bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impact of Public Infrastructure Spending and Institutions on Economic Growth in Côte d’Ivoire: Results and Implications
Authors: Sohalio Ouattara 
Published: December 2024

This study uses annual data from 1984 to 2019 for the Côte d’Ivoire to estimate the effects of public infrastructure spending, institutions, institutional shocks and their multiplicative effect on economic growth. We construct three institutional indices and interaction variables to estimate linear and nonlinear AutoRegressive Distributed lag models (ARDL). The results reveal symmetric effects of institutional shocks to democracy and regulation and conflict prevention and asymmetric effects of institutional shocks to investment promotion and the economy. The institutional index for the conflict prevention dimension is favourable to economic growth, while the other institutional dimensions remain insignificant. The institutional index of democracy and regulation amplifies the positive effects of public spending on infrastructure on per capita income in the long term. The institutional indices of investment and economic promotion and conflict prevention reduce the positive effect of public infrastructure spending on per capita income. Public debt and domestic savings have effects on per capita income. These results imply that improving institutions, particularly those promoting investment and the economy, is crucial to amplifying the benefits of public infrastructure investment in Côte d’Ivoire.
Design and characteristics of a double-layer gradient grid structure for broadband electromagnetic wave absorption
Authors: Li Hong-Zhou , Yang Jin-Shui , Xian Yu-Xuan , Song Ming-Zhao , Wang Xiang-Wei 
Published: December 2024

Grid structures are renowned for their lightweight and high-strength properties. When combined with wave absorption technology, they can form multifunctional broadband wave-absorbing structures. However, traditional grid wave-absorbing structures face challenges in impedance matching control, limiting their effectiveness over a broader frequency band. Additionally, conventional simulation optimization methods in the field of wave-absorbing structures are inefficient and yield suboptimal results. To address these issues, this study introduces a double-layer gradient grid absorber composite structure (DGGS) and employs a genetic algorithm optimization framework to adjust its structural parameters. By applying the principles of impedance matching and genetic optimization algorithms, the DGGS successfully reduces electromagnetic wave reflectivity, achieving significant absorption effects within the 2.45 to 18 GHz frequency range. Furthermore, the absorber is constructed from composite materials such as fiberglass, ensuring reliable strength and significant cost-effectiveness. The genetic algorithm has optimized the structural parameters to achieve the optimal impedance gradient and maximize absorption efficiency. This structure not only exhibits exceptional mechanical strength but also demonstrates excellent energy absorption performance, presenting broad application prospects.
The Effects of Ethanolic Stem-Bark Extract of Khaya senegalensis on Fertility Parameters and Hormones on Male Wistar Rat
Authors: Wireko Manasseh B. , Lorraine Sallah , Coffie Peter N. , Asiwu Roberta Y. , Ananni-Akollor Max E. , Titiloye Nicholas A. , Duduyemi Babs M. 
Published: December 2024

Background The recent increase in interest in alternative medicine calls for an investigation into the non-target organ effect. Khaya senegalensis is one of such popular plants used to manage malaria in low-income countries. This study therefore aimed at investigating the effect of stem bark extract of Khaya senegalensis (KSE) on the testes (non-target organ) and its related serum hormones. Methods Grouped mature male rats (n = 4) were treated with 100–1000 mg/kg KSE or distilled water for twenty-eight days. Serum hormones were taken immediately after cervical dislocation, prepared appropriately, and assayed for Testosterone, Luteinizing, and Follicle Stimulating Hormone. The hormones levels were determined using ELISA kits The right testis and epididymis from treated animals were harvested and prepared for histological studies. Results The result indicated a significant increase ( p = 0.045, 0.038) in the epididymis and serum LH in the 1000 mg/kg KSE, but caused no significant increase in serum FSH and Testosterone ( p > 0.05), in any of the treatment groups. Histological sections of the testes showed mild to moderate degeneration of the spermatogonia and hyalinization (1000 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg) of the seminiferous tubules with reduced spermatogenesis in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusion Khaya senegalensis could have an adverse effect on the morphology of the testis in a dose-dependent manner.
The effect of probiotics on select cognitive domains in mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tripathi Shashank , Kaushik Meenakshi , Dwivedi Rekha , Tiwari Prabhakar , Tripathi Manjari , Dada Rima 
Published: December 2024

Background Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are progressive neurodegenerative disorders, and probiotics may offer therapeutic benefits by modulating gut microbiota and reducing inflammation. Objective This study systematically evaluated the impact of probiotics on cognitive function in MCI and AD through a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Methods A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. PubMed, Embase, EBSCO, and Cochrane databases were searched for RCTs (January 2000–January 2024) on probiotic interventions lasting 8–24 weeks. Cognitive outcomes included Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), language, naming, visual-spatial, memory, and attention. Data were analyzed using R with a random-effects model to calculate pooled standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Risk of bias was rigorously assessed. Results Out of 2000 articles, 500 full texts were screened, and 10 studies were included. The meta-analysis showed varied effect sizes: MMSE (SMD: 0.28, 95%CI −0.35–0.91, p = 0.38), MoCA (SMD: 0.51, 95%CI −0.49–1.52, p = 0.33), language (SMD: −0.12, 95% CI −0.54–0.29, p = 0.56), naming (SMD: 0.02, 95%CI −0.69–0.74, p = 0.95), visual-spatial (SMD: 0.38, 95%CI −0.13–0.88, p = 0.14), memory (SMD: 0.20, 95%CI −0.15–0.55, p = 0.26), and attention (SMD: −0.07, 95%CI −0.44–0.30, p = 0.71). Positive SMDs suggest cognitive improvement, while non-significant negative SMDs indicate trends toward decline, inclined by probiotic strains, duration, and participant characteristics. Conclusions Probiotics did not significantly improve cognitive function in MCI and AD patients, with variability in effects across cognitive domains, suggesting the need for tailored interventions and future studies.
Evaluation of disease knowledge and attitude with selected self-care and sociodemographic factors among outpatients with hypertension: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Aje Akinniyi A. , Fakeye Titilayo O. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
Lots of interplays between many patient-related factors may influence disease progression among patients with hypertension. This study evaluated disease knowledge and attitude, as well as selected self-care and sociodemographic factors among patients with hypertension.

Methods
A cross-sectional study was carried out among outpatients with hypertension in a cross-sectional study involving three tertiary hospitals. An interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaire was administered for data collection.

Results
Self-reported medication adherence revealed that majority, 180(60.4%), had high medication adherence out of 298 that participated. Medication discrepancy was observed among 153(51.3%) patients, while 131(44.0%) had high health literacy and blood pressure was controlled among 200 (67.1%) patients. Average hypertension knowledge assessment score was 10.89 ± 1.79 out of a maximum obtainable score of 13. Average hypertension attitude score was 52.60 ± 5.49, out of the maximum obtainable of 60. Significant associations observed with patients’ hypertension knowledge were with disease control (Beta = − 0.484, p = 0.019), educational level (Beta = 1.260, p < 0.001) and disease attitude (Beta = 0.698, p < 0.001); while significant association with disease attitude were with age (Beta = 2.360, p < 0.001) and disease knowledge (Beta = 2.637, p < 0.001). Significant differences were observed between hypertension knowledge and level of formal education (p < 0.001), health literacy (p < 0.001) and disease attitude (p < 0.001); while for disease attitude, significant differences were observed with patients’ age (p = 0.002), level of formal education (p = 0.005), and health literacy (p < 0.001). Significant differences were also observed between patients’ age and medication discrepancy (p = 0.047), medication adherence and age (p = 0.046), level of formal education and health literacy (p < 0.001).

Conclusions
Disease knowledge and attitude among the patients were satisfactory, and the majority were medication adherent. Health literacy level was average. The determinants of disease knowledge are disease control, educational level and disease attitude while for disease attitude are age and disease knowledge.
The association of snoring, growth, and metabolic risk factors at the age of two years
Authors: Katila Maija , Satomaa Anna-Liisa , Himanen Sari-Leena , Saha Marja-Terttu , Vuorela Nina , Paunio Tiina , Paavonen E. Juulia , Saarenpää-Heikkilä Outi 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background and aims
This observational study examined the association of snoring and growth during early childhood and the cardiovascular and metabolic risk factors based on blood samples at the age of two years.

Methods and results
The sample comprised 78 children from the CHILD-SLEEP birth cohort with full-night polysomnography (PSG) and a questionnaire consisting of parts concerning the child's sleep and environmental factors at 24 months. The growth charts were collected from well-baby clinics. Metabolic blood samples were drawn from 31 children.
There were no statistically significant differences in the growth parameters of snoring children compared to controls during the first two years of life. However, in linear regression models, snoring time in PSG significantly predicted lower levels of HDL (β = -0.484, p = 0.007) and ApoA1 (β = -0.451, p = 0.049) and higher levels of hs-CRP (β = 0.410, p = 0.019).

Conclusion
In conclusion, in Finnish children the levels of HDL and ApoA1 were inversely related to the snoring time in PSG. In addition, the snoring time in PSG significantly predicted higher levels of hs-CRP. These results suggest that snoring in early childhood could negatively alter the serum metabolic profile, adding to the risk of cardiovascular diseases in adulthood.
Electrical properties of chelating copolymers and their metal complexes: binary chelating copolymers of styrene with organic acids
Authors: Yahia Mohamed , Refaat Dalia , El-Enany Gaber , Abd El-Ghaffar Mahmoud Ahmed 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
The emulsion polymerization of vinyl monomers has been extensively researched, but copolymerization with crotonic acid or cinnamic acid is relatively uncommon. These acids are capable of coordinating with other metal ions. Our previous research has focused on synthesizing and characterizing copolymers of butyl acrylate (BuA)/vinyl acetate (VAc) and styrene-BuA using emulsion techniques, specifically for paint applications. The current work aimed to synthesize and characterize three binary chelating copolymers of styrene with maleic, cinnamic, and crotonic acids. In addition, the prepared chelating copolymers were treated with water and soluble salts of copper and iron for complex formation. Additionally, the characterization and electrical properties of these copolymers were investigated.

Results
This article reports the synthesis of three binary copolymers of styrene with cinnamic, crotonic, and maleic acids via an emulsion polymerization process using a redox initiation system of potassium persulfate/glucose in the presence of sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate as an emulsifier. The prepared emulsions of the copolymers were precipitated and purified using Soxhlet extraction in a mixture of n-hexane and toluene. Spectroscopic measurements, including Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR), and powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), in addition to thermal analysis methods like thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) were employed to characterize the copolymers that were synthesized. The metal complexes of the chelating copolymers were prepared by treatment with soluble metal salts of Co(II), Cu(II), and Fe(III), purified, and characterized via IR, PXRD, TGA, and DSC. The semiconducting properties of the chelating polymers and their metal complexes were demonstrated through conductivity measurements taken at room temperature. The conductivity values ranged from 10−3 to 10−6 Ω−1 cm−1.

Conclusion
The research underscores the significance of the electrical characteristics of chelating copolymers and their metal complexes, particularly focusing on styrene-based binary chelating copolymers, in driving advancements in technology, science, and economic development.
Accrual Suspensions in Seamless Phase II/III Trials: A Review of NRG Oncology Trials
Authors: Hu Chen , Freidlin Boris , Korn Edward L. 
Published: December 2024

PURPOSE
A phase II/III trial is a type of phase III trial that has embedded in it an intermediate phase II go/no-go decision as to whether to continue the accrual to the phase III sample size. We examine the design characteristics and experience of a well-defined set of National Cancer Institute phase II/III trials, with special emphasis on designed accrual suspensions while awaiting the data to become mature enough for the phase II analysis. This experience is used to highlight the potential of using a calendar backstop to avoid an inordinately long accrual suspension.

METHODS
We identified all phase II/III trials conducted by NRG Oncology or its precursor National Cancer Institute Cooperative Groups (Radiation Therapy Oncology Group, Gynecologic Oncology Group, and National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project). The design characteristics were recorded, and, for completed trials, the trial results in terms of sample sizes and timing of analyses were tabulated.

RESULTS
Twenty-two trials were identified, 14 of which had a time-to-event end point for their phase II component. Thirteen of these 14 trials had designed accrual suspensions. Seven of the eight completed trials had designed accrual suspensions, all of which went on longer than their projected suspension times (3-20 months longer than planned). The trade-offs for using a backstop are discussed using one of these trials as an example.

CONCLUSION
Phase II/III trials with an accrual suspension and a predefined backstop for the phase II analysis can be a useful tool for minimizing patient exposure to ineffective experimental treatments while still obtaining the trial results in a timely fashion.
Diazoxide-Responsive Hypoglycemia in a Child Receiving Dasatinib for Treatment of B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Berra Madalin , Biro Juliana , Kashmiri Himala , Daniels Mark 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are being used more regularly in treatment regimens for pediatric cancers. They have distinct side effect profiles, including endocrinopathies. Here we present a 2-year-old boy with Philadelphia chromosome–like (Ph-like) B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) who developed refractory hypoglycemia after using dasatinib. His evaluation was suggestive of hyperinsulinism, and his symptoms were ultimately controlled with diazoxide. There have not been any published data exploring the relationship between TKIs and glycemic profiles in pediatric patients. In adults, there is research indicating that patients using TKIs could experience both hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia. The pathophysiology of these side effects is not well described, nor are the risk factors for development. More research is needed to understand these relationships in general, but particularly in the pediatric population.
Primary Unilateral Adrenal Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma: Remission by Chemotherapy
Authors: Goto Daisuke , Takeshita Yumie , Nagai Kosuke , Goto Hisanori , Nakano Yujiro , Takamura Toshinari 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Primary malignant lymphomas originating in the adrenal gland, particularly of T-cell origin, are extremely rare. Here we present the primary unilateral adrenal anaplastic large cell lymphoma case. A 64-year-old Japanese male initially presented with fatigue and appetite loss. Computed tomography imaging revealed a unilateral adrenal mass with multiorgan invasion, posing challenges in differentiation from adrenal carcinoma. A biopsy from the metastatic site in the right lateral vastus muscle was obtained, and immunohistochemistry revealed that tumor cells were positive for CD30 and CD56 and negative for CD3, CD15, CD20, CD43, perforin, granzyme B, epithelial membrane antigen, and anaplastic lymphoma kinase. Ultimately, the patient was diagnosed with primary unilateral adrenal anaplastic large cell lymphoma. Although he achieved complete response to chemotherapy, he died 4 months after complete response due to cholecystitis and lymphoma recurrence.
Reduction of Ovarian Cysts After Endoscopic Surgery for Follicle-Stimulating Hormone-Producing Pituitary Adenoma
Authors: Ishii Reo , Harai Nozomi , Hosokawa Tadatsugu , Tahara Ippei , Ogiwara Masakazu , Tsuchiya Kyoichiro 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
A 49-year-old woman presented with irregular menstrual bleeding, elevated estradiol (E2) (665 pg/mL [2441.21 pmol/L]) (reference range [RR]: menstrual period [MP] 20-50 pg/mL; 73.42-183.55 pmol/L), unsuppressed follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) (19.3 mIU/mL [19.3 IU/L]) (RR: MP 3.5-10.0 mIU/mL; 3.5-10.0 IU/L), and cystic ovarian enlargement (right ovary, 109 mL; left ovary, 146 mL). A 7-mm pituitary microadenoma was also observed, and 6 months after referral, endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery was performed, resulting in a diagnosis of FSH-producing pituitary adenoma. Nine months postoperatively, the ovarian cysts had markedly shrunk. Although FSH-producing pituitary adenomas are rare, approximately 64% of nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas are positive for gonadotropin immunostaining. FSH-producing pituitary adenomas are often endocrinologically silent, with symptoms typically triggered by pituitary tumor enlargement. Early diagnosis can be facilitated by measuring FSH and E2 levels in cases of irregular vaginal bleeding, abnormal menstruation, ovarian enlargement, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, or infertility. If E2 is elevated but FSH is not suppressed, pituitary magnetic resonance imaging should be performed to identify FSH-producing pituitary adenomas. In cases of FSH-producing pituitary adenomas, including microadenomas, symptoms may improve after tumor resection, making surgery the preferred treatment option.
HIV transmission, prevention, treatment and care: part two
Authors: Peate Ian 
Published: December 2024

In part two of this series, Ian Peate explains the role of nurses in managing patients with long term HIV. Additionally, treatment options such as antiretroviral therapy are discussed This article explores human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in the primary care setting, emphasising the role of the nurse in caring for people with HIV and the expanding responsibilities in providing comprehensive management. The diagnostic process stresses early and accurate detection, confirmatory testing, follow-up procedures and addressing the psychological impact of diagnosis with initial patient support. Treatment options are reviewed, including an overview of antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimens, individualised treatment planning, monitoring for efficacy, managing drug resistance and exploring emerging therapies.
Towards Autonomous, Aerial Pollination: Design of a Robotic Pollinator Payload for Controlled Crosses in Loblolly Pine
Authors: Pandey Piyush , Acosta Juan J. , Payn Kitt G. , Young Sierra 
Published: December 2024

HighlightFirst-of-its-kind payload engineered for performing controlled pollinations in Loblolly pine orchards.Payload performance verified in laboratory experiments to ensure sufficient pollen injection.Conceptual system architecture developed for integration with unoccupied aerial systems (UAS).Abstract. This article reports the design of a robotic pollination system suitable for use with an unoccupied aerial vehicle (UAV) aimed at performing controlled crosses in loblolly pine seed orchards. In controlled crosses, paper exclusion bags are placed over female strobili to prevent natural pollination, and pollen from known origins is manually introduced into the bag. The proposed system comprises a six-degrees-of-freedom parallel manipulator equipped with a pollinator needle end effector. The end effector consists of a claw mechanism with two links for bag stabilization and needle injection. A pneumatic device ejects pollen through the needle, and a perception system using a stereovision camera with an object detection model for bag detection estimates the appropriate orientation of the manipulator before actuating the pollinating device. The device was evaluated for successful delivery of pollen inside an exclusion bag. It was found to require less than two attempts for successful needle insertion into a bag with vertical orientation. The system also delivered the required pollen within two seconds of air pump actuation. This work presents the first step towards aerial robotic pollination for performing controlled crosses in loblolly pine and lays the groundwork for automating controlled pollinations using exclusion bags. Keywords: Aerial manipulator, Agricultural robotics, Forestry automation, Stewart platform, UAV pollination.