Polarization Dynamics of Solid-State Quantum Emitters.

Quantum emitters in solid-state crystals have recently attracted a great deal of attention due to their simple applicability in optical quantum technologies. The polarization of single photons generated by quantum emitters is one of the key parameters that plays a crucial role in various applications, such as quantum computation, which uses the indistinguishability of photons. However, the degree of single-photon polarization is typically quantified using the time-averaged photoluminescence intensity of single emitters, which provides limited information about the dipole properties in solids. In this work, we use single defects in hexagonal boron nitride and nanodiamond as efficient room-temperature single-photon sources to reveal the origin and temporal evolution of the dipole orientation in solid-state quantum emitters. The angles of the excitation and emission dipoles relative to the crystal axes were determined experimentally and then calculated using density functional theory, which resulted in characteristic angles for every specific defect that can be used as an efficient tool for defect identification and understanding their atomic structure. Moreover, the temporal polarization dynamics revealed a strongly modified linear polarization visibility that depends on the excited-state decay time of the individual excitation. This effect can potentially be traced back to the excitation of excess charges in the local crystal environment. Understanding such hidden time-dependent mechanisms can further improve the performance of polarization-sensitive experiments, particularly that for quantum communication with single-photon emitters.

Clinical Features in Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma Stratified By Lymph Node Status.

OBJECTIVE: Cervical lymph node (CLN) metastases (mets) often occur in differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC), especially in the central compartment, and are a major predictor of local recurrence. We examined clinical endpoints in three groups of patients based on status of lymph node involvement: those with definite lymph node involvement (N1), negative lymph nodes (N0), and no lymph nodes resected (Nx). We correlated these endpoints with clinical and pathologic features of these patients. METHODS: Medical records of 261 patients with DTC who underwent thyroidectomy between 2006 and 2018 at our center were reviewed. Lymph node status of patients was categorized based on American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) 8th edition criteria as N1, N0, and Nx. We performed statistical analysis to assess the differences among these groups, using one-way analysis of variance. When significant differences were found, pairwise comparisons were conducted among the three groups. Statistical significance was defined as 2-tailed P<.05 for all tests. RESULTS: There were significant differences among the groups in tumor multicentricity, tumor category/size, AJCC stage, and the presence of thyroglobulin auto-antibodies (TgAbs). There were no difference in age, gender, or histopathology. N1 patients had a higher incidence of multicentricity, larger tumor sizes, and were more likely to have elevated TgAbs. There were no significant differences between the N0 and Nx groups. CONCLUSION: This study shows that larger and multi-centric tumors are associated with increased likelihood of CLN mets in DTC. We suggest increased vigilance for CLN mets in tumors >2 cm, multicentric tumors, and patients with elevated TgAbs. ABBREVIATIONS: AJCC = American Joint Committee on Cancer; CLN = cervical lymph node; DTC = differentiated thyroid cancer; FTC = follicular thyroid cancer; mets = metastases; N0 = no cancer in any lymph nodes; N1 = cancer in a lymph node; N1a = cancer in a central compartment lymph node; N1b = cancer in a lateral neck lymph node; Nx = lymph nodes not resected or examined; PTC = papillary thyroid cancer; TgAb = thyroglobulin auto-antibody.

USA Vs Europe: Who Is Leading the Diabetes Tech Race?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To highlight global advancements in diabetes technology and compare available technologies and device approval processes in the USA and Europe and their impact on safety and innovation. RECENT FINDINGS: The last two decades have seen a rapid growth in diabetes technology driven by the impetus to improve glycemic control, avoid complications of insulin therapy, improve quality of life, and hand more autonomy to individuals with diabetes. Meanwhile, changes to regulatory processes in the USA and Europe aim to facilitate entry of new devices into the marketplace. Major strides have been made in digitization of insulin pens, continuous glucose monitors and their integration with insulin pumps, automated insulin delivery systems, and closed-loop insulin pump systems. The centralized regulatory body in the USA and more decentralized approval bodies in Europe have led to differences in the rate of market availability of diabetes devices. While both US and Europe systems have different advantages and disadvantages in device approval, they continue to struggle with balancing accelerated device access with adequate clinical evidence and monitoring to ensure safety of such devices.

Innovations in Professional Inpatient Diabetes Education.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: In the rapidly evolving and complex field of inpatient diabetes, complex care teams of physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, nurses, and pharmacists are challenged to remain well informed of the latest clinical treatments and health care trends. Traditional continuing medical education (CME) and continuing education unit (CEU) strategies that require travel and/or time away from work pose a major barrier. With advancements in technology, there are media and other electronic strategies for delivering CME/ CEU that may overcome these current challenges. RECENT FINDINGS: Electronic and internet-based formats are growing due to their convenience, ease of use, lower cost, and ready access to large audiences. Some formats are already being used such as computer-based programs, simulations, and mobile CMEs and CEUs. Other strategies could be further explored including hospital credentialing, stewardship programs, and interdisciplinary health care professional education. However, there is little data on the utilization and efficacy of these newer formats. While traditional CME/CEU meetings prevail, there is a need and an emerging trend using electronic and internet based strategies that are particularly suited for inpatient diabetes education. These methods show great potential and deserve further exploration and development.

Prediabetes: Why Should We Care?

A clear link between cardiovascular disease and prediabetes has emerged over the past few years. Recent studies have shown that patients with prediabetes can suffer from coronary artery disease and diastolic heart failure even before progressing to overt diabetes. With this knowledge, physicians must identify prediabetes and take appropriate measures to optimize glycemic control. The pathophysiological defect seen in prediabetes can be managed with lifestyle modifications; thus, it is essential that physicians have a clear understanding of the current recommendations regarding diet and exercise. This review outlines the complications associated with prediabetes, presents an overview of the available pharmacological and surgical therapies that are effective in treating it, and provides a stepwise, multipronged approach for management.