Sound Profile Research Articles

Producer vs. Rapper: Who Dominates the Hip Hop Sound?

In hip hop music, rappers and producers play important but rather different roles. However, both contribute to the overall sound, as rappers bring in their voice, while producers are responsible for the music composition and mix. In this case report, the authors trained self-organizing maps with songs produced by Dr. Dre, Rick Rubin, and Timbaland using the goniometer and mel-frequency cepstral coefficients. With these maps, the authors investigate whether hip hop producers have a unique sound profile. Then, they test whether collaborations with the rappers Eminem, Jay-Z, LL Cool J, and Nas stick to or break out of this sound profile. As these rappers are also producers of some songs, it was investigated how much their sound profile was influenced by the producers who introduced them to beat making. The results speak a clear language: producers have their own sound profile that is unique concerning the goniometer and less distinct concerning mel-frequency cepstral coefficients. They dominate the sound of hip hop music over rappers, who emulate the sound profile of the producers who introduced them to beat making.

Properties of interacting quark star in light of Rastall gravity

Abstract This study explores the properties of quark stars (QS) formulated with an interacting quark matter equation of state (EoS) within the framework of Rastall gravity, a modified theory of gravity. We derive the mass-radius relationships and calculate the maximum gravitational masses and their corresponding radii, comparing these results under both Rastall gravity and general relativity. Our analysis incorporates recent observational data, including the GW190425 event, to constrain the model parameters ($\bar{\lambda}, \eta, B_{\rm eff}$). We also assess the stability of these quark stars by evaluating their static stability, adiabatic index, and sound velocity profiles, \textcolor{blue}{thus confirming their viability within the modified gravitational framework}.

Investigation of the geothermal system in region of Selime (Turkey) by resistivity methods

The Anatolian platform continues its development with highly complex tectonic activities in Central Anatolia, known as tectonic deformation. In addition to faulting due to the plate movements, the fluid dynamics in the underground and the thermal cycle are also affected. Heater mass circulation plays a role in the development of plate tectonics. This study aimed to determine the geothermal potential of Selime (Aksaray) and its surroundings. The resistivity method was applied in field studies for the objectives. Geothermal fields with high thermal potential have been investigated by Vertical Electric Sounding (VES) profiles. In the field study, five vertical electric soundings (VES) were applied, a general resistance of (50 – 60) Ωm was observed, and Selim tuff was determined at a depth of approximately (30-35) m. A sudden resistance drop of (1-2) Ωm under the Selime tuff layer proved the existence of a geothermal source. When examined with the hydrogeological data, a thermal fluid is present with an impermeable cover layer. As a result of this research, it was observed that the heater mass affected the thermal fluid, indicating that circulation represented a shallow system.

An Idealized Cloud-Resolving Modeling Study on Rainfall in Taiwan Under Uniform Northeasterly Flow in Winter, Part I: Effects of Wind Direction, Speed, and Moisture Amount

This study performs idealized simulations of rainfall in Taiwan in a winter monsoon regime under different wind direction (Wd; every 15° from 0° to 90°), speed (Ws; 12, 8, and 4 m s−1), and relative humidity (RH; 80, 70, and 60%) combinations at low levels, based on a simplified mean sounding profile from observations during the event over 20–24 November 2020. Thus, at a horizontal grid size of 2 km, a total of 7 × 3 × 3 = 63 runs are performed and the aim is to investigate the response in daily rainfall in northern Taiwan to these three parameters. The model results from the closest combination are verified against the observed rainfall both during the reference event and in several historical cases with reasonable agreement, indicating the usefulness of the approach, albeit with some limitations. From the experiments, our main findings can be summarized as below. First and foremost, with Ws = 12 m s−1 and RH = 80%, when the prescribed Wd changes from 0° (northerly) to 90° (easterly) gradually, the main rainfall areas shift from northern to northeastern Taiwan, with local maxima at the northern tip, northeastern tip of Taiwan, and near Suao (at the end of the Central Mountain Range) in response, indicating topographic uplifting for rainfall production. At a larger impinging angle, the Suao area tends to receive the most daily rainfall and can exceed 300 mm at Wd of about 75°–80°. Second, when Ws decreases to 8 m s−1, the general rainfall regions often remain similar but the amounts become lower, especially at local maxima. The peak amount near Suao is only about 100 mm. At weak wind of Ws = 4 m s−1, only moderate rainfall of 20 mm or below can be produced in Taiwan, and the local centers become not discernable. Third, when RH is lowered, the rainfall in northern Taiwan decreases significantly, especially along and near the coast under weaker winds coming from smaller angles. At RH = 70%, a higher accumulation (≥100 mm or so) near Suao is only possible with Wd ≥ about 55° at Ws = 12 m s−1 or when Wd ≥ 70° at Ws = 8 m s−1. At RH = 60%, the rainfall in northern Taiwan (and on the entire island) further decreases, again more evidently in cases with smaller Wd and Ws values.

A Study on the Application of a Deep Thermal Reservoir by Using a Magnetotelluric Sounding Method: Taking an Example of Geothermal Resources’ Exploration in the Western Taikang Uplift of the Southern North China Basin

Geothermal resources are abundant in the Southern North China Basin, which is one of the prospective areas hosting low–medium-temperature geothermal resources in sedimentary basins in China. The purpose of this work is to reveal the formation and storage conditions of the geothermal resources in the western margin of the Taikang Uplift and delineate the range of potential geothermal reservoirs. This paper uses five magnetotelluric sounding profiles for data processing and analysis, including the calculation of 2D skewness and electric strike. Data processing, analysis, and NLCG 2D inversion were performed on MT data, which consisted of 111 measurement points, and reliable two-dimensional resistivity models and resistivity planes were obtained. In combination with drilling verification and the analysis of geophysical logging data, the stratigraphic lithology and the range of potential geothermal reservoirs were largely clarified. The results show that using the magnetotelluric sounding method can well delineate the range of deep geothermal reservoirs in sedimentary basins and that the MT method is suitable for exploring buried geothermal resources in deep plains. The analytical results showed that the XZR-1 well yielded 1480 cubic meters of water per day, with the water temperature of the wellhead being approximately 78 °C, and combined with the results of this electromagnetic and drilling exploration, a geothermal geological model and genesis process of the west of the Taikang Uplift area was constructed. The water yield and temperature were higher than those of previous exploration results, which has important guiding significance for the future development and utilization of karst fissure heat reservoirs in the western Taikang Uplift.

Performance of underwater data transmission using incoherent modulation MFSK in very shallow waters

Ensuring universal and stable underwater communication in shallow waters for various environmental conditions is a difficult scientific and engineering task. This applies in particular to underwater communication systems that use acoustic waves in very shallow underwater channels, where multipath propagation permanently occurs. The article provides assumptions for a system working with incoherent M-ary Frequency-Shift Keying (MFSK) modulation, along with guidelines for eliminating the impact of the multipath phenomenon. The results of experimental tests carried out in a lake for two seasons and, therefore, different sound velocity profiles are presented. For comparison purposes, three transducers placed at different depths, including at the bottom of the reservoir, were used to receive the transmitted signals.

Determining the sound signatures of insect pests in stored rice grain using an inexpensive acoustic system

Insect pests in storage are causes of major losses worldwide. Acoustic sensors can detect the presence of insects in grain through their sound signature, thus enabling early warning to farmers and traders. This research investigates the applicability of an affordable acoustic sensor, which uses micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) microphone adapted to detect the sound produced by insect pests. Three major insect pests that commonly feed on paddy and milled rice (the lesser grain borer, Rhyzopertha dominica; the rice weevil, Sitophilus oryzae; and the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum), were collected in rice mills and grain storage warehouses in Laguna The Philippines, and reared at the International Rice Research Institute. Baseline sound recordings were replicated for each insect over three days using a completely randomized design (CRD). Recorded sounds were analysed to determine the sound profiles of each insect. Waveforms, root mean square (RMS) energy values, frequency domain, and spectrograms provided characteristics for the sound signal signature specific to each insect. Primary insect pests (R. dominica and S. oryzae) were differentiated from the secondary insect pest (T. castaneum) through signal analyses. Such data are useful to enable insect pest classification, which can be incorporated into more effective and timely postharvest pest management tools.

The ‘less is more’ approach: highlighting the benefits of poly-L-lactic acid filler as a treatment option

Advanced nurse practitioner Michelle McLean delves into the benefits of poly-L-lactic acid filler (PLLA) for skin rejuvenation and restoration as patients demand a ‘less is more’ approach to facial aesthetics. A recent surge in patients wanting to restore or preserve a youthful appearance has seen a surge in popularity for collagen stimulators due to their association with high levels of patient satisfaction, long-lasting efficiency, minor adverse events and sound safety profile ( Christen, 2022 ). Patients are increasingly opting for a ‘less is more’ visual aesthetic, hoping to achieve subtle, natural-looking, undetectable results. To meet patient goals, clinicians are utilising combination approaches in facial aesthetics, utilising products with PLLA because of its desirable results. PLLA is a powerful, well-tolerated tool for clinicians to employ for the non-surgical augmentation of the ageing face.

Deep structural insights into the origin of the Heyuan ms 4.5 revealed by deep seismic sounding profiles in southeast China

This study presents an interpretation of a deep seismic sounding (DSS) profile that carried out along the Cathaysia Block in southeast china, aiming to explore the crustal velocity structure. Data used in the survey were obtained from three controlled-source explosions conducted along the 320 km long Lianping-Heyuan-Shanwei profile. The modeling was based on ray tracing, using the extrapolation of seismic wave arrival times with the help of travel times predicted from a one-dimensional velocity model. The average velocity structure of the middle crust is 6.0–6.4 km/s, while a low velocity anomaly of approximately 0.1–0.2 km/s in the vicinity of the Heyuan-Shaowu fault zone. The resulting 2D velocity model indicates that steeply dipping low-velocity zones that correlate with the projection of two major fault zones. These zones, together with a flat LVZ at a depth of 12 km, define a triangular region that correlates with numerous hypocenters. This tectonic setting is favorable for the accumulation and release of strain in high-velocity media within the triangular region. The unique triangular structure in the upper crust provides necessary shallow medium conditions for seismic activity. This indicates that increased seismicity within this area is partially attributed to heightened stress within higher-velocity material. The triangular annular low-velocity body, situated in the upper crust, is influenced by dynamic environmental factors caused by deep thermal disturbances. The deep-seated fault serves as a conduit for the historical migration of thermal material, likely contributing to the seismogenic conditions for earthquakes in Heyuan’s region through deep-seated thermal disturbances. These findings provide a novel geophysical reference model for the regional seismicity near the Xinfengjang reservoir and significantly contribute to understanding the causal relationship between tectonic setting and seismicity. In comparison with previous studies, our research is dedicated to investigating the causes of shallow earthquakes in the region and exploring the relationship between deep and shallow structures.

How Did 19th-Century Alphorns Sound? A Reconstruction Based on Written Accounts of Its Musical Timbre

This paper reconstructs the sound of 19th-century alphorns based on contemporary written descriptions, which allows for a better understanding of literature and compositions that quoted and imitated the alphorn throughout the 19th century. In the absence of sound recordings, historical documents and literary sources provide valuable insights into the timbre of these traditional Alpine instruments. The research examines descriptions from 19th-century texts, comparing them with modern understandings of musical timbre. By analyzing the language used to describe the alphorn’s sound, the study identifies recurring descriptors and contextualizes them within the broader acoustic environment, including the influence of natural sounds like waterfalls and echoes. Historical sources reveal a complex perception of the alphorn’s timbre, described in terms of its resemblance to muted trumpets and a blend of brass and woodwind qualities. Authors such as Hermann Alexander von Berlepsch and François-Joseph Fétis provided detailed accounts, noting contrasting characteristics like “rough”, “soft”, “sharp”, and “melodious”, which varied with the listener’s distance from the instrument. These descriptions highlight the alphorn’s unique sound profile, distinct from modern perceptions that emphasize a warmer, fuller timbre. The findings underscore the importance of considering ecological and psychoacoustic contexts in the study of historical musical instruments.

The need for ENVIRONMENTAL GEOPHYSICS: the case of abandoned complex behind UBA and FIDELITY banks near Greenhouse at Nsukka campus of University of Nigeria

Subsurface geologic structure around an abandoned building at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka campus was investigated to ascertain the cause or reason for abandonment. 2-D resistivity method was employed in the study. Three electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) profiles and one vertical electrical sounding (VES) profile were conducted around the building using SSR-MP-ATS resistivity meter. Winresist software and RES2DINV software were used to process the VES and ERT data respectively. The result of the analysis of the VES data showed a six layered earth model with the resistivity and depth respectively for each layer. The results of the ERT revealed that the area is covered with a conductive top-layer to a depth of about 15 m coupled with fault zone that passed through the building site. These results showed that the foundation of the building was laid without priori or adequate geologic information about the site before commencement of the building. Geologically, the areas with a conductive layer or fault zone have earth materials with low or poor engineering strength that could lead to collapse of engineering structure either by sinking or by fall and which is the case with this site we have studied.

Simulation of horizontal refraction of continental slope in the southern continental slope of the South China Sea

Abstract Sound waves are significantly influenced by boundaries during their propagation in certain environmental conditions. The extent of this impact is related to the complexity of the boundary, such as in the case of slopes and seamounts. In these areas, sound waves may deviate from their original paths, resulting in three-dimensional effects. Recent experiments and simulations have demonstrated that three-dimensional effects occur when sound waves propagate over seamounts in the South China Sea, leading to larger acoustic shadow regions. However, there are limited studies on 3D acoustic propagation based on measured slope topography or database topography. In this study, the topography of the South China Sea area database is selected, and the measured sound velocity profile and seabed acoustic parameters in the South China Sea are taken into considered. The FOR3D sound field calculation model is used to calculate the N×2D and 3D results. The simulation results show that in the southern continental slope region of the South China Sea, when the sound source frequency is 50 Hz, the acoustic wave exhibits significant horizontal refraction with a refraction angle of approximately 13°.

Oceanographic Characteristics in the Three International Indonesian Archipelago Sea Lanes (IASLs) Region: Implications for Underwater Acoustics System

Graphical Abstract Highlight Research The IASL-1 entry portal in the southern and northern regions shows the emergent SOFAR channels. The shadow zone and the existence of a SOFAR deep sound channel in the IASL-2 and IASL-3 routes can be triggered by the emergent “saddle” SVP pattern. The variability seasonally and interannually due to variations in seawater properties stratification plays an important role in SOFAR channel appearances in IASLs. The diverse oceanographic characteristics of IASLs necessitate the implementation of sustainable marine geospatial data. Abstract The Indonesian Maritime Continent (IMC) provides three international sea lanes, known as the Indonesian Archipelago Sea Lanes (IASLs), allowing ships to navigate across territorial waters between the Pacific and Indian Oceans and vice versa. Gaining knowledge about the distinct oceanographic characteristics of the three IASLs can offer valuable insight into maritime safety and sustainable marine resource management. This study aims to review oceanographic characteristics in IASL regions from available past studies to provide a comprehensive insight into the processes and dynamical oceanography in the IASL region and its implications for underwater acoustic patterns. The results of research found that the IASL-1 route is characterized by a shallow shelf passage with homogeneous sound velocity profile (SVP) but a deep and narrow entry portal in the southern and northern SOFAR channels. Seasonal reversal monsoonal wind-driven current dominates the circulation. The IASL-2 and IASL-3 routes convey a deep and narrow passage with complexity of sea-air interactions; they vary on seasonal and interannual time scales. These IASLs emerge with the “saddle” SVP, which can trigger the shadow zone and the existence of a SOFAR deep sound channel that varies seasonally and interannually due to variations in seawater properties stratification. The diverse oceanographic characteristics discussed above significantly influence the underwater object detection equipment, the planning time, and the strategies for underwater defense systems. Due to these implications, it is necessary to utilize marine geospatial database. Subsequently, these data may be utilized to facilitate policy-making and provide approximations for marine activities and management along the IASLs.

Dronelab: a wing of a visionary entrepreneur

Learning outcomes After completion of the case study, the students will be able to discuss topics such as new venture creation and opportunity sensing, knowledge sharing and employee bonding and the use of social networks in business growth. Case overview/synopsis This case study focuses on the entrepreneurial journey of Mr Nikhil Methiya, the owner of Dronelab Technology Private Limited, which provides surveying, inspection, agriculture, surveillance and research and development services using drone technologies. This case highlights how Methiya used his minimal resources to grew his business, diversified his activities and developed a sound company profile and work culture to provide the best services to clients. This case also discusses the role of social networks in business growth and expansion, the use of effectuation theory in forming new businesses and the importance of conducting a SWOT analysis to understand a firm’s internal and external environments. Furthermore, this case touches upon the challenges and opportunities of the drone industry in India. It leaves readers in a dilemma should Methiya plan to expand his business to Europe and Africa in the upcoming years. This case study is suitable for postgraduate management students specializing in entrepreneurship and can serve as a valuable resource for the Venture Creation Program’s start-up strategy and execution. The case study’s pedagogy involves discussion-based learning. Complexity academic level This case study can be used in management for an entrepreneurship specialty course. It is ideal for postgraduate students and has a moderate level of difficulty. Supplementary materials Teaching notes are available for educators only. Subject code CSS 3: Entrepreneurship.

An adaptive stratification algorithm based on gradient fitting deviation and its application to acoustic ray-tracing algorithm

Accurate underwater positioning is a challenging task for complex marine environments where the study of sound velocity profiles (SVPs) is essential. To overcome the problem that the original SVP reduces the computational efficiency of the ray-tracing algorithm due to great capacity of data, this paper simplifies the SVP. The nature of the SVP and its influence on accurate underwater positioning are discussed. An adaptive stratification algorithm applicable to the ray-tracing algorithm is proposed, based on the gradient fitting deviation and characterized by the fitting treatment of the sound velocity gradient by the Fourier method. Measured SVP data and acoustic positioning data were used to validate this algorithm in the context of acoustic ray-tracing algorithm, to analyze and compare the simplification rates before and after SVP simplification, and the effect on the positioning accuracy. The experimental results in the shallow sea (water depth of 60 m) show that the simplification rate of the SVP is more than 95.56%, and the RMS of the deviation of the ray-tracing algorithm is better than 0.0112 m when determining the optimal number of unfolding levels and threshold; the experimental results in the deep sea (water depth of 1900 m) show that the simplification rate of the SVP is more than 99%, and the RMS of the deviation of the ray-tracing algorithm is better than 0.5 m. This indicates that, the algorithm can reconstruct the original SVP well and implement the automatic hierarchical simplification of the SVP while ensuring the positioning accuracy.

Interacting quark star with pressure anisotropy and recent astrophysical observations

This paper investigates the internal structure and equation of state (EoS) of quark stars (QS) with pressure anisotropy, incorporating recent astrophysical observations. Utilizing perturbative QCD corrections and color superconductivity, the EoS is expressed as a dimensionless function dependent on a single parameter, providing a comprehensive exploration of strong interaction effects. By rescaling the EoS and introducing dimensionless variables, the study encompasses scenarios ranging from noninteracting quark matter to extreme stiffness characterized by a parameter, λ̄. Anisotropic QS configurations are constructed using a spherically symmetric metric, with locally anisotropic matter described by a generalized EoS for tangential pressure. The Tolman–Oppenheimer–Volkoff equations governing star structure are presented in dimensionless form, and numerical solutions explore the parameter space defined by effective bag constants and λ̄. Mass–radius relations and the compactness of anisotropic QSs are analyzed under various model parameter variations, considering constraints from pulsar masses and gravitational wave phenomena. The study highlights the influence of pressure anisotropy on the maximum mass of QSs and discusses the impact of model parameters on internal properties. Additionally, the paper considers static stability, adiabatic index, and sound velocity profiles, providing a comprehensive understanding of QS behavior. Overall, this investigation contributes valuable insights into the properties of QSs and their compatibility with observational constraints, offering a detailed exploration of their EoS and internal structure.

The role of pressure anisotropy on quark stars in gravity’s rainbow

This work is seeking for the existence of stable quark stars (QSs) in the framework of a modified theory of gravity known as gravity’s rainbow. This modification comes from the fact that the geometry of spacetime depends on the energy of the test particle. We solve numerically the modified TOV equations and present the mass–radius (M–R) diagram for quark matter equations of state. To constrain the allowed values of the model parameters, we use current astrophysical measurements of the masses and radii of neutron stars. Finally, we investigate the dynamical stability of the hydrostatic equilibrium equations in gravity’s rainbow by analyzing the static stability, adiabatic index, and sound velocity profiles.

Reducing targeted low frequency railway noise with precast modular sound absorbers

This paper investigates the noise profile of modern railway systems and introduces a sound-absorptive precast modular block comprised of multiple materials and volumes. The components and configurations are selected in a specific manner such that each volume of material has a sufficiently different and complimentary sound absorption profile. The resulting system provides better overall sound absorption of railway noise while targeting specific frequencies of interest (typically low frequencies). The effectiveness of sound attenuation requires the railway noise to transmit through the outer volume material and into the inner volume material. Practical and environmental considerations require materials that can be utilized in large-scale manufacturing operations and result in a modular system that is price-competitive, relatively light-weight, easy to install, durable, and made from recycled materials.

Natural soundscapes of lowland river habitats and the potential threat of urban noise pollution to migratory fish

Migratory fish populations have experienced great declines, and considerable effort have been put into reducing stressors, such as chemical pollution and physical barriers. However, the importance of natural sounds as an information source and potential problems caused by noise pollution remain largely unexplored. The spatial distribution of sound sources and variation in propagation characteristics could provide migratory fish with acoustic cues about habitat suitability, predator presence, food availability and conspecific presence. We here investigated the relationship between natural soundscapes and local river conditions and we explored the presence of human-related sounds in these natural soundscapes. We found that 1a) natural river sound profiles vary with river scale and cross-sectional position, and that 1b) depth, width, water velocity, and distance from shore were all significant factors in explaining local soundscape variation. We also found 2a) audible human activities in almost all our underwater recordings and urban and suburban river parts had elevated sound levels relative to rural river parts. Furthermore, 2b) daytime levels were louder than night time sound levels, and bridges and nearby road traffic were much more prominent with diurnal and weekly patterns of anthropogenic noise in the river systems. We believe our data show high potential for natural soundscapes of low-land river habitat to serve as important environmental cues to migratory fish. However, anthropogenic noise may be particularly problematic due to the omnipresence, and relatively loud levels relative to the modest dynamic range of the natural sound sources, in these slow-flowing freshwater systems.

A Study on the Applicability of A-TIG Welding of Semi-Automatic Cold Wire Feeding Process for Cryogenic Stainless Steel Pipes

Activated Tungsten Inert Gas (A-TIG) welding with deeper penetration characteristic than manual Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding is one of developed TIG welding processes for higher welding productivity. However, underfill phenomena often occurs when A-TIG welding applies to butt joints of Stainless steels with gap and misalignment. In order to complete welding, additional welding passes are needed. To prevent the underfill phenomena, A-TIG welding using semi-automatic cold wire feeding process can be one of alternatives. In this study, semi-automatic cold wire feeding condition for sound A-TIG weld profiles and characteristics of A-TIG welds were investigated. A-TIG welds without underfill were obtained by front feeding and placing the wire at the point about 1mm below from a TIG welding electrode. On the basis of mechanical and corrosion test results, A-TIG welds using semi-automatic cold wire feeding process have similar mechanical and corrosion characteristics with manual TIG welds, although slag was remained on the weld beads after the pickling process to remove heat tints of the A-TIG welds. However, the slag on the bead of A-TIG welds had no correlation with pitting corrosion.