bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Dependence of Sputtering Coefficient on Energy and Incidence Angle of Bombarding Particles. Energy Spectrum and Average Energy of Sputtered Particles by the Example of a Tungsten Target
Authors: Babenko P. Yu. , Mikhailov V. S. , Shergin A. P. , Zinoviev A. N. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
An overview of the functional dependences (formulas) for describing the properties of atomic particles sputtered during ion bombardment of the surface of a solid body is presented. The dependence of sputtering coefficients on the energy and angle of incidence of the bombarding particle is considered. The energy spectra and average energies of sputtered particles are presented. Formulas for calculating the quantities under consideration are proposed by the example of a target made of tungsten and hydrogen isotopes as projectiles. These data are necessary to estimate the entry of sputtered tungsten atoms as an impurity into a hot plasma using transport codes. When the tungsten impurity concentration is higher than the critical one, it is impossible to carry out a controlled thermonuclear reaction with the planned energy output in the ITER tokamak reactor. Sputtering coefficients also play an important role in simulating the entry of impurities into plasma facilities as a result of the interaction between hydrogen fuel atoms and the materials of the divertor and the first wall.
Brain Mechanisms Involved in Post COVID Syndrome: A Narrative Review
Authors: Gulyaeva N. V. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Potentially, patients with COVID-19 can experience long-term disturbances after the acute infection period, even people with no symptoms or mild illness. Our current understanding of brain-associated post COVID-19 condition and why some people are more affected is limited. Post COVID syndrome or long COVID, with continuing symptoms of impaired brain functioning, in particular, ‘brain fog’, chronic fatigue, cognitive decline, mood disturbances, anxiety, and depression, is due to multiple molecular mechanisms. This narrative review updates most important cellular and molecular brain mechanisms as well as system mechanisms underlying post COVID syndrome.
Prevalence of Atrial Fibrillation in Semiurban Nepal: Result From a Community‐Based Cross‐Sectional Screening
Authors: Koju Shrestha Rojeena , Bista Durga , Shakya Rajani , Koju Rajendra Prasad , Gurung Ram Bahadur 
Published: October 2024

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common morbid arrhythmia that can cause thromboembolic events such as stroke. Despite advancements in diagnostic technologies, a significant number of AF patients may remain undetected and undiagnosed, and these asymptomatic patients possess sufficient risk of cardioembolic stroke. Identifying such patients through appropriate screening techniques and timely initiation of systemic anticoagulation therapy is essential to prevent such life‐threatening complications.Objectives: The objectives of this study encompass screening of AF among residents of the Dhulikhel Municipality and identifying its prevalence, along with evaluation of stroke risk and use of antithrombotic therapy in patients confirmed with AF.Methods: All residents of four wards of Dhulikhel Municipality, aged 50 years and above (n = 2048), underwent one‐time electrocardiogram (ECG) screening using a portable 12‐lead ECG machine. The cardiologist checked the cardiogram, and suspected AF cases were referred to the hospital for further evaluation and appropriate management. They were followed up to find out information on disease confirmation and management.Results: Out of 2048 participants, AF was detected in 16 participants, resulting in an overall prevalence of 0.78% (CI 0.4%–1.3%). The prevalence of AF was highest (2.98%) in population aged 80 years and above. Among individuals with AF, the median age was 71.5 (66.3–79.5) years, 50.0% were male and 75.0% had high stroke risk as indicated by a CHA2DS2‐VASc score ≥ 2. Among these patients, only 41.66% were treated with oral anticoagulants (OACs), while 58.34% were treated either with single or dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT).Conclusion: This study provided important insight into the prevalence of AF at the community level. Many AF patients were at high risk of stroke, but the OAC use was less than 50%. Screening of AF needs to be carried out on a larger scale in Nepal for early detection and timely management of the disease.
Malaria and HIV/AIDS Coinfection in Patients Under Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy at the Regional Hospital of Bafoussam (West Cameroon)
Authors: Tankoua-Tchounda Romeo , Nack Jacques , Nchetnkou Christian Mbohou , Tchankwe Desire Leonard Keptcheu , Lontsi-Demano Michel , Essangui Estelle , Djimefo Alex Kevin Tako , Lehman Leopold Gustave 
Published: October 2024

Background: Malaria and HIV/AIDS are the two most common infections responsible for morbidity and mortality in sub‐Saharan Africa. The studies were carried out worldwide. However, no study has targeted HIV‐positive patients at the Bafoussam Regional Hospital (West Cameroon), one approved treatment center, where patients are adhering well to their HIV treatment. The objective of this study was to identify the Plasmodium species and to determine the prevalence of the malaria parasite in relationship with associated factors in HIV+ patients followed at the Bafoussam Regional Hospital.Methods: A prospective study included 585 patients who responded to the questionnaires from May to December 2021. Parents or legal guardians of children under 15 responded on their behalf on knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards malaria. Venous blood samples collected in EDTA tubes were subjected to malaria diagnosis by rapid tests (Standard Diagnostics Boline), and the results were confirmed by microscopy. The blood count was undertaken on hematology analyzer (Mindray Company, Shenzhen, China).Results:Plasmodium vivax (4.3%) and mostly Plasmodium falciparum (95.7%) were identified. In this study population, 46 (7.9%) of the patients carried one or the other Plasmodium species, and 532 (90.9%) had undetectable HIV viral loads. The prevalence of malaria was significantly higher among those using traditional pharmacopoeia (9 (16.7%)) compared to patients taking generic treatments (37 (7.0%)) (p < 0.01; OR: 2.69). Factors associated with malaria prevalence, such as sociodemographic characteristics, viral load, type of protocol, duration of antiretroviral treatment, monthly income, subdivision, and knowledge attitudes and practices towards malaria, showed no significant differences (p > 0.05).Conclusion: This study showed that HIV+ patients were carriers of Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax with an appreciable overall prevalence. The only factor influencing the prevalence of malaria was using traditional medicine.
Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography: Investigating Vessel Density Changes Induced by Caffeine in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Jacobs Mitchell , Demas Nicholas , Hemesath Angela , Turski Christopher , Fowler Nicholas , Chadwell John Benjamin , Dupont Alec , Kupper Victoria , Acharya Kishor , Robbins Sarah , Heier Kory , Maldonado Ramiro 
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Caffeine, the most widely consumed psychoactive drug globally, has been associated with vascular changes in various organs, including the retina. Researchers have reported vascular constriction in the retina in response to caffeine, although data on its effects remain limited and somewhat contradictory. Further research is needed to clarify the specific impact of caffeine on retinal blood vessels and its potential implications for ocular health.Purpose: To investigate the effects of 200 mg of caffeine on systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP) and retinal vessel density (VD) assessed by optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA).Methods: Prospective randomized, double‐blind placebo‐controlled, IRB‐approved study in 59 healthy low caffeine users (< 136 mg of caffeine daily). Baseline 3 × 3 and 6 × 6 mm OCTA scans centered on the fovea as well as a 6 × 6 mm scans centered on the optic nerve head (ONH) were obtained. Participants were randomly assigned into caffeine group (CG, n = 42) receiving 200 mg caffeine pill or placebo group (PG, n = 17). OCTA scans were repeated at 60 and 120 min after intervention. VD was measured with Advanced Retina Imaging (ARI) network software (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Dublin, CA) for superficial capillary plexus (SCP) and deep capillary plexus (DCP). SBP/DBP readings were recorded before each imaging session. Ordinary one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) of each group was performed using GraphPad Prism Version 9.3.0.Results: Both groups had comparable demographics and OCTA parameters at baseline. Two hours after intervention, the CG had a significantly higher SBP (123 ± 7 mmHg) and DBP (81 ± 5 mmHg) compared to the control group (118 ± 7 mmHg, 77 ± 6 mmHg) (p value = 0.012, 0.023). Regarding the OCTA VD metrics, there were no significant differences in VD between the caffeine and placebo groups, regardless of whether the scans were centered on the macula or ONH. Additionally, the comparison across different OCTA scan modalities, specifically the 3 × 3 mm and 6 × 6 mm scans, showed no discernible differences among groups.Conclusion: In conclusion, 200 mg of caffeine elevated blood pressure after 2 h but did not impact the retinal VD. This underscores the intricate relationship between caffeine, blood pressure, and retinal vascular dynamics, prompting further exploration of their implications for ocular health, especially in subjects with vascular disease.
Assessment of Knowledge and Attitude of General Practitioners Regarding Autism and Associated Factors at Gondar University Hospital, Gondar, Ethiopia
Authors: Mengesha Assefa Kebad , Beyna Alemante Tafese , Kidanu Gemtew Enyew , Misker Melshew Fenta , Ayele Habtamu Semagne 
Published: October 2024

Background: The neurodevelopmental conditions known as autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) start in early childhood and last the entirety of a person’s life. They are characterized by distorted social interaction, difficulties communicating, and repetitive, stereotypical behavior.Objective: This study sought to evaluate general practitioners (GPs)’ attitudes and knowledge of ASDs and related factors at Gondar University Hospital.Methods: An institutional‐based cross‐sectional study design was used. Using a convenience‐sample method, three‐hundred sixty individuals were chosen for this study. Data were collected using a self‐administered questionnaire. The GPs who took part in this survey were characterized by descriptive statistics. The relationship between the dependent variables (knowledge and attitude) and the sociodemographic characteristics was examined using an independent two‐sample t‐test and Pearson correlation analysis. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences Version 25 was used for all data analyses.Results: In this study, the GPs had an average age of 31.82 years, with an average of 18 years since graduation and 16 years of practice. Participants’ average overall knowledge and attitude scores on autism were 15.83 (SD = 3.27) and 29.54 (SD = 3.21), respectively, both falling within the moderate range. Using an independent t‐test, we found a significant difference (p < 0.001) between the attitudes of male and female GPs regarding autism. The study also identified weakly significant correlations between GPs’ age and their attitudes toward autism (r = 0.271 ∗∗, p < 0.001) and between years of practice and attitudes (r = 0.105 ∗, p = 0.046). However, no significant correlations emerged between GPs’ knowledge and their age, years since graduation, or years of practice (r = 0.069, p = 0.194; r = 0.069, p = 0.193; and r = −0.053, p = 0.312, respectively). In addition, we observed a weakly significant association (r = 0.004 ∗∗, p < 0.001) between GPs’ knowledge and their attitudes about autism.Conclusion: Based on their total scores, the participants had a moderate level of knowledge and attitudes toward autism. There was a favorable correlation found between the study subjects’ attitudes regarding autism and their age, as well as their practice year. Furthermore, a clear correlation was observed between GPs’ attitudes and their understanding of autism.
HALOBATES: An Autonomous Surface Vehicle for High-Resolution Mapping of the Sea Surface Microlayer and Near-Surface Layer on Essential Climate Variables
Authors: Wurl Oliver , Gassen Lisa , Badewien Thomas H. , Braun Axel , Emig Sven , Holthusen Lina A. , Lehners Carola , Meyerjürgens Jens , Ribas Mariana Ribas 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Essential climate variables (ECVs) are physical, chemical, or biological parameters supporting the characterization of the climate system. The oceanic ECVs temperature and salinity have been defined for the sea surface (upper 1 mm) and bulk water (upper 2 m). Direct observation and sampling of the sea surface from ships and buoys are limited due to the potential loss of integrity of the sea surface and contamination by the research platform. The design, development, and operation of a research vehicle with autonomous capabilities based on commercially available components are described in this study. The autonomous operation and fully automated sampling enable high-resolution mapping of the sea surface microlayer (SML), i.e., the upper < 1-mm layer and the near-surface layer (<1.2 m). Sampling the SML is based on a rotating glass disk sampler. The autonomous surface vehicle HALOBATES has been equipped with multiple conductivity–temperature–depth (CTD) sensors in a flow-through system to measure both sea surface and bulk temperature and salinity. The performance of the autopilot under various scenarios is demonstrated. Typical anomalies of ECVs within the SML and near-surface layer are evident and forced by both atmospheric and oceanic processes. Data analyses reveal HALOBATES’ ability to resolve thermohaline structure on different spatial and temporal scales, for example, small-scale freshwater lenses and thermohaline changes across oceanic fronts. The integration of an acoustic Doppler current profiler supports the interpretation of thermohaline structures. HALOBATES is a platform with cutting-edge technology for understanding climate-related processes between the ocean and atmosphere and providing high-resolution sea surface data for validating satellite products of ECVs.

Significance Statement
An autonomous surface vehicle was developed to address the challenges in the in situ measurement of essential climate variables at the sea surface (upper 1 mm) and near-surface layer (upper 1 m) of the ocean. Autonomous operation for up to 12 h and fully automated sampling enable high-resolution mapping of the sea surface and near-surface layers. The ability of the vehicle to resolve thermohaline structures at various spatial and temporal scales is demonstrated, providing valuable data on freshwater fluxes (evaporation minus precipitation) between the ocean and the atmosphere. This cutting-edge technology enhances the understanding of climate-related processes, offering crucial “sea surface data” for validating satellite products of essential climate variables.
The Road to Eliminating Energy Poverty: Does Renewable Energy Technology Innovation Work?
Authors: Wu Haitao , Wang Zhen , Zhong Ruohan , Qu Yuanfeng , Hao Yu 
Published: October 2024

Under the constraint of carbon neutrality targets, the issue of energy poverty has garnered increasing concerns. This study aims to measure energy poverty and assess the impact of renewable energy technology innovation in 30 provinces across China. Furthermore, it calculates city-level energy poverty in 274 cities. By examining the influence of renewable energy technology innovation on energy poverty, this study proposes a new approach to accelerate energy transition and promote sustainable development. The regression results, which have undergone rigorous robustness and endogeneity tests, demonstrate that renewable energy technology innovation significantly alleviates energy poverty. Moreover, the treatment effect of policies is determined through the regression control method. Specifically, the cities of Zhangjiakou, Baotou, and Qiqihar are analyzed to provide targeted suggestions for China’s energy development. The treatment effects of both provincial and city-level policies indicate that implementing renewable energy demonstration zones can effectively alleviate energy poverty. JEL Classification: Q48; O31
Self-perceived attitudes of Italian oncology nurses towards clinical trial involvement: A cohort observational study
Authors: Vitale Elsa , Lupo Roberto , Conte Luana , Mea Rocco , Rubbi Ivan , Iacovelli Serena , De Nunzio Giorgio , Massafra Raffaella 
Published: October 2024

Background: Literature is lacking when it comes to oncology nursing attitudes in clinical trial involvement. Objective: To assess how Italian oncology nurses perceived their attitudes in clinical trials involvement. Methods: An on-line cohort observational study was carried out. Data collected included: sex, years of work experience in oncology field and 10 items assessing participants’ self-perceptions of their attitudes in clinical trials. Linear regression was used to assess associations between work experience and self-perceived preparedness. Results: A total of 338 Italian oncology nurses were enrolled. Most nurses declared not receiving any specific training in oncology clinical trials (23.1%). No significant associations were reported between self- perceived attitudes in clinical trial involvement in the oncology setting and both work experience and clinical trial involvement. Conclusions: Cancer centers are improving cancer nursing research in supplying clinical care. But very few centers are involved in training oncology nurses. This gap seems to be very deep in taking into consideration the oncology nursing research in clinical trials, too.
Outcomes associated with hip preservation using osteochondral allograft transplants and acetabular labrum reconstruction
Authors: Rucinski Kylee , Cook James L , Crecelius Cory R , Crist Brett D 
Published: October 2024

Background: Osteochondral allograft (OCA) transplantation with or without labral reconstruction is considered a hip preservation surgical treatment option for young, active patients. This study aims to report early outcomes for use of OCA and labrum allograft transplants for patients treated for symptomatic femoral head chondral damage and/or acetabular labrum deficiency after implementation of a comprehensive joint restoration approach. Methods: 33 patients from a lifelong registry were included for analysis. Outcomes were compared for statistically significant ( p < 0.05) differences based on graft preservation methodology (standard preservation [SP] vs. Missouri Osteochondral Preservation System [MOPS]), and based on surfaces treated (femoral head only, labrum only, or femoral head and labrum). Results: Mean follow-up duration was 44.8 (range 12–95) months. Success was documented in 28 (84.8%) patients. For the SP cohort, successful outcomes were documented in 5 cases (50%), while all 23 MOPS cases (100%) were deemed successful at least 1 year after surgery. Hip preservation surgeries performed using MOPS grafts were associated with significantly ( p = 0.001; OR = 47x) higher success rates, including significant and clinically meaningful improvements in PROMs at 1 and 2 years after surgery. Revision was performed in 2 patients in the SP cohort and failure requiring total hip arthroplasty was documented in 3 SP patients. Mean time to revision or failure was 23.6 (range 4–43) months. The surfaces treated were significantly associated with failure when comparing patients undergoing a femoral head OCA with or without labral reconstruction to those undergoing labral reconstruction only ( p = 0.03; OR = 8.3x). Conclusions: Patients with symptomatic femoral head cartilage loss and/or irreparable acetabular labrum deficiency undergoing femoral head OCA transplantation and/or labral reconstruction with meniscus allografts using MOPS-preserved tissues experienced statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvements in pain and function through at least 2 years after surgery.
Characterizing Treatment Credibility, Treatment Expectancy, and Symptom Expectancy in Patients Before Nonoperative Treatment for Degenerative Meniscal Tears
Authors: Bisson Leslie J. , Weiss-Laxer Nomi S. , Katz Jeffrey N. , Haider Mohammad N. , Flikkema Kyle B. , Lackner Jeffrey M. 
Published: October 2024

Background: The role of nonspecific factors, such as treatment credibility, treatment expectancy, and symptom expectancy, may shape the outcomes of the nonoperative treatment of degenerative meniscal tears (DMTs). Purpose/Hypothesis: The purpose of this study was to characterize treatment credibility and expectancy, symptom expectancy, and patient and clinical correlates of these factors among participants before undergoing 4 nonoperative treatment programs for DMTs. It was hypothesized that (1) treatment credibility scores would be similar across patient and baseline clinical subgroups and (2) treatment expectancy and symptom expectancy scores would be lower in older patients and among those reporting a longer pain duration or greater pain intensity. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: In 126 participants, validated scales were administered before treatment to assess the credibility of the assigned treatment (possible score of 1-9) as well as the expectations of treatment outcomes (0-100) and symptom improvement (1-5). Patient and clinical characteristics associated with these variables were examined. Results: On average, participants (mean age, 58 years [range, 45-75 years]; 51% female; 94% White) expected the treatment to improve their symptoms by a mean of 68% and expected their symptoms to be “very likely” to improve. Participants with a body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m2 had lower mean treatment credibility (6.09 ± 1.81) and treatment expectancy (64.53 ± 25.16) scores on bivariate analyses than those with a BMI <30 kg/m2 (6.73 ± 1.69 [ P = .045] and 72.86 ± 19.20 [ P = .039], respectively). Participants reporting a pain duration ≥3 months also had lower mean treatment expectancy (63.85 ± 23.83) and symptom expectancy (3.70 ± 0.85) scores compared to those reporting a pain duration <3 months (75.52 ± 18.93 [ P = .003] and 4.16 ± 0.67 [ P = .001], respectively). Conclusion: Most patients about to undergo physical therapy for DMTs considered it to be between “somewhat” and “very” credible and believed that their symptoms, on average, were “very likely” to improve. Although not supported by most evidence, patients with a BMI ≥30 kg/m2 believed physical therapy to be less credible and had lower treatment and symptom expectations, and those with symptoms present for ≥3 months had lower treatment and symptom expectations as well. Whether these nonspecific factors influence outcomes should be considered for further research.