bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Dust evolution processes constrained by extinction curves in nearby galaxies
Authors: Hou Kuan-Chou , Hirashita Hiroyuki , Michałowski Michał J. 
Published: September 2016

Abstract
Extinction curves, especially those in the Milky Way (MW), the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC), and the Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC), have provided us with a clue to the dust properties in the nearby Universe. We examine whether or not these extinction curves can be explained by well-known dust evolution processes. We treat the dust production in stellar ejecta, destruction in supernova shocks, dust growth by accretion and coagulation, and dust disruption by shattering. To make a survey of the large parameter space possible, we simplify the treatment of the grain size distribution evolution by adopting the “two-size approximation,” in which we divide the grain population into small (≲0.03 μm) and large (≳0.03 μm) grains. It is confirmed that the MW extinction curve can be reproduced in reasonable ranges for the time-scale of the above processes with a silicate–graphite mixture. This indicates that the MW extinction curve is a natural consequence of the dust evolution through the above processes. We also find that the same models fail to reproduce the SMC/LMC extinction curves. Nevertheless, this failure can be remedied by giving higher supernova destruction rates for small dust particles dust and considering amorphous carbon for carbonaceous dust; these modifications in fact fall in line with previous studies. Therefore, we conclude that the current dust evolution scenario composed of the aforementioned processes is successful in explaining the extinction curves. All the extinction curves favor efficient interstellar processing of dust, especially strong grain growth by accretion and coagulation.
Sex Differences in Methamphetamine Use and Dependence in a Thai Treatment Center
Authors: Rungnirundorn Teerayuth , Verachai Viroj , Gelernter Joel , Malison Robert T. , Kalayasiri Rasmon 
Published: September 2016

Background and Objective:
Males and females who use methamphetamine (MA) differ in sociodemographics, MA diagnoses, comorbidities, and brain activity. The objective of this study was to investigate sex differences in the characteristics of MA use and dependence in patients at a Thai substance treatment center.

Methods:
Demographic, MA use, and diagnostic data for 782 MA users were obtained by using the Semi-Structured Assessment for Drug Dependence and Alcoholism—Thai version. Categorical comparisons of males (n = 413, 53%) and females (n = 369, 47%) were made by chi-square test. Factors significantly differentiating men and women with respect to MA-dependence were identified by logistic regression analysis controlling for demographic, diagnostic, and MA use variables.

Results:
Males admitted to residential drug treatment for MA use had an earlier age of onset for both MA use (17.7 ± 4.1 vs 19.7 ± 6.2 years; t = −5.3, P < 0.001) and dependence (20.4 ± 5.2 vs 22.2 ± 6.4 years; t = −3.6, P < 0.001). Females were more likely than males to be MA-dependent (79% vs 60%; χ
2
1 = 33.7, P < 0.001), and to experience MA withdrawal (65.3% vs 48.9%; χ
2
1 = 21.4, P < 0.001), withdrawal-related hypersomnia (77.2% vs 64.8%; χ
2
1 = 14.5, P < 0.001), fatigue (77.5% vs 70.3%; χ
2
1 = 5.2, P = 0.02), and psychomotor retardation (64.5% vs 57.0%; χ
2
1 = 4.5, P = 0.03). Similarly, females had heavier (eg, largest daily amount [χ
2
1 = 12.4, P < 0.001), more frequent (χ
2
1 = 5.1, P = 0.02]) and greater lifetime episodes of MA use (χ
2
1 = 24.1, P < 0.001) than males. After controlling for such variables by logistic regression, being female remained a significant factor influencing the occurrence of MA-dependence (odds ratio [OR] 2.7, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.8–4.1, P < 0.001). Shared associated factors (or comorbidities) for MA-dependence in both sexes included nicotine dependence (in males: OR 4.1, 95% CI 2.4–7.0, P < 0.001; and in females: OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.3–4.4, P = 0.007), greater lifetime episodes of MA use (in males: OR 3.5, 95% CI 1.9–6.4, P < 0.001; and in females: OR 5.9, 95% CI 3.1–11.4, P < 0.001), and more frequent use (in males: OR 5.1, 95% CI 2.8–9.1, P < 0.001; and in females: OR 3.6, 95% CI 1.9–6.9, P < 0.001). Comorbid antisocial personality disorder predicted MA-dependence in males only (OR 3.7, 95% CI 1.6–8.6, P = 0.002).

Conclusions:
The current study highlights both common (eg, nicotine dependence and severity of MA use) and sex-specific differences (eg, MA use/dependence characteristics and comorbidities), including sex itself, with respect to MA-dependence in a Thai treatment cohort.
New Setting of Neurally Adjusted Ventilatory Assist during Noninvasive Ventilation through a Helmet
Authors: Cammarota Gianmaria , Longhini Federico , Perucca Raffaella , Ronco Chiara , Colombo Davide , Messina Antonio , Vaschetto Rosanna , Navalesi Paolo 
Published: September 2016

Abstract

Background
Compared to pneumatically controlled pressure support (PSP), neurally adjusted ventilatory assist (NAVA) was proved to improve patient–ventilator interactions, while not affecting comfort, diaphragm electrical activity (EAdi), and arterial blood gases (ABGs). This study compares neurally controlled pressure support (PSN) with PSP and NAVA, delivered through two different helmets, in hypoxemic patients receiving noninvasive ventilation for prevention of extubation failure.

Methods
Fifteen patients underwent three (PSP, NAVA, and PSN) 30-min trials in random order with both helmets. Positive end-expiratory pressure was always set at 10 cm H2O. In PSP, the inspiratory support was set at 10 cm H2O above positive end-expiratory pressure. NAVA was adjusted to match peak EAdi (EAdipeak) during PSP. In PSN, the NAVA level was set at maximum matching the pressure delivered during PSP by limiting the upper pressure. The authors assessed patient comfort, EAdipeak, rates of pressurization (i.e., airway pressure-time product [PTP] of the first 300 and 500 ms after the initiation of patient effort, indexed to the ideal pressure–time products), and measured ABGs.

Results
PSN significantly increased comfort to (median [25 to 75% interquartile range]) 8 [7 to 8] and 9 [8 to 9] with standard and new helmets, respectively, as opposed to both PSP (5 [5 to 6] and 7 [6 to 7]) and NAVA (6 [5 to 7] and 7 [6 to 8]; P &lt; 0.01 for all comparisons). Regardless of the interface, PSN also decreased EAdipeak (P &lt; 0.01), while increasing PTP of the first 300 ms from the onset of patient effort, indexed to the ideal PTP (P &lt; 0.01) and PTP of the first 500 ms from the onset of patient effort, indexed to the ideal PTP (P &lt; 0.001). ABGs were not different among trials.

Conclusions
When delivering noninvasive ventilation by helmet, compared to PSP and NAVA, PSN improves comfort and patient–ventilator interactions, while not ABGs. (Anesthesiology 2016; 125:1181-9)
Long-term effects of exercise in postmenopausal women: 16-year results of the Erlangen Fitness and Osteoporosis Prevention Study (EFOPS)
Authors: Kemmler Wolfgang , Kohl Matthias , von Stengel Simon 
Published: September 2016

Abstract

Objective:
Multimorbidity related to menopause and/or increased age will put healthcare systems in western nations under ever-greater strain. Effective strategies to prevent diseases are thus of high priority and should be started earlier in life. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the long-term effect of exercise on different important health parameters in initially early postmenopausal women over a 16-year period.

Methods:
In 1998, 137 early postmenopausal women with osteopenia living in Erlangen-Nürnberg were included in the study. Eighty-six women joined the exercise group (EG) and conducted two supervised group and two home training sessions per week, whereas the control group (CG: n = 51) maintained their physical activity level. Primary outcome parameters were clinical overall fractures incidence; secondary study endpoint was Framingham study-based 10-year risk of coronary death/myocardial infarction and low back pain.

Results:
In 2014, 59 women of the EG and 46 women of the CG were included in the 16-year follow-up analysis. Framingham study-based 10-year risk of myocardial infarction/coronary death increased significantly (P < 0.001) in both groups; however, changes were significantly more favorable in the EG (5.00% ± 2.94% vs CG: 6.90% ± 3.98%; P = 0.02). The ratio for clinical “overall” fractures was 0.47 (95% CI: 0.24-0.92; P = 0.03), and thus significantly lower in the EG. Although we focused on a high-intensity exercise strategy, low back pain was favorably affected in the EG.

Conclusions:
Multipurpose exercise programs demonstrated beneficial effects on various relevant risk factors and diseases of menopause or/and increased age, and should thus be preferentially applied for primary or secondary prevention in postmenopausal women.
DISTINCTIVE WHITE FUNDUS LESIONS IN FAMILIAL EXUDATIVE VITREORETINOPATHY: A NEWLY CHARACTERIZED CLINICAL FEATURE
Authors: Johnson Brandon B. , Hubbard George B. , Mendoza Pia R. , Grossniklaus Hans E. 
Published: September 2016

Purpose:
To report a novel clinical finding associated with familial exudative vitreoretinopathy in three patients using fundus photography, fluorescein angiography, and histopathology.

Methods:
Observational case series of three patients with familial exudative vitreoretinopathy, an ophthalmic examination with fundus photography, and fluorescein angiography were used to document clinical findings between January 2007 and January 2015. Surgical specimens from one case were examined using standard histopathologic techniques, as well as transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersive x-ray analysis.

Results:
Distinctive white preretinal granules were noted in all cases and were found to be extramacular in location. Histopathology in one case revealed the granules to be crystalline structures with a regular pattern evident on higher magnification. The chemical constitution was found to be carbon, oxygen, and fluorine.

Conclusion:
Our case series represents the first description of white preretinal granules in association with familial exudative vitreoretinopathy. The authors have not seen these granules in other forms of retinopathy and their presence may aid in differentiating this disease from other entities.
EXUDATIVE RETINAL DETACHMENT CAUSED BY A CHOROIDAL NEOVASCULAR MEMBRANE IN HALLERMANN–STREIFF SYNDROME
Authors: AlAli Alaa , Bourgault Serge , Clark Ian , Lam Wai-Ching 
Published: September 2016

Purpose:
To report a case of exudative retinal detachment caused by a choroidal neovascular membrane in Hallermann–Streiff syndrome.

Methods:
The authors report a 7-year-old white male with Hallermann–Streiff syndrome who developed exudative retinal detachments secondary to choroidal neovascular membrane that resolved after off-label use of intravitreal injections of bevacizumab 1.25 mg.

Conclusion:
Patients with Hallermann–Streiff syndrome and exudative retinal detachment present with choroidal neovascular membrane can respond well with intravitreal injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor.
Bisphosphonates and atypical femoral fractures
Authors: Adler Robert A. 
Published: September 2016

Purpose of review
Bisphosphonates are used widely for the treatment of osteoporosis and prevention of fractures. Although generally well tolerated and effective, bisphosphonates (and denosumab, a newer antiresorptive agent) have been associated with unusual fractures of the femoral shaft.

Recent findings
New information about the incidence, pathophysiology, and management of atypical femoral fractures (AFFs) are reviewed. Histomorphometric studies have shown variable amounts of bone turnover suppression, but new studies suggest that healing near bone cracks may not occur in patients with AFF. Some studies suggest that hip and femur geometry make certain people more at risk for AFF. In some but not all studies, the risk of AFF appears to be related to duration of treatment. Thus, the benefit/risk ratio needs to be reassessed as bisphosphonate therapy is prolonged.

Summary
If we can better understand the pathogenesis of AFF, it may be possible to identify those patients at highest risk. In the meantime, clinicians must periodically assess risk for osteoporotic fracture versus risk for AFF in managing patients with osteoporosis.
Evolution of human oocyte cryopreservation: slow freezing versus vitrification
Authors: Levi-Setti Paolo Emanuele , Patrizio Pasquale , Scaravelli Giulia 
Published: September 2016

Purpose of review
The purpose is to determine the efficiency and efficacy of oocyte cryopreservation by slow freezing versus vitrification, recent data collected from the Italian National Assisted Reproductive Technology Register during the period 2009–2014 will be presented and reviewed. The data on oocyte cryopreservation were also compared with the results obtained with embryo cryopreservation and relative IVF with fresh oocytes.

Recent findings
During the period 2009–2014 preservation of oocytes by vitrification had a significantly higher survival rate, implantation, and pregnancy rate than slow freezing; however, there are still large variations in success rates among centers in relation to the number of procedures performed.

Summary
Vitrification has now become the method of choice for oocyte cryopreservation because of better results than slow freezing, but still requires a more standardized utilization. The transfer of fresh or cryopreserved embryo still shows a statistically significant better performance than transfers with embryos obtained with cryopreserved oocytes. Only in a few centers with much experience in cryopreservation are the results between transfers of frozen embryos or embryos obtained from oocyte cryopreservation comparable.
Ethics of medical and nonmedical oocyte cryopreservation
Authors: Patrizio Pasquale , Molinari Emanuela , Caplan Arthur 
Published: September 2016

Purpose of review
To assess the effectiveness and ethical dimensions of oocyte cryopreservation for both medical and social indications.

Recent findings
As more women are postponing motherhood for a variety of reasons, including lack of partner, for completing career plans and reaching financial stability, they are resorting to oocyte cryopreservation. To make informed choices, women rely on their primary care physicians (PCPs) for initial advice, but PCPs are not always fully prepared to discuss oocyte cryopreservation. Interestingly, there are mixed feelings among obstetricians/gynecologists on whether oocyte cryopreservation should be used for elective reasons, whereas it is fully supported for medical indications.

Summary
Oocyte vitrification has become an established procedure for safeguarding future reproductive chances for medical reasons, and its use is progressively expanding. There is an urgent need in preparing future PCPs and obstetricians/gynecologists as to how to initiate discussions with their patients about elective oocyte banking consistent with fully respecting patient autonomy so as to facilitate informed decisions.
Nurse Practitioners' Education, Awareness, and Therapeutic Approaches for the Management of Fibromyalgia
Authors: Hughes Linda , Adair Jean , Feng Feng , Maciejewski Stephanie , Sharma Harsha 
Published: September 2016

BACKGROUND:
In the United States, fibromyalgia affects 2%–5% of the adult population, rendering it the most common chronic, widespread pain condition. The American College of Rheumatology has published diagnostic criteria for fibromyalgia, with the latest version in 2010.

PURPOSE:
The purpose of this study was to evaluate nurse practitioners' education and awareness of fibromyalgia and to evaluate nurse practitioners' practices for the management of fibromyalgia.

METHODS:
Sixty-six nurse practitioners voluntarily completed an online survey regarding their education, diagnosis, and treatment options for patients with fibromyalgia.

RESULTS:
The majority of participants reported that they always or occasionally had difficulty diagnosing fibromyalgia and worried about labeling their patients as having fibromyalgia. The most commonly used agents were nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (70%), serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (61%), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (51%), and muscle relaxants (44%). Nondrug therapies included exercise (88%), cognitive behavior therapy (58%), and nutrition (56%).

CONCLUSION:
Further education is needed for nurse practitioners to increase confidence in diagnosing and managing fibromyalgia.
How Well Are Nurse Practitioners Prepared to Treat Common Musculoskeletal Conditions?
Authors: Benham A. J. , Geier Kathleen A. 
Published: September 2016

BACKGROUND:
Musculoskeletal disorders affect a third of the U.S. population and are among the most prevalent, costly, and debilitating medical conditions. Basic familiarity with musculoskeletal conditions is essential for all primary care providers, including nurse practitioners (NPs).

PURPOSE:
The purpose of this study was: (1) to estimate the quantity of musculoskeletal education provided in NP programs; (2) to evaluate NPs' perceptions of their own confidence in providing musculoskeletal care versus other areas of primary care; and (3) to determine how well NPs score on a test of basic musculoskeletal knowledge.

METHODS:
An online self-reporting survey was conducted to evaluate NPs' knowledge, competence, and confidence in treating common musculoskeletal disorders.

RESULTS:
Most NPs receive fewer than 10 hours of musculoskeletal education, are subjectively less confident about their musculoskeletal skill set compared to other areas of primary care, and lack the basic knowledge to competently manage musculoskeletal problems in primary care.

CONCLUSION:
The findings of this study confirm earlier conclusions that, like our physician colleagues, the vast majority of nurse practitioners lack adequate preparation to manage common nonsurgical musculoskeletal problems.
Sexual Behaviors and HIV Status: A Population-Based Study Among Older Adults in Rural South Africa
Authors: Rosenberg Molly S. , Gómez-Olivé Francesc X. , Rohr Julia K. , Houle Brian C. , Kabudula Chodziwadziwa W. , Wagner Ryan G. , Salomon Joshua A. , Kahn Kathleen , Berkman Lisa F. , Tollman Stephen M. , Bärnighausen Till 
Published: September 2016

Objective:
To identify the unmet needs for HIV prevention among older adults in rural South Africa.

Methods:
We analyzed data from a population-based sample of 5059 men and women aged 40 years and older from the study Health and Aging in Africa: Longitudinal Studies of INDEPTH Communities (HAALSI), which was carried out in the Agincourt health and sociodemographic surveillance system in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa. We estimated the prevalence of HIV (laboratory-confirmed and self-reported) and key sexual behaviors by age and sex. We compared sexual behavior profiles across HIV status categories with and without age–sex standardization.

Results:
HIV prevalence was very high among HAALSI participants (23%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 21 to 24), with no sex differences. Recent sexual activity was common (56%, 95% CI: 55 to 58) across all HIV status categories. Condom use was low among HIV-negative adults (15%, 95% CI: 14 to 17), higher among HIV-positive adults who were unaware of their HIV status (27%, 95% CI: 22 to 33), and dramatically higher among HIV-positive adults who were aware of their status (75%, 95% CI: 70 to 80). Casual sex and multiple partnerships were reported at moderate levels, with slightly higher estimates among HIV-positive compared to HIV-negative adults. Differences by HIV status remained after age–sex standardization.

Conclusions:
Older HIV-positive adults in an HIV hyperendemic community of rural South Africa report sexual behaviors consistent with high HIV transmission risk. Older HIV-negative adults report sexual behaviors consistent with high HIV acquisition risk. Prevention initiatives tailored to the particular prevention needs of older adults are urgently needed to reduce HIV risk in this and similar communities in sub-Saharan Africa.
Implementation and Operational Research: Active Referral of Children of HIV-Positive Adults Reveals High Prevalence of Undiagnosed HIV
Authors: Wagner Anjuli D. , Mugo Cyrus , Njuguna Irene N. , Maleche-Obimbo Elizabeth , Sherr Kenneth , Inwani Irene W. , Hughes James P. , Wamalwa Dalton C. , John-Stewart Grace C. , Slyker Jennifer A. 
Published: September 2016

Objectives:
Few routine systems exist to test older, asymptomatic children for HIV. Testing all children in the population has high uptake but is inefficient, whereas testing only symptomatic children increases efficiency but misses opportunities to optimize outcomes. Testing children of HIV-infected adults in care may efficiently identify previously undiagnosed HIV-infected children before symptomatic disease.

Methods:
HIV-infected parents in HIV care in Nairobi, Kenya were systematically asked about their children's HIV status and testing history. Adults with untested children ≤12 years old were actively referred and offered the choice of pediatric HIV testing at home or clinic. Testing uptake and HIV prevalence were determined, as were bottlenecks in pediatric HIV testing cascade.

Results:
Of 10,426 HIV-infected adults interviewed, 8,287 reported having children, of whom 3,477 (42%) had children of unknown HIV status, and 611 (7%) had children ≤12 years of unknown HIV status. After implementation of active referral, the rate of pediatric HIV testing increased 3.8-fold from 3.5 to 13.6 children tested per month (Relative risk: 3.8, 95% confidence interval: 2.3 to 6.1). Of 611 eligible adults, 279 (48%) accepted referral and were screened, and 74 (14%) adults completed testing of 1 or more children. HIV prevalence among 108 tested children was 7.4% (95% confidence interval: 3.3 to 14.1%) and median age was 8 years (interquartile range: 2–11); 1 child was symptomatic at testing.

Conclusions:
Referring HIV-infected parents in care to have their children tested revealed many untested children and significantly increased the rate of pediatric testing; prevalence of HIV was high. However, despite increases in pediatric testing, most adults did not complete testing of their children.