Scanline Data Research Articles

Optimizing the Ultrasound Tongue Image Representation for Residual Network-Based Articulatory-to-Acoustic Mapping.

Within speech processing, articulatory-to-acoustic mapping (AAM) methods can apply ultrasound tongue imaging (UTI) as an input. (Micro)convex transducers are mostly used, which provide a wedge-shape visual image. However, this process is optimized for the visual inspection of the human eye, and the signal is often post-processed by the equipment. With newer ultrasound equipment, now it is possible to gain access to the raw scanline data (i.e., ultrasound echo return) without any internal post-processing. In this study, we compared the raw scanline representation with the wedge-shaped processed UTI as the input for the residual network applied for AAM, and we also investigated the optimal size of the input image. We found no significant differences between the performance attained using the raw data and the wedge-shaped image extrapolated from it. We found the optimal pixel size to be 64 × 43 in the case of the raw scanline input, and 64 × 64 when transformed to a wedge. Therefore, it is not necessary to use the full original 64 × 842 pixels raw scanline, but a smaller image is enough. This allows for the building of smaller networks, and will be beneficial for the development of session and speaker-independent methods for practical applications. AAM systems have the target application of a "silent speech interface", which could be helpful for the communication of the speaking-impaired, in military applications, or in extremely noisy conditions.

Extending the pixel difference metric from 2D to 3D/4D ultrasound

It is frequently of interest to examine differences (e.g., the 1st or 2nd difference) in signals and images. Differencing can be employed for the detection of edges in images, or the detection of events in temporal sequences. One such event is the onset of articulatory movement in ultrasound image sequences of the tongue. It has been quantified using a form of Euclidean distance between successive frames of image scan line data, referred to as Pixel Difference. When applied to 3-D/4-D ultrasound data of the tongue (after scan conversion), Pixel Difference exhibited a surprisingly poor signal-to-noise ratio. In this presentation, we test the hypotheses that (1) scan conversion amplifies the effect of speckle noise near the top of the ultrasound image (i.e. above the tongue), and (2) the Pixel Difference signal-to-noise ratio in 3-D/4-D ultrasound differs from 2-D ultrasound by a power of 3/2 due to the added spatial dimension.

Semiautomated Statistical Discontinuity Analyses from Scanline Data of Fractured Rock Masses

Quantitative statistical discontinuity analysis of fractured rock masses is commonly applied in the fields of engineering geology, rock mechanics, slope stability, and hydrogeology. This study presents a workflow for the semiautomatic determination of basic discontinuity parameters, such as spacing, frequency, trace length, and termination, from scanline surveys written for the open-source software Octave. The aim is to provide theoretical background information and scripts for a quick introduction to all interested parties from academia and consulting, in order to promote the use of widely known and accepted statistical evaluation methods. Data from a study site in granodioritic rock are analyzed in the context of the proposed workflow. These test data and all scripts (m-files) used in the study are provided in order to minimize initial training time. The scripts provided herein are kept short and simple, but can be used as a basis for advanced automation of the workflow and presentation of the results.

Gaussian process regression for ultrasound scanline interpolation.

Purpose: In ultrasound imaging, interpolation is a key step in converting scanline data to brightness-mode (B-mode) images. Conventional methods, such as bilinear interpolation, do not fully capture the spatial dependence between data points, which leads to deviations from the underlying probability distribution at the interpolation points. Approach: We propose Gaussian process ( ) regression as an improved method for ultrasound scanline interpolation. Using ultrasound scanlines acquired from two different ultrasound scanners during in vivo trials, we compare the scanline conversion accuracy of three standard interpolation methods with that of regression, measuring the peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) and mean absolute error (MAE) for each method. Results: The PSNR and MAE scores show that regression leads to more accurate scanline conversion compared to the nearest neighbor, bilinear, and cubic spline interpolation methods, for both datasets. Furthermore, limiting the interpolation window size of regression to 15 reduces computation time with minimal to no reduction in PSNR. Conclusions: regression quantitatively leads to more accurate scanline conversion and provides uncertainty estimates at each of the interpolation points. Our windowing method reduces the computational cost of using regression for scanline conversion.

Automatic and Manual Fracture-Lineament Identification on Digital Surface Models as Methods for Collecting Fracture Data on Outcrops: Case Study on Fractured Granite Outcrops, Bangka

Three-dimensional outcrop models, or Digital Surface Models (DSMs), have proved their capacity in many geoscience studies. Along with the advantage in the rapid acquisition, DSMs are capable of creating virtual models of fractured outcrops to be interpreted for further analysis. This paper reports the DSM robustness by comparing the result of fracture-lineament measurement using DSMs and discusses the possible causes of error that might occur. The first method applied in this study is the scanline method to collect fracture data directly from outcrops, measuring more than 1,400 fracture data. The second method is applying fully automatic and manual fracture identification by optimizing hill-shaded DSMs. Two well-exposed granite outcrops in Bangka, Indonesia, are designed for the pilot area. Structure-from-Motion (SfM) photogrammetry is utilized to generate the DSMs, where a series of aerial images are captured using Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). The images are then processed into hill-shaded DSMs to be automatically analyzed following the algorithm in PCI Geomatics software and manually assessed. The textures of DSMs are also used in fracture identification through RGB filtering as the third method. The results show that the semiautomatic measurement using RGB-filtering texture has the closest pattern to the scanline data compared to the hill-shaded DSM method. The differences rely on several conditions, such as the geometry and texture of the outcrops. Eventually, methods of fracture identification using DSM are expected to be capable as options in preliminary fracture data collecting on outcrops, especially when the scanline is unable to be performed.

Linhas de levantamento estrutural: correção do viés de orientação a partir de planilhas eletrônicas

Um dos procedimentos mais adotados para o estudo de redes de fraturas são as linhas de levantamento estrutural, tanto em trabalhos de Geologia como de Engenharia. Os dados coletados através desse método necessitam ser corrigidos para viés de orientação, sendo a correção proposta por Ruth Terzaghi a mais empregada e amplamente reconhecida. Uma vez que a correção originalmente era feita através de ábacos manuais, e que muitos dos programas atualmente disponíveis para realizá-la não são de acesso livre, este trabalho propõe a execução da correção de viés de orientação de linhas de levantamento através de planilhas eletrônicas, visando tornar o procedimento mais acessível e difundido entre os profissionais brasileiros.

Derivation of space-resolved normal joint spacing and in situ block size distribution data from terrestrial LIDAR point clouds in a rugged Alpine relief (Kühtai, Austria)

Terrestrial laserscan (TLS) surveys allow the geological investigation of rock slopes, which cannot be measured by direct surveys because of inaccessibility, high hazard potential or excessive effort. The normal joint spacing and the in situ block size distribution are relevant properties for rock mass characterisation but are commonly evaluated statistically or at small regions only. This study presents the jointing characterisation of an Alpine rock slope by both scanline data and a new, automated analysis of point cloud data. The slope, located in the Langental (Austria), is characterised by a rugged Alpine relief and granodioritic gneisses fractured by non-persistent joints. The scanline data and the TLS surveys were used to investigate joint set orientations, normal joint spacings and in situ block sizes. Area-wide maps of rock slope properties were prepared from the results of the point cloud analysis. The general results derived from the point clouds are in good agreement with the scanline data. The space-resolved maps show larger block sizes in some of the higher ranging sub-regions and small block sizes in tectonically formed gullies, as well as various local variations. These visualisations are much more beneficial for most rock mechanical questions than common statistical data evaluation approaches using pre-defined sub-regions, which are treated as homogenous areas and thus are missing space-resolved information.

Two-Stage Beamforming for Phased Array Imaging Using the Fast Hankel Transform.

An ultrasound scan generates a huge amount of data. To form an image, this data has to be transferred to the imaging system. This is an issue for applications where the data transfer capacity is limited such as hand-held systems, wireless probes, and miniaturized array probes. Two-stage beamforming methods can be used to significantly reduce the data transfer requirements. In the first stage, which is applied in-probe, the amount of data is reduced from channel to scanline data. In the imaging system, the data are then beamformed to obtain images, which are synthetically focused over the entire image. Currently, two approaches exist for the second stage. The first approach is a time-of-flight (TOF) approach called synthetic aperture sequential beamforming (SASB), which has been developed for both linear and phased arrays. SASB does, however, introduce artifacts in the image that can be reduced by tapering the first-stage scanlines at the cost of lateral resolution. The second approach is based on the wave equation, but a computationally efficient method for phased arrays that is producing sector scan data is lacking. Here, we propose an algorithm that uses the fast Hankel transform to obtain a fast algorithm. The imaging performance of this method is evaluated with simulations and experiments. Compared with PSASB, which is an adaption of SASB for phased arrays, our method requires a similar amount of operations to construct the entire image and there is no tradeoff between resolution and artifacts. These results show the advantage of using the wave equation instead of a TOF approach.

3D mechanical stratigraphy of a deformed multi-layer: Linking sedimentary architecture and strain partitioning

Stratigraphic influence on structural style and strain distribution in deformed sedimentary sequences is well established, in models of 2D mechanical stratigraphy. In this study we attempt to refine existing models of stratigraphic-structure interaction by examining outcrop scale 3D variations in sedimentary architecture and the effects on subsequent deformation. At Monkstone Point, Pembrokeshire, SW Wales, digital mapping and virtual scanline data from a high resolution virtual outcrop have been combined with field observations, sedimentary logs and thin section analysis. Results show that significant variation in strain partitioning is controlled by changes, at a scale of tens of metres, in sedimentary architecture within Upper Carboniferous fluvio-deltaic deposits. Coupled vs uncoupled deformation of the sequence is defined by the composition and lateral continuity of mechanical units and unit interfaces. Where the sedimentary sequence is characterized by gradational changes in composition and grain size, we find that deformation structures are best characterized by patterns of distributed strain. In contrast, distinct compositional changes vertically and in laterally equivalent deposits results in highly partitioned deformation and strain. The mechanical stratigraphy of the study area is inherently 3D in nature, due to lateral and vertical compositional variability. Consideration should be given to 3D variations in mechanical stratigraphy, such as those outlined here, when predicting subsurface deformation in multi-layers.

Characterization of natural fracture systems: Analysis of uncertainty effects in linear scanline results

The exploitation of hydrocarbon reserves in naturally fractured reservoirs composed of different types of rocks has drawn considerable attention from the fracture characterization research community because of the importance of fractures to the prediction of fluid flow. One of the most common methods for rapidly analyzing fracture features is the scanline technique, which provides an estimate of fracture density and frequency. Despite the confidence provided by the systematic use of this method, errors and uncertainties caused by sampling biases exist. The problems caused by these uncertainties can detrimentally affect the construction of a computational model due to misleading trends. This study evaluated the uncertainty caused by sampling biases in the scanline data of opening-mode fractures in outcrops of naturally fractured Aptian laminated limestone from the Crato Formation, Araripe Basin, northeastern Brazil. The Monte Carlo method was chosen to introduce random values into the sampled values, which enabled us to verify the importance of errors in the accuracy of the method of representing the fracture network. In this study, errors and uncertainties were grouped into one parameter, termed the coefficient of uncertainty, which was defined as the ratio between the uncertainties, created by the errors and artifacts introduced artificially, and the original scanline data. The propagation of errors and uncertainties in the scanline data to the coefficients of the corresponding power law were determined. This evaluation can be applied in the construction of more reliable geomechanical models using analog geological models for naturally fractured reservoirs.

A technique for revealing scale‐dependent patterns in fracture spacing data

AbstractData on fracture spacing along scan lines have been widely analyzed for the purposes of characterization. Most of these studies, however, either consider the cumulative frequency of spacing data without regard to the actual sequence of the spacing values or compute an average spacing that may not work for clustered fractures. The coefficient of variation parameter is often used to differentiate between clustered, random, and anticlustered fractures in a scan line but does not address the issue of scale‐dependent variations in spacing. Lacunarity is a parameter that has been previously used for delineating scale‐dependent clustering in fracture networks with similar fractal dimensions. This technique has the further capability of identifying scales at which different patterns emerge within the same data set. Lacunarity can also delineate possible fractal behavior. This paper tests the ability of lacunarity to find patterns (fractal/uniform/random) within synthetic and natural fracture clusters. A set of four model scan lines (uniformly spaced fractures, periodically spaced fracture clusters, fractal fracture clusters, and random fractures) was considered. The first derivative of the lacunarity curves of these models was used to find the intercluster distance and organization of fractures within the clusters. The same technique was then applied to a set of two natural fracture scan line data, one with fracture clusters with fractal organization within and the other with randomly spaced fractures. It was found that the proposed technique could discriminate between the random and clustered patterns, find the intercluster distance, and identify the type of spatial organization within the clusters.

3D ultrasound reconstruction algorithms from analog and digital data

Freehand 3D ultrasound is increasingly being introduced in the clinic for diagnostics and image-assisted interventions. Various algorithms exist for combining 2D images of regular ultrasound probes to 3D volumes, being either voxel-, pixel- or function-based. Previously, the most commonly used input to 3D ultrasound reconstruction has been digitized analog video. However, recent scanners that offer access to digital image frames exist, either as processed or unprocessed data. To our knowledge, no comparison has been performed to determine which data source gives the best reconstruction quality. In the present study we compared both reconstruction algorithms and data sources using novel comparison methods for detecting potential differences in image quality of the reconstructed volumes. The ultrasound scanner used in this study was the Sonix RP from Ultrasonix Medical Corp (Richmond, Canada), a scanner that allow third party access to unprocessed and processed digital data. The ultrasound probe used was the L14-5/38 linear probe. The assessment is based on a number of image criteria: detectability of wire targets, spatial resolution, detectability of small barely visible structures, subjective tissue image quality, and volume geometry. In addition we have also performed the more “traditional” comparison of reconstructed volumes by removing a percentage of the input data. By using these evaluation methods and data from the specific scanner, the results showed that the processed video performed better than the digital scan-line data, digital video being better than analog video. Furthermore, the results showed that the choice of video source was more important than the choice of tested reconstruction algorithms.

‘Diffuse faulting’ in the Machu Picchu granitoid pluton, Eastern Cordillera, Peru

A series of batholiths, forming part of the ‘roots’ of a Permo-Liassic rift system, are exposed in the high Eastern Cordillera of central Peru as a result of tectonic inversion. Shortening of the Machu Picchu granitoid pluton was accommodated by widespread shear reactivation of primary joints, by a process termed here ‘diffuse faulting’. Fault-like reactivation of precursor joint surfaces, marked by chlorite, epidote and quartz shear fibres, is locally evidenced by few centimetres offsets within apparently undeformed granite. Analysis of fault slip data indicates that shear reactivation of different joint sets was kinematically consistent with ENE oriented shortening. Less frequent mylonitic shear zones appear to have evolved from the common brittle precursors. Apart from rare phyllonitic shear zones, fluid–rock interaction along the brittle precursors was generally limited, and pluton deformation appears to be mainly controlled by the geometry and distribution of primary joints. Three main sets of reactivated joints can be recognized, characterized by oblique-slip kinematics with variable reverse and strike–slip components of motion. Theoretical modelling based on quantitative fracture analysis (scan-line data) and different displacement–length relationships applied to the main reactivated joint sets yield first-order estimates of pluton finite strain. The results suggest that bulk finite strain is oblate and essentially coaxial, and is characterized by horizontal shortening not exceeding 10%. Relatively small finite strains, integrated over the size of the pluton, still result in a few kilometres of crustal shortening.

Regional fracture network permeability using outcrop scale measurements

Estimating the hydraulic properties of fractured aquifers is challenging due to the complexity of structural discontinuities that can generally be measured at a small scale, either in core or in outcrop, but influence groundwater flow over a range of scales. This modeling study uses fracture scanline data obtained from surface bedrock exposures to derive estimates of permeability that can be used to represent the fractured rock matrix within regional scale flow models. The model is developed using PETREL, which traditionally benefits from high resolution data sets obtained during oil and gas exploration, including for example seismic data, and borehole logging data (both lithological and geophysical). The technique consists of interpreting scanline fracture data, and using these data to generate representative Discrete Fracture Network (DFN) models for each field set. The DFN models are then upscaled to provide an effective hydraulic conductivity tensor that represents the fractured rock matrix. For each field site, the upscaled hydraulic conductivities are compared with estimates derived from pumping tests to validate the model. A hydraulic conductivity field is generated for the study region that captures the spatial variability of fracture networks in pseudo-three dimensions from scanline data. Hydraulic conductivities estimated using this approach compare well with those estimated from pumping test data. The study results suggest that such an approach may be feasible for taking small scale fracture data and upscaling these to represent the aquifer matrix hydraulic properties needed for regional groundwater modeling.

Quantifying uncertainties in multi-scale studies of fractured reservoir analogues: Implemented statistical analysis of scan line data from carbonate rocks

In this study we performed a fracture analysis on a Cretaceous bedded carbonate succession well exposed in the Sorrento Peninsula. The studied succession includes stratigraphic units that are very similar to the productive units of the buried Apulian Platform reservoir rocks in southern Italy. We analyzed eight carbonate beds, including both limestones and dolomites. The basic technique used in this study consisted of measuring fractures along bedding-parallel scan lines. For one limestone bed, a microscale scan line, about 15 cm long, was also analyzed using a digital microcamera. Provided the cumulative distribution of fracture apertures is well described by a power law, our analysis shows how the uncertainty in the estimate of fracture aperture cumulative frequencies grows for large aperture values. This feature results in a large uncertainty in the estimate of the slope of the least-squares line (in a bi-logarithmic diagram) approximating the data distribution, which is the exponent of the power law. As the latter represents a fundamental parameter characterizing a fracture set and fracture distribution over different scales, reducing the uncertainty in the estimate of the slope of the curve represents an important objective of quantitative fracture analysis. This is obtained in this study by the application of multi-scale analysis, and by integrating micro-scan line data with classic outcrop-based scan line analysis. The quantification of uncertainties in the cumulative distribution estimates of fracture apertures is performed by analyzing in detail the spacing distribution – and consequently fracture-density distribution – for each aperture value. Our results suggests that a meaningful statistical analysis of fracture attributes such as aperture (or opening displacement) may be effectively carried out by using properly determined confidence intervals and by the integration of outcrop-based and micro-scan line data sets.

Analysis of Segmental and Global Function of the Fetal Heart Using Novel Automatic Functional Imaging

Functional assessment of the fetal heart has always been a challenge. Automatic functional imaging (AFI), a novel non-Doppler methodology based on 2-dimensional acoustic markers tracking, measures myocardial deformation regardless of angle of interrogation. Thus, we studied the validity of AFI in segmental and global assessment of myocardial function in the fetus. AFI-based myocardial deformation parameters including segmental tissue velocity, strain, and strain rate as well as biventricular global strain and strain rate were measured from raw scan-line data obtained from 28 normal fetuses (20-38, median 28 weeks of gestation). Interobserver and intraobserver variability was analyzed. AFI data were compared with analogous Doppler-derived tissue velocity imaging parameters measured in the same 28 fetuses. AFI was feasible in 94% of the fetuses studied with high reproducibility. AFI-based tissue velocity (3.9 +/- 1 cm/s) was comparable with tissue velocity imaging-based velocity (4 +/- 1.6 cm/s) in the right ventricle and in the left ventricle (AFI velocity 3.3 +/- 0.6 vs tissue velocity imaging 3.1 +/- 0.9 cm/s). Strain rate obtained by these two methods was also similar. Biventricular global strain and strain rate measured 16 +/- 4% and 1.6 +/- .5 seconds(-1), respectively. Tissue velocity increased whereas segmental strain rate decreased throughout gestation. Strain remained unchanged. Global strain rate significantly decreased with gestational age (r = -0.7). AFI, a novel non-Doppler methodology, allows fast and accurate quantification of segmental and global myocardial function in the fetus. AFI-based tissue velocity increases with gestational age whereas segmental and the new parameter global strain rate decrease throughout gestation.

A novel method for the assessment of the accuracy of computing laminar flow stroke volumes using a real-time 3D ultrasound system: In vitro studies

Laminar flow stroke volume (SV) quantification in the ascending aorta or pulmonary artery can provide a measure for determining cardiac output (CO). Comparing flows across different valves can also compute shunt volumes and regurgitant fractions. Quantification methods for 3D color Doppler laminar flow volumes have been developed using reconstructive 3D, but these are cumbersome and time-consuming both in acquisition and measurement. Our study evaluated newly developed color Doppler mapping with real-time live 3D echo to test velocity, spatial and temporal resolution for computing SV. Five rubber tubes (diameters=3.0, 2.25, 2.0, 1.9, 1.7 cm), a freshly dissected porcine aorta (Ao) and a pulmonary artery (PA) (both 2-3 cm diameter) were connected to a pulsatile pump in a water bath. Different SV, from 10 to 80 ml/beat, were studied at pump rates of 40-60 bpm in this phantom model with flow quantified by timed collection. The Nyquist limit was set between 43 and 100 cm/s and frame rate ranged from 14 to 23/s. ECG triggered 3D color Doppler volumes were acquired with a 2-4 MHz probe. The digital scan line data from the 3D volumes, with retained velocity assignments, was exported and analyzed offline by MatLab custom software. Close correlations were found between 3D calculated SV and reference data for all tubes (r=0.98, y=1.14x-1.69, SEE=2.82 ml/beat, p<0.0001). Both Ao and PA flows were also highly correlated with the reference measurements (PA: r=0.98, SEE=3.17 ml/beat; Ao: r=0.99, SEE=3.20 ml/beat). Real-time 3D color Doppler method could provide an efficient, accurate and reliable method for clinical evaluation and quantification of flow volumes in patients.

Determination of Discontinuity Size Distributions from Scanline Data

The paper outlines a new method for estimating the distribution form, and mean size, of discontinuities from scanline data. By assuming that the discontinuities are circular discs it has been possible to apply existing solutions for the distributions of censored semi-trace lengths sampled by a scanline at an exposed rock face. These solutions have been implemented by numerical quadrature in a standard Excel spreadsheet, with solution optimisation achieved with Solver. Problems caused by a singularity in the integration were overcome by applying an integration offset parameter. A trigonometrical substitution for removing this singularity is also outlined. The numerical quadrature strategy was validated by comparison with the analytical solution for the uniform distribution, and by comparison with the results of an extensive geometrical simulation of the stereological process. A new distribution, here named the Wicksell distribution, has been identified. This distribution is characterised by the fact that the distribution of disc diameters and the distribution of complete traces on a cutting plane are identical. Two examples, based on real scanline data, are presented to illustrate the practical application of the new methods.

Quantification of flow volume with a new digital three-dimensional color Doppler flow approach: an in vitro study.

The quantification of flow stroke volume is important for evaluation of patients with cardiac dysfunction and cardiovascular disease. Three-dimensional digital color Doppler flow imaging allows the acquisition of flow data in an orientation approximately parallel to flow and analysis of the Doppler flow velocities perpendicular to flow (cross-sectional flow calculation). This in vitro study assessed the applicability of this method for quantifying cardiac output in a funnel-shaped tube model similar to mitral inflow or the left ventricular outflow tract. A new digital three-dimensional color Doppler method was used to acquire Doppler flow information. Raw scan line data with digital velocity assignments were obtained on a conventional Doppler color flow imaging system with a 180 degrees rotating multiplanar transesophageal probe connected to a computer workstation. Nine stroke volumes (20-60 mL) with flow rates ranging from 1.5 to 5.28 L/min in a funnel-shaped pulsatile laminar flow model were studied. Three-dimensional flow rates were compared with standard-of-reference measurements of flow obtained from timed collection in a graduated cylinder and with an ultrasonic flow meter. Within the funnel tube, the flow volumes that were calculated from the first, second, and third depths and the average of all 3 depths correlated well with the actual flow rate (r = 0.97-0.99). Results from the middle and second levels and from the average of all 3 depths provided the closest fit to the actual flow rates (r = 0.99; y = 0.96x + 0.14; and r = 0.98; y = 1.14x - 0.43, respectively). Although a work in progress, this digital three-dimensional color Doppler flow measurement method is feasible, accurate, and simple, and it may offer in vivo evaluation of blood volume flow given a favorable orientation between the valve orifice and the scanning device.

A study of synthetic-aperture imaging with virtual source elements in B-mode ultrasound imaging systems

We propose an all point transmit and receive focusing method based on transmit synthetic focusing combined with receive dynamic focusing in a linear array transducer. In the method, on transmit, a virtual source element is assumed to be located at the transmit focal depth of conventional B-mode imaging systems, and transmit synthetic focusing is used in two half planes, one before and the other after the transmit focal depth, using the RF data of each scanline, together with all other relevant RF scanline data previously stored. The proposed new method uses the same data acquisition scheme as the conventional focusing method while maintaining the same frame rate via high-speed signal processing, but it is not suitable for imaging moving objects. It improves upon the lateral resolution and sidelobe level at all imaging depths. Also, it increases the transmit power and image signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), due to transmit field synthesis, and extends the image penetration depth as well. Evaluations with simulation and experimental data show much improvement in resolution and SNR at all imaging depths.