Absorption Rate Research Articles

Comparative study of fibers extracted from the stems and roots of the Cameroonian pennissetum purpureum for their applications in compressed earth brick reinforcement and textile engineering

This work focuses on the extraction and experimental characterization of pennisetum purpureum fibers extracted from stems and roots, harvested in the Batié Kingdom, in the West Region of Cameroon. After extracting fibers using the boiling water technique, they are chemically treated to improve their properties and performance and to facilitate their incorporation into various composite materials. For the physical characterizations, it is measured: the absolute and apparent densities, the linear mass, the water absorption rate, and the diameter via the microscope. The mean values of the diameters and the measure of their frequency distributions are calculated, followed by the statistical analysis using the maximum entropy principle, in order to find the most probable diameter necessary for technological applications. For the mechanical properties, only the tensile tests are performed, with the determination of the young modulus of both the stems and roots. The results thus obtained showed that the fibers of the stems have an absolute density of (1.35 g/cm3), a linear mass of (54.6 tex), an apparent density of (0.45 g/cm3), a water content of (12.73%), an absorption rate of (142.46%), a porosity of (65.91%), a mean diameter of (7 mm), an elastic modulus of (3.98 GPa), a tensile strength of value of (1186.59 MPa) and an elongation of 16.17%, while the root fibers have an absolute density of (1.34 g/cm3), a linear mass (16.76 tex), an apparent density of (0.37845 g/cm3), a water content of (12.25%), an absorption rate of (193.16%), a porosity of (71.92%), a diameter of (4 mm), an elastic modulus of (1.55 GPa), a tensile strength of a value of (1960.35 MPa) and an elongation of 60.6%. Thus, the fibers of the stems have good mechanical properties, which make them an appropriate material in several applications, such as the reinforcement of composite materials.

Discovery of α-amylase and α-glucosidase dual inhibitors from NPASS database for management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A chemoinformatic approach

Postprandial hyperglycemia, typical manifestation of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), is associated with notable global morbidity and mortality. Preventing the advancement of this condition by delaying the rate of glucose absorption through inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymatic activities is of utmost importance. Finding a safe antidiabetic drug is essential since those that are currently on the market have drawbacks like unpleasant side effects. The current study utilized computer-aided drug design (CADD), as a quick and affordable method to find a substitute drug template that can be used to control postprandial hyperglycemia by modulating the activity of α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes. The Natural Products Activity and Species database (NPASS) (30,926 compounds) was screened in silico, with a focus on evaluating drug-likeness, toxicity profiles and ability to bind on a target protein. Two molecules NPC204580 (Chrotacumine C) and NPC137813 (1-O-(2-Methoxy-4-Acetylphenyl)-6-O-(E-Cinnamoyl)-Beta-D-Glucopyranoside) were identified as potential dual inhibitors for α-amylase and α-glucosidase with free binding energies of -14.46 kcal/mol and -12.58 kcal/mol for α-amylase, and -8.42 kcal/mol and -8.76 kcal/mol for α-glucosidase, respectively. The molecules showed ionic, H-bonding and hydrophobic interactions with critical amino acid residues of both enzymes. Moreover, 100 ns molecular dynamic simulations showed that both molecules are stable on the receptors’ active sites based on root mean square deviation (RMSD), root mean square fluctuation (RMSF), and the Generalized Born surface area (GBSA) energy calculated. The two compounds are thus promising therapeutic agents for T2DM that merit further investigation due to their excellent binding energies, encouraging pharmacokinetics, toxicity profiles, and stability as demonstrated in simulated studies.

Isolation and Characterization of a Novel Escherichia Bacteriophage with Potential to Control Multidrug-Resistant Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli and Biofilms

Background/Objectives: Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) infection is a significant problem for the global chicken industry, as it decreases animal welfare and is associated with substantial economic losses. Traditionally, APEC infections have been controlled through the use of antibiotics, which has led to an increased prevalence of antibiotic-resistant E. coli. Therefore, developing alternative treatments for APEC infection is crucial. Methods: In this study, an Escherichia phage specific to multidrug-resistant (MDR) APEC, designated as phage vB_EcoP_PW8 (phage vECPW8), was isolated. The morphology, phage adsorption to host cells, one-step growth curve, thermal stability, pH stability, whole-genome sequencing, antibacterial ability, and antibiofilm efficacy of phage vECPW8 were evaluated. Results: The results demonstrated that phage vECPW8 has a Podoviridae morphology and is effective at lysing bacteria. Phage vECPW8 exhibited a high absorption rate to bacterial cells (more than 85% within 10 min) and had a latent period of 20 min, with a burst size of 143 plaque-forming units per cell. Additionally, phage vECPW8 showed good temperature and pH stability. The phage displayed strong antibacterial activity in vitro, and its efficacy in controlling bacteria was confirmed through scanning electron microscopy. Whole-genome sequencing revealed that the phage has a linear genome with 69,579 base pairs. The genome analysis supported the safety of the phage, as no toxin, virulence, or resistance-related genes were detected. Phage vECPW8 was identified as a novel lytic phage in the Gamaleyavirus genus and Schitoviridae family. The phage also demonstrated antibiofilm efficacy by reducing and preventing biofilm formation, as evidenced by biofilm biomass and bacterial cell viability measurements. Conclusions: These results indicate that phage vECPW8 is a promising candidate for the effective treatment of MDR APEC infections in poultry.

Orientation‐independent quantification of macromolecular proton fraction in tissues with suppression of residual dipolar coupling

AbstractQuantitative magnetization transfer (MT) imaging enables noninvasive characterization of the macromolecular environment of tissues. However, recent work has highlighted that the quantification of MT parameters using saturation radiofrequency (RF) pulses exhibits orientation dependence in ordered tissue structures, potentially confounding its clinical applications. Notably, in tissues with ordered structures, such as articular cartilage and myelin, the residual dipolar coupling (RDC) effect can arise owing to incomplete averaging of dipolar–dipolar interactions of water protons. In this study, we demonstrated the confounding effect of RDC on quantitative MT imaging in ordered tissues can be suppressed by using an emerging technique known as macromolecular proton fraction mapping based on spin‐lock (MPF‐SL). The off‐resonance spin‐lock RF pulse in MPF‐SL could be designed to generate a strong effective spin‐lock field to suppress RDC without violating the specific absorption rate and hardware limitations in clinical scans. Furthermore, suppressing the water pool contribution in MPF‐SL enabled the application of a strong effective spin‐lock field without confounding effects from direct water saturation. Our findings were experimentally validated using human knee specimens and healthy human cartilage. The results demonstrated that MPF‐SL exhibits lower sensitivity to tissue orientation compared with ,, and saturation‐pulse‐based MT imaging. Consequently, MPF‐SL could serve as a valuable orientation‐independent technique for the quantification of MPF.

Development of surface-texturized black silicon through metal-assisted chemical etching and its application in the thermophotovoltaic field: a review and recommendation

Abstract The Shockley-Queisser limit poses a significant challenge in solar technology research, limiting the theoretical efficiency to around 30%. Thermophotovoltaic (TPV) systems have emerged as a solution by incorporating a thermal absorber in traditional solar cell setups to achieve total efficiency beyond the limits. The efficiency of the overall system heavily depends on the performance and quality of the thermal absorber, which absorbs photons from the heat source and transfers them to the TPV cell. However, complex and expensive fabrication processes have hindered widespread adoption of TPV technology. The well-established metal assisted chemical etching (MACE) method could be the best choice to mitigate these as it is a cost-effective, scalable, and mass-production-friendly process, which is widely used for surface texturization, creating nanostructures like nanopores, pyramids, and nanowires. MACE
technique is also suitable for producing highly efficient silicon-based thermal absorbers with over 90% absorption rate, which can contribute to increased total conversion efficiency. However, it does not come without challenges such as maintaining control over the etch rate in order to achieve uniformity. This paper comprehensively reviews the utilization of MACE for fabricating silicon-based thermal absorbers in TPV systems with the range of effective wavelengths of 600 – 2000 nm which corresponds to the energy level of 0.55 – 1.85 eV. The advantages and challenges of MACE, along with characterization techniques, are extensively discussed. By providing valuable insights, this paper aims to support researchers interested in advancing TPV technology.

Vanadium dioxide and a graphene-based ultra-wideband absorption and polarization conversion switchable terahertz device

A multifunctional terahertz functional device based on vanadium dioxide (VO2) and graphene is proposed, which can realize ultra-wideband absorption and polarization conversion. When the VO2 is in the insulating state, the device can achieve the polarization conversion function to convert the incident wave into the corresponding cross-polarized wave. Polarization conversion ratios (PCRs) can exceed 90% in the 2.1–8 THz frequency range; in the 3–7.5 THz range, the PCR can be more than 95%. When VO2 is in the metallic state and the graphene Fermi energy is 0.9 eV, the device can realize a broadband absorption function. An absorption rate of more than 90% can be achieved over a wide frequency range of 3.3–7.7 THz. In addition, the polarization conversion device can maintain high performance in broadband polarization conversion at incident angles no greater than 40°. The absorber device also exhibits insensitivity to both incident and polarization angles. These advantages which make the proposed multifunctional terahertz functional device have a wide range of applications in the fields of terahertz imaging, sensing, communication, and so on.

Calcium Transport and Enrichment in Microorganisms: A Review

Calcium is a vital trace element for the human body, and its deficiency can result in a range of pathological conditions, including rickets and osteoporosis. Despite the numerous types of calcium supplements currently available on the market, these products are afflicted with a number of inherent deficiencies, such as low calcium content, poor aqueous solubility, and low human absorption rate. Many microorganisms, particularly beneficial microorganisms, including edible fungi, lactic acid bacteria, and yeast, are capable of absorbing and enriching calcium, a phenomenon that has been widely documented. This opens the door to the potential utilization of microorganisms as novel calcium enrichment carriers. However, the investigation of calcium-rich foods from microorganisms still faces many obstacles, including a poor understanding of calcium metabolic pathways in microorganisms, a relatively low calcium enrichment rate, and the slow growth of strains. Therefore, in order to promote the development of calcium-rich products from microorganisms, this paper provides an overview of the impacts of calcium addition on strain growth, calcium enrichment rate, antioxidant system, and secondary metabolite production. Additionally, it highlights calcium transport and enrichment mechanisms in microorganism cells and offers a detailed account of the progress made on calcium-binding proteins, calcium transport pathways, and calcium storage and release. This paper offers insights for further research on the relevant calcium enrichment in microorganism cells.

Accelerated weathering of construction‐grade limestone for CO2 absorption

AbstractAccelerated weathering of limestone (AWL) process efficiently captures CO2 from point source emissions. However, despite achieving an outstanding capture efficiency of 73.51 %, lab‐grade (LG) limestone with 99.90 % CaCO3 as an absorbent is costly ($2757.70/t), making commercialization of AWL impractical. This work delves into the viability of utilizing construction‐grade (CG) limestone (93.26% purity) for the AWL process facilitated by potable water in an absorption tower for post‐combustion capture. The result shows that CG limestone achieves comparable CO2 capture efficiency of 8.0–74.68% and bicarbonate (Ca(HCO3)2) concentration of 0.63–3.10 mM compared with LG limestone. However, LG limestone has 0.29 mol CO2/mol CaCO3 higher CO2 absorption capacity and a faster absorption rate than CG limestone, indicating a somewhat better CO2 capture performance. Nevertheless, CG limestone offered a more cost‐effective alternative, with a $2735.24 lower cost per ton of CaCO3 and a $2651.63 per ton CO2 lower CO2 capturing cost at the highest carbon capture efficiency (HCCE) condition compared to LG limestone. The kinetic analysis shows that the forward reactions in the AWL process are significantly faster at elevated CO2 concentration, with the mass transfer coefficient affirming that CO2 dissolves faster than CaCO3, in line with prior research. Thus, this work validates that CG limestone‐based AWL achieves comparable CO2 capture performance to that of LG limestone, offering a cost‐efficient alternative. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

FDA and EMA Oversight of Disruptive Science on Application of Finite Absorption Time (F.A.T.) Concept in Oral Drug Absorption: Time for Scientific and Regulatory Changes

Background: It has been demonstrated that the concept of infinite absorption time, associated with the absorption rate constant, which drives a drug’s gastrointestinal absorption rate, is not physiologically sound. The recent analysis of oral drug absorption data based on the finite absorption time (F.A.T.) concept and the relevant physiologically based finite-time pharmacokinetic (PBFTPK) models developed provided a better physiologically sound description of oral drug absorption. Methods: In this study, we re-analyzed, using PBFTPK models, seven data sets of ketoprofen, amplodipine, theophylline (three formulations), and two formulations (reference, test) from a levonorgestrel bioequivalence study. Equations for one-compartment-model drugs, for the estimation of fraction of dose absorbed or the bioavailable fraction exclusively from oral data, were developed. Results: In all cases, meaningful estimates for (i) the number of absorption stages, namely, one for ketoprofen and the levonorgestrel formulations, two for amlodipine, the immediate-release theophylline formulation, and the extended-release Theotrim formulation, and three for the extended-release Theodur formulation, (ii) the duration of each absorption stage and the corresponding drug input rate, and (iii) the total duration of drug absorption, which ranged from 0.75 h (ketoprofen) to 11.6 h for Theodur were derived. Estimates for the bioavailable fraction of ketoprofen and two theophylline formulations exhibiting one-compartment-model kinetics were derived. Conclusions: This study provides insights into the detailed characteristics of oral drug absorption. The use of PBFTPK models in drug absorption analysis can be leveraged as a computational framework to discontinue the perpetuation of the mathematical fallacy of classical pharmacokinetic analysis based on the absorption rate constant as well as in the physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) studies and pharmacometrics. The present study is an additional piece of evidence for the scientific and regulatory changes required to be implemented by the regulatory agencies in the not-too-distant future.

Broadband polarization-insensitive terahertz absorber based on Ta2O5 snowflake-like structure

Abstract In this paper, an ultra-broadband tantalum pentoxide (Ta2O5) all-dielectric metamaterial absorber is proposed from the far-infrared to the terahertz range, which exhibits polarization-insensitive and wide-angle characteristics. The absorber consistently demonstrates an impressive absorption rate exceeding 90% within the frequency range from 1.1 THz to 20 THz. Such an absorber can have a bandwidth and relative bandwidth ratio of 18.9 THz and 179.15%. We employ an equivalent circuit model to simulate the performance of the absorber using transmission line theory, which facilitates near-perfect absorption by finely tuning the geometrical parameters of the structure to match the input impedance with that of free space. Detailed calculations and analyses of the electric and magnetic field distributions, as well as power loss density, are presented to clarifying the underlying mechanisms of absorption. The design of the proposed absorber inherently provides insensitivity to polarization angles and sustains superior absorption efficiency at substantial incidence angles. An exhaustive exploration of the influence of structural variations on the performance of the absorber has been conducted. Looking ahead, the proposed absorber can be potential application in enhanced terahertz imaging, terahertz communication systems, novel energy harvesting solutions and broad scientific research endeavours.

Highly sensitive quad-ray shaped polarization insensitive THz meta-biosensor

Abstract Metasurface-based sensors are now becoming crucial for label-free and rapid-detection technologies in biomedical applications, leading to a growing demand for new highly sensitive meta-biosensors. This paper demonstrates a perfectly symmetrical quad-ray X-shaped THz meta-absorber (QRXMA), enabling narrowband and polarization insensitivity performance. The theoretical modelling and performance investigation focuses on its potential for improved refractive index (RI) sensing for multiple biological samples. The simulation outcomes reveal that the proposed optimal QRXMA achieves an absorption rate of 99.98% at 1.3 THz for both TE and TM polarized incidences. Furthermore, we highlight the adjustability of absorptive characteristics of the proposed device by altering the different geometric parameters. These findings underscore the QRXMA potential in RI sensing applications, achieving a sensitivity of approximately 116.8 GHz RIU−1 and a figure of Merit (FoM) of about 2 with an 8 μm thick non-destructive analyte layer. This research makes a significant contribution to the development of highly efficient meta-biosensors with promising applications in THz detection, sensing, and imaging.

Synthesis and Evaluation of Polyurethane as Waterproof Adhesion Layer for Steel Bridge Deck

Service life of traditional steel bridge deck pavement is significantly shortened due to the failure of waterproof adhesion. To improve the interlayer bonding performance and extend its service life, polyurethane is proposed as a waterproof adhesion layer (WAL) for a steel bridge deck. This study aims to synthesize polyurethane WAL by free radical solution polymerization under different types and dosages of crosslinking agents as well as the mixing ratio of an acrylic co-blend. Tensile properties, water resistance, glass transition temperatures, thermal stability, and adhesive strength of the polyurethane binder are evaluated. The results demonstrate that polyurethane WAL yields desirable performance by using a hydroxyl molar ratio of 1/3 and an acrylic co-blend of 65%. Specifically, the tensile strength and breaking elongation of polyurethane WAL reach the maximum values of 6.466 MPa and 268.4%, respectively. The water absorption rate of polyurethane WAL is less than 4%. Glass transition temperatures of polyurethane WAL are between −80 °C and 60 °C, respectively. Polyurethane WAL features remarkable high- and low-temperature performance and thermal stability. Finally, adhesion strength between polyurethane WAL and the steel plate reaches up to 5.21 MPa. The outcome of this study facilitates the design and application of polyurethane waterproofing adhesion layers for steel bridge decks.

A flexible wideband wearable CPW antenna for WBAN application

Abstract This article presents a wideband wearable antenna with flexible substrate for Body Area Network application. The designed coplanar antenna has a return loss bandwidth of 3.5 GHz ranging from 5.15 GHz to 8.65 GHz with maximum return loss at 5.8 GHz (45.9 dB) and 7.4 GHz (31.4 dB). The average gain of the antenna is 4.069 dB. The obtained specific absorption rate of the antenna is below the FCC reference limit of 1.6 W/Kg per 1 g of tissue, making it suitable for biomedical application.

Superabsorbent Polymers for Internal Curing Concrete: An Additional Review on Characteristics, Effects, and Applications

Superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) are a promising admixture that can provide internal curing to freshly cast concrete and enhance concrete properties. Although many reviews have explored aspects of SAPs, the links among SAPs’ chemical and physical properties, internal curing behaviors, concrete performance, and their large-scale applications are often weakly elucidated. This paper provides an additional review of the chemical structures and physical dimensions of SAPs and their effects on the internal curing kinetic behavior as well as on concrete properties, such as workability, strength, and durability. In addition, different approaches to introducing SAP particles into concrete mixtures are also summarized. Case studies on the use of SAPs in the concrete industry are introduced to provide a better understanding of the greatest potential of SAPs in field applications. The results confirm that the utilization of SAPs in concrete mixtures provides multiple benefits such as improved water curing, reduced shrinkage, and enhanced workability. Selecting the appropriate SAPs is crucial and involves considering factors like absorption rate, durability, and stability. However, achieving uniform distribution of dry SAPs in concrete poses challenges. Further research is required to gain a deeper understanding of the impact of SAPs on transport properties and frost durability. Additionally, the absence of a standard makes it difficult to maintain consistent water-to-cement ratios. These findings provide a theoretical foundation for using SAPs to enhance concrete performance while also highlighting future research directions and challenges. In this article, scientists, engineers, and contractors will find a comprehensive explanation encompassing laboratory investigations, field implementation, and relevant guidance.

A new green rigid polyurethane foam based on modified palm oil: Preliminary study of their potential for marine buoy applications

AbstractThis study demonstrates a new green rigid polyurethane (PU) based on modified palm oil (MPO) for marine buoy applications. The bio‐polyol based on palm oil was synthesized using hydrogen peroxide and formic acid. The foam formation was by kinetic foaming reaction. The MPO‐based PU foams made with increased water content had closed cells that grew larger with water content to provide a low‐density foam. The resistance to flammability of PU foam was improved by adding triphenyl phosphate (TPP). The PU foam with increased TPP content had enlarged cells, increased water absorption and decreased compressive strength. In addition, carbon black (CB)‐containing foam had uniform, large foam cells, comparatively high density, higher compressive strength, and low water absorption. Moreover, a high CB content gave shorter extinguishing time for PU foam. The PU foams were investigated for buoyancy and compared with a commercial PU foam buoy. The commercial buoy had lower density, providing better‐floating performance than PU foam. Interestingly, CB_8 had an elevated density, but low water absorption rate, similar to the commercial buoy PU foam. The investigations showed that the PU foam from MPO is eco‐friendly, and the buoyancy performance of that foam is improved on adding TPP or CB.

An Alternative Approach for Evaluating Induced and Contact Currents for Compliance with Their Exposure Limits (100 kHz to 110 MHz) in IEEE Std C95.1-2019.

The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers establishes exposure reference levels (ERLs) for electric fields (E-fields) (0-300 GHz) and both induced (IIND) and contact currents (ISC) (<110 MHz) in its standard, IEEE Std C95.1™-2019 (IEEE C95.1). The "classical" scenarios addressed in IEEE C95.1 include a free-standing, grounded "reference" person (IIND) or an ungrounded reference person in manual contact with an adjacent grounded conductor (ISC), each exposed to a vertically oriented E-field driving the currents. The ERLs for current from 100 kHz to 110 MHz were established to limit heating in the finger (from touch), ankle (IIND), and wrist (ISC from grasp contact), specifying the 6-min average specific absorption rate (SAR, W kg-1) as the dosimetric reference limit (DRL); whole-body E-field ERLs are 30-min averages. The DRLs were established assuming a default "effective" local cross-section (9.5 cm2) and consistent with a composite tissue conductivity of ~0.5 S m-1. A previous publication described the misalignment of the ERLs for E-fields with the ERLs for IIND (which extends to ISC) and also proposed a ramped E-field ERL from 100 kHz to 30 MHz. For the frequency range 100 kHz to 110 MHz, this paper proposes temperature increase (ΔT) in ankle and wrist as the preferred effect metric associated with IIND and ISC; applying the E-field ERLs as surrogates for limits to these currents; and adopting the proposed ramp. The analysis of ΔT is based on the tissue mix in realistic anatomic depictions of ankle and wrist cross-sections; relevant tissue properties posted online; published tissue perfusion data; and anthropometric data on a large sample of male and female adults in the US military, allowing an estimate of effects over a range of body size. To evaluate ΔT versus frequency and time, the Penne bioheat equation was adapted with convective cooling from arterial blood as the lone cooling mechanism. The analysis revealed that IINDs and ISCs induced by ERL-level E-fields produce SARs in excess of the local DRLs (in some cases far exceed). Calculations of time to ΔT of 5 °C, reflective of a potentially adverse (painful) response, resulted in worst-case times for effects in the ankle on the order of minutes but on the order of 10s of s in wrist. Thus, compliance with the E-field ERL, as assessed as a 30-min whole-body average is incompatible with the time course of potentially adverse effects in ankle and wrist from IIND and ISC, respectively. Further analysis of the relevant exposure/dose scenarios and consensus of stakeholders with a multi-disciplinary perspective will enable the development of a revised standard, practical from a compliance perspective and protective of all persons.

Comparative bioavailability of single-dose zavegepant during and between migraine attacks: A phase 1, randomized, open-label, fixed-sequence, two-period study.

To compare the rate and extent of absorption of zavegepant 10 mg (therapeutic dose) or 20 mg (supratherapeutic dose) nasal spray during a migraine attack versus non-migraine period, assess safety, and explore efficacy and the relationship between zavegepant concentration and therapeutic response. Physiologic changes occurring during a migraine attack could affect the pharmacokinetics of treatments for migraine. This was a Phase 1, multicenter, open-label, randomized, single-dose, two-period, fixed-sequence, comparative bioavailability study. Participants with a history of 2-8 migraine attacks per month of moderate or severe pain intensity were randomized to a single dose of zavegepant 10 or 20 mg, administered intranasally during a migraine attack (Period 1) and in a non-migraine period (Period 2). Blood samples were collected pre-dose and at pre-specified intervals up to 24 h post-dose for plasma zavegepant concentration measurement. Safety was monitored throughout, and efficacy (migraine pain intensity score, nausea, photophobia, phonophobia, aura, and functional disability) assessed during Period 1. Plasma zavegepant pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated by standard noncompartmental methods, including maximum plasma concentration (Cmax), area under plasma concentration-time curve from time zero to infinity (AUC0-inf), and time of Cmax (Tmax). A total of 37 participants were evaluable for pharmacokinetics. Following administration of zavegepant 10 mg, geometric mean ratios for Period 1/Period 2 were 82.8% (90% confidence interval [CI] 60.5-113.2) for Cmax and 90.1% (90% CI 70.2-115.5) for AUC0-inf. Following administration of zavegepant 20 mg, geometric mean ratios for Period 1/Period 2 were 72.5% (90% CI 57.9-90.8) for Cmax and 73.4% (90% CI 58.8-91.7) for AUC0-inf. Averaging over the study period, geometric mean ratios for zavegepant 20 mg/10 mg were 142.5% (90% CI 118.6-171.4) for Cmax and 157.0% (90% CI 133.6-184.5) for AUC0-inf. Median Tmax was 0.5 h for both doses regardless of Period. Zavegepant was well tolerated in both study periods and effective during Period 1 at both dose levels. There was no apparent correlation between concentration at 0.5 h or 2 h post-dose and efficacy outcomes. Zavegepant exposure was comparable during a migraine attack and a non-migraine period, particularly at the therapeutic dose of 10 mg. When averaging over migraine and non-migraine periods, there was a less-than-dose proportional increase in zavegepant exposure when the dose was doubled from 10 to 20 mg. The median Tmax was 0.5 h regardless of migraine attack or dose. Zavegepant 10 and 20 mg exhibited favorable safety profiles during migraine attacks and non-migraine periods, and were effective to relieve pain, associated symptoms, and functional disability during migraine attacks, with no apparent correlation between zavegepant concentration and efficacy outcomes.

Study on the Influence of Density and Water–Cement Ratio on the Cement Utilization, Fluidity, Mechanical Properties, and Water Absorption of Foam Concrete

In this paper, we study the influence of density and the water–cement (W/C) ratio on the slurry fluidity, compressive strength, and water absorption of foamed concrete (FC) and its mechanism of action, with the aim of proposing an optimal mix ratio for FC to reduce cement usage and carbon emissions in the construction industry and ensure the good overall performance of FC. In this experiment, two groups of experiments were designed using the control variable method. Fluidity and uniaxial compression tests showed that when the density was 600 kg/m3 and the W/C ratio was 0.6, the FC slurry had maximum fluidity, but its mechanical properties were poor and it collapsed easily. Conversely, by analyzing the uniaxial compressive strength/cement (UCS/C) ratio, it was observed that the mix ratio had a maximum cement utilization rate (W/C ratio) of 0.5 and a density of 1000 kg/m3. Nondestructive testing methods were used to measure the ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) and rebound value of the FC test block, and the strength and durability of FC were analyzed. The water absorption rate of the FC test block was tested, and the final analysis showed that the optimal mix ratio of FC in this test was W/C = 0.5, with a density of 1000 kg/m3.

Theoretical design of an electrically and thermally dual-controlled double-band absorber based on graphene and InSb

A novel, to our knowledge, double-band metamaterial absorber based on graphene and InSb is proposed in the terahertz regime. The amplitude and center frequency of the absorber can be electrically tuned by adjusting the graphene chemical potential and thermally controlled by varying the InSb temperature independently. First, owing to the bright–bright mode coupling effect, the average absorption rate of double-band absorber can reach 97% in the FDTD simulation. Meanwhile, the physical absorption mechanism can be analyzed theoretically by the radiating two-oscillator model. Second, when the chemical potential of graphene increases, the absorption rates of the absorber decrease gradually, and the absorption frequencies are almost unchanged. Moreover, if the temperature of InSb increases, the absorption frequencies and rates of absorber increase simultaneously. Finally, the impact of parameters on the absorption spectra, and the excellent sensing performance of the dual-band absorber as a refractive index sensor, are further discussed. This work provides a theoretical basis for the designs of dual-tunable absorbers and sensors.

A Triple-Tunable Dual-Band Metamaterial Absorber Based on Dirac Semimetal and InSb

The dynamically triple-tunable dual-band metamaterial absorber that can be electrically, thermally, and magnetically controlled is proposed in this paper. The absorber is composed of bulk Dirac Semimetal (BDS), SiO2, and InSb layers. The physical absorption mechanism can be analyzed theoretically by the equivalent circuit model (ECM) and electric field intensity distributions at absorption peaks. In the absence of applied magnetic field, based on the bright–bright coupling effect, the average absorption rate of dual-band absorber can reach 99.4% when the Fermi energy of the BDS is 0.13 eV and the temperature of the InSb is 475 K. When the applied magnetic field is along the X axis, the absorption frequencies and rates of dual-band absorber can be electrically tuned by adjusting the BDS Fermi energy and thermally and magnetically controlled by adjusting the InSb temperature and magnetic field. Furthermore, the impacts of parameters in dual-band absorbers and the application prospects of the dual-band absorber model as a refractive index sensor are further discussed. This work provides a theoretical basis for the designs of triple-tunable absorbers and sensors.