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The article discusses a study which described the relation between terrain subsidence and tectonic framework in Copenhagen and Aalborg in Denmark. The study uses persistent scatteter interferometry (PSI) to map areas of subsidence vulnerable to flooding. It states that the tectonic framework, such as the SE-NW-striking Carlsberg fault zone, can be evidence as a negative flower structure causing weak subsidence.

High resolution spectra emitted by C3+ ions and measured along vertical chords in the divertor of the JT-60U tokamak in presence of an X-point MARFE are compared to synthetic profiles calculated taking into account Doppler and Stark effects but not the Zeeman effect because the latter was suppressed experimentally thanks to a linear polarizer transmitting only the component parallel to the toroidal magnetic field. For each viewing chord, the electron density is obtained using equal ion and electron temperatures determined from C IV line intensities observed with a large band visible spectrometer. In complement to the electron temperature distribution obtained previously from line intensities and collisional-radiative modeling, a spatial distribution of the electron density is obtained here for the JT-60U detached divertor with an X-point MARFE. For spectra measured along the most central viewing chords with respect to the MARFE (intensity peak of the strong radiation), it is suggested from the spectral fitting that the emission comes from two plasma layers whose parameters have been obtained (© 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neutral particles (atoms, molecules) play an important role in thermonuclear fusion magnetic confinement devices. At the very edge of the plasma, close to the wall, density fluctuations with amplitude comparable to the mean density have been reported. In this work, we analyze the effect of these fluctuations on the transport of neutral particles, using a multivariate Gamma model to describe the spatial correlations of fluctuations. Analytical results are obtained in 1D for the average neutral particle density in the presence of scattering. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Objective: It is unknown whether computer-generated, patient-tailored feedback leads to improvements in glycemic control in people with type 2 diabetes.Research Design and Methods: We recruited people with type 2 diabetes aged ≥ 40 years with a glycated hemoglobin (A1C) ≥ 7%, living in Hamilton, Canada, who were enrolled in a community-based program (Diabetes Hamilton) that provided regular evidence-based information and listings of community resources designed to facilitate diabetes self-management. After completing a questionnaire, participants were randomly allocated to either receive or not receive periodic computer-generated, evidence-based feedback on the basis of their questionnaire responses and designed to facilitate improved glycemic control and diabetes self-management. The primary outcome was a change in A1C after 1 year.Results: A total of 465 participants (50% women, mean age 62 years, and mean A1C 7.83%) were randomly assigned, and 12-month A1C values were available in 96% of all participants, at which time the A1C level had decreased by an absolute amount of 0.24 and 0.15% in the intervention and control groups, respectively. The difference in A1C reduction for the intervention versus control group was 0.09% (95% CI -0.08 to 0.26; P = 0.3). No between-group differences in measures of quality of life, diabetes self-management behaviors, or clinical outcomes were observed.Conclusions: Providing computer-generated tailored feedback to registrants of a generic, community-based program that supports diabetes self-management does not lead to lower A1C levels or a better quality of life than participation in the community-based program (augmented by periodic A1C testing) alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Type 2 diabetes is highly prevalent in North America and is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Evidence supports a role for soy protein in the reduction of serum lipids related to CVD risk; however, few studies have focused on adults with type 2 diabetes who are not on lipid-lowering medications and/or do not have diabetic complications. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of soy protein isolate (SPI) consumption on serum lipids in adults with diet-controlled type 2 diabetes. Using a double-blind, randomized, crossover, placebo-controlled intervention study design, adults with diet-controlled type 2 diabetes (n = 29) consumed SRI 180 mg/d aglycone isoflavones) or milk protein isolate (MPI) for 57 d each separated by a 28-d washout period. Twenty-four-hour urine samples were collected on d 54-56 of each treatment for analysis of isoflavones and blood was collected on d 1 and 57 of each treatment and analyzed for serum lipids and apolipoproteins. SPI consumption increased urinary isoflavones compared with MPI. SPI consumption reduced serum LDL cholesterol (P = 0.04), LDL cholesterol:HDL cholesterol (P = 0.02), and apolipoprotein B:apolipoprotein A-I (P = 0.05) compared with MPI. SPI did not affect serum total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triacylglycerol, apolipoprotein B, or apolipoprotein A-I. These data demonstrate that consumption of soy protein can modulate some serum lipids in a direction beneficial for CVD risk in adults with type 2 diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: At high divertor densities as foreseen in ITER, the hydrogen resonance radiation is trapped. This significantly affects the divertor dynamics. The model currently used for photon emission and absorption rates in EIRENE has been improved for the Lyman α and Lyman β lines. All line broadening mechanisms in the atom’s rest frame are retained, including Stark, Zeeman and fine structure effects. The influence of the ion dynamics on Stark broadening is described by a computer simulation technique. A parameterization of simulated spectral line shapes is proposed by using a fit subroutine, which allows for fast evaluation of the model in EIRENE. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate the effect of perioperative insulin infusion on outcomes important to patients.Patients and Methods: We used 6 search strategies including an electronic database search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane CENTRAL, from their inception up to May 1, 2006, and included RCTs of perioperative insulin infusion (with or without glucose targets) measuring outcomes in patients undergoing any surgery. Pairs of reviewers working independently assessed the methodological quality and characteristics of included trials and abstracted data on perioperative outcomes (ie, outcomes that occurred during hospitalization or within 30 days of surgery).Results: We identified 34 eligible trials. In the 14 trials that assessed mortality, there were 68 deaths among 2192 patients randomized to insulin infusion compared with 98 deaths among 2163 patients randomized to control therapy (random-effects pooled relative risk, 0.69; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.51-0.94; 99% CI, 0.46-1.04; I2, 0%; 95% CI, 0.0%-47.4%). Hypoglycemia increased in the intensively treated group (20 trials, 119/1470 patients in insulin infusion vs 48/1476 patients in control group; relative risk, 2.07; 95% CI, 1.29-3.32; 99% CI, 1.09-3.88; I2, 31.5%; 95% CI, 0.0%-59.0%). No significant effect was seen in any other outcomes. The available mortality data represent only 40% of the optimal information size required to reliably detect a plausible treatment effect; potential methodological and reporting biases weaken inferences.Conclusion: Perioperative insulin infusion may reduce mortality but increases hypoglycemia in patients who are undergoing surgery; however, mortality results require confirmation in large and rigorous RCTs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To diagnose recombining plasmas obtained under detachment conditions in axisymmetric divertor regions of tokamaks (fusion devices) like JET, a spectroscopic analysis method has been developed. The method is based on the modeling of entire deuterium emission spectra composed of high-n Balmer lines extending to or beyond the series limit. A numerical code has been constructed by coupling a Stark line shape code to both an analytical approach developed for the smooth merging of lines into the continuum and a collisional-radiative model for the deuterium atomic level populations. The code has been incorporated into a fitting procedure allowing the simultaneous determination of the electron density and temperature of JET detached plasmas from deuterium line and continuum spectra. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The magnetic properties of a series of hydrated and dehydrated spin crossover compounds derived from the 2,6-bis(pyrazol-3-yl)pyridine (bpp) ligand have been reinvestigated and the light-induced crossover studied at 10 K. The capacity of a compound to retain the light-induced HS information has been estimated through the determination of the T(LIESST). The position of each compound in the T(LIESST)–T1/2 diagram has been analyzed and the effect of the nature of the salt, hydration degree and cooperativity have been discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Investigates the parallel Kelvin-Helmholtz instability as a possible explanation for poloidal asymmetries of density fluctuations which reverse with the plasma current direction. Localized modes around the position where the radial gradient of parallel velocity is maximum; Two mechanisms that lead to unstable Kelvin-Helmholtz modes; Instabilities in tokamak edge plasmas.

Background: Evidence of immune-mediated neurological syndromes associated with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) infection is limited. We therefore investigated clinical, serological and CSF features of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients with neurological manifestations. Methods: Consecutive COVID-19 patients with neurological manifestations other than isolated anosmia and/or non-severe headache, and with no previous neurological or psychiatric disorders were prospectively included. Neurological examination was performed in all patients and lumbar puncture with CSF examination was performed when not contraindicated. Serum anti-gangliosides antibodies were tested when clinically indicated. Results: Of the 349 COVID-19 admitted to our center between March 23rd and April 24th 2020, 15 patients (4.3%) had neurological manifestations and fulfilled the study inclusion/exclusion criteria. CSF examination was available in 13 patients and showed lymphocytic pleocytosis in 2 patients: 1 with anti-contactin-associated protein 2 (anti-Caspr2) antibody encephalitis and 1 with meningo-polyradiculitis. Increased serum titer of anti-GD1b antibodies was found in three patients and was associated with variable clinical presentations, including cranial neuropathy with meningo-polyradiculitis, brainstem encephalitis and delirium. CSF PCR for SARS-CoV-2 was negative in all patients. Conclusions: In SARS-Cov-2 infected patients with neurological manifestations, CSF pleocytosis is associated with para- or post-infectious encephalitis and polyradiculitis. Anti-GD1b and anti-Caspr2 autoantibodies can be identified in certain cases, raising the question of SARS-CoV-2-induced secondary autoimmunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper the CHemistry with Aerosol Microphysics in Python (PyCHAM) box model software for aerosol chambers is described and assessed against benchmark simulations for accuracy. The model solves the coupled system of ordinary differential equations for gas-phase chemistry, gas–particle partitioning and gas–wall partitioning. Additionally, it can solve for coagulation, nucleation and particle loss to walls. PyCHAM is open-source, whilst the graphical user interface, modular structure, manual, example plotting scripts, and suite of tests for troubleshooting and tracking the effect of modifications to individual modules have been designed for optimal usability. In this paper, the modelled processes are individually assessed against benchmark simulations, and key parameters are described. Examples of output when processes are coupled are also provided. Sensitivity of individual processes to relevant parameters is illustrated along with convergence of model output with increasing temporal resolution and number of size bins. The latter sensitivity analysis informs our recommendations for model setup. Where appropriate, parameterisations for specific processes have been chosen for their general applicability, with their rationale detailed here. It is intended for PyCHAM to aid the design and analysis of aerosol chamber experiments, with comparison of simulations against observations allowing improvement of process understanding that can be transferred to ambient atmosphere simulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper the CHemistry with Aerosol Microphysics in Python (PyCHAM) box model software for aerosol chambers is described and assessed against benchmark simulations for accuracy. The model solves the coupled system of ordinary differential equations for gas-phase chemistry, gas-particle partitioning and gas-wall partitioning. Additionally, it can solve for coagulation, nucleation and particle loss to walls. PyCHAM is open source, whilst the graphical user interface, modular structure, manual and suite of tests for troubleshooting and tracking the effect of modifications to individual modules have been designed for optimal usability. In this paper, the modelled processes are individually assessed against benchmark simulations, and key parameters described. Examples of output when processes are coupled are also provided. Sensitivity of individual processes to relevant parameters is illustrated along with convergence of model output with increasing temporal and spatial resolution. The latter sensitivity analysis informs our recommendations for model setup. Where appropriate, parameterisations for specific processes have been chosen for their general applicability with their rationale detailed here. It is intended that PyCHAM aids the design and analysis of aerosol chamber experiments, with comparison of simulations against observations allowing improvement of process understanding that can be transferred to ambient atmosphere simulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The n =5–6 (λ =4658Å) and n =6–7 (λ =7726Å) spectral lines emitted by Li-like carbon ions C+3 from magnetic fusion devices based on carbon material are considered for plasma diagnostic purposes. The broadening mechanisms of these lines are examined for plasma conditions relevant to Tokamak divertors (electron densities and temperatures in the ranges 1019–1021 m−3 and 1–10eV). Under these conditions, the broadening mechanisms affecting the above lines are examined with and without the retaining of the magnetic field. The uncertainties on the deduced plasma parameters are also qualitatively estimated when only Stark and Doppler effects are retained while Zeeman and fine structure effects are ignored. The results presented are based on theoretical calculations carried out with the PPP line shape code and an atomic data basis built using Cowan’s code and the most accurate available atomic data for carbon. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We report here the first realization of an artificial branched DNA template where a single wall carbon nanotube is positioned with the necessary geometry of an individually gated field effect transistor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report here the first realization of an artificial branched DNA template where a single wall carbon nanotube is positioned with the necessary geometry of an individually gated field effect transistor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A major reason for biomarker failure is the selection of candidate biomarkers based on inaccurate or incorrect published results. Incorrect research results leading to the selection of unproductive biomarker candidates are largely considered to stem from unintentional research errors. The additional possibility that biomarker research may be actively misdirected by research fraud has been given comparatively little consideration. This review discusses what we believe to be a new threat to biomarker research, namely, the possible systematic production of fraudulent gene knockdown studies that target under-studied human genes. We describe how fraudulent papers may be produced in series by paper mills using what we have described as a 'theme and variations' model, which could also be considered a form of salami slicing. We describe features of these single-gene knockdown publications that may allow them to evade detection by journal editors, peer reviewers, and readers. We then propose a number of approaches to facilitate their detection, including improved awareness of the features of publications constructed in series, broader requirements to post submitted manuscripts to preprint servers, and the use of semi-automated literature screening tools. These approaches may collectively improve the detection of fraudulent studies that might otherwise impede future biomarker research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Physicians dedicate substantial time to documentation. Scribes are sometimes used to improve efficiency by performing documentation tasks, although their impacts have not been prospectively evaluated. Our objective was to assess a scribe program's impact on emergency department (ED) throughput, physician time utilization, and job satisfaction in a large academic emergency medicine practice. Methods: We evaluated the intervention using pre- and post-intervention surveys and administrative data. All site physicians were included. Pre- and post-intervention data were collected in four-month periods one year apart. Primary outcomes included changes in monthly average ED length of stay (LOS), provider-specific average relative value units (RVUs) per hour (raw and normalized to volume), self-reported estimates of time spent teaching, self-reported estimates of time spent documenting, and job satisfaction. We analyzed data using descriptive statistics and appropriate tests for paired pre-post differences in continuous, categorical, and ranked variables. Results: Pre- and post-survey response rates were 76.1% and 69.0%, respectively. Most responded positively to the intervention, although 9.5% reported negative impressions. There was a 36% reduction (25%-50%; p<0.01) in time spent documenting and a 30% increase (11%-46%, p<0.01) in time spent in direct patient contact. No statistically significant changes were seen in job satisfaction or perception of time spent teaching. ED volume increased by 88 patients per day (32-146, p=0.04) pre- to post- and LOS was unchanged; rates of patients leaving against medical advice dropped, and rates of patients leaving without being seen increased. RVUs per hour increased 5.5% and per patient 5.3%; both were statistically significant. No statistically significant changes were seen in patients seen per hour. There was moderate correlation between changes in ED volume and changes in productivity metrics. Conclusion: Scribes were well received in our practice. Documentation time was substantially reduced and redirected primarily to patient care. Despite an ED volume increase, LOS was maintained, with fewer patients leaving against medical advice but more leaving without being seen. RVUs per hour and per patient both increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stochastic processes provide flexible and fast calculations for modeling dynamical interactions between an atom and charged particles. We use a stochastic renewal process for the plasma microfield being the cause of Stark broadening. The accuracy and improvement possibilities of Lyman profiles calculations with a renewal process are analyzed by comparing to ab initio simulations for ion broadening only. Stochastic processes may also be applied to out of equilibrium plasmas. We present our first results for the effect of Langmuir waves on a line broadened by electrons only, and for the changes of atomic populations submitted to strong temperature fluctuations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A line shape model that accounts for low-frequency fluctuations is applied to the Balmer series of the hydrogen isotopes (atomic transitions n → 2). The plasma fluid parameters (density, temperature, etc.) are described as random variables characterized by a prescribed joint probability density function. A special emphasis is devoted to Stark broadened lines, which are sensitive to the plasma density. It is shown that fluctuations can lead to a significant increase of the line width if the fluctuation level Δ N e/〈 N e〉 (with 〈 N e〉 and Δ N e being respectively the density averaged along the line-of-sight and its RMS value) is large. (© 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Characteristic organic aerosol (OA) emission ratios (ERs) and normalized excess mixing ratios (NEMRs) for biomass burning (BB) events have been calculated from ambient measurements recorded during four field campaigns. Normalized OA mass concentrations measured using Aerodyne Research Inc. quadrupole aerosol mass spectrometers (Q-AMS) reveal a systematic variation in average values between different geographical regions. For each region, a consistent, characteristic ratio is seemingly established when measurements are collated from plumes of all ages and origins. However, there is evidence of strong regional and local-scale variability between separate measurement periods throughout the tropical, subtropical, and boreal environments studied. ERs close to source typically exceed NEMRs in the far-field, despite apparent compositional change and increasing oxidation with age. The absence of any significant downwind mass enhancement suggests no regional net source of secondary organic aerosol (SOA) from atmospheric aging of BB sources, in contrast with the substantial levels of net SOA formation associated with urban sources. A consistent trend of moderately reduced ΔOA/ΔCO ratios with aging indicates a small net loss of OA, likely as a result of the evaporation of organic material from initial fire emissions. Variability in ERs close to source is shown to substantially exceed the magnitude of any changes between fresh and aged OA, emphasizing the importance of fuel and combustion conditions in determining OA loadings from biomass burning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The eukaryote-like DNA replication system of the model haloarchaeon Halobacterium NRC-1 is encoded within a circular chromosome and two large megaplasmids or minichromosomes, pNRC100 and pNRC200. We previously showed by genetic analysis that 2 (orc2 and orc10) of the 10 genes coding for Orc-Cdc6 replication initiator proteins were essential, while a third (orc7), located near a highly conserved autonomously replicating sequence, oriC1, was nonessential for cell viability. Here we used whole-genome marker frequency analysis (MFA) and found multiple peaks, indicative of multiple replication origins. The largest chromosomal peaks were located proximal to orc7 (oriC1) and orc10 (oriC2), and the largest peaks on the extrachromosomal elements were near orc9 (oriP1) in both pNRC100 and -200 and near orc4 (oriP2) in pNRC200. MFA of deletion strains containing different combinations of chromosomal orc genes showed that replication initiation at oriC1 requires orc7 but not orc6 and orc8. The initiation sites at oriC1 were determined by replication initiation point analysis and found to map divergently within and near an AT-rich element flanked by likely Orc binding sites. The oriC1 region, Orc binding sites, and orc7 gene orthologs were conserved in all sequenced haloarchaea. Serial deletion of orc genes resulted in the construction of a minimal strain containing not only orc2 and orc10 but also orc9. Our results suggest that replication in this model system is intriguing and more complex than previously thought. We discuss these results from the perspective of the replication strategy and evolution of haloarchaeal genomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving the description of the far scrape-off layer (SOL) in current edge code suites such as SOLPS is the subject of current efforts, given the importance of main chamber plasma wall interactions (first wall recycling and sputtering) in the design and operation of tokamaks. One of the specific features of the far SOL is the large amplitude of turbulent fluctuations. Neutral particles (atom and molecules) are affected by these fluctuations through the rates of atomic physics processes. In accordance with experimentally measured PDF (probability density function) for both the plasma density and temperature fluctuations, n e and T e are modeled using a Beta PDF. Space and time correlations are accounted for by using an autogressive process. The effects of fluctuations on the neutral atoms penetration depth, as well as on the beryllium sputtering yield are discussed (© 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The radiation due to atomic lines in the tokamak edge and divertor can be strongly coupled to the plasma dynamics. Self-consistent (charged particle - atom - photon) simulations carried out for ITER conditions with the transport code B2-EIRENE have indicated modifications of the effective ionization rate induced by photon absorption effects. Up to now, all of the investigations done so far were made assuming a plasma background whose typical spatial variation scales are much larger than the radiation transport scale. In this paper, we examine the validity of this approximation within an effective transport model, relying on a statistical parameterization of the turbulent fluctuations. The model is inspired from the quasilinear theory used for plasma turbulence and assumes a small ratio lturb/ lmfp between the turbulence correlation length and the photon mean free path. We apply the model to calculations of the penetration of a radiation pencil in an optically thick turbulent plasma. The validity of this model for intermediate lturb/ lmfp is next discussed through comparison to a 'model-coefficient' approach, widely used in problems involving linear stochastic differential equations and suitable for arbitrary turbulence correlation length (© 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A coarse-grained kinetic equation for neutral particles (atoms, molecules) in magnetized fusion plasmas, valid on time scales large compared to the turbulence correlation time, is presented. This equation includes the effects of plasma density fluctuations, described by gamma statistics, on the transport of neutral particles. These effects have so far been neglected in plasma edge modeling, in spite of the fact that the amplitude of fluctuations can be of order unity. Density fluctuations are shown to have a marked effect on the screening of neutrals and on the spatial localization of the ionization source, in particular at high density. The coarse-grained equations obtained in this work are readily implemented in edge code suites currently used for fusion plasma analysis and future divertor design (ITER, DEMO). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Type 2 diabetes is highly prevalent in North America and is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Evidence from dietary interventions supports a role for soy protein in the reduction of serum lipids related to CVD risk, however few studies have focused on adults with type 2 diabetes. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of consuming isoflavone-rich soy protein isolate (SPI) on serum lipids in adults with type 2 diabetes. Using a double-blind, randomized, crossover, placebo-controlled intervention study design, adults with diet-controlled type 2 diabetes (n=29) consumed SPI or milk protein isolate (MPI) for 57 days each separated by a 4-week washout period. Fasted blood samples were collected on days 1 and 57 of each treatment period and analyzed for serum lipids and apolipoproteins (apos). Results showed that serum LDL-cholesterol (chol), and the ratios of LDL-chol/HDL-chol and apoB/apoA-I were significantly reduced following consumption of SPI when compared to MPI (p=0.04, p=0.02 and p=0.05, respectively). There were no significant effects of SPI on other serum lipids (total-chol, HDL-chol, triglycerides) or individual apos (apoB, apoA-I). These data demonstrate that consumption of soy protein can modulate serum lipids in a direction beneficial for CVD risk in adults with type 2 diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evidence from observational, animal and cell culture studies support a role for soy protein and its isoflavones in the improvement of glycemic control in type 2 diabetes. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of isoflavone-rich soy protein on markers of glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes. Using a double-blind, randomized, crossover, placebo-controlled intervention study design, adults with diet-controlled type 2 diabetes (n=29) consumed SPI or milk protein isolate (MPI) for 57 days each separated by a 4-week washout period. Fasting blood samples were collected on days 1 and 57 of each treatment period for analysis of fasting plasma glucose and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C). An oral glucose tolerance test was also performed on days 1 and 57 of each treatment period for analysis of postprandial plasma glucose. Results showed no significant differences between treatments for fasting HbA1C, fasting plasma glucose or postprandial plasma glucose response, as summarized by area under the curve. These data do not support a role for soy protein in the improvement of glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes and contribute to a limited literature on the effects of soy protein on the management of type 2 diabetes. Supported by the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario and the Solae Company. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE--It is unknown whether computer-generated, patient-tailored feedback leads to improvements in glycemic control in people with type 2 diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS--We recruited people with type 2 diabetes aged ≥40 years with a glycated hemoglobin (A1C) ≥7%, living in Hamilton, Canada, who were enrolled in a community-based program (Diabetes Hamilton) that provided regular evidence-based information and listings of community resources designed to facilitate diabetes self-management. After completing a questionnaire, participants were randomly allocated to either receive or not receive periodic computer-generated, evidence-based feedback on the basis of their questionnaire responses and designed to facilitate improved glycemic control and diabetes self-management The primary outcome was a change in A1C after 1 year. RESULTS--A total of 465 participants (50% women, mean age 62 years, and mean A1C 7.83%) were randomly assigned, and 12-month A1C values were available in 96% of all participants, at which time the A1C level had decreased by an absolute amount of 0.24 and 0.15% in the intervention and control groups, respectively. The difference in A1C reduction for the intervention versus control group was 0.09% (95% CI -0.08 to 0.26; P = 0.3). No between-group differences in measures of quality of life, diabetes self-management behaviors, or clinical outcomes were observed. CONCLUSIONS--Providing computer-generated tailored feedback to registrants of a generic, community-based program that supports diabetes self-management does not lead to lower A1C levels or a better quality of life than participation in the community-based program (augmented by periodic A1C testing) alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have exceptional physical properties that make them one of the most promising building blocks for future nanotechnologies. They may in particular play an important role in the development of innovative electronic devices in the fields of flexible electronics, ultra-high sensitivity sensors, high frequency electronics, opto-electronics, energy sources and nano-electromechanical systems (NEMS). Proofs of concept of several high performance devices already exist, usually at the single device level, but there remain many serious scientific issues to be solved before the viability of such routes can be evaluated. In particular, the main concern regards the controlled synthesis and positioning of nanotubes. In our opinion, truly innovative use of these nano-objects will come from: (i) the combination of some of their complementary physical properties, such as combining their electrical and mechanical properties; (ii) the combination of their properties with additional benefits coming from other molecules grafted on the nanotubes (this route being particularly relevant for gas- and bio-sensors, opto-electronic devices and energy sources); and (iii) the use of chemically- or bio-directed self-assembly processes to allow the efficient combination of several devices into functional arrays or circuits. In this article, we review our recent results concerning nanotube chemistry and assembly and their use to develop electronic devices. In particular, we present carbon nanotube field effect transistors and their chemical optimization, high frequency nanotube transistors, nanotube-based opto-electronic devices with memory capabilities and nanotube-based nano-electromechanical systems (NEMS). The impact of chemical functionalization on the electronic properties of CNTs is analyzed on the basis of theoretical calculations. To cite this article: V. Derycke et al., C. R. Physique 10 (2009). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

OBJECTIVE: To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCT5) to evaluate the effect of perioperative insulin Infusion on outcomes important to patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We used 6 search strategies Including an electronic database search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane CENTRAL, from their inception up to May 1, 2006, and Included RCT5 of perioperative insulin infusion (with or without glucose targets) measuring outcomes in patients undergoing any surgery. Pairs of reviewers working independently assessed the methodological quality and characteristics of Included trials and abstracted data on perioperative outcomes (ie, outcomes that occurred during hospitalization or within 30 days of surgery). RESULTS: We identified 34 eligible trials. In the 14 trials that assessed mortality, there were 68 deaths among 2192 patients randomized to Insulin infusion compared with 98 deaths among 2163 patients randomized to control therapy (random-effects pooled relative risk, 0.69; 95% confidence Interval [Cl], 0.51- 0.94; 99% CI, 0.46-1.04; F, 0%; 95% CI, 0.0%-47.4%). Hypoglycemia increased in the intensively treated group (20 trials, 119/ 1470 patients in insulin infusion vs 48/1476 patients in control group; relative risk, 2.07; 95% CI, 1.29-332; 99% Cl, 1.09-3.88; F, 31.5%; 95% Cl, 0.0%-590%). No significant effect was seen In any other outcomes. The available mortality data represent only 40% of the optimal information size required to reliably detect a plausible treatment effect; potential methodological and reporting biases weaken Inferences. CONCLUSION: Perioperative insulin infusion may reduce mortality but increases hypoglycemia In patients who are undergoing surgery; however, mortality results require confirmation In large and rigorous RCTs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Radiation transport in divertor plasmas is strongly coupled to the spectral profiles of absorption and emission of the hydrogen isotopes. As a consequence an accurate description of spectral line shapes is required in order to understand the ionization equilibrium in edge plasmas. The Lyα line gives the main contribution to reabsorption. In this work, we present a line shape model which is appropriate to describe the Lyα line in typical divertor conditions expected in tokamaks like JET, Alcator or ITER. Our results are based on an analytical calculation, which predicts the structure and broadening of the line due to combination of fine structure, Zeeman, Stark, and Doppler effects. The model is also applied to Dα line shape and predicts that the contribution of fine structure can be significant. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper reports functionalization of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) via cathodic electropolymerization. Indeed, this technique ensures good control of the grafted polymer (PMAN in our study) on the surface of the substrates (CNTs). The study was done both on single-wall nanotubes (SWNTs) and multi-wall nanotubes (MWNTs) following two distinct approaches: on one hand, the CNTs were dispersed in an organic solution under stirring. This option aims at their functionalization by transient contact with a metallic cathode, but did not give promising results. On the other hand, the CNTs were synthesized (produced) on the surface of an electrode that will be used as cathode in the grafting process. The surface modifications were followed by SEM, XPS, TGA (Thermo Gravimetry Analysis). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A diagnostic method for the determination of the neutral helium diffusion coefficient in the edge of magnetically confined fusion plasmas is developed on the basis of emission spectroscopy and population kinetics. The new collisional-radiative numerical code SOPHIA showed that intercombination transitions are extremely important to describe the qualitative and quantitative behaviour of the line emission and the population flow in diffusive plasmas. Corresponding simulations relevant for edge plasma conditions and the NAGDIS-II plasma simulator are discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]