was observed in the hydro-meteorological timeseries of these basins at annual time step in 1970-71. The deficits associated with this rupture are estimated at -7% for rainfall, and − 28% for river flows. The wet season shows similar developments. However, from the 1990s onward, there has been a significant increase in the mean annual flows of the Benoue river, which coincides with that of the rainfall during the same decade. This increase over the recent decades could also be expected in response to an increase in impervious surface areas (ISA) in the catchment area, which could compensate the deficit generated by the post-1990s rainfall deficit through increasing in runoff. Since the filling of the Lagdo dam in 1983, an increase in all ranges of minimum flow, as well as an increase in the variability of extreme flows, has been detected. These results could be used for long-term planning of water demand and use in these basins, as well as for improving future simulations of the flow of these rivers. It also shows that due to the non-linearity of the rainfall-runoff relationships, it is very important to maintain observation networks operational, as the current situation might still evolve in the near future, requiring new adaptations for social response.
Spigelian Hernia and Appendicitis: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Eydou Zehdi , Issa Hamza Wajeeh , Kamalakannan Theekshitha , George Biji Thomas , Maasher Ahmed 
Published: October 2022

Introduction:
Hernias containing the appendix are well-known entities that preferentially affect the groin. The presence of an appendix within a Spigelian hernia, which is a rare ventral hernia that presents with nonspecific symptoms and location, adds significantly to the complexity and rarity of its diagnosis. Further, only 18 such cases were reported and published in the literature. We report a case of Spigelian hernia and appendicitis within the hernial sac to highlight the diagnostic challenges associated with this type of hernia.

Case Presentation:
In her late 30s, a female who underwent laparoscopic surgery for a uterine fibroid two and a half years back presented with right lower quadrant abdominal pain for two days. This followed abdominal pain on exertion for the previous nine months. On examination, there was tenderness, guarding, and a positive cough impulse in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen. Her body mass index was 37.53 kg/m2. A contrast-enhanced computed tomography imaging of the abdomen reported a right iliac fossa incisional hernia with omental congestion necessitating an emergency laparoscopic surgery. At surgery, a Spigelian hernia, which was at least 5 cm away from the port site scar of the previous surgery, was found. The hernia contained an inflamed appendix. Thus, a diagnosis of Spigelian hernia and appendicitis within the hernial sac was made. A laparoscopic reduction and repair of the Spigelian hernia and a laparoscopic appendectomy were performed.

Conclusion:
Whereas Spigelian hernias are considerably rare, the presence of an appendix within a Spigelian hernia sac is yet a more infrequent occurrence. Although the imaging modalities are often inconclusive, careful interpretation of the computed tomography imaging findings may reveal the pathology preoperatively.
Exploring the Targets of Novel Corona Virus and Docking-based Screening
of Potential Natural Inhibitors to Combat COVID-19
Authors: Dey Rishita , Samadder Asmita , Nandi Sisir 
Published: October 2022

Abstract:
There is a need to explore natural compounds against COVID-19 due to their multi-targeted actions against various targets of nCoV. They act on multiple sites rather than single targets against several diseases. Thus, there is a possibility that natural resources can be repurposed to combat COVID-19. However, the biochemical mechanisms of these inhibitors were not known. To reveal the mode of anti-nCoV action, structure-based docking plays a major role. The present study is an attempt to explore various potential targets of SARS-CoV-2 and the structure-based screening of various potential natural inhibitors to combat the novel coronavirus.
Applications of Polymethylhydrosiloxane (PMHS) in Organic Synthesis-
Covering up to March 2022
Authors: Alam Mohammed Mujahid , Seema Vittal , Dubasi Narsimhaswamy , Kurra Mohan , Varala Ravi 
Published: October 2022

Abstract:
Based on the type of metal or non-metal catalyst used, the authors of this paper have clearly
highlighted the different applications of air-stable, commercially viable, and environmentally friendly
polymethylhydrosiloxane (PMHS) in organic synthesis or other allied reactions. The importance of
PMHS was emphasised for the particular organic transformation's success. In addition to its wellknown
use as a reducing agent, it has also been demonstrated in a variety of other applications, including
ring cleavage, the cotton industry, functional material for microfluidic chips, and the dehydroaromatization
of bio-oils. The article tries to compile the most noteworthy cases of highly successful
PMHS catalysis over the past two decades or so.
Extraction and Analysis of Microplastic Beads from Personal Care Products
Authors: Gore Anil H. , Bhavsar Pinal S. 
Published: October 2022

Background:
Nowadays, plastic accumulation in marine has become one of the topics of global
concern, with emerging research efforts focusing on the threat of microbeads (<5mm). A source of microplastic
pollution is derived from personal care products (facial cleanser) that contain polyethylene
microplastic (microbeads), which are not captured by the wastewater treatment plant. These small particles
are especially concerning because of their potential to translocate in the bodies of organisms.

Methods:
Herein, we have used a mixture of hydrogen peroxide with nitric acid to dissolve the organic
matter before the filtration and filtration was carried out by using Whatman filter paper 42 to ascertain
that all the microbeads had been collected. Collected microbeads were identified using Fouriertransformed
infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and stereo microscope.

Results:
In this study, we have observed that personal care products contain microplastic beads, and that
three out of six personal care products contain a polyethylene (PE) bead.

Conclusions:
We have provided a feasible separation and analysis method for microplastic beads in personal
care products.
Evaluation of the Factors Associated with Prescribed and Non-Prescribed
Medicine: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Eskandari Mehrnoosh , Alizadeh Bahmani Amir Hossein , Hoorang Mehdi , Zare Marziyeh , Afifi Saba , Karimzadeh Iman , Azadi Soha , Sabzghabaee Ali Mohammad , Lankarani Kamran B. , Ahmadizar Fariba , Peymani Payam 
Published: October 2022

Objectives:
Several factors influence medication patterns. The purpose of this study was
to look into the role of social determinants in the use of prescribed and non-prescribed medications
in a population-based setting of people over 18 in a southern metropolis of Iran (Shiraz) for 2
years.

Study Design:
Prospective population-based cross-sectional.

Methods:
This descriptive and cross-sectional survey was done in 2018-2020. A total of 1016 participants
were randomly selected based on their postal codes and recruited to the study. The demographic
characteristics (age, sex, and education), social profiles (insurance, supplementary insurance,
health status, and daily exercise plan), and outpatient visits (family/general physician or specialist/
subspecialist) were recorded by gathering sheets. Descriptive analyses and multinomial logistic
analyses were carried out using SPSS software.

Results:
The medication use pattern was classified into three categories: non-prescribed type I,
non-prescribed type II, and prescribed. The mean age of participants was 45.54 ± 15.82 years. The
results indicated that most of them took their medication without a prescription (non-prescribed
type II). However, people who had insurance and referred to a family physician commonly used
the prescribed medications. This study also found that patients who visited a family doctor or a
general practitioner used fewer prescribed drugs than those who visited a specialist.

Conclusion:
This study describes social determinants as additional effective factors in health services
that influence the use of prescribed and non-prescribed medications in Shiraz. These evidence-
based findings can help policymakers to plan the best programs.