Quantum randomness introduced through squeezing operations and random number generation.

Quantum random numbers play a crucial role in diverse applications, including cryptography, simulation, and artificial intelligence. In contrast to predictable algorithm-based pseudo-random numbers, quantum physics provides new avenues for generating theoretically true random numbers by exploiting the inherent uncertainty contained in quantum phenomena. Here, we propose and demonstrate a quantum random number generator (QRNG) using a prepared broadband squeezed state of light, where the randomness of the generated numbers entirely originates from the quantum noise introduced by squeezing operation rather than vacuum noise. The relationship between entropy rate and squeezing level is analyzed. Furthermore, we employ a source-independent quantum random number protocol to enhance the security of the random number generator.

Remote and controlled quantum teleportation network of the polarization squeezed state.

Quantum teleportation is a building block in quantum computation and quantum communication. The continuous-variable polarization squeezed state is a key resource in quantum networks, offering advantages for long-distance distribution and direct interfacing of quantum nodes. Although polarization squeezed state has been generated and distributed between remote users, it is a long-standing goal to implement controlled quantum teleportation of the polarization squeezed state with multiple remote users. Here, we propose a feasible scheme to teleport a polarization squeezed state among multiple remote users under control. The polarization state is transferred between different remote quantum networks, and the controlled quantum teleportation of the polarization state can be implemented in one quantum network involving multiple remote users. The results show that such a controlled quantum teleportation can be realized with 36 users through about 6-km free-space or fiber quantum channels, where the fidelity of 0.352 is achieved beyond the classical limit of 0.349 with an input squeezing variance of 0.25. This scheme provides a direct reference for the experimental implementation of remote and controlled quantum teleportation of polarization states, thus enabling more teleportation-based quantum network protocols.

Polydopamine nanoparticles cross-linked hyaluronic acid photothermal hydrogel with cascading immunoinducible effects for in situ antitumor vaccination.

Tumor vaccine, which can effectively prevent tumor recurrence and metastasis, is a promising tool in tumor immunotherapy. However, heterogeneity of tumors and the inability to achieve a cascade effect limit the therapeutic effects of most developing tumor vaccine. We have developed a cascading immunoinducible in-situ mannose-functionalized polydopamine loaded with imiquimod phenylboronic hyaluronic acid nanocomposite gel vaccine (M/P-PDA@IQ PHA) through a boronic ester-based reaction. This reaction utilizes mannose-functionalized polydopamine loaded with imiquimod (M/P-PDA@IQ NAs) as a cross-linking agent to react with phenylboronic-grafted hyaluronic acid. Under near-infrared light irradiation, the M/P-PDA@IQ PHA caused local hyperthermia to trigger immunogenic cell death of tumor cells and tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) releasing. Subsequently, the M/P-PDA@IQ NAs which were gradually released by the pH/ROS/GSH-triggered degradation of M/P-PDA@IQ PHA, could capture and deliver these TAAs to lymph nodes. Finally, the M/P-PDA@IQ NAs facilitated maturation and cross-presentation of dendritic cells, as well as activation of cytotoxic T lymphocytes. Overall, the M/P-PDA@IQ PHA could serve as a novel in situ vaccine to stimulate several key nodes including TAAs release and capture, targeting lymph nodes and enhanced dendritic cells uptake and maturation as well as T cells activation. This cascading immune activation strategy can effectively elicit antitumor immune response.

High-Speed Quantum Radio-Frequency-Over-Light Communication.

Quantum dense coding (QDC) means to transmit two classical bits by only transferring one quantum bit, which has enabled high-capacity information transmission and strengthened system security. Continuous-variable QDC offers a promising solution to increase communication rates while achieving seamless integration with classical communication systems. Here, we propose and experimentally demonstrate a high-speed quantum radio-frequency-over-light (RFOL) communication scheme based on QDC with an entangled state, and achieve a practical rate of 20 Mbps through digital modulation and RFOL communication. This scheme bridges the gap between quantum technology and real-world communication systems, which bring QDC closer to practical applications and offer prospects for further enhancement of metropolitan communication networks.

Stereo-selective cardiac toxicity induced by metconazole via oxidative stress and the wnt/ß-catenin signaling pathway in zebrafish embryos.

Metconazole (MEZ), a chiral triazole fungicide, produces enantioselective adverse effects in non-target organisms. Among MEZ's isomers, cis-MEZ displays robust antimicrobial properties. Evaluating MEZ and cis-MEZ's toxicity may mitigate fungicide usage and safeguard non-target organisms. Our study evaluated the toxicity of MEZ and its cis-isomers at concentrations of 0.02, 0.2, 2, and 4 mg L-1. We report stereoselectivity and severe cardiovascular defects in zebrafish, including pericardial oedema, decreased heart rate, increased sinus venous and bulbous arteries distances, intersegmental vessel defects, and altered cardiovascular development genes (hand2, gata4, nkx2.5, tbx5, vmhc, amhc, dll4, vegfaa, and vegfc). Further, MEZ significantly increased oxidative stress and apoptosis in zebrafish, primarily in the cardiac region. Isoquercetin, an antioxidant found in plants, partially mitigates MEZ-induced cardiac defects. Furthermore, MEZ upregulated the Wnt/ß-catenin pathway genes (wnt3, ß-catenin, axin2, and gsk-3ß) and ß-catenin protein expression. Inhibitor of Wnt Response-1 (IWR-1) rescued MEZ-induced cardiotoxicity. Our findings highlight oxidative stress, altered cardiovascular development genes, and upregulated Wnt/ß-catenin signaling as contributors to cardiovascular toxicity in response to MEZ and cis-MEZ treatments. Importantly, 1R,5S-MEZ exhibited greater cardiotoxicity than 1S,5R-MEZ. Thus, our study provides a comprehensive understanding of cis-MEZ's cardiovascular toxicity in aquatic life.