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We present a comprehensive computational study describing the excited state dynamics and consequent photostability of amino-cyclohexenone (ACyO), the central template of mycosporine systems, widely recognized for their photoprotection of aquatic species. Photoexcitation to the first excited electronic state (S1, 1nπ*) of ACyO is considered an optically dark transition, while photoexcitation to the second excited electronic state (S21ππ*) is an optically bright 1ππ* transition and largely responsible for UV absorption properties of this molecule. We show that following initial photoexcitation to S2, ACyO relaxes via two competing deactivation mechanisms, each mediated by an S1/S0 conical intersection, which directs the excited state population to the electronic ground state (S0). Our ab initio computational results are supported with nonadiabatic dynamics simulation results, yielding an excited state lifetime of ∼280 fs for this system in vacuo. These results explain the inherent photostability of this core structure, commonplace in a wide range of microorganisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new class of acoustic black hole (ABH) waveguides is presented, which relies in its operation on an array of optimally designed functionally graded perforated rings (FGPRs). In this manner, the developed ABH is provided with built-in energy dissipation characteristics generated by virtue of the flow through perforations, which enhances its acoustic absorption behavior and makes the speed of the propagating waves vanish faster when reaching the end of the waveguide. Furthermore, the particular design of the rings enables sandwiching of additional porous absorbing layers between the rings to further boost the absorption characteristics of the proposed ABH. Accordingly, the operating principle of the new class of ABH is radically different from that of the conventional ABH that employs sequential solid-flat rings of decreasing inner radii to create a virtual power law taper necessary for generating the black hole effect, but through reactive means rather than the effective dissipative means of the proposed ABH. Therefore, this paper develops a transfer matrix modeling (TMM) approach to model the absorption and reflection characteristics of the new class of ABH, in an attempt to predict its behavior, optimize the selection of its design parameters, and more importantly, demonstrate its merits as effective means for controlling sound propagation. Numerical examples are presented to highlight the merits and behavior of the proposed ABH. Predictions of the TMM are validated against experimental results that are available in the literature for one and two micro-perforated plates. Comparisons are also established between the ABH with FGPR and the conventional ABH in order to distinguish the behavior and underlying principles of their operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When a new molecular entity is predicted to exhibit high clearance in humans, pharmaceutical sponsors almost universally search for similar acting back-up compounds that will demonstrate low clearance. Here we show that, except for oral dosing, there can be marked advantages to developing and commercializing controlled release formulations of high clearance drugs, the expertise of readers of this journal. Our recent publications demonstrate that the universally held pharmacokinetic principle that drug delivery rate has no effect on measured drug clearance is not correct. Rather, we show that if clearance from the drug delivery site is markedly less than the iv bolus clearance of a drug, the in vivo drug clearance can be the drug delivery clearance controlled by the designed dosage form. This approach will be especially advantageous for high hepatic clearance drugs. These advantages include not being concerned with: a) saturable nonlinear kinetics, b) significant pharmacogenomic differences, c) drug-drug induction mechanisms, and d) in many cases drug-drug inhibition interactions. This is due to the ability of a drug sponsor to design clearance, independent of the pharmacokinetic characteristics for high clearance compounds, where clearance from the dosage form becomes the drug clearance from the patient. Recognition of this principle, as described here, results from our development of the use of Kirchhoff's Laws from physics to derive rate-defining clearance and rate constant elimination processes independent of differential equation derivations. The key message for readers of this journal is that high clearance drugs are potentially drugable through formulation design and should not be outright disregarded, since for such drugs the dose-corrected area under the curve can be increased if the release rate from the injection site is controlled and slow resulting in drug clearance from the body controlled by clearance from the dosage form. The concepts presented here describe previously unrecognized advantages of controlled release formulations.

The dispersion properties of the absorption coefficients [α(ν)] of different multi-component silicate oxide glasses have been studied in the frequency region below the boson peak by using THz-time-domain spectroscopy. The value of α(ν)/ν2 has been shown to exhibit a minimum level (R) at low frequency and subsequently a linear increase in the form of r(ν/νBP + E) with increasing frequency, where νBP is the boson peak frequency and R, r, and E are material-specific constants. It has also been found that R ∝ r and E is a constant common to most glasses. This α(ν)/ν2 behavior is ascribed to the dispersion property of the light-vibration coupling coefficient under the reasonable vibrational density of state function. The minimum (constant) and linear terms of the α(ν)/ν2 spectrum are originated from the physical/chemical disorder-induced charge fluctuations in the long-range scale (constant term) and short-range scale (linear term), respectively. The fluctuating charge (σ1) caused by uncorrelated, long-range disorders has primary significance for determining the sub-THz absorption dispersion properties, and its value has been determined for each glass material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A route to assess non-linear light–matter interactions from the increasingly popular GW-Bethe–Salpeter equation (GW-BSE) method is outlined. In the present work, the necessary analytic expressions within the static-screened exchange approximation of the BSE are derived. This enables a straightforward implementation of the computation of the first hyperpolarizability as well as two-photon absorption processes for molecular systems. Benchmark calculations on small molecular systems reveal that the GW-BSE method is intriguingly accurate for predicting both first hyperpolarizabilities and two-photon absorption strengths. Using state-of-the-art Kohn–Sham references as a starting point, the accuracy of the GW-BSE method rivals that of the coupled-cluster singles-and-doubles method, outperforming both second-order coupled-cluster and time-dependent density-functional theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Realization of microwave-absorbing materials with "small thickness, light weight, broad bandwidth, and low reflectivity" is an invariable topic. In this paper, Sm2Fe14BHx/polyurethane (SFBH/PU) composites with planar anisotropy were prepared by reduction–diffusion (R/D) and water bath hydrogenation (WBH) process. A minimum reflection loss (RL) value reaches −59.7 dB at the perfect matching frequency of 13.79 GHz with a thickness of only 1.035 mm. Compared with unhydrogenated SFB, the bandwidth and reflectivity are significantly improved. It is mainly attributed to the fact that introduction of hydrogen atoms effectively modulates the electromagnetic parameters and increases the Snoek limit ((μ i − 1) f r) , which leads to the improvement of the high-frequency microwave absorption performance. In addition, the bandwidth equation is derived and simplified from the perspective of the reflected wave at the interface, which is in good agreement with the measured results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Psilocybin Therapy (PT) is being increasingly studied as a psychiatric intervention. Personality relates to mental health and can be used to probe the nature of PTs therapeutic action. METHODS: In a phase 2, double-blind, randomized, active comparator controlled trial involving patients with moderate-to-severe major depressive disorder, we compared psilocybin with escitalopram, over a core 6-week trial period. Five-Factor model personality domains, Big Five Aspect Scale Openness aspects, Absorption, and Impulsivity were measured at Baseline, Week 6, and Month 6 follow-up. RESULTS: PT was associated with decreases in neuroticism (B = -0.63), introversion (B = -0.38), disagreeableness (B = -0.47), impulsivity (B = -0.40), and increases in absorption (B = 0.32), conscientiousness (B = 0.30), and openness (B = 0.23) at week 6, with neuroticism (B = -0.47) and disagreeableness (B = -0.41) remaining decreased at month 6. Escitalopram Treatment (ET) was associated with decreases in neuroticism (B = -0.38), disagreeableness (B = -0.26), impulsivity (B = -0.35), and increases in openness (B = 0.28) at week 6, with neuroticism (B = -0.46) remaining decreased at month 6. No significant between-condition differences were observed. CONCLUSIONS: Personality changes across both conditions were in a direction consistent with improved mental health. With the possible exception of trait absorption, there were no compelling between-condition differences warranting conclusions regarding a selective action of PT (v. ET) on personality; however, post-ET changes in personality were significantly moderated by pre-trial positive expectancy for escitalopram, whereas expectancy did not moderate response to PT.

To improve the energy absorption capacity of honeycomb, four novel curved‐ligaments auxetic cellular structures (CLACS‐i [i = 1, 2, 3, 4]) based on the Diabolo‐shaped honeycomb (DSH) are introduced in this article. In the simulation results, it is demonstrated that the energy absorption performance of CLACS‐i (i = 1, 2, 3, 4) surpasses that of DSH under low‐, medium‐, and high‐velocity impacts. However, the negative Poisson's ratio effect of novel structures is inferior to that of DSH. With the increase in impact velocity, the inertial effect of the structure is enhanced, and the deformation mode of the structure changes from global deformation to local deformation. Furthermore, different impact velocities and geometric parameters also affect the energy absorption capacity of the structures. Platform stress and specific energy absorption (SEA) of CLACS‐i (i = 1, 2, 3, 4) increase with the increase of velocity. Under medium‐velocity impact loading, the platform stress and SEA of CLACS‐i (i = 1, 2, 3, 4) increase as the geometric parameter θ decreases and the wall thickness t increases. In this study, a reference is provided for the optimal design and application of honeycomb energy‐absorbing components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Finding a deep-ultraviolet (deep-UV, λ < 200 nm) nonlinear optical (NLO) crystal is vital to a number of advanced optical technologies, yet it remains a great challenge. Herein, we report a deep-UV NLO crystal, K2B3O3F4(OH) (KBOFH), composed of π-conjugated confined groups. It exhibits a relatively large birefringence of 0.054@550 nm and a wide transparency window with an absorption edge below 200 nm. Theoretical calculations reveal that the observed optical properties of KBOFH originate from the confined π-conjugated [B3O3F4(OH)] unit, in which the π-conjugated interactions are decoupled by the tetrahedral non-π-conjugated [BO2F2] unit. This work provides an opportunity to design deep-UV NLO crystals containing π-conjugated confined groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents an ultrathin chiral metasurface which can exhibit multiband asymmetric absorption as well as symmetric transmission in a specific frequency band outside the absorption regions. Unlike most electromagnetic metasurface absorbers, the proposed structure does not have a continuous conducting sheet at the bottom which also allows it to act as a bandpass spatial filter. The metasurface has a substrate thickness of only λhigh/62.5 and λlow/34 at the highest and lowest operational free‐space wavelengths, respectively. The transmission band is centered at 5.5 GHz, and the asymmetric absorption bands are centered at 3, 3.33, and 4.5 GHz, respectively. The operational bands can be tuned as per user requirements. The metasurface has an angular stability of 45° for both TE and TM incidence. It can be used for radar cross‐section (RCS) reduction, electromagnetic shielding, and as a spatial bandpass filter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interaction between linamarin (LIN), a cyanogenic glycoside, and human serum albumin (HSA) was studied by multiple spectroscopic techniques and molecular docking simulation. All measurements were performed under physiological conditions. The obtained results (including the binding constants, effective quenching constant and a number of binding sites) showed that the complex of HSA‐LIN is formed. The values of Stern‐Volmer constants (6.70×103, 5.53×103 and 1.95×103) indicate that fluorescence quenching of HSA was static. Results of site marker experiments showed that the binding site of LIN is mainly located in site I (subdomain IIA) of HSA. The thermodynamic parameters showed that binding process occurs spontaneously through hydrophobic interactions. Molecular docking results are in good agreement with experimental data. Furthermore, computational results revealed LIN binds in the cavity of TRP 214, that is, subdomain IIA (site I) of HSA. This comprehensive study provides a deeper insight into ligand binding in HSA which may be useful in drug design and pharmacology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A proper understanding of excited state properties of indole derivatives can lead to rational design of efficient fluorescent probes. The optically active La$$ {L}_a $$ and Lb$$ {L}_b $$ excited states of a series of substituted indoles, where a substituent was placed on position four, were calculated using equation of motion coupled cluster and time dependent density functional theory. The results indicate that most substituted indoles have a brighter second excited state corresponding to experimental absorption maxima, but a few with electron withdrawing substituents absorb more on the first excited state. Absorption on the first excited state may increase their fluorescence quantum yield, making them better probes. Electronic structure methods were found to predict the energies of the systems with electron withdrawing substituents more accurately than those with electron donating substituents. The excited states of both states correlated well with electrophilicity, similar to the experimental trends for the absorption maxima. Overall, these computational studies indicate that theory can be used to predict excited state properties of substituted indoles, when the substituent is an electron withdrawing group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the extensive reporting of versatile aggregation‐induced emission luminogens (AIEgens), boosting their molar extinction coefficient (MEC, ε ≈ 103–104 M−1cm−1) remains a formidable challenge, which poses a significant obstacle to achieving the ceiling of their output performance. In this work, an “aggrandizing absorption reservoir” approach is proposed to designing AIEgens with remarkable photons‐harvesting ability, ultimately enlarging its output performance in terms of short‐wave infrared (SWIR, 900–1700 nm) emission and photothermal effect. For the first time, the (bis‐(borondifluoride)‐8‐imidazodipyrromethene) (BOIMPY) unit, which provides sufficient rigidity and strong electron‐withdrawing ability by employing benzimidazole as a bridging ligand binding two BF2 units, is utilized to fabricate novel AIEgen (TPEB) that exhibits an ultrahigh MEC up to 1.29 × 105 M−1 cm−1 at 828 nm. To the best of knowledge, this is the highest MEC reported among AIEgens with near‐infrared absorption. Thanks to its remarkable photon‐harvesting ability, TPEB exhibits strong fluorescence in the SWIR region and a good photothermal effect. The as‐prepared TPEB NPs are successfully applied for SWIR imaging‐guided photothermal antitumor therapy. The proposed “aggrandizing absorption reservoir” approach provides a novel guideline for designing versatile AIEgens for biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elinzanetant is a potent and selective dual neurokin‐1 (NK‐1) and ‐3 (NK‐3) receptor antagonist that is currently developed for the treatment of women with moderate‐to‐severe vasomotor symptoms (VMS) associated with menopause. Here, we report the development of a population pharmacokinetic (popPK) model for elinzanetant and its principal metabolites based on an integrated dataset from 366 subjects (including 197 women with VMS) collected in 10 phase I or II studies. The pharmacokinetics of elinzanetant and its metabolites could be well described by the popPK model. Within the investigated dose range of 40–160 mg, the oral bioavailability of elinzanetant was dose independent and estimated to be 36.7%. The clearance of elinzanetant was estimated to be 7.26 L/h and the central and peripheral distribution volume were 23.7 and 168 L. No intrinsic or extrinsic influencing factors have been identified in the investigated population other than the effect of a high‐fat breakfast on the oral absorption of elinzanetant. The popPK model was then coupled to a pharmacodynamic model to predict occupancies of the NK‐1 and NK‐3 receptors. After repeated once‐daily administration of the anticipated therapeutic dose of 120 mg elinzanetant, the model‐predicted median receptor occupancies are >99% for NK‐1 and >94.8% for NK‐3 during day and night‐time, indicating sustained and near‐complete inhibition of both target receptors during the dosing interval. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study focuses on synthesizing a composite material comprising of nickel ferrite and carbon derived from cotton, to exhibit exceptional microwave absorption capabilities over a wide frequency range. By adopting a mechanical alloy method, the microwave-absorbing composite is developed. The microwave absorption characteristics of the developed composites are further unearthly in terms of their permittivity and permeability. Combining magnetic and dielectric phases produces better eddy current loss and polarization, which are primarily responsible for absorption characteristics. The developed composites are cast into rectangular pallets to evaluate microwave absorption characteristics and examined using a vector network analyzer within the 8.2–12.4 GHz frequency range. With a pallet thickness of 2.55 mm, the entire X-band frequency is effectively covered, yielding a remarkable minimum reflection loss of −20.46 dB at 10.01 GHz. The current work's findings, owing to the synergistic combination of nickel ferrite and carbonized carbon provide a practical approach for developing a hybrid material with remarkable electromagnetic performance. [Display omitted] • The composite comprising of both magnetic and non-magnetic phases has been developed with the mechanical alloying method. • Impedance matching characteristics of the developed lightweight NCF tailored effectively with varying weight percentages. • Achieved minimum reflection loss of −20.46 dB for NCF25 composition at 10.01 GHz with 2.55 mm coating thickness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the viability of MgGa 2 O 4 as a pigment for thermal control coatings is discussed. Notably, the MgGa 2 O 4 based coating exhibited excellent initial optical properties and irradiation stability. After irradiation with 40 keV proton at a dose of 1.4 × 1014 P/cm2, the optical performance of the coating remained essentially unchanged, while the solar absorption of the coating is still maintained below 0.10 after irradiation with 40 keV electron at a dose of 1.6 × 1016 e/cm2. Further, the mechanism of the optical changes induced by electron irradiation was elucidated through experimental and computational methods. In MgGa 2 O 4 lattice, two different types of oxygen vacancies and a transition process of them were found. This process was accompanied by the leakage of some oxygen atoms from the lattice, leading to an increased number of color centers and the change in optical properties. Despite the solar absorption raised after electron irradiation, the MgGa 2 O 4 based thermal control coating showed minimal change and low end-of-irradiation-life values, which suggests that they have excellent stability and promising applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Finding a deep-ultraviolet (deep-UV, λ < 200 nm) nonlinear optical (NLO) crystal is vital to a number of advanced optical technologies, yet it remains a great challenge. Herein, we report a deep-UV NLO crystal, K2B3O3F4(OH) (KBOFH), composed of π-conjugated confined groups. It exhibits a relatively large birefringence of 0.054@550 nm and a wide transparency window with an absorption edge below 200 nm. Theoretical calculations reveal that the observed optical properties of KBOFH originate from the confined π-conjugated [B3O3F4(OH)] unit, in which the π-conjugated interactions are decoupled by the tetrahedral non-π-conjugated [BO2F2] unit. This work provides an opportunity to design deep-UV NLO crystals containing π-conjugated confined groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe mass transfer performance of isopropanol (IPA) absorption by triethylene glycol (TEG) aqueous solution in a spray-bed absorber was investigated, and the mass transfer coefficients predicted by an artificial neural network (ANN) and response surface methodology were compared in this study. The operating variables affecting the mass transfer performance of a spray-bed absorber include the gas and TEG fluxes, concentration of IPA, concentration of TEG aqueous solution, and operating temperature. The experimental results demonstrated that the mass transfer coefficient of a spray-bed absorber increased with increases in gas and liquid fluxes and decreased with increases in concentration of IPA. The Back-Propagation algorithm in the ANN model was selected to predict the mass transfer coefficients of the spray–bed absorption system. Hidden layers with 2, 4 and 6 neurons respectively were set to analyze the effect of the number of neurons on the target value, and then different transfer functions were used to compare the accuracy in predicting mass transfer coefficient. Finally, the influences of the number of hidden layers and different learning rules on the prediction of mass transfer coefficients were examined. The simulated results showed that the average error of the ANN using the TanhAxon transfer function, the Conjugate Gradient learning rule, two hidden layers, and 6 neurons in each hidden layer was within 1%. The results not only verified the successful establishment of the experimental device but also proved the accurate prediction of mass transfer coefficients by the ANN model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Detection of colorimetric signals is commonly used in various analytical methods and for testing in non‐laboratory and resource‐limited settings. The performance of colorimetric assays is largely based on nanoparticles and their unique optical properties. Multifunctional nanoparticles combining optical and enzyme‐like catalytic properties—known as nanozymes—hold great promise for analytical applications as signal‐generating labels. However, the extensive focus on the catalytic properties leaves their unique optical properties overlooked. In this article, the use of the optical and catalytic properties of nanozymes is reviewed for analytical applications relying on the inherent optical properties of nanozymes, the colorimetric detection of a catalytically‐formed product, and colorimetric changes of nanoparticles caused by the catalytically‐formed product. The impact of the extinction coefficient of nanozymes and reaction products, as well as the kinetic parameters of nanozymes on the sensitivity and limit of detection of assays, are quantitatively evaluated. Finally, the existing limitations and prospects of nanozymes for colorimetric biosensors are summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractTwo strategies are proposed to design new hierarchically reinforced double-square tubes (HRDST). Strategy A: adding triangles from inside to outside in one direction. Strategy B: adding triangles along both the outer and inner quadrilateral directions at the same time. Their crashworthiness analyses are carried out under the conditions of the same wall thickness and the same mass. The results show that the proposed double square tubes, combined with the gradient hierarchical design, can effectively improve the crashworthiness of the structure under both conditions. The improvement of strategy B is more significant than that of strategy A. The energy absorption (EA), specific energy absorption (SEA), and crushing force efficiency (CFE) and initial peak crush force (IPCF) of HRDSTB-3 are improved by 2343.87%, 493.17%, 573.74% and 262.73%, respectively, under the same wall thickness. The EA, SEA, CFE of HRDSTB-3 also increased by 111.23%, 111.23%, and 226.34%, respectively, for the same mass, while the IPCF decreased by 35.27%. The parametric study shows that the effect of wall thickness on structural crashworthiness is significant, but the rate of increase between two adjacent wall thicknesses decreases as the wall thickness increases. The inner and outer edge length ratios (k) also have a substantial effect on structural crashworthiness, with SEA and CFE being 24.42% and 23.47% higher for k = 5/12 compared to k = 8/12 for HRDSTA-3, and 29.24% and 27.55% higher for k = 4/12 compared to k = 8/12 for HRDSTB-3. Finally, comparing HRDSTA-3 and HRDSTB-3 with other square-layered multicellular designs, the results show that the two designs proposed in this paper, combining double square tubes with gradient hierarchies, exhibit better crashworthiness. Compared with MSTL2-2, the SEA of HRDSTA-3 and HRDSTB-3 are 27.98% and 33.01% higher, respectively, and the CFE is 27.86% and 32.96% higher, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrated modeling of the pharmacokinetic (PK) and target binding, by means of a TMDD model, can provide valuable insights into the expected pharmacodynamic (PD) effects of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). Optimal characterization of the human PK and target binding for mAbs requires data obtained after intravenous (IV) administration which can be combined with subcutaneous (SC) data to further this characterization. Integration of free and/or total target measurements in a population TMDD model will allow quantification of target engagement which is the first step in the cascade leading to efficacy. However, the assays for determination of free target concentrations are analytically challenging and are inherently biased to overpredict the true concentrations in the presence of mAb:target complexes. For that reason, the objective of the current research was to evaluate the predictive value of free target concentrations in a TMDD model developed using PK and total target observations only. Further, a secondary objective was to demonstrate that prediction of SC data is feasible, based on an existing IV model and typical values of mAb parameters reported for SC absorption. GSK3772847, a human immunoglobulin G2 sigma isotype (IgG2f) mAb that binds to the extracellular domain of the interleukin‐33 receptor (IL‐33R or ST2) and neutralizes IL‐33‐mediated ST2 signaling, was used as a model compound for mAbs in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The response amplification technology, which enhances the efficiency of shock absorption apparatuses, has been widely applied in the field of shock absorption control for engineering structures. Researchers have proposed and verified through numerical analysis and experiments more structural forms of this technology as applicable. The functions are also more comprehensive, such as increased utilization rate of structural space and economy. The development of its theoretical foundation has progressed from constant solutions based on small deformations to solutions that reflect the time-varying characteristics of the amplification factor of the brace-damping system. Simultaneously, the influencing factors of the amplification factor have been analyzed in detail to provide better theoretical guidance for engineering practice. This paper provides a detailed discussion on the research overview of the response amplification technology and the influencing factors of the amplification factor. The conclusion introduces the significance of using this technology, comprehensively analyzes the deficiencies and limitations of existing response amplification technology, and points out the research and development direction, with the expectation of providing ideas for further development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the analytical process of spectrophotometry, the prerequisite for accurate qualitative and quantitative analysis is obtaining the intrinsic spectra of the analyte. However, the intrinsic properties of spectra can sometimes be masked by easily overlooked non-intrinsic factors, such as those from measuring instruments, leading to erroneous spectral identification. In this study, we documented an unusual redshift phenomenon in the far ultraviolet spectral region. With a spectrophotometer under the nitrogen atmosphere, we selected 14 representative inorganic anions and investigated their absorption spectral behaviors at different optical pathlengths and concentrations. It was intriguing to observe that the absorption peaks with maximum absorption wavelengths below a watershed wavelength of 200 nm underwent a redshift as pathlength and concentration increased, while those above 200 nm did not exhibit a significant redshift phenomenon. In-depth formula simulations and experimental verifications demonstrated that this peculiar spectral behavior was caused by unavoidable stray light in the spectrophotometer. Some methodological and instrumental recommendations are given in the paper. Our study results may serve as a reminder to carefully identify non-intrinsic phenomena when studying absorption spectra in the far ultraviolet region, and provide guidance on spectral corrections in scientific research and practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents a resistor‐loaded wideband absorber using a tightly coupled dipole structure. The conversional inherit wide bandwidth tightly coupled dipole which was used as an antenna is adopted as a unit cell. The port of the dipole is loaded with resistors to dissipate the microwave energy. The design principles of the absorber are given. An equivalent circuit model composed of an RLC resonant circuit is proposed to analyze the performance of the absorber. To demonstrate, a 288 mm × 288 mm absorber ranging from 1.96 to 8.08 GHz is fabricated and measured. The measured results agree well with the simulated ones which show that the absorber can work from 2 to 8.18 GHz with an absorption rate of more than 90%. Moreover, the proposed absorber is also insensitive to the polarization angle of the incident wave. When the incident angle changes from 0° to 45°, the absorption rate is nearly unchanged over the operating band. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Deglycosylated azithromycin (Deg-AZM), a newly developed Class I drug with good therapeutic effects on slow transit constipation, is a smallmolecule transgelin agonist that has been approved for clinical trials in 2024. The preclinical pharmacokinetic profile of Deg-AZM was investigated to support further development. Methods: A LC-MS/MS method was established and validated to detected the concentration of Deg-AZM in various biological samples. In vivo tests such as pharmacokinetic studies in rats and dogs, tissue distribution studies in rats, and extraction studies in rats were conducted to investigated the preclinical pharmacokinetic behaviors of Deg-AZM comprehensively. The plasma protein rate of Deg-AZM was determined by rapid equilibrium dialysis method in vitro. The metabolic stability and metabolite profile of Deg-AZM was assessed using pooled mice, rats, dogs, monkeys and humans microsomes in vitro. The PK profiles of Deg-AZM in human was predicted based on physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models. Results: The plasma protein binding rates of Deg-AZM were lower in mice and rats, higher in dogs, and moderate in humans. The metabolic process of Deg-AZM was similar in rat and human liver microsomes. From Pharmacokinetic studies in rats and dogs, Deg-AZM was rapidly absorbed into the blood and then quickly eliminated. Plasma exposure of Deg-AZM was dose dependent with no accumulation after continuous gavage administration. In addition, there is no significant gender difference in the pharmacokinetic behavior of Deg-AZM. Deg-AZM was widely distributed in the tissues without obvious accumulation, and mainly excreted from the urinary excretion pathway. Furthermore, the pharmacokinetic profiles of Deg-AZM in humans showed dose dependency. Conclusion: The pharmacokinetic profiles of Deg-AZM was fully explored, these results could provide valuable information to support the first-in-human dosage prediction and phase I clinical design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arylethynyl‐substituted dipyrrolyldiketone BF2 complexes as anion‐responsive π‐electronic molecules exhibited characteristic electronic properties derived from conformation changes upon anion binding, which caused an increase in UV/vis absorption and associated two‐photon absorption. The anion complexes showed expanded planar regions assisted by intramolecular interactions, resulting in charge‐by‐charge ion‐pairing assemblies in the solid state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the energy absorption performance of braided composite tubes under combined shear-compression loading is investigated. ABAQUS/Explicit is employed to analyze the energy absorption of braided composite tubes, and quasi-static compression tests are carried out. Braided composite materials absorb energy through the damage accumulation in laminate. Thus, to maximize energy absorption performance, a progressive crushing mode should be induced. While extensive research has been conducted on cases of axial loading, understanding of the energy absorption performance of braided composite tubes under combined shear-compression loading remains limited. Experimental results reveal that under both axial and combined shear-compression loading at 30 degrees, the braided composite tube exhibits a progressive crushing mode. The test results are utilized to validate the finite element model. Through finite element analysis, it is confirmed that the damage accumulation in laminate is maximized due to the induction of a progressive crushing mode. It means that the energy absorption principles of braided composites apply similarly to combined shear-compression loading, allowing for the maintenance of superior energy absorption performance of braided composites under various load angles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We herein report a fundamental mechanistic investigation into photochemical metal‐nitrenoid generation and inner‐sphere transposition reactivity using organometallic photoprecursors. By designing Cp*Ir(hydroxamate)(Ar) complexes, we induced photo‐initiated ligand activation, allowing us to explore the amidative σ(Ir–aryl) migration reactivity. A combination of experimental mechanistic studies, femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy, and density functional theory (DFT) calculations revealed that the metal‐to‐ligand charge transfer enables the σ(N−O) cleavage, followed by Ir‐acylnitrenoid generation. The final inner‐sphere σ(Ir–aryl) group migration results in a net amidative group transposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spectroscopic studies of Ho3+-doped SrF2 crystals were performed regarding applications in solid-state lasers. The crystal structure of the Ho:SrF2 crystal was investigated using single-crystal X-ray diffraction. SrF2 exists as a cubic structure with an Fm3m space group. A Raman shift of 288 cm–1 was observed for the Ho:SrF2 single crystal. SrF2 hosts with low-frequency vibrational modes are suitable for reducing nonradiative emissions while maximizing radiative emissions. The absorption spectrum was recorded in the visible region from 400 to 800 nm, yielding absorption lines at 416, 450, 468, 473, 484, 536, 638, and 643 nm. The fluorescence spectrum recorded at an excitation wavelength of 450 nm shows two emission bands at 546 and 656 nm, which correspond to green and red emission, respectively. The intensity parameters Ωλ (λ = 2, 4, and 6) were estimated using the Judd–Ofelt theory. For Ho:SrF2 single crystal, the calculated Ωλ are Ω2 = 0.14 × 10–20 cm2, Ω4 = 3.14 × 10–20 cm2, and Ω6 = 3.74 × 10–20 cm2. The radiative transition probabilities, radiative lifetimes, and branching ratios βR for Ho:SrF2 were determined using the Judd–Ofelt parameters. The 5S2 + 5F4 → 5I8 transition is more effective for population-building processes because of its lifetime (0.26 ms) and higher branching ratios (~82.86%). Ho:SrF2 is, therefore, a promising solid-state laser crystal for green and red spectral regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Measuring pH with an optical sensor requires the immobilization of a chemical recognition phase on a solid surface. Neutral red (NR), an acid base indicator was used to develop two different optical probe configurations. The chemistry of aryl diazonium salts was chosen for the elaboration of this chemical phase, as it enables strong covalent bonds to be established on the surface of metallized glass or metallic surfaces. It also allows the formation of a thick film required to obtain an exploitable spectral response. The surfaces of interest (metallized optical fiber and 316 L stainless-steel mirror) are modelized by flat surfaces (metallized glass plates and 316 L stainless-steel plates). The analytical characterizations carried out (IR, XPS, UV-Visible, and profilometry) show that NR was covalently grafted onto the model surfaces as well as on the surfaces of interest. The supports grafted with NR to develop optical pH probes exhibit spectral changes, particularly the values of pKa, the pH range, and the isosbestic point wavelength. The experimental results show that the optical probe can be used for pH measurements between 4 and 8. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reviews a series of cases for which the correct determination of the mass transfer coefficient is decisive for an appropriate design of the system and its operating conditions. The cases are of interest for applications in the energy sector, such as the thermoconversion of a fuel particle, processes in pipes, packed and fluidised beds, and corollary unit operations, such as extraction, absorption, and adsorption. The analysis is carried out by examining the expressions for the determination of the Sherwood number (which contains the mass transfer coefficient), and, when possible, generalised relationships (also in graphic form) have been provided, to offer a useful tool to cognoscenti. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Honeycomb structures made of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) are increasingly used in the aerospace field due to their excellent energy absorption capability. Attention has been paid to CFRP structures in order to accurately simulate their progressive failure behavior and discuss their ply designability. In this study, the preparation process of a CFRP corrugated sheet (half of the honeycomb structure) and a CFRP honeycomb structure was illustrated. The developed finite element method was verified by a quasi-static test, which was then used to predict the low-velocity impact (LVI) behavior of the CFRP honeycomb, and ultimately, the influence of the ply angle and number on energy absorption was discussed. The results show that the developed finite element method (including the user-defined material subroutine VUMAT) can reproduce the progressive failure behavior of the CFRP corrugated sheet under quasi-static compression and also estimate the LVI behavior. The angle and number of plies of the honeycomb structure have an obvious influence on their energy absorption under LVI. Among them, energy absorption increases with the ply number, but the specific energy absorption is basically constant. The velocity drop ratios for the five different ply angles are 79.12%, 68.49%, 66.88%, 66.86%, and 60.02%, respectively. Therefore, the honeycomb structure with [0/90]s ply angle had the best energy absorption effect. The model proposed in this paper has the potential to significantly reduce experimental expenses, while the research findings can provide valuable technical support for design optimization in aerospace vehicle structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the eighteenth-century novel, to be "interesting" was a problem. Influenced by a cultural discourse that invested art with an imperative to suppress the dangers of excessive passion, some novelists and critics suggested that novels could achieve this by presenting exemplary characters within immersive plots that held readerly attention more effectively than non-narrative genres. At the same time, they took seriously the counterclaim that thrilling narratives obstructed readers' absorption of the salutary moral messages promoted by characters. I propose that novelists including Samuel Richardson, Ann Radcliffe, and Charlotte Smith innovated formal techniques that sought to neutralize the perceived dangers of plot in order to cultivate calm and reflective readerly dispositions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When a new molecular entity is predicted to exhibit high clearance in humans, pharmaceutical sponsors almost universally search for similar acting back-up compounds that will demonstrate low clearance. Here we show that, except for oral dosing, there can be marked advantages to developing and commercializing controlled release formulations of high clearance drugs, the expertise of readers of this journal. Our recent publications demonstrate that the universally held pharmacokinetic principle that drug delivery rate has no effect on measured drug clearance is not correct. Rather, we show that if clearance from the drug delivery site is markedly less than the iv bolus clearance of a drug, the in vivo drug clearance can be the drug delivery clearance controlled by the designed dosage form. This approach will be especially advantageous for high hepatic clearance drugs. These advantages include not being concerned with: a) saturable nonlinear kinetics, b) significant pharmacogenomic differences, c) drug-drug induction mechanisms, and d) in many cases drug-drug inhibition interactions. This is due to the ability of a drug sponsor to design clearance, independent of the pharmacokinetic characteristics for high clearance compounds, where clearance from the dosage form becomes the drug clearance from the patient. Recognition of this principle, as described here, results from our development of the use of Kirchhoff's Laws from physics to derive rate-defining clearance and rate constant elimination processes independent of differential equation derivations. The key message for readers of this journal is that high clearance drugs are potentially drugable through formulation design and should not be outright disregarded, since for such drugs the dose-corrected area under the curve can be increased if the release rate from the injection site is controlled and slow resulting in drug clearance from the body controlled by clearance from the dosage form. The concepts presented here describe previously unrecognized advantages of controlled release formulations. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract3D additive manufacturing of metamaterials, especially honeycomb structures, has gained prominence in industrial manufacturing for their exceptional mechanical properties and energy absorption (EA) capabilities. This study introduces a novel circular tubular honeycomb structure to enhance EA characteristics. Through quasi-static compression experiments and finite element simulations, specific energy absorption (SEA) of various circular structures is analyzed. Results show that the circular tubular honeycomb structure excels in SEA performance, lightweight construction, and reduced Poisson’s ratio. An equation for structural neutral layer offset is derived and validated, showcasing potential in thin-walled pipe-in-pipe (PIP) interlayers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The normalization of X‐ray absorption near‐edge structure (XANES) spectra is required for comparing spectral features and extracting quantitative information in analytical techniques such as linear combination analysis, principal component analysis and multivariate curve resolution. Most published data are normalized to the edge‐jump, but normalization to the spectral area has also been applied. The latter is particularly attractive if only a small energy range around the absorption can be recorded reliably. Here, the two normalization methods are compared at the L3‐edge of Pt, Pd and Rh, and at the Ni K‐edge using experimental and calculated spectra. Normalization to the spectral area is found to be a viable approach if the range for the area normalization is sufficiently large. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite clinical advances with protein kinase inhibitors (PKIs), oral administration of many PKIs is associated with highly variable plasma exposure and a narrow therapeutic window. We developed a novel hybrid nanoparticle‐amorphous solid dispersion (ASD) technology platform consisting of an amorphous PKI embedded in a polymer matrix. The technology was used to manufacture immediate‐release formulations of 2 tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), dasatinib and sorafenib. Our primary objective was to improve the absorption properties and reduce the pharmacokinetic (PK) variability of each TKI. The PKs of XS004 (dasatinib‐ASD, 100 mg tablet) and XS005 (sorafenib‐ASD, 2 × 50 mg capsules) were compared with their crystalline formulated reference drugs (140 mg of dasatinib‐reference and 200 mg of sorafenib‐reference). The in vitro biopharmaceutics of dasatinib‐ASD and XS005‐granulate showed sustained increased solubility in the pH range 1.2‐8.0 compared to their crystalline references. In vivo, XS004 was bioequivalent at a 30% lower dose and showed increased absorption and bioavailability, with 2.1‐4.8 times lower intra‐ and intersubject variability compared to the reference. XS005 had an increased absorption and bioavailability of 45% and 2.2‐2.8 times lower variability, respectively, but it was not bioequivalent at the investigated dose level. Taken together, the formulation platform is suited to generate improved PKI formulations with consistent bioavailability and a reduced pH‐dependent absorption process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yamanashi et al., conducted a study on the absorption of cholesterol and β-sitosterol, as well as the inhibitory effect of ezetimibe (EZE). They used CaCo-2 cells to simulate the intestines and investigated how different mixed micelles, acting as carriers, were absorbed into these cells through the Niemann-Pick C1-like 1 (NPC1L1) protein. The study focused on the impact of micelle shape, size, and zeta potential on absorption and the inhibitory effect of EZE. I utilized small-angle X-ray scattering and a zeta potential measuring device to measure these characteristics. The findings revealed a two-step mechanism: NPC1L1 selectively bound micelles based on their shape and size, and once bound, the absorption was regulated by the molecular structure of the micelle components. EZE's inhibitory effect changed with micelle composition, influencing micelle size and shape. EZE initially acted on the micelle's shape and size, and then NPC1L1 selectively bound micelles based on their shape and size, allowing EZE to directly inhibit absorption by interacting with NPC1L1. This groundbreaking discovery challenges existing concepts and holds significant implications for researchers in drug development, as well as physicians and pharmacists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An energy and exergy analysis of an experimental air-conditioning absorption system operating with the ammonia-lithium nitrate mixture has been performed. The system was operated under controlled and steady-state conditions. The main operating parameters, such as flow ratio, coefficient of performance, exergy coefficient of performance, and exergy destruction in each one of the main components, were determined at different heat sources and condensing temperatures. The coefficients of performance varied between 0.5 and 0.65, while the exergy coefficients of performance varied between 0.1 and 0.2. Clear trends were found for the coefficient of performance and flow ratio as a function of the generator and condenser temperatures; however, no trends were found in the exergy coefficients of performance due to the high variability of the ambient temperature. The highest values of the exergy destruction occurred in the generator, followed by the condenser and the evaporator, while the lowest values were obtained in the absorber and the economizer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A mathematical model of competition between plasmid-bearing and plasmid-free organisms for a single limiting resource in a chemostat with distinct removal rates and in the presence of an external inhibitor is analyzed. This model was previously introduced in the special case where the growth rate functions and the absorption rate of the inhibitor follow the Monod kinetics and the removal rates are the same as the dilution rate. Here, we consider the general case of monotonic growth and absorption functions, and distinct removal rates. Through the three operating parameters of the model, represented by the dilution rate, the input concentrations of the substrate and the inhibitor, we give necessary and sufficient conditions for existence and stability of all equilibria. To better understand the richness of the model's behavior with respect to those operating parameters, we determine the operating diagram theoretically and numerically. This diagram is very useful to understand the model from both the mathematical and biological points of view. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dynamic in vitro absorption systems and mechanistic absorption modeling via PBPK have both shown promise in predicting human oral absorption, although these efforts have been largely separate; this work aimed to integrate knowledge from these approaches to investigate the oral absorption of a RET inhibitor, pralsetinib, with BCS Class II properties. Tiny-TIM (TIM B.V., Weteringbrug​, The Netherlands) is a dynamic in vitro model with close simulation of the successive physiological conditions of the human stomach and small intestine. Tiny-TIM runs with pralsetinib were performed at doses of 200 mg and 400 mg under fasting conditions. Mechanistic modeling of absorption was performed in Simcyp V21 (Certara, Manchester, UK). Pralsetinib fasted bioaccessibility in the Tiny-TIM system was 63% at 200 mg and 53% at 400 mg; a 16% reduction at 400 mg was observed under elevated gastric pH. Maximum pralsetinib solubility from the small intestinal compartment in Tiny-TIM directly informed the supersaturation/precipitation model parameters. The PBPK model predicted a similar fraction absorbed at 200 mg and 400 mg, consistent with the dose proportional increases in observed pralsetinib exposure. Integrating dynamic in vitro systems with mechanistic absorption modeling provides a promising approach for understanding and predicting human absorption with challenging low solubility compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new regression model is presented which offers flexibility, freedom from subjective determinations of linear range, and very wide applicability to measurement systems of industrial importance. This "progressive decay" model starts as a deceptively simple ordinary differential equation. We show here that its solution faithfully describes real but seemingly unconnected data from a plate-based assay for quantitation of RNA with RiboGreen® and dissolution data for a triple fixed-dose combination solid oral dosage form. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP) are important transporters causing drug-drug interaction (DDI). Here, we investigated the involvement of P-gp and BCRP in the oral absorption of ensitrelvir in non-clinical studies and estimated the DDI risk mediated by P-gp and BCRP inhibition in humans. Although ensitrelvir is an in vitro P-gp and BCRP substrate, it demonstrated high bioavailability in rats and monkeys after oral administration. Plasma exposures of ensitrelvir following oral administration were comparable in wild type (WT) and Bcrp (-/-) mice. On the other hand, the area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) ratio of ensitrelvir in the Mdr1a/1b (-/-) mice to the WT mice was 1.92, indicating that P-gp, but not BCRP, was involved in the oral absorption of ensitrelvir. Based on our previous retrospective analyses, such a low AUC ratio (<3) in the Mdr1a/1b (-/-) mice indicates a minimal impact of P-gp on the oral absorption in humans. In conclusion, our studies demonstrate that the involvement of both P-gp and BCRP in the oral absorption of ensitrelvir is minimal, and suggest that ensitrelvir has a low risk for DDIs mediated by P-gp and BCRP inhibition in humans. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to fully evaluate the radiation effect in existing cooling systems. The research, a combination of experimental analysis and numerical simulations using ANSYS Fluent, examines the complexity of radiative cooling processes and their impact on thermal management in various engineering applications. The experiments began by carefully placing a 112.5 W heater into the thermal channel. Next, temperature measurements were made under various conditions. In particular, the use of black cotton fabric as the inner duct lining applied in the thermal channel stands out as an innovation that aims to optimize heat absorption by increasing radiative properties. The findings highlight the significant impact of radiation on cooling performance. A temperature drop of 2–3°C was observed in cooling under the effect of radiation. Additionally, numerical simulations reveal the feasibility of radiative cooling systems by providing valuable information about the flow dynamics and heat transfer mechanisms within the channel. The novelty of this work is its detailed examination of radiative cooling effects and its focus on its potential to optimize thermal management strategies in various engineering applications. Explaining the role of radiation in heat transfer and providing practical information to improve cooling efficiency demonstrates that this research brings important insight and lays the foundation for future advances in the field. Considering the urgent need for energy‐efficient cooling solutions and the increasing demand for sustainable engineering practices, the findings of this study will provide important insights for researchers and practitioners. This study provides innovative perspectives and solutions to address the increasing challenges of heat transfer and energy conservation in engineering systems. It makes a significant contribution to the field of thermal management by offering methodologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we investigate the water and chloride ion (Cl−) transport properties of aeolian sand mortar (ASM) in an unsaturated state. Capillary absorption tests were conducted on ASM with varying water-to-binder ratios and different concentrations of chloride salts in clear water solutions. The Cl− content at different depths in ASM was determined using layered drilling, powder extraction, and chemical titration. The relationship between water and Cl− transport properties under capillary absorption was examined. The results indicate that moisture serves as a transport medium for Cl− in mortar, but its transport depth is significantly smaller than that of water, revealing a non-synchronization between the two transports. The transmission depth and capillary absorption ratio of water in the mortar decrease with increasing initial saturation. A linear relationship between water and Cl− transport depths is observed within the first 7 days of capillary absorption. Beyond 7 days, the water transport rate gradually slows down, while Cl− continues to be transported due to the presence of an ion concentration gradient. As the initial saturation increases, the percentage of gel pores decreases, and the percentage of transition pores and capillary pores in the matrix increases. Finally, incorporating the theory of unsaturated capillary water absorption, we introduce Boltzmann variables and develop a predictive model for the relative water content distribution under capillary water absorption in ASM. This study provides a theoretical foundation for the widespread application of ASM, and the proposed research model offers new insights into the underground environment and the durability of concrete structures affected by moisture transport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics have become a ubiquitous contaminant, but their fate in food animals is largely unknown. In this study, [14C]-polystyrene microplastic (PS-MP) particles were orally dosed to lactating sheep to evaluate their absorption and disposition. Elimination of the [14C]-PS-MP was predominately through faeces with faecal radioactivity peaking at 24 h post-dosing but continuing to be present throughout the entire 72 h study period. Only a small fraction (≤ 1%) of the dosed [14C]-PS-MP was present in blood, milk, and urine. Pharmacokinetic analysis of blood plasma radioactivity, using non-compartment modeling, indicated rapid absorption (T1/2 0.4 to 3 h) with slow elimination (T1/2 37 to 48 h). Radioactivity in milk and urine had similar elimination patterns with radiocarbon activities peaking 24 h post-dosing with detectable elimination throughout the 72 h study period. No radioactivity was quantifiable in tissues at the 72 h withdrawal period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The modern additive manufacturing process enables the fabrication of innovative structural designs of lattice structures with enhanced mechanical properties. Characterizing the designability of lattice geometries and the corresponding mechanical performance, particularly the compressive strength is vital to commercializing lattice structures for lightweight components. In this paper, a Novel hybrid type of lattice structure was developed inspired by the overlapping pattern of scales on dermal layers of the species like fish and circular patterns observed from the bamboo tree structure. This research designed the lattice cell with 20%,30%,40%, and 50% overlapping areas based on the proposed circular area. The unit cell wall thickness varies between 0.4 mm and 0.6 mm. The designed structures with a constant volume of 40x40x40 mm, varied circular diameters, overlapping areas, and unit wall thickness are modeled in Fusion 360 software. 3D-printed lattice structures were fabricated using the vat polymerization type three-dimensional printing machine using the principle of stereolithography (SLA) technique. Then, the 3D-printed specimens are tested for quasi-static compressive response in a universal testing machine (UTM) by following ASTM standards. The test results are evaluated and compared with the simulation results. Finally, the best lattice structure is selected for energy absorption application in the aerospace and defense sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]