Parametric Array Research Articles

Smart nanomaterials to support quantum-sensing electronics

Quantum sensing electronic sensing is opening up new cutting-edge possibilities to take advantage of complex quantum mechanical variables to make incredibly sensitive assessments of an array of parameters. Concurrently, there are new prospects for quantum sensing electronics to be used to enhance the processes involved in creating, distributing, and utilizing energy. To use this technology efficiently, it is necessary to handle issues related to sensing material such as stability and operation, reliable monitoring, and precision in sensing and assessment. In this direction, the present is an overview of existing and new quantum sensing materials and methods, along with the related sensing frameworks that have been created to support their advanced translational applications. Regarding next-generation sensing technologies specifically, the realization of a previously unheard degree of sensitivity is made possible using quantum methods and materials. More specifically, this article addresses how quantum sensing materials may lead to greater efficiency while highlighting established and developing quantum sensing methods, materials, and sensing platforms. The discussion of potential chances to implement quantum technologies follows a summary of the remaining obstacles and difficulties for quantum sensor deployment.

Sensor-fusion to understand communication difficulty during conversations in noise

Difficulty communicating is the most challenging consequence of living with hearing loss, substantially affecting personal and professional relationships. While hearing devices help to redress this challenge, there is often a mismatch between performance measures obtained in clinical and laboratory settings and observed real-world behaviour. This discrepancy is likely due to an array of parameters, with the most notable being unrealistic speech stimuli (e.g., contrived sentence materials), artificial background noise, and tasks that do not reflect real-world communication behaviour or scenarios (e.g., sentence recall). To bridge this gap, we used sensor-fusion to understand communication difficulties in familiar communication partners engaged in natural, unrestricted conversations while listening to different levels of realistic background noise. We tallied communication breakdowns as a robust, overt metric of communication difficulty and fused data from an array of sensors including microphones, eye and motion trackers, and wearables that detect autonomic nervous system activity to objectively index communication difficulty. Our approach aims to find biomarkers that may predict the communication difficulties faced by individuals with hearing loss in the real-world. Ultimately, this research will contribute to enhancing the effectiveness of hearing devices, leading to improved social connection and quality of life for people with hearing loss.

A grating lobes suppression method for a steerable parametric array loudspeaker

A parametric array loudspeaker (PAL) is a highly directional sound source with small aperture size. To achieve accurate sound projection, the steerable PAL is implemented by the use of the phased array technology. In this paper, the sound field model based on the Westervelt equation of a practical steerable PAL is presented, and a quasi-linear approximation is adopted to obtain the spatial sound pressure distribution. By applying the phased array technology, the audio beam can steer to the target direction. However, the grating lobe arises when the transducers are spaced more than half a wavelength, which disturbs the effect of beam steering. We further propose the grating lobes suppression method and apply it to the steerable PAL. Simulation results validate the performance of the proposed method.

A study on improving the sound radiation capability of stepped-plate parametric array loudspeakers

It is well known that Parametric Array Loudspeakers (PALs) produce highly directional audible sounds. However, their widespread adoption is hindered by their high cost, which is primarily attributable to the use of an array of ultrasonic radiator units. To address this issue, our research group introduced stepped-plate parametric array loudspeakers (SPPALs) in 2018. SPPALs utilize a single-structure directional ultrasonic radiator, featuring steps of half-wavelength thickness on the radiating plate. This design mitigates the problem of poor directivity, especially at high frequencies, caused by destructive interference resulting from the plate's flexural mode. Moreover, SPPALs can offer cost advantages compared to commercial PALs due to their single structure. However, understanding the vibration characteristics of SPPALs in relation to sound radiation performance is quite challenging due to their various design parameters. In this study, we present an analytical approach that offers a quantitative method for enhanced sound radiation capability. We present a simplified vibration model (SVM), which enables an efficient design process based on a comprehensive analysis of vibration characteristics. By minimizing reliance on finite element method (FEM) simulations, our method expedites the design of various directional speaker systems.

Identification of the parametric array loudspeaker system using differential Volterra filter

The self-demodulation property of a parametric array loudspeaker (PAL) system can peel off audible sound modulated on ultrasonic wave and deliver it with high directivity, but also introduces nonlinear distortion. The PAL system can be modeled by the Volterra series expansion in any acoustic field region. However, measurements of Volterra kernel using simple frequency sweep excitation signals may not provide adequate information about the nonlinear system, and the use of wideband signals such as speech signals makes convergence difficult. Based on the Westervelt model, we propose a PAL system identification method utilizing the differential Volterra kernel. The results demonstrate superior fitting performance for real swept frequency output data and speech signal output data compared to the existing one-dimensional Volterra filter (ODVF). Additionally, the proposed method exhibits fewer parameters and faster convergence speed than the traditional volterra kernel.

Epoxidation of Light Olefin Mixtures with Hydrogen Peroxide on TS-1 Catalyst

The direct epoxidation of mixed ethene and propene feedstocks using hydrogen peroxide over a titanium silicalite (TS-1) catalyst was investigated within a continuous trickle bed reactor operating in laboratory scale. Methanol was employed as the reaction solvent. This study aimed to streamline the epoxidation process by obviating the need for prior separation of alkenes, thereby enhancing process efficiency. An extensive array of operational parameters was explored in a trickle bed reactor, encompassing experimental parameters such as temperature, total pressure, hydrogen peroxide concentration, liquid flow rate, and gas composition. In contrast to prior investigations involving separate ethene and propene epoxidation, this study revealed a reduction in epoxide selectivity. The principal by-products observed were methoxy species, formed through the interaction between the epoxide and methanol, resulting in a ring-opening reaction. The influence of water on this ring-opening process was negligible. Notably, the tunability of the system was demonstrated, highlighting low temperature and elevated partial ethene pressure as pivotal factors for augmentingthe epoxide selectivity. The findings suggest that binary olefin mixtures exhibit diminished selectivity but improved stability. This behavior is potentially linked to the olefin solubility in methanol, or alterations in the surface species concentrations, typically associated with catalyst activity variations. These insights offer a valuable foundation for understanding and optimizing the direct epoxidation of mixed ethene and propene feedstock.Graphical

Protective effect of heat-processed Gynostemma pentaphyllum on high fat diet-induced glucose metabolic disorders mice.

Glucose metabolic disorders (GMD) can promote insulin resistance (IR) and diabetes, and damage liver and kidney. Gynostemma pentaphyllum is commonly used in the clinical treatment of diabetes, but the research on its main active constituents and GMD has not been reported yet. This study explores the therapeutic potential of gypenosides of heat-processed Gynostemma pentaphyllum (HGyp) on high-fat diet-induced GMD in mice. HGyp was administered at different doses for 12weeks. The investigation encompassed an array of parameters, including body weight, blood lipids, blood glucose, and liver tissue components. Metabolomic and network analyses were conducted to uncover potential targets and pathways associated with HGyp treatment. The results revealed that HGyp alleviated GMD by reducing body weight, blood glucose, and improving blood lipids levels, while increasing liver glycogen and antioxidant enzyme levels. Additionally, HGyp exhibited protective effects on liver and kidney health by reducing tissue damage. Fourteen blood components were detected by LC-MS. Metabolomic and network analyses indicated the potential engagement of the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in the therapeutic effects of HGyp.Furthermore, Western blot and ELISA assays confirmed that HGyp upregulated GLO1 and GLUT4 while down-regulating AGEs and RAGE expression in liver tissue. In light of these findings, HGyp demonstrates promise as a potential therapeutic candidate for combating GMD, warranting further exploration in the development of therapeutic strategies or functional products.

The Use of Large Animal Models in Trauma and Bleeding Studies.

Major trauma often results in significant bleeding and coagulopathy, posing a substantial clinical burden. To understand the underlying pathophysiology and to refine clinical strategies to overcome coagulopathy, preclinical large animal models are often used. This review scrutinizes the clinical relevance of large animal models in hemostasis research, emphasizing challenges in translating findings into clinical therapies. We conducted a thorough search of PubMed and EMBASE databases from January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2022. We used specific keywords and inclusion/exclusion criteria centered on large animal models. Our review analyzed 84 pertinent articles, including four animal species: pigs, sheep, dogs, and nonhuman primates (NHPs). Eighty-five percent of the studies predominantly utilized porcine models. Meanwhile, sheep and dogs were less represented, making up only 2.5% of the total studies. Models with NHP were 10%. The most frequently used trauma models involved a combination of liver injury and femur fractures (eight studies), arterial hemorrhage (seven studies), and a combination of hemodilution and liver injury (seven studies). A wide array of coagulation parameters were employed to assess the efficacy of interventions in hemostasis and bleeding control. Recognizing the diverse strengths and weaknesses of large animal models is critical for trauma and hemorrhage research. Each model is unique and should be chosen based on how well it aligns with the specific scientific objectives of the study. By strategically considering each model's advantages and limitations, we can enhance our understanding of trauma and hemorrhage pathophysiology and further advance the development of effective treatments.

Investigating the dynamic responses of Aegilops tauschii Coss. to salinity, drought, and nitrogen stress: a comprehensive study of competitive growth and biochemical and molecular pathways.

Aegilops tauschii (Coss.) is a highly deleterious, rapidly proliferating weed within the wheat, and its DD genome composition exhibits adaptability toward diverse abiotic stresses and demonstrates heightened efficacy in nutrient utilization. Current study investigated different variegated impacts of distinct nitrogen concentrations with varied plant densities, scrutinizing the behavior of Ae. tauschii under various salinity and drought stress levels through multiple physiological, biochemical, and molecular pathways. Different physiological parameters attaining high growth with different plant density and different nitrogen availability levels increased Ae. tauschii dominancy. Conversely, under the duress of salinity and drought, Ae. tauschii showcased an enhanced performance through a comprehensive array of physiological and biochemical parameters, including catalase, peroxidase, malondialdehyde, and proline content. Notably, salinity-associated traits such as sodium, potassium, and the sodium-potassium ratio exhibited significant variations and demonstrated remarkable tolerance capabilities. In the domain of molecular pathways, the HKT and DREB genes have displayed a remarkable upregulation, showcasing a comparatively elevated expression profile in reaction to different levels of salinity and drought-induced stress. Without a doubt, this information will make a substantial contribution to the understanding of the fundamental behavioral tendencies and the efficiency of nutrient utilization in Ae. tauschii. Moreover, it will offer innovative viewpoints for integrated management, thereby enabling the enhancement of strategies for adept control and alleviation.

Effect of concentration of biosynthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles on the growth and development of Lycopersiconesculentum

The global dissemination of Lycopersicon esculentum, commonly referred to as the tomato, is attributed to its exceptional organoleptic attributes and nutritional contributions across a wide spectrum of culinary creations. Within this context, the progression of research efforts aimed at enhancing the yield of this crop holds paramount importance. In this regard, the application of Zinc Oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) during pivotal growth and developmental phases of L. esculentum emerges as a subject of profound interest. A multitude of investigations have elucidated that zinc, when administered within optimal thresholds, exerts dual roles as both a biofertilizer and a biopesticide, concurrently displaying potential to elevate the nutritional content of consumable fruits, thereby heralding transformative perspectives for conventional agricultural practices. Against this backdrop, this study aims to delineate the nuanced impact of various concentrations of biogenically synthesized ZnO NPs on the growth and maturation trajectory of L. esculentum (tomato). The research trajectory encompassed the synthesis of ZnO NPs and their subsequent characterization. Sequentially, a planned inoculation regimen was orchestrated, comprising six distinct experimental cohorts. Following emergence, a series of assessments were conducted, each spanning a 30-day interval, wherein an array of growth and developmental parameters were meticulously gauged, encompassing variables such as stem elongation, stem thickness, leaf density, floral abundance, cluster profusion, and fruit setting. A judicious amalgamation of empirical data acquisition and statistical scrutiny unveiled discernible differentials among the experimental modalities, significantly signifying the propitious influence of zinc oxide nanoparticles on the scrutinized variables. Consequently, it is unequivocally deduced that the sixth treatment regimen, characterized by the administration of 99.076 ppm ZnO NPs, engenders a constructive modulatory effect upon the stature of stem elongation, stem thickness, leaf density, floral abundance, cluster profusion, and fruit yield concerning L. esculentum. This discovery corroborates the potential of ZnO NPs to prognosticate an effective augmentation in the growth and development of this pivotal crop species.

A New Software for the Calculation of Eye-lens Dosimetry Quantities Based on Dose-rate Coefficients.

In the last decade, the International Commission on Radiological Protection recommended a reduction in the annual limits to the dose to the lens of the eye from 150 mSv to 20 mSv y-1, averaged over defined periods of 5 y, with no single year exceeding 50 mSv. To assist the health physics community in this task, many groups have calculated protection and operational fluence dose coefficients. This led to the publication of multiple coefficient tables that were calculated for arrays of different parameters, including particle type, angle of incidence, target phantom models, presence or absence of secondary charged particle equilibrium, etc. The coefficients available in the literature include protection dose values calculated in a realistic eye model and operational values calculated in a simplified cylindrical head phantom at a point 3 mm below the surface. This paper reports on a simple Windows™ application that was written to aid health physics professionals in accessing and using the large body of available protection and operational eye-lens data. The application is called the Eye-Lens Dose Calculator, as it also performs calculations of the eye-lens dose for radionuclides, where the complete emissions of the selected radionuclides are considered. Test cases show that there is good agreement between the calculated protection and operational dose quantities when radionuclide emission characteristics are considered.

Nanomorphogenesis of template-induced crumpled polyamide nanofiltration membranes

Tailored thin-film composite (TFC) nanofiltration (NF) membranes can potentially achieve high permeance and effective salt separation during wastewater reclamation and water reuse. Recently, customized polyamide (PA) nanofilms with crumpled structures have received considerable attention owing to their outstanding separation performance; however, the underlying mechanism of the formation of crumpled features at the nanoscale remains poorly understood. Herein, we report the use of a particulate polydopamine (PDA) interlayer as a regulator for modulating chemical inhomogeneity (i.e., the diffusion and distribution of amine monomers) during the interfacial polymerization (IP) process, in which the characteristic spatial patterns of PA nanostructures are formed following a diffusion–reaction dynamics model in the Turing theory. Furthermore, the nanomorphologies and separation performance of PA membranes can be effectively controlled by tuning the physical inhomogeneity (i.e., the roughness of the organic–aqueous reaction interface) of the particulate interlayer. The interlayer-mediated TFC NF membrane exhibits crumpled nanosized stripes with three times higher permeance and four times higher Cl−/SO42− selectivity (up to 82.1) than those of pristine PA membranes. We have also identified an array of topographical parameters for both the PDA interlayer and PA nanostructures based on experimental observations and multiscale simulations (i.e., molecular dynamics and dissipative particle dynamics) to establish quantitative relationships between the interlayer morphology, PA morphology, and performance characteristics of NF membranes. Our work provides molecular insights into the nanomorphogenesis of crumpled PA nanofilms and interlayer effects on the IP reaction and final separation performance.

Strain Localization Patterns and Thrust Propagation in 3‐D Discrete Element Method (DEM) Models of Accretionary Wedges

AbstractHigh‐resolution three‐dimensional discrete element method (DEM) simulations of sandbox‐scale models of accretionary wedges suggest thrusts follow a variety of propagation processes and orientations depending on a number of factors. These include the stage of development of the wedge (precritical vs. critical), basal friction, and type of thrust (forward vs. backward‐vergent). In terms of propagation processes, two clear mechanisms are identified. The first involves propagation from the décollement to the wedge top, similar to the standard model of thrust propagation seen in many kinematic models, and in the second, thrusts grow downward from an initial nucleation point just below the top surface of the wedge as well as upward from the décollement joining in the middle. In terms of orientation, forward‐vergent thrusts initially form at Roscoe (θR = 45° − Ψ/2) or Arthur orientations (θA = 45° − (ϕ + Ψ)/4), and over greater shortening, rotate into Coulomb orientations (θC = 45° − ϕ/2). To arrive at these results, a wide array of continuum parameters and fields were extracted from the DEM simulations, including stress, strain, strain rate, kinetic energy, Mohr‐Coulomb parameters, and proximity to yielding using the Drucker‐Prager criterion to visualize thrust nucleation and propagation. Lastly, the advantages and disadvantages of these continuum proxies for discerning failure in the granular assembly are considered, and the spatial and temporal relationship between proximity to yielding and strain localization (both pre‐peak and subsequent persistent shear banding) in the granular model of an accretionary wedge is explored.

Fracture Energy Measurement in Different Concrete Grades

Fracture energy is regarded as an intrinsic (material) properties that dominates crack mechanisms and associated crack growth in concrete damage under applied stress. In recent times, significant advancements in computing technology have driven the adoption of finite element analysis (FEA) methodologies that necessitate the integration of constitutive models, includingthe traction-separation relationship derived from cutting-edge fracture mechanics. A physically-based model requires fracture energy values; therefore, a properly measured fracture energy value is essential to exhibit better structure response within FEA models. There are large arrays of parameters involved during the concrete mixture, such as beam size effect, aggregate size, and concrete grade, that affect the flexural resistance of the concrete. The fracture and failure in concrete ahead of the crack tip are represented by fracture energy values where micro-damage events such as interfacial failure, fiber-bridging, and matrix cracking occurred.This study aims to determinethe fracture energy of concrete specimens with combination of notch depth aoat mid-span, design concrete strength as specified in the testing series. Independent compression strength, fcand measured load-displacement profiles underathree-point bendingtest were used to determine fracture energy by incorporating three available fracture energy expressions such as Bazant, Hillerborg,and CEB-FIP models.

High-Directional Sound Propagation Over the Earth’s Surface

The article discusses the issues of accounting the direction pattern of parametric antenna array the propagation of sound over the Earth’s surface. As a radiator, a parametric antenna array is used. A description is given of measuring equipment and experimental research methods. The Delaney-Bezley model was used as a model of the Earth’s surface impedance. The research results showed the importance of accounting the direction pattern of parametric antenna array in predicting the sound pressure level of a propagating acoustic signal over the Earth’s surface. On the example of a difference signal with a frequency of 2 kHz, the calculation of the sound pressure level on a 100-meter path with the influence of the Earth’s surface is shown. The results obtained showed a good agreement between the theoretical calculation and experimental data.

A Study of Directional Patterns of Ultrasonic Parametric Array

The paper presents results of numerical calculations and experimental data on the directional pattern of two 38-element parametric arrays composed of ultrasound sources. Two types of antenna arrays are considered, namely with parallel and coaxial connections of ultrasonic transducers (elements). The results of selecting and functional testing of unit elements are described in this paper. It is found that in the coaxial element connection of the antenna array, the level of side lobes is higher than that in the parallel element connection.

Volatile-to-sulfur Ratios Can Recover a Gas Giant’s Accretion History

The newfound ability to detect SO2 in exoplanet atmospheres presents an opportunity to measure sulfur abundances and so directly test between competing modes of planet formation. In contrast to carbon and oxygen, whose dominant molecules are frequently observed, sulfur is much less volatile and resides almost exclusively in solid form in protoplanetary disks. This dichotomy leads different models of planet formation to predict different compositions of gas giant planets. Whereas planetesimal-based models predict roughly stellar C/S and O/S ratios, pebble-accretion models more often predict superstellar ratios. To explore the detectability of SO2 in transmission spectra and its ability to diagnose planet formation, we present a grid of atmospheric photochemical models and corresponding synthetic spectra for WASP-39b (where SO2 has been detected). Our 3D grid contains 113 models (spanning 1–100× the solar abundance ratio of C, O, and S) for thermal profiles corresponding to the morning and evening terminators, as well as mean terminator transmission spectra. Our models show that for a WASP-39b-like O/H and C/H enhancement of ∼10× solar, SO2 can only be seen for C/S and O/S ≲ 1.5× solar, and that WASP-39b’s reported SO2 abundance of 1–10 ppm may be more consistent with planetesimal accretion than with pebble-accretion models (although some pebble models also manage to predict similarly low ratios). More extreme C/S and O/S ratios may be detectable in higher-metallicity atmospheres, suggesting that smaller and more metal-rich gas and ice giants may be particularly interesting targets for testing planet formation models. Future studies should explore the dependence of SO2 on a wider array of planetary and stellar parameters, both for the prototypical SO2 planet WASP-39b, as well as for other hot Jupiters and smaller gas giants.

Vernier effect-based optical fiber sensor for dynamic sensing using a coarsely resolved spectrometer.

Vernier effect-based optical fiber sensors have been demonstrated for high-sensitivity measurements of a diverse array of physical and chemical parameters. The interrogation of a Vernier sensor typically needs a broadband source and an optical spectrum analyzer to measure amplitudes over a broad wavelength window with dense sampling points, facilitating accurate extraction of the Vernier modulation envelope for sensitivity-improved sensing. However, the stringent requirement on the interrogation system limits the dynamic sensing capability of Vernier sensors. In this work, the possibility of employing a light source with a small wavelength bandwidth (35 nm) and a coarsely resolved spectrometer (∼166 pm) for the interrogation of an optical fiber Vernier sensor is demonstrated with the assistance of a machine learning-based analysis technique. Dynamic sensing of the exponential decay process of a cantilever beam has been successfully implemented with the low-cost and intelligent Vernier sensor. This work represents a first step towards a simpler, faster, and cheaper way to characterize the response of optical fiber sensors based on the Vernier effect.

Application of a parametric array over a mid-frequency band (4–10 kHz) –measurements of bottom backscattering strength

Study on characteristics of bottom backscattering at midfrequency (usually referring to 1–10 kHz) is essential for underwater acoustic communication, subbottom structure detection, buried target detection, and antisubmarine sonar. Measurements of bottom backscattering strength in the grazing angle range of 70°–90° over a wide mid-frequency band of 4–10 kHz were taken using a parametric array transmitter system and an omnidirectional hydrophone. Details of the parametric array transmitter system are introduced. The experimental site locates in the South Yellow Sea of China, where the water depth is 37 m. Core data showed that the sediment was fine sand mixed with a small amount of shell fragments. The backscattering strength was extracted from monostatic backscattering data according to the sonar equation. A calibration experiment indicated that the distance from the parametric array to the seafloor should be larger than a conversion distance, where the difference-frequency source level and beamwidth of the parametric array tended to be stable, to efficiently generate low-frequency difference-frequency waves used to measure the bottom backscattering strength. The backscattering strength increases with the increase of the grazing angle, reaching a peak at the grazing angle of 90°. In the point of frequency, the frequency dependence of the backscattering strength is weak. The characteristics of bottom backscattering agree with a sandy site with similar sediment properties near the experimental site.

Directional Suppression of Monotone Noises with A Parametric Array Loudspeaker

Monotone noises at high decibels have been identified as a main cause of degradation in people’s mental health. This paper proposes a directional monotone noise reduction method to suppress spatially localized single-frequency noises. The system is designed based on a feedforward active noise control (ANC) structure by implementing filtered-x least mean square (FxLMS) algorithms. Compared with traditional ANC methods, our system employs a parametric array loudspeaker (PAL) as the active noise-canceling source with high audio directivity for directional noise suppression. The system monitors the ambient monotone noise and implements the ANC algorithm in real-time through a software-based platform operating on a generic personal computer (PC). Experimental measurements demonstrate an 8dB reduction of different monotone noises at a 260cm distance from the active source. Compared with traditional ANC methods with a voice coil loudspeaker (VCL) as the noise-canceling source, our PAL-based system achieves similar noise suppression performance with a 5.8 times improvement in the source-to-target distance and 64% reduction in the −3dB audio main lobe beam width. The results prove the advantage of introducing PALs as active-noise-canceling sources for monotone noise suppression with a cost-effective enhancement in operating distances and noise control directivities.