bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
One-way semi-quantum private comparison protocol without pre-shared keys based on unitary operations
Authors: Gong Li-Hua , Ye Zi-Jie , Liu Chao , Zhou Shun 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Semi-quantum private comparison is a method for private comparison with fewer quantum resources, enabling classical participants to collaborate with a semi-honest third party possessing complete quantum capabilities. A one-way quantum private comparison protocol is devised only by unitary operations. The protocol facilitates one-way transmission between third party (TP) and classical participants in quantum communication, where the classical participants only need to perform unitary operations and measurement operations on the transmitted qubits. In addition, classical participants do not require pre-shared keys. It is shown that the qubit efficiency of this protocol is 12.5%. Finally, security analysis and the simulation results on the IBM Quantum Experience demonstrate the security and the feasibility of this protocol.
Two-point functions of random-length random walk on high-dimensional boxes
Authors: Deng Youjin , Garoni Timothy M , Grimm Jens , Zhou Zongzheng 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
We study the two-point functions of a general class of random-length random walks (RLRWs) on finite boxes in

Z

d

with

d
⩾
3

, and provide precise asymptotics for their behaviour. We show that in a finite box of side length L, the two-point function is asymptotic to the infinite-lattice two-point function when the typical walk length is

o
(

L
2

)

, but develops a plateau when the typical walk length is

Ω
(

L
2

)

. We also numerically study walk length moments and limiting distributions of the self-avoiding walk and Ising model on five-dimensional tori, and find that they agree asymptotically with the known results for the self-avoiding walk on the complete graph, both at the critical point and also for a broad class of scaling windows/pseudocritical points. Furthermore, we show that the two-point function of the finite-box RLRW, with walk length chosen via the complete graph self-avoiding walk, agrees numerically with the two-point functions of the self-avoiding walk and Ising model on five-dimensional tori. We conjecture that these observations in five dimensions should also hold in all higher dimensions.
Advanced picosecond precision Radio Frequency Timer
Authors: Zhamkochyan S. , Kakoyan V. , Abrahamyan S. , Elbakyan H. , Ayvazyan G. , Ayvazyan R. , Ghalumyan A. , Kakoyan A. , Mayilyan S. , Papyan A. , Piloyan A. , Rostomyan H. , Safaryan A. , Sughyan G. , Vardanyan H. , Zohrabyan H. , Annand J. , Livingston K. , Montgomery R. , Achenbach P. , Pochodzalla J. , Balabanski D.L. , Nakamura S.N. , Aprahamian A. , Brodeur M. , Sharyy V. , Yvon D. , Margaryan A. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
A new type of radio frequency (RF) timing technique is presented. It is based on a helical deflector, which performs circular or elliptical sweeps of photo- or secondary electrons, accelerated to keV energies, by means of RF fields in the 500–1000 MHz range. By converting a time distribution of the electrons to a hit position distribution on a circle or ellipse, this device achieves extremely precise timing, similar to streak cameras. Detection of the scanned electrons, using a position sensitive detector based on microchannel plates and a delay line anode, resulted in a timing resolution of 10 ps, which can be potentially improved to 1 ps. RF-Timer-based single photon and heavy ion detectors have potential applications in different fields of science and industry, which include high energy nuclear physics and imaging technologies. This technique could play a crucial role in developing of sub 10 ps Time-of-Flight Positron Emission Tomography.
A numerical study on the aerodynamic effects of dynamic twisting on forward flight flapping wings
Authors: Dong Yuanbo , Song Bifeng , Yang Wenqing , Xue Dong 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
To better understand the secret of natural flying vertebrates such as how humming-birds twist their wings to achieve superb flight ability, we presented a numerical investigation of dynamic twisting based on a hummingbird-like flapping wing model. Computational fluid dynamic simulations were performed to examine the effects of dynamic twisting on the unsteady flow field, the generation of instantaneous aerodynamic forces, and the time-averaged aerodynamic performance. This research reveals the details of leading-edge vortices (LEVs) and the underlying mechanisms behind the positive effects of wing torsion. The results demonstrated that wing torsion can effectively maintain the favorable distribution of effective angle of attack along the wing spanwise, resulting in a higher time-averaged thrust and vertical force. Further, the proper parameters of dynamic twisting can also improve the propulsive efficiency in forward flight. Dynamic twisting also showed a superior ability in controlling the airflow separation over the wing surface and maintaining the stability of the LEV. The amplitudes of effective angle of attack associated with the highest peak thrust and the maximum thrust-to-power at different advanced ratios were also explored, and it was found that the amplitudes decrease with increasing advanced ratio. To improve the efficiency during larger advanced ratio, specific modifications to the pitching of the wing were proposed in this work. The research in this paper has promising implications for the bio-inspired flapping wing.
A biomimetic orthogonal flow sensor based on an asymmetric optical fiber sensory structure for marine sensing
Authors: Wang Yujia , Song Mingwang , Fu Xianping 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
With increasing attention on the world’s oceans, a significant amount of research has been focused on the sensing of marine-related parameters in recent years. In this paper, a bioinspired flow sensor with corrosion resistance, anti-interference capability, a portable design structure, easy integration, and directional sensing ability is presented to realize flow speed sensing in open water. The sensor is realized by a flexible artificial cupula that seals one side of an optical fiber acting as an artificial kinocilium. Below the artificial kinocilium, an encapsulated s-tapered optical fiber mimics the fish neuromast sensory mechanism and is supported by a 3D-printed structure that acts as the artificial supporting cell. To characterize the sensor, the optical transmission spectra of the sensory fiber under a set of water flow velocities and four orthogonal directions were monitored. The sensor’s peak intensity responses were found to demonstrate flow sensing ability for velocity and direction, proving that this biomimetic portable sensing structure is a promising candidate for flow sensing in marine environments.
Analyzing the kinematics and longitudinal aerodynamics of a four-wing bionic aircraft
Authors: Wang Lishuang , Shi Zhiwei , Geng Xi , Tong Shengxiang , Chen Zhen 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
This paper designs a bionic aircraft model equipped with multiple degrees of freedom to study the inertial force equation and the aerodynamic interaction between its forewings and hindwings. Each wing’s phase difference angle (PDA) and stroke plane angle (SPA) are independently adjustable. Employing the kinematic equation of a single wing, we establish a model for the inertial force of the four-wing aircraft, validating its accuracy through experimental comparisons. Furthermore, we analyze various combinations of PDA and SPA parameters for the fore- and hindwings to ascertain the most efficient aerodynamic motion modes. Our findings reveal that aerodynamic interference between the fore- and hindwings tends to be unfavorable, predominantly due to the hindwings being exposed to the wake generated by the forewings, hindering their lift-capturing ability. Nevertheless, a specific PDA = 270° (forewing ahead of hindwing 270°) helps mitigate this interference across a wider range of SPA. Interestingly, when the stroke plane aligns parallel to the horizontal direction, asynchronous flapping of the fore- and hindwings, forming a lift mechanism akin to clap-and-fling wings, positively impacts lift. Consequently, staggered flapping of the fore- and hindwings reduces fuselage jitter and alleviates aerodynamic interference through specialized PDA, resulting in a temporary lift enhancement. The purpose of this study is to provide theoretical support for the longitudinal attitude control of four-wing aircraft.
Advantages and limitations of using cell viability assays for 3D bioprinted constructs
Authors: Avnet Sofia , Pompo Gemma Di , Borciani Giorgia , Fischetti Tiziana , Graziani Gabriela , Baldini Nicola 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Bioprinting shows promise for bioengineered scaffolds and three-dimensional (3D) disease models, but assessing the viability of embedded cells is challenging. Conventional assays are limited by the technical problems that derive from using multi-layered bioink matrices dispersing cells in three dimensions. In this study, we tested bioprinted osteogenic bioinks as a model system. Alginate- or gelatin-based bioinks were loaded with/without ceramic microparticles and osteogenic cells (bone tumor cells, with or without normal bone cells). Despite demonstrating 80%–90% viability through manual counting and live/dead staining, this was time-consuming and operator-dependent. Moreover, for the alginate-bioprinted scaffold, cell spheroids could not be distinguished from single cells. The indirect assay (alamarBlue), was faster but less accurate than live/dead staining due to dependence on hydrogel permeability. Automated confocal microscope acquisition and cell counting of live/dead staining was more reproducible, reliable, faster, efficient, and avoided overestimates compared to manual cell counting by optical microscopy. Finally, for 1.2 mm thick 3D bioprints, dual-photon confocal scanning with vital staining greatly improved the precision of the evaluation of cell distribution and viability and cell–cell interactions through the z-axis. In summary, automated confocal microscopy and cell counting provided superior accuracy for the assessment of cell viability and interactions in 3D bioprinted models compared to most commonly and currently used techniques.
Challenges in distinguishing functional proteins from polyproteins in databases: implications for drug discovery
Authors: Llop-Peiró Ariadna , Pujadas Gerard , Garcia-Vallvé Santiago 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
This opinion article addresses a major issue in molecular biology and drug discovery by highlighting the complications that arise from combining polyproteins and their functional products within the same database entry. This problem, exemplified by the discovery of novel inhibitors for the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) main protease, has an influence on our ability to retrieve precise data and hinders the development of targeted therapies. It also emphasizes the need for improved database practices and underscores their significance in advancing scientific research. Furthermore, it emphasizes the need of learning from the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in order to improve global preparedness for future health crises.
Clinical and experimental treatment of primary humoral immunodeficiencies
Authors: Szaflarska Anna , Lenart Marzena , Rutkowska-Zapała Magdalena , Siedlar Maciej 
Published: February 2024

SummarySelective IgA deficiency (sIgAD), common variable immunodeficiency (CVID), and transient hypogammaglobulinemia of infancy (THI) are the most frequent forms of primary antibody deficiencies. Difficulties in initial diagnosis, especially in the early childhood, the familiar occurrence of these diseases, as well as the possibility of progression to each other suggest common cellular and molecular patomechanism and a similar genetic background. In this review, we discuss both similarities and differences of these three humoral immunodeficiencies, focusing on current and novel therapeutic approaches. We summarize immunoglobulin substitution, antibiotic prophylaxis, treatment of autoimmune diseases, and other common complications, i.e. cytopenias, gastrointestinal complications, and granulomatous disease. We discuss novel therapeutic approaches such as allogenic stem cell transplantation and therapies targeting-specific proteins, dependent on the patient’s genetic defect. The diversity of possible therapeutics models results from a great heterogeneity of the disease variants, implying the need of personalized medicine approach as a future of primary humoral immunodeficiencies treatment.
A Randomized, Double-Blind, Phase 3 Safety and Efficacy Study of Ridinilazole Versus Vancomycin for Treatment of Clostridioides difficile Infection: Clinical Outcomes With Microbiome and Metabolome Correlates of Response
Authors: Okhuysen Pablo C , Ramesh Mayur S , Louie Thomas , Kiknadze Nino , Torre-Cisneros Julian , de Oliveira Claudia Murta , Van Steenkiste Christophe , Stychneuskaya Alena , Garey Kevin W , Garcia-Diaz Julia , Li Jianling , Duperchy Esther , Chang Betty Y , Sukbuntherng Juthamas , Montoya Jose G , Styles Lori , Clow Fong , James Danelle , Dubberke Erik R , Wilcox Mark 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background
Exposure to antibiotics predisposes to dysbiosis and Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) that can be severe, recurrent (rCDI), and life-threatening. Nonselective drugs that treat CDI and perpetuate dysbiosis are associated with rCDI, in part due to loss of microbiome-derived secondary bile acid (SBA) production. Ridinilazole is a highly selective drug designed to treat CDI and prevent rCDI.

Methods
In this phase 3 superiority trial, adults with CDI, confirmed with a stool toxin test, were randomized to receive 10 days of ridinilazole (200 mg twice daily) or vancomycin (125 mg 4 times daily). The primary endpoint was sustained clinical response (SCR), defined as clinical response and no rCDI through 30 days after end of treatment. Secondary endpoints included rCDI and change in relative abundance of SBAs.

Results
Ridinilazole and vancomycin achieved an SCR rate of 73% versus 70.7%, respectively, a treatment difference of 2.2% (95% CI: −4.2%, 8.6%). Ridinilazole resulted in a 53% reduction in recurrence compared with vancomycin (8.1% vs 17.3%; 95% CI: −14.1%, −4.5%; P = .0002). Subgroup analyses revealed consistent ridinilazole benefit for reduction in rCDI across subgroups. Ridinilazole preserved microbiota diversity, increased SBAs, and did not increase the resistome. Conversely, vancomycin worsened CDI-associated dysbiosis, decreased SBAs, increased Proteobacteria abundance (∼3.5-fold), and increased the resistome.

Conclusions
Although ridinilazole did not meet superiority in SCR, ridinilazole greatly reduced rCDI and preserved microbiome diversity and SBAs compared with vancomycin. These findings suggest that treatment of CDI with ridinilazole results in an earlier recovery of gut microbiome health.
Clinical Trials Registration.Ri-CoDIFy 1 and 2: NCT03595553 and NCT03595566.
Non-KPC Attributes of Newer β-lactam/β-lactamase Inhibitors, Part 1: Enterobacterales and Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Fratoni Andrew J , Gethers Matthew L , Nicolau David P , Kuti Joseph L 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Gram-negative antibiotic resistance continues to grow as a global problem due to the evolution and spread of β-lactamases. The early β-lactamase inhibitors (BLIs) are characterized by spectra limited to class A β-lactamases and ineffective against carbapenemases and most extended spectrum β-lactamases. In order to address this therapeutic need, newer BLIs were developed with the goal of treating carbapenemase producing, carbapenem resistant organisms (CRO), specifically targeting the Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC). These BL/BLI combination drugs, avibactam/avibactam, meropenem/vaborbactam, and imipenem/relebactam, have proven to be indispensable tools in this effort. However, non-KPC mechanisms of resistance are rising in prevalence and increasingly challenging to treat. It is critical for clinicians to understand the unique spectra of these BL/BLIs with respect to non-KPC CRO. In Part 1of this 2-part series, we describe the non-KPC attributes of the newer BL/BLIs with a focus on utility against Enterobacterales and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Win Ratio Analyses of Piperacillin-Tazobactam Versus Meropenem for Ceftriaxone-Nonsusceptible Escherichia coli or Klebsiella pneumoniae Bloodstream Infections: Post Hoc Insights From the MERINO Trial
Authors: Hardy Melissa , Harris Patrick N A , Paterson David L , Chatfield Mark D , Mo Yin ,   for the MERINO Trial Investigators, Tambyah Paul A , Lye David C , Lee Tau H , Yilmaz Mesut , Alenazi Thamer H , Arabi Yaseen , Falcone Marco , Bassetti Matteo , Righi Elda , Rogers Benjamin A , Kanj Souha , Bhally Hasan , Iredell Jon , Mendelson Marc , Boyles Tom H , Looke David , Miyakis Spiros , Walls Genevieve , Khamis Mohammed Al , Zikri Ahmed , Crowe Amy , Ingram Paul , Daneman Nick , Griffin Paul , Athan Eugene , Lorenc Penelope , Baker Peter , Roberts Leah , Beatson Scott A , Harris-Brown Tiffany , Peleg Anton Y 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background
Clinical trials of treatments for serious infections commonly use the primary endpoint of all-cause mortality. However, many trial participants survive their infection and this endpoint may not truly reflect important benefits and risks of therapy. The win ratio uses a hierarchical composite endpoint that can incorporate and prioritize outcome measures by relative clinical importance.

Methods
The win ratio methodology was applied post hoc to outcomes observed in the MERINO trial, which compared piperacillin-tazobactam with meropenem. We quantified the win ratio with a primary hierarchical composite endpoint, including all-cause mortality, microbiological relapse, and secondary infection. A win ratio of 1 would correspond to no difference between the 2 antibiotics, while a ratio &lt;1 favors meropenem. Further analyses were performed to calculate the win odds and to introduce a continuous outcome variable in order to reduce ties.

Results
With the hierarchy of all-cause mortality, microbiological relapse, and secondary infection, the win ratio estimate was 0.40 (95% confidence interval [CI], .22–.71]; P = .002), favoring meropenem over piperacillin-tazobactam. However, 73.4% of the pairs were tied due to the small proportion of events. The win odds, a modification of the win ratio accounting for ties, was 0.79 (95% CI, .68–.92). The addition of length of stay to the primary composite greatly minimized the number of ties (4.6%) with a win ratio estimate of 0.77 (95% CI, .60–.99; P = .04).

Conclusions
The application of the win ratio methodology to the MERINO trial data illustrates its utility and feasibility for use in antimicrobial trials.
Effect of Obesity on the Exposure of Long-acting Cabotegravir and Rilpivirine: A Modeling Study
Authors: Bettonte Sara , Berton Mattia , Stader Felix , Battegay Manuel , Marzolini Catia 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background
Obesity is increasingly prevalent among people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV, PWH). Obesity can reduce drug exposure; however, limited data are available for long-acting (LA) antiretrovirals. We performed in silico trials using physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling to determine the effect of obesity on the exposure of LA cabotegravir and rilpivirine after the initial injection and after multiple injections.

Methods
Our PBPK model was verified against available clinical data for LA cabotegravir and rilpivirine in normal weight/ overweight (body mass index [BMI] &lt;30 kg/m2) and in obese (BMI &gt;30 kg/m2). Cohorts of virtual individuals were generated to simulate the exposure of LA cabotegravir/rilpivirine up to a BMI of 60 kg/m2. The fold change in LA cabotegravir and rilpivirine exposures (area under the curve [AUC]) and trough concentrations (Cmin) for monthly and bimonthly administration were calculated for various BMI categories relative to normal weight (18.5–25 kg/m2).

Results
Obesity was predicted to impact more cabotegravir than rilpivirine with a decrease in cabotegravir AUC and Cmin of &gt;35% for BMI &gt;35 kg/m2 and in rilpivirine AUC and Cmin of &gt;18% for BMI &gt;40 kg/m2 at steady-state. A significant proportion of morbidly obese individuals were predicted to have both cabotegravir and rilpivirine Cmin below the target concentration at steady-state with the bimonthly administration, but this was less frequent with the monthly administration.

Conclusions
Morbidly obese PWH are at risk of presenting suboptimal Cmin for cabotegravir/rilpivirine after the first injection but also at steady-state particularly with the bimonthly administration. Therapeutic drug monitoring is advised to guide dosing interval adjustment.
Pulmonary vein narrowing after pulsed field versus thermal ablation
Authors: Mansour Moussa , Gerstenfeld Edward P , Patel Chinmay , Natale Andrea , Whang William , Cuoco Frank A , Mountantonakis Stavros E , Gibson Douglas N , Harding John D , Holland Scott K , Achyutha Anitha B , Schneider Christopher W , Mugglin Andrew S , Albrecht Elizabeth M , Stein Kenneth M , Lehmann John W , Reddy Vivek Y 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Aims
When it occurs, pulmonary vein (PV) stenosis after atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation is associated with significant morbidity. Even mild-to-moderate PV narrowing may have long-term implications. Unlike thermal ablation energies, such as radiofrequency (RF) or cryothermy, pulsed field ablation (PFA) is a non-thermal modality associated with less fibrotic proliferation. Herein, we compared the effects of PFA vs. thermal ablation on PV narrowing after AF ablation.

Methods and results
ADVENT was a multi-centre, randomized, single-blind study comparing PFA (pentaspline catheter) with thermal ablation—force-sensing RF or cryoballoon (CB)—to treat drug-refractory paroxysmal AF. Pulmonary vein diameter and aggregate cross-sectional area were obtained by baseline and 3-month imaging. The pre-specified, formally tested, secondary safety endpoint compared a measure of PV narrowing between PFA vs. thermal groups, with superiority defined by posterior probability &gt; 0.975. Among subjects randomized to PFA (n = 305) or thermal ablation (n = 302), 259 PFA and 255 thermal ablation (137 RF and 118 CB) subjects had complete baseline and 3-month PV imaging. No subject had significant (≥70%) PV stenosis. Change in aggregate PV cross-sectional area was less with PFA (−0.9%) than thermal ablation (−12%, posterior probability &gt; 0.999)—primarily driven by the RF sub-cohort (−19.5%) vs. CB sub-cohort (−3.3%). Almost half of all PFA PV diameters did not decrease, but the majority (80%) of RF PVs decreased, regardless of PV anatomic location.

Conclusion
In this first randomized comparison of PFA vs. thermal ablation, PFA resulted in less PV narrowing—thereby underscoring the qualitatively differential and favourable impact of PFA on PV tissue.