Asymmetric universal entangling machine

We give a definition of asymmetric universal entangling machine which entangles a system in an unknown state to a specially prepared ancilla. The machine produces a fixed state-independent amount of entanglement in exchange to a fixed degradation of the system state fidelity. We describe explicitly such a machine for any quantum system having $d$ levels and prove its optimality. We show that a $d^2$-dimensional ancilla is sufficient for reaching optimality. The introduced machine is a generalization to a number of widely investigated universal quantum devices such as the symmetric and asymmetric quantum cloners, the symmetric quantum entangler, the quantum information distributor and the universal-NOT gate.Comment: 28 pages, 3 figure

Real-time data monitoring for ulcerative colitis: patient perception and qualitative analysis

Background/Aims:TrueColours ulcerative colitis (TCUC) is a comprehensive web-based program that functions through email, providing direct links to questionnaires. Several similar programs are available, however patient perspectives are unexplored. Methods:A pilot study was conducted to determine feasibility, usability and patient perceptions of real-time data collection (daily symptoms, fortnightly quality of life, 3 monthly outcomes). TCUC was adapted from a web-based program for patients with relapsing-remitting bipolar disorder, using validated UC indices. A semi-structured interview was developed and audio-recorded face-to-face interviews were conducted after 6 months of interaction with TCUC. Transcripts were coded in NVivo11, a qualitative data analysis software package. An inductive approach and thematic analysis was conducted. Results:TCUC was piloted in 66 patients for 6 months. Qualitative analysis currently defies statistical appraisal beyond "data saturation," even if it has more influence on clinical practice than quantitative data. A total of 28 face-to-face interviews were conducted. Six core themes emerged: awareness, control, decision-making, reassurance, communication and burden of treatment. There was a transcending overarching theme of patient empowerment, which cut across all aspects of the TCUC experience. Conclusions:Patient perception of the impact of real-time data collection was extremely positive. Patients felt empowered as a product of the self-monitoring format of TCUC, which may be a way of improving self-management of UC whilst also decreasing the burden on the individual and healthcare services

New pH Responsive Nanovesicular Vectors For Tumor Targeting

A novel vesicular nanosystem was assembled by using pH responsive block copolymers for tumor targeting and intracellular drug release. A poly(gliceroyl-methacrylate-co-C6-imidazoyl-methacryla-te)-mPEG tri- block copolymer was synthesized by RAFT polymerization starting from a mPEG1900-derived chain-transfer agent. This copolymer spontaneously assembles into vesicles at pH 7.4 and rapidly dissociates under conditions that mimics the endosomal compartments, at pH 5. Kinetic stability studies showed that the carrier is stable for 6 hours at pH 7.4 in different conditions. The carrier was efficiently loaded with hydrophilic and hydrophobic fluorescent probes for further in vitro studies to prove active targeting to tumor cells