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In response to the increasing traffic noise problem, we designed a combined acoustic metamaterial (CAM) based on the multi-channel Fano resonance principle. By utilizing the Fano resonance coupling between the acoustic spiral structure and the hollow structure, efficient sound insulation under effective ventilation conditions is achieved. Simulation results of acoustic transmission loss show that the acoustic transmission loss of CAM is more than 13 dB in the frequency band of 520–989 Hz. The broadband sound insulation characteristic can block the oblique angle incident sound waves from different angles. Simulation results of the elastic strain energy and acoustic pressure field validate the sound insulation mechanism of the Fano resonance of the combined acoustic metamaterial. The experimental results in the impedance tube generally agree with the simulation results. To explore the possibility of wider engineering applications of CAM, we propose a combined CAM and CAM0.7 structure. The results show that a series structure of acoustic metamaterials can be selected to further realize broadband sound insulation within 500–1574 Hz. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Underwater pulsed spark discharge has been widely used in industrial fields as a source of shock waves or acoustic waves, and numerical modeling of the discharge and pressure wave characteristics is necessary to improve the application performance. In this paper, a numerical model is proposed that couples the circuit equation, the mass and energy conservation equations, and a momentum conservation equation based on the Rankine–Hugoniot conditions. A tabulated wide range equation of state and conductivity data of water are used, and various physical processes during the plasma channel expansion are considered, including the energy flow and mass exchange between the channel and the surrounding water due to thermal radiation, evaporation, and condensation. The model self-consistently solves the circuit current and voltage, the plasma channel parameters including composition, temperature, conductivity, pressure, etc., and the pressure profile at a certain distance from the discharge channel. The calculated results show good consistency with the experimental measurements, and three sets of experimental results from other literature are tested to further verify the applicability and effectiveness of the model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acoustic holography (AH) provides a promising technique for arbitrary acoustic field reconstruction, supporting many applications like robotic micro-nano manipulation, neuromodulation, volumetric imaging, and virtual reality. In AH, three-dimensional (3D) acoustic fields quantified with complex-valued acoustic pressures are reconstructed by virtue of two-dimensional (2D) acoustic holograms. Phase-only hologram (POH) is recently regarded as an energy-efficient way for AH, which is typically implemented by a dynamically programmable phased array of transducers (PATs). As a result, spatiotemporal precise acoustic field reconstruction is enabled by precise, dynamic, and individual actuation of PAT. Thus, 2D POH is required per arbitrary acoustic fields, which can be viewed as a physical inverse problem. However, solving the aforementioned physical inverse problem in numerical manners poses challenges due to its non-linear, high-dimensional, and complex coupling natures. The existing iterative algorithms like the iterative angular spectrum approach (IASA) and iterative backpropagation (IB) still suffer from speed-accuracy trade-offs. Hence, this paper explores a novel physics-iterative-reinforced deep learning method, in which frequency-argument contrastive learning is proposed facilitated by the inherent physical nature of AH, and the energy conservation law is under consideration. The experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method for acoustic field reconstruction, highlighting its significant potential in the domain of acoustics, and pushing forward the combination of physics into deep learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The body–boundary correspondence refers to the relationship between the body and boundary states of topological insulators (TIs). In TIs, the presence of boundary states is connected to the bulk topological properties of the material. The topology can be identified by studying the energy of the topological modes within the bulk bandgap. However, not all topological materials exhibit boundary states within the insulating energy gap. In many cases, the presence of boundary states can be hidden or masked by the bulk energy bands, making it difficult to measure TIs. Recent experiments have shown that defects, which are commonly found in crystalline materials, can be used as probes to explore higher-order topologies that have been recently realized on various platforms. These defects can generate fractional charges and stable bound states in the dispersion region, allowing us to observe the clear body–disclination correspondence. We have performed simulations using a coupled acoustic cavity system with C3 and C5 symmetries to investigate the body–disclination correspondence in topological crystal insulators (TCIs) in the field of acoustics. Simulation and theoretical results have demonstrated that defects such as disclinations can be used to probe higher-order topologies that were previously unobservable in three-dimensional structures. This approach allows us to detect fractional mode charges and stable bound states, which are crucial for understanding the topological nature of TCIs. Our work demonstrates the potential of using disclination defects to study the intricate relationship between the body and boundary states in topological materials, particularly in the context of acoustics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of terahertz radiation has been shown to affect both protein structure and cellular function. As the key to such structural changes lies in the dynamic response of a protein, we focus on the susceptibility of the protein's internal dynamics to mechanical stress induced by acoustic pressure waves. We use the open-boundary molecular dynamics method, which allows us to simulate the protein exposed to acoustic waves. By analyzing the dynamic fluctuations of the protein subunits, we demonstrate that the protein is highly susceptible to acoustic waves with frequencies corresponding to those of the internal protein vibrations. This is confirmed by changes in the compactness of the protein structure. As the amplitude of the pressure wave increases, even larger deviations from average positions and larger changes in protein compactness are observed. Furthermore, performing the mode-projection analysis, we show that the breathing-like character of collective modes is enhanced at frequencies corresponding to those used to excite the protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Amplitude and synchrony of 40-Hz ASSR was decreased by sound pressure change. • Decrease of amplitude and synchrony depended on magnitude of sound pressure change. • Transient 40-Hz ASSR desynchronization might be an index of change detection. A periodic sound with a fixed inter-stimulus interval elicits an auditory steady-state response (ASSR). An abrupt change in a continuous sound is known to affect the brain's ongoing neural oscillatory activity, but the underlying mechanism has not been fully clarified. We investigated whether and how an abrupt change in sound intensity affects the ASSR. The control stimulus was a train of 1-ms clicks with a sound pressure level (SPL) of 70 dB at 40 Hz for 1000 ms. In addition to the control stimulus, we applied six stimuli with changes consisting of a 500-ms train at 70 dB followed by a 500-ms similar train with louder clicks of 75, 80, or 85 dB or weaker clicks of 55, 60, or 65 dB. We obtained the magnetoencephalographic responses from 15 healthy subjects while presenting the seven stimuli randomly. The two-dipole model obtained for the 40-Hz ASSR in the control condition was applied to all of the stimulus conditions for each subject, and then the time–frequency analysis was conducted. We observed that both the amplitude and the inter-trial phase coherence of the 40-Hz ASSR transiently decreased and returned to the steady state after the change onset, i.e., the desynchronization of 40-Hz ASSR. The degree of desynchronization depended on the magnitude of the change regardless of whether the sound intensity increased or decreased, which might be a novel neurophysiological index of cerebral response driven by a change in the sensory environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acoustic black hole (ABH), as a new wave manipulation technique, shows excellent applications in vibration and noise reduction of structures. Nowadays, most ABHs use materials with a fixed elastic modulus, limiting their low-frequency performance. Herein ABH plates with variable elastic modulus (VM-ABH) is designed, and its vibration and acoustic radiation characteristics are investigated by using numerical analysis. The results show that the vibration response of VM-ABH has a decrease of 5–13.2 dB relative to that of the uniform texture ABH (UT-ABH) in the frequency range of 10–5000 Hz, and the degree of energy aggregation is significantly improved. Moreover, the sound pressure level was reduced by 3.6 dB. Meanwhile, by linearly varying the elastic modulus in the center region of the VM-ABH, the effects of gradient index and terminal elastic modulus on the damping characteristics and dynamic response are revealed. The research results provide new objects for the study of vibration and noise reduction of ABH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-invasive diagnostic modalities are integral to cardiovascular care; however, current systems primarily measure peripheral pressure, limiting the breadth of cardiovascular prognostication. We report a novel approach for extracting left side heart sounds using a brachial cuff device. The technique leverages brachial cuff device enhanced signal resolution to capture pressure fluctuations generated by cardiohemic system vibrations, the sound pressure waveform. We analyze left heart catheterization data alongside simultaneous brachial cuff device measurements to correlate sound pressure waveform features with left ventricle (LV) contractility. The extracted sound pressure waveform reveals two prominent oscillatory wave packets, termed WP1 and WP2, originating from cardiac structure vibrations associated with LV contractions and relaxation. We demonstrate that WP1 originates from LV contraction during systolic blood ejection through the aortic valve (AV) and is correlated with LV isovolumetric contraction, clinically measured by LV dPdt-max (Pearson-R = 0.65, p < 0.001). Additionally, we show that WP2 comes from LV elongation required for blood flow deceleration at the end of systole, causing AV closure, and is correlated with LV isovolumetric relaxation, measured by LV ndPdt-max (Pearson-R = 0.55, p < 0.001). These findings highlight the value of cuff sound pressure waveforms in providing insights about dynamic coupling of the LV-Aorta complex for non-invasive assessment of LV contractility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the development of an experimental setup for acoustic noise characterization of electric motors. It describes the sound measurement microphones utilized in the setup and discusses the application of octave bands and A-weighting in noise measurement. Various methods for acoustic noise measurement and sound power calculation, including those based on sound pressure and sound intensity, are also covered. Given the relatively noisy test environment and restricted access around the test setup, discrete point sound intensity measurement is selected for sound power calculation. Initially, a stationary probe-holding fixture is designed and fabricated for sound intensity measurements. To enhance the fixture's flexibility and the accuracy of the measurements, a transportable fixture is subsequently designed and fabricated. The necessary hardware and software settings for acoustic noise characterization are then developed. Finally, the setup is used to conduct acoustic noise characterization of an IPM motor, validating the application of the transportable probe-holding fixture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electromagnetic middle‐ear implant (MEI) is a new type of hearing device for addressing sensorineural and mixed hearing loss. The hearing compensation effect of the MEI varies depending on the transducer stimulation sites. This paper investigates the impact of transducer stimulation sites on MEI performance by analyzing stapes spatial motion. Firstly, we constructed a human‐ear finite element model based on micro‐CT scanning and inverse molding techniques. This model was validated by comparing its predictions of stapes spatial motion and cochlear response with experimental data. Then, stimulation force was applied at four common sites: umbo, incus body, incus long process and stapes to simulate the electromagnetic transducer. Results show that at low and middle frequencies, stapes‐stimulating and incus‐long‐process‐stimulating produce similar spatial motion to normal hearing; at high frequencies, incus‐body‐stimulating produces similar results to normal hearing. The equivalent sound pressure level generated by the stapes piston motion is less sensitive to the stimulation direction than that deduced by the stapes rocking motion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate models for nonlinear ultrasound propagation in soft biological tissue based on the one that serves as the core for the software package k‐Wave. The systems are solved for the acoustic particle velocity, mass density, and acoustic pressure and involve a fractional absorption operator. We first consider a system that incorporates additional viscosity in the equation for momentum conservation. By constructing a Galerkin approximation procedure, we prove the local existence of its solutions. In view of inverse problems arising from imaging tasks, the theory allows for the variable background mass density, speed of sound, and the nonlinearity parameter in the systems. Second, under stronger conditions on the data, we take the vanishing viscosity limit of the problem, thereby rigorously establishing the existence of solutions for the limiting system as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work utilizes an analytic expression for a model of acoustic propagation in a two‐layered, inhomogeneous atmosphere developed by the authors. The model is used to study the atmospheres of Earth, Mars, and Titan. In particular, vertical wave propagation in these atmospheres is studied. The effect(s) of a two‐layered, inhomogeneous atmosphere on vertical, acoustic propagation due to a time‐harmonic, point source are examined. An adiabatic atmosphere is used for the bottom layer (troposphere) and an isothermal one for the top (stratosphere). The derived, analytic solution is expressed in terms of the acoustic pressure fluctuations. For the adiabatic layers, the solutions satisfy Bessel's equation for orders of χ=−3.5,−4.45$\chi =-3.5, -4.45$, and −3.63$-3.63$ for Earth, Mars, and Titan, respectively. The Bessel function's argument is 2Ωτ$2 \Omega \tau$, where Ω$\Omega$ and τ$\tau$ are dimensionless frequency and height, respectively. For the isothermal layer, the solution represents a damped, harmonic oscillator with a cutoff value of Ωc$\Omega _{c}$. Only values greater than Ωc$\Omega _{c}$ are considered. The analysis and results are reported for combinations of single‐ and double‐layer atmospheres in the presence of a source on given boundaries. Acoustic propagation and transmission loss results are shown and discussed for all three planetary bodies: Earth, Mars, and Titan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Texture is a multi‐parameter attribute and one of the prime quality attributes of fried products. This study examined the influence of post‐frying holdings under a heat lamp on the texture of breaded fried chicken nuggets. Chicken nuggets were deep‐fat fried (2, 4, 6, and 8 min) in canola oil at 180 °C. The fried samples were kept under an infrared heat lamp for up to 1 h, and the textural characteristics were compared with samples not exposed to post‐frying holdings. Textural characteristics were analysed through mechanical‐acoustic approach. The mechanical‐acoustic parameters related to crispiness analysed included maximum force (Fmax, N), number of force peaks (NFP), the area under force‐deformation curves (AF, N.sec), sound pressure level (SPL, dB), number of sound peaks (AUX) and the area under the amplitude‐time plots (AS, dB.sec). The mechanical parameters (Fmax: 19.11–48.96 N; NFP: 5–40; AF: 43–135 N.sec) of chicken nuggets increased with frying time, and these attributes were decreased during post‐frying holding. Similarly, acoustic parameters (SPL: 64.75–90.67 dB; AUX: 180–795; AS: 63–98 dB.sec) of chicken nuggets increased with frying time, and these attributes were decreased during post‐frying holding. Considering the studied parameters, 6 min of frying was found as optimal frying time. However, the post‐frying infrared heat lamp treatment affected the mechanical textural parametres more than the acoustic parameters. Findings from this study will be useful to food industries in optimising textural retention during post‐frying heat lamp holdings of fried products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Texture is a multi‐parameter attribute and one of the prime quality attributes of fried products. This study explored the nexus between microstructure and texture of fried breaded chicken nuggets. Chicken nuggets were deep‐fat fried (2, 4, 6, and 8 min) in canola oil at different frying temperature (170, 180, and 190 °C). Microstructure and texture of fried samples were assessed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and acoustic‐mechanical texture analyser, respectively. Maximum force (Fmax), number of force peaks (NFP), area under force‐deformation plots (FA), sound pressure level (SPL), number of sound peaks (AUX), and area under amplitude‐time curves (SA) were used to describe the textural parameters. Microstructural indices (porosity, number of pores, average pore area, polydispersity index, and average shape factor) were estimated from the SEM images. Results revealed that, both the frying time and temperature were positively correlated with the mechanical (Fmax: 25–55 N, NFP: 05–74 N, FA: 6500–15 000 N.sec) and acoustic (SPL: 88–97 dB, AUX: 650–810 dB, SA: 380–405 dB.sec) parameters. Frying time and temperature significantly (P < 0.05) impacted the formation of micropores in fried chicken nuggets. Crust microporosity showed strong positive correlations (r = 0.82) with the AUX value. The NFP, SPL, and SA of the fried nuggets were significantly (P < 0.05) impacted by the crust microporosity. Crust porosity (10–30%), number of pores (8–400), average pore area (10–4000 μm2), polydispersity index (0.05–0.2), and average shape factor (0.8–1.1) of fried nuggets were significantly (P < 0.05) influenced by both the frying time and temperature. Findings from this study would be useful in quality improvement and process monitoring including modelling of coated fried products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) is a potential effective means for the prevention and treatment of disuse osteoporosis. In this paper, the effect of LIPUS exposure on the mechanical properties distribution of the osteocyte system (osteocyte body contains nucleus, osteocyte process, and primary cilia) is simulated. The results demonstrate that the mechanical micro-environment of the osteocyte is significantly improved by ultrasound exposure, and the mean von Mises stress of the osteocyte system increases linearly with the excitation sound pressure amplitude. The mechanical effect of LIPUS on osteocytes is enhanced by the stress amplification mechanism of the primary cilia and osteocyte processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The noise and flow characteristics of combined backwards-facing and forward-facing steps (BFS and FFS) are experimentally investigated in an acoustic wind tunnel using a far-field microphone array and Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV), respectively. The step models considered have a step height H of 10∼40 mm and a step gap L of 10∼100 mm, and the Reynolds number is (Re H =) 2.1 × 105∼1.1 × 106. The incoming flow boundary layer is laminar, and the step height is approximately 3∼28 of the boundary layer thickness. The results show that the noise is closely related to the step type, step height H and the gap L. In the step-only configuration, the BFS noise does not vary with the step height H 1 and is much lower than the FFS noise, of which the sound pressure level depends on U 0 5.8 ∼ U 0 6.2 within the height range H 2 . As for the combined step model (BFS&FFS), the noise spectrum changes significantly with the step heights and gaps. When H 1 > H 2 , the noise spectrum resembles the BFS-only due to the flow shield of the FFS from the upstream BFS. When H 1 < H 2 , the noise spectrum is dominated by the FFS, especially at higher H 2 or longer gap L due to more face area of the FFS exposed to the incoming flow. As H 1 = H 2 , the noise resembles the BFS in the low-frequency range and the FFS at high frequencies, respectively. Generally, the step-only and BFS&FFS have broadband noise characteristics, except when the ratio L/H is small, the noise spectrum has the characteristics of a typical cavity dominated by tonal peaks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multi-blade centrifugal fans find wide application across various fields, with their internal airflow exhibiting complex turbulent behavior in three dimensions. Historically, blade optimization relied on constant thickness airfoils, limiting the effectiveness of optimization efforts. However, marine organisms have developed airfoil structures with highly efficient drag reduction, offering a novel approach to optimizing multi-blade centrifugal fans. This study proposes an airfoil optimization design method utilizing variable-thickness airfoils to maintain consistent pressure surface leading-edge parameters. By integrating the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II with biomimetic optimization design, performance improvements are achieved. The study constructs an asymmetric bionic blade using a Bezier curve to fit the mean camber line of the blade. Experimental testing validates the optimized fan's performance, demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed design approach in reducing the unsteady interaction between the impeller and the volute tongue. This reduction significantly diminishes sound pressure fluctuations on the blade surface. Notably, at the maximum volume flow rate, the optimized fan featuring the asymmetric bionic blade exhibits a remarkable enhancement, with a 10.5% increase in volume flow rate and a notable 1.7 dB reduction in noise compared to the original fan configuration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Driven by the Lorentz force, acoustic noise may arguably be the next physiological challenge associated with ultra‐high field MRI scanners and powerful gradient coils. This work consisted of isolating and mitigating the main sound pathway in the NexGen 7 T scanner equipped with the investigational Impulse head gradient coil. Methods: Sound pressure level (SPL) measurements were performed with and without the RF coil to assess its acoustic impact. Vibration measurements were carried out on the gradient coil, the RF coil, and on the patient table to distinguish the different vibration mechanisms and pathways. Vibrations of the RF coil were modified by either making contact with the patient bore liner with padding material or by changing directly the RF shield with phosphor bronze mesh material. Results: SPL and vibration measurements demonstrated that eddy‐currents induced in the RF shield were the primary cause of acoustic noise. Replacing the conventional solid copper shield with phosphor bronze mesh material altered the vibrations of the RF shield and decreased SPL by 6 to 8 dB at the highest frequencies in EPI, depending on the gradient axis, while boosting the transmit B1+ field by 15%. Padding led to slightly less sound reduction on the X and Z gradient axes, but with minimal impact for the Y axis. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the potential importance of eddy‐current induced vibrations in the RF coil in terms of acoustic noise and opens new horizons for mitigation measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effects of various parameters on the SPL (Sound Pressure Level) levels of rod-airfoil configurations. An experimental study was performed to investigate the effects of the rod parameters, such as the configuration of the rod, the distance between the rod and the airfoil, the diameter effect of the rod, and the geometry of the rod, on the performance of the rod-airfoil configuration. An Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model was then developed and applied to accurately predict the SPL of rod-airfoil configurations. The results of the study revealed that the Levenberg-Marquardt (LM) algorithm with 2 hidden neurons produced the best performance in predicting the SPL level, with a training R-squared value of 0.9998 and a testing R-squared value of 0.998715. The findings also indicated that increasing rod diameter increases sound pressure level while reducing gap width increases SPL levels and decreases frequency values. This method offers a more precise and effective technique to forecast the SPL levels of rod-airfoil designs, allowing designers to enhance their creations and lower noise levels. The findings of this study can also be utilized to direct future research in this area and offer important information for a better understanding of the mechanism of rod-airfoil noise creation. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first study to look into rod-airfoil design predictions made using machine learning approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the relationship between unsteady flow and radiated noise in the near wake of a wind turbine tower due to the blade tower interaction (BTI) in Wind tunnel experiments. The two-dimensional hot-wire probe is used to collect the instantaneous velocity field in the BTI region, and the microphone sensor is used to collect sound field information. The effects of Reynolds stress and turbulent kinetic energy on BTI noise are further analyzed based on the instantaneous velocity field. The results show that the blade's passing effect causes irregular velocity distribution and vortex migration and mixing in the near wake of the tower, resulting in the most significant difference in Reynolds shear stress at the 0.71R position of the blade during the blade's transition from an azimuthal angle of 180°–210°(upward). Furthermore, a strong correlation is identified between the peak turbulent kinetic energy and the peak acoustic pressure value measured during the rotational cycle when the blade ran up to 210° azimuth angle. It is deduced that the aerodynamic noise at the rear of the tower is attributed to the increase in momentum exchange caused by fluid doping and bursting, which are driven by Reynolds shear stress. Momentum exchange induces an increase in turbulent kinetic energy, which results in fluid velocity pulsations, pressure pulsations, and, thus, noise. The reduction in fluid mixing and the reduction in pressure pulsation subsequently lead to a reduction in the noise generated by the tower. Therefore, a viable approach to reducing BTI noise involves minimizing momentum exchange. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flexible resonant acoustic sensors exhibit enhanced sensitivity near their resonant frequencies and have attracted increasing interest as essential components for next‐generation human‐machine speech interactions. However, membrane‐based resonant acoustic sensors are bulky owing to the inherently high bending stiffness of the sensing membrane. Inspired by the tiny hair‐based sensitive acoustic receptors of spiders, this study reports a hair‐like piezoelectric resonant acoustic particle velocity sensor (HP‐APVS) that enables highly sensitive sound sensing with a significantly reduced size. The HP‐APVS device is essentially a polyimide cantilever array fabricated using Nb0.02‐Pb(Zr0.6Ti0.4)O3 (PZT) on polyimide and self‐bending processes. The experimental results demonstrate that the HP‐APVS shows a linear response to acoustic particle velocity instead of acoustic pressure, with enhanced sensitivity in the resonance mode. Additionally, the proposed HP‐APVS exhibits an outstanding speaker recognition rate of 95.3% with an error rate reduction of 75% compared with that of a reference commercial microphone, indicating many potential applications in the realms of biometric authentication, voice user interfaces, and other intelligent acoustic electronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT In the complex geological environment of deep mining area, water‐bearing soft rock is more prone to damage and destruction by low‐frequency disturbance. In this paper, the dynamic–static combination test was conducted on the basis of uniaxial compression test by using creep dynamic disturbance impact loading system and acoustic emission technique. The test results show that with the increase of the initial value of disturbance loading, the fracture morphology of sandstone gradually changes from a single major crack to multiple cracks coexisting, and some saturated sandstones lose the bearing capacity in the process of disturbance, presenting a cone‐shaped fracture surface. The increase of the initial value of the disturbance changes the bearing capacity of the sandstone, and the peak energy of acoustic emission reaches the maximum value when the initial value of the disturbance is 80% UCS. The results of the study can provide some reference for the stability analysis of deep water‐rich soft rock mines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A first theoretical attempt is made to understand the characteristics of dust acoustic shock waves (DASWs) in a polarized electron-depleted plasma with a mixed nonextensive high energy–tail ion distribution and to examine the impact of the generalized nonthermal polarization force on DASWs in an electron-depleted dusty plasma. First, a short numerical investigation illustrating the behavior of the mixed nonextensive high energy–tail (or Cairns–Tsallis) ion distribution and the domain of validity of its two parameters (q and α) is carried out. Next, the generalized nonthermal polarization acting on dust grain in electron-depleted dusty plasma is determined within the context of Tsallis' statistical mechanics. The behavior of this generalized polarization force is significantly affected by the nonextensive character of the nonthermal ions. Specifically, we have shown that, for both space and experimental dusty plasmas, the magnitude of the polarization force (in the case where − 1 < q < 1) decreases as the nonextensivity of the nonthermal ions becomes significant. As an application, we have analyzed the changes caused by the nonthermal nonextensive polarization force on the main characteristics of DASW (viz. phase velocity, polarity, amplitude, width, etc.). Numerical results showed that our plasma model supports rarefactive and compressive DASWs that are significantly affected by the effects of nonthermal ion nonextensivity and polarization force. In particular, we have shown that for large values of the nonthermal parameter α , the increase in q allows the transition from rarefactive to compressive DASW structures. The present theoretical investigation is helpful to fully understand electrostatic disturbances in space and experimental dusty plasmas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid growth of industry and the global drive for modernization have led to an increase in gas emissions, which present significant environmental and health risks. As a result, there is a growing need for precise and sensitive gas-monitoring technologies. This review delves into the progress made regarding photoacoustic gas sensors, with a specific focus on the vital components of acoustic cells and acoustic detectors. This review highlights photoacoustic spectroscopy (PAS) as an optical detection technique, lauding its high sensitivity, selectivity, and capability to detect a wide range of gaseous species. The principles of photoacoustic gas sensors are outlined, emphasizing the use of modulated light absorption to generate heat and subsequently detect gas pressure as acoustic pressure. Additionally, this review provides an overview of recent advancements in photoacoustic gas sensor components while also discussing the applications, challenges, and limitations of these sensors. It also includes a comparative analysis of photoacoustic gas sensors and other types of gas sensors, along with potential future research directions and opportunities. The main aim of this review is to advance the understanding and development of photoacoustic gas detection technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractBismuth selenide is a promising semiconductor for optoelectronics and energy conversion, including solar cells and aerospace applications. However, it degrades at high temperatures, affecting stability. According to the previous literature, we can solve this problem and easily tune under high pressure, but no reports are available for response against acoustic shock waves. To explore this, commercially available Bi2Se3 was purchased and tested under acoustic shock wave exposure. Bi2Se3 was subjected to 100, 200, 300, and 400 acoustic shock waves with 0.59 MPa transient pressure at 520 K temperature and 1.5 Mach number. Before and after shock-loaded Bi2Se3 samples were characterized using XRD, Raman, UV-DRS, PL, and FE- SEM and EDX. Under acoustic shock waves, Bi2Se3 exhibits increased crystallite size and reduced strain rate, promoting good thermal stability. It also shows a smaller bandgap and enhanced PL intensity, which ensures efficient solar cell operation. As a result, the material demonstrates improved thermal insulation and durability, which are crucial for stability and protection in extreme conditions for aerospace applications. These improvements make Bi2Se3 more suitable for solar cell and aerospace applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The low frequency line spectrum noise radiated by ships has strong stability and is difficult to eliminate, which is the key information required for passive signal detection. A vector coherent frequency‐domain batch adaptive line enhancement method is proposed to address the issue of insufficient detection capability of traditional scalar adaptive line enhancement (ALE) algorithms for ship characteristic line spectra in complex deep‐sea environments. This method not only introduces the idea of frequency‐domain batch processing, but also uses synchronously collected sound pressure and particle velocity as dual input, fully utilising the coherence characteristics between vector channels to output high gain line spectrum signals and improve computational efficiency. In simulation and sea trial data validation, compared with the time‐domain vector coherent adaptive line enhancement algorithm, this method has shorter time consumption, higher efficiency, and can improve the detection ability of line spectrum signals under low signal‐to‐noise ratio conditions. The bearing estimation results output by this algorithm is also more accurate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lloyd's mirror effect is a spatial interference phenomenon that results from the coherent combination of direct and surface‐reflected propagation paths. The higher‐order vertical sound intensities of the interference sound field contain source depth information, and the relationship between these higher‐order sound intensities can be employed to estimate the source depth. A method for source depth estimation and qualitative binary source depth discrimination using the 0th‐order sound pressure, as well as the 1st‐ and 2nd‐order sound intensities, was proposed. The numerical simulation results confirmed the ability of the proposed method to approximate the source depth and discriminate between surface and submerged sources without requiring long‐term tracking or knowledge of the ocean environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Control of self-sustained oscillation and noise reduction poses a significant challenge. The present study employs Implicit Large Eddy Simulation at a Mach number of 0.85 to investigate the influence of a porous cavity floor on flow dynamics. By substituting the solid floor with porous media, the fundamental pressure–velocity relationship within the medium is established according to Darcy's law. Findings reveal marked suppression of wall pulsations, accompanied by a 10 dB decrease in sound pressure levels. The porous medium induces blowing and suction effects, effectively modulating large-scale re-circulation and mitigating shear layer instability, thereby approximating free mixing layer characteristics and suppressing cavity flow oscillations. At an optimized porosity for maximum noise reduction, altering back pressure at the cavity floor induces a transition in the local flow regime from suction-dominated to blowing-dominated state. Excessive reduction of back pressure promotes suction; conversely, increased pressure intensifies blowing, further attenuating feedback mechanisms and enhancing noise reduction. To explore noise reduction mechanisms, mode decomposition analyses demonstrate the efficacy of porous media in disrupting large-scale coherence structures within shear layer and redistributing energy from dominant modes to a broader frequency spectrum that engages smaller flow structures. This energy reallocation mechanism contributes to the mitigation of cavity flow noise and deepens insights into the role of porous media in flow modulation and noise control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Savonius rotor is a popular form of vertical-axis wind turbine (VAWT) for small-scale and urban applications because of its straightforward design and self-starting ability. Dual VAWTs present challenges in terms of wake interactions and noise, particularly in urban areas. Optimizing these parameters is essential for future wind energy adoption. This research is the first to analyze how the interaction of wakes from adjacent rotors, combined with a deflector, affects both the aerodynamic performance and noise levels of dual Savonius rotors. Large Eddy Simulation is applied, as it effectively captures detailed turbulent wind flows and their interactions with wind turbines. A multi-objective optimization method combining Machine Learning and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is developed to optimize rotors for maximum power efficiency and minimum noise, considering their wake interactions with a unique deflector system. First, the influence of geometric parameters on aerodynamics and aeroacoustics characteristics of rotors is analyzed, and the database is generated using Design of Experiment approach. Next, the CFD model is replaced by Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model established for predicting rotor performances. A Multi-Objective Genetic Algorithm method is used to optimize aerodynamics and aeroacoustics characteristics of rotors. Finally, optimal design parameters are identified from the Pareto front using the technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution decision-making method. The ANN model demonstrated high accuracy with an R ANN 2 of 0.995 and 0.971 for the average power coefficient (CP) and overall sound pressure level (OSPL) predictions, respectively. Multi-objective optimization revealed the best configuration of the deflector with bleed jets, improving the average CP up to 57.5% and reducing OSPL to an almost 5.2% compared to the dual rotor case at TSR = 0.8. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coupling effects between sound and flow on the aerodynamic characteristics of bluff bodies are commonly encountered in engineering practices, such as wind turbine blades and heat exchanger compressors. This study experimentally investigates the effects of sound over a broad range of frequencies (0–400 Hz) and sound pressure levels (80–105 dB) on the streamwise wind pressures on a flat plate in both smooth and turbulent flows. Spectral analysis and proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) are employed to explore the effects of sound on the aerodynamic forces acting on the flat plate. The results show that the effects of sound on wind pressure distributions and separation bubble behaviors over the flat plate depend on both sound frequency and sound pressure level. Furthermore, the findings highlight the role of acoustic resonance, which can increase the fluctuating wind pressure on the plate surface by over 400%. These effects can also be influenced by sound pressure levels. Additionally, the results demonstrate varying degrees and forms of attenuation of sound effects in turbulent flows, depending on the wind flow characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerical solutions to the parabolic wave equation are plagued by the curse of dimensionality coupled with the Nyquist criterion. As a remedy, a new range-dynamical low-rank split-step Fourier method is developed. The integration scheme scales sub-linearly with the number of classical degrees of freedom in the transverse directions. It is orders of magnitude faster than the classic full-rank split-step Fourier algorithm and saves copious amounts of storage space. This enables numerical solutions of the parabolic wave equation at higher frequencies and on larger domains, and simulations may be performed on laptops rather than high-performance computing clusters. Using a rank-adaptive scheme to optimize the low-rank equations further ensures the approximate solution is highly accurate and efficient. The methodology and algorithms are demonstrated on realistic high-resolution data-assimilative ocean fields in Massachusetts Bay for two three-dimensional acoustic configurations with different source locations and frequencies. The acoustic pressure, transmission loss, and phase solutions are analyzed in the two geometries with seamounts and canyons across and along Stellwagen Bank. The convergence with the rank of the subspace and the properties of the rank-adaptive scheme are demonstrated, and all results are successfully compared with those of the full-rank method when feasible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current research on tiltrotor noise predominantly concentrates on configurations with high disk loading and Reynolds numbers, leaving smaller aircraft setups underexplored. This study investigates aeroacoustic and aerodynamic trends resulting from rotor-wing interaction at low disk loading (<100 N/m2) and Reynolds number (Re < 100 000). The experimental setup comprises an anechoic chamber housing a two-blade rotor, flat and National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics 0012 airfoil wings, an ATI mini 40 load cell for aerodynamic data acquisition, and microphones positioned at the rotor height and installed on a rotation stage for acoustic data capture and directivity check. Investigated factors encompass rotor height, rotation direction, revolutions per minute (RPM), and wing curvature. Contrary to expectation, wing curvature does not visibly impact rotor performance. However, the deflected rotor wake in rotor-wing interaction markedly amplifies low-frequency broadband noise and the overall sound pressure level for the tested scenarios. The presence and strength of the deflected rotor wake tend to obscure the primary tonal noise and mitigate the effect of rotor RPM at smaller rotor spacings. This study provides valuable insights into mitigating noise resulting from rotor wake impingement on the wing in smaller aircraft configurations, contributing to the ongoing evolution of urban air mobility design considerations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An acoustic metamaterial (AMM) consisting of a porous material (melamine foam) layer above a symmetrical labyrinthine metamaterial, incorporating a micro-hole and micro-slit cover plate, is proposed to simultaneously mitigate low and high frequency noise from industrial machineries. Theoretical model of sound absorption by this AMM is developed and validated numerically and experimentally. Sensitivity analysis indicates that increasing the length of the labyrinthine pathway and cover plate thickness and decreasing the slit width, slit length, and hole diameter shifts the peak sound absorption to lower frequencies. This material is successfully applied as a sound absorptive enclosure of a 0.5 hp water pump to reduce its sound pressure levels across widely separated frequencies of 1414–2245 Hz (high frequency) and 176–222 Hz (low frequency). This study offers guidelines to noise control engineers for controlling low and high frequency noise in industrial machineries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main experiment concerned time-domain measurements of the acoustical reflection function (RF) of the human ear in adults and children (aged 5 to 8 years) using a probe inserted into the ear canal. This RF was used to calculate the area function of the ear canal versus distance along its centerline. Acoustical reflectance was calculated in the frequency domain from the RF, as was the difference in sound pressure level near the tympanic membrane relative to the probe tip. Group responses in area function, total ear-canal length, absorbance and group delay, and admittance magnitude and phase were analyzed based on sex, ear, and age. Responses were compared between children/adults and younger/older adults relative to age 50 years. Ear and sex were never significant. Significant differences were observed in children compared to adults in the area function, absorbance and group delay, and admittance magnitude and phase (0.25–4 kHz). Group delay differed between younger and older adults. A second experiment assessed level dependence of responses to better understand limitations in probe performance observed in the main experiment. These results show the utility of time-domain measurements of the area function and derived reflectance to understand sound-transmission differences across age at frequencies important to middle-ear function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the sound absorption mechanisms of a finite flexible perforated panel absorber. Different from existing work where the mechanisms were often investigated by comparing the sound absorption coefficient curves of different absorber configurations, a numerical approach, called virtual impedance tube (VIT) technique, is developed and used for the analysis. One advantage of this technique is the vast dataset generated can be used to investigate the sound absorption mechanisms from an energy standpoint. The developed VIT technique is first validated using the impedance tube test, where a proportion-integration-differentiation control algorithm is developed to maintain the incident sound at a desired sound pressure level. Then, the sound absorption mechanisms at three absorption peaks, i.e., hole-cavity controlled, panel-cavity controlled, and panel controlled, are investigated and the dominant energy dissipation mechanism at different sound pressure levels (SPLs) is revealed. Finally, an impedance model that takes account of the panel vibration and is applicable to various SPLs is proposed and validated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Continuous active sonar is thought to mitigate severe acoustic impacts due to its lower sound pressure level compared to pulsed active sonar typically used by world navies. However, due to its almost continuous duty cycle, continuous active sonar could have a higher potential for auditory masking. Here, we evaluate the auditory masking potential of several noise types including a recording of continuous active sonar, amplitude modulated noise, and Gaussian noise, on signal detection in two killer whales. Signals were either a 1.5 kHz pure tone or a recording of a broadband burst-pulse killer whale call. For the 1.5 kHz tone, all noise types resulted in statistically significant masking, however, there was a release from masking of approximately 13 dB for the amplitude-modulated noise. When the killer whale call was the signal, the whales employed an off-frequency listening strategy where the whales were able to detect frequency components of the signal that did not directly overlap with the noise. However, this strategy was less useful for the continuous active sonar noise due to its broadband harmonic structure. Continuous active sonar has spectral features that considerably overlap with those of killer whale calls, making this type of noise an effective auditory masker. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metrics to be used in noise impact assessment must integrate the physical acoustic characteristics of the sound field with relevant biology of animals. Several metrics have been established to determine and regulate underwater noise exposure to aquatic fauna. However, recent advances in understanding cause-effect relationships indicate that additional metrics are needed to fully describe and quantify the impact of sound fields on aquatic fauna. Existing regulations have primarily focused on marine mammals and are based on the dichotomy of sound types as being either impulsive or non-impulsive. This classification of sound types, however, is overly simplistic and insufficient for adequate impact assessments of sound on animals. It is recommended that the definition of impulsiveness be refined by incorporating kurtosis as an additional parameter and applying an appropriate conversion factor. Auditory frequency weighting functions, which scale the importance of particular sound frequencies to account for an animal's sensitivity to those frequencies, should be applied. Minimum phase filters are recommended for calculating weighted sound pressure. Temporal observation windows should be reported as signal duration influences its detectability by animals. Acknowledging that auditory integration time differs across species and is frequency dependent, standardized temporal integration windows are proposed for various signal types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Theoretical modeling and parameter identification are essential for optimizing loudspeaker performance and enabling active control. Although relevant theories for moving-coil loudspeakers are well-developed, accurate theoretical modeling and parameter identification methods for balanced armature loudspeakers (BALs) are scant. This study proposes a model using the equivalent circuit method (ECM) for BALs, with consideration of the armature-suspension coupling as well as the non-piston vibration of the diaphragm. Based on the proposed ECM model, a time-domain identification algorithm utilizing measured voltage, current, and displacement data is established to identify the necessary parameters. Employing the theoretical model and proposed identification method, the model parameters of two different BALs are measured. Comparisons between experimental and numerical results demonstrate the accuracy and effectiveness of the proposed model and identification method in predicting impedance, displacement, and sound pressure responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A physics-informed neural network (PINN) enables the estimation of horizontal modal wavenumbers using ocean pressure data measured at multiple ranges. Mode representations for the ocean acoustic pressure field are derived from the Hankel transform relationship between the depth-dependent Green's function in the horizontal wavenumber domain and the field in the range domain. We obtain wavenumbers by transforming the range samples to the wavenumber domain, and maintaining range coherence of the data is crucial for accurate wavenumber estimation. In the ocean environment, the sensitivity of phase variations in range often leads to degradation in range coherence. To address this, we propose using OceanPINN [Yoon, Park, Gerstoft, and Seong, J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 155(3), 2037–2049 (2024)] to manage spatially non-coherent data. OceanPINN is trained using the magnitude of the data and predicts phase-refined data. Modal wavenumber estimation methods are then applied to this refined data, where the enhanced range coherence results in improved accuracy. Additionally, sparse Bayesian learning, with its high-resolution capability, further improves the modal wavenumber estimation. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is validated through its application to both simulated and SWellEx-96 experimental data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to detect the presence of melanoma cells in two cells under the condition of cell photoacoustic wave interference, this paper conducted a finite element analysis of the photoacoustic wave interference field of two cells. First, the wavelength corresponding to the dominant frequency of the signal from a single red blood cell (mean diameter) was calculated. Then, the distance between two identical red blood cells (mean diameter) was set as a multiple of the wavelength to identify the optimal interference distance and the position of the enhanced zone detection point. Next, under the optimal distance, the signal curves of two cells as red blood cells and when melanoma cells exist in two cells were calculated in sequence. Finally, the frequency domain sound pressure level curve of the detection point under the two states was compared with the single-cell signal to obtain the Frechet distance. The results show that when both cells are red blood cells, the Frechet value is less than 48; when melanoma cells exist in both cells, the Frechet value is greater than 52. This study shows that the presence of melanoma cells in two cells can be determined by adjusting the distance between the cells, arranging the positions of the detection points, and employing the Frechet distance metric curve difference under the condition that the two-cell photoacoustic waves interfere with each other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The excessive adduction of ventricular folds has been observed in patients with dysphonia and professional singers. Whether these changes in the ventricular folds are the cause or just a result of disease progression remains unclear, and their potential pathological and physiological implications are yet to be determined. This study aimed to examine the impact of different degrees of ventricular adduction on acoustics, aerodynamics, and vocal fold vibration. Methods: The excised models of mild and severe ventricular adduction were established. We recorded the vibration pattern of vocal folds and ventricular folds and measured acoustic metrics, including fundamental frequency (F0), Jitter, Shimmer, harmonic‐to‐noise ratio (HNR), and sound pressure level (SPL). Furthermore, we evaluated the aerodynamics index through phonation threshold pressure (PTP), phonation instability pressure (PIP), mean flow rate (MFR), phonation threshold flow (PTF), and phonation instability flow (PIF). Results: Irregular vibrations of the ventricular fold were observed during ventricular adduction. Notably, mild and severe ventricular adduction conditions showed a significant increase in PTP, Shimmer, and Jitter, whereas MFR, PIF, and HNR decreased compared with the control condition. Conclusions: Ventricular adduction leads to the deterioration of acoustic and aerodynamic parameters. The aperiodic and irregular vibration of the ventricular folds may be responsible for this phenomenon, although further experiments are warranted. Understanding the functioning of ventricular folds can be beneficial in directing the treatment of muscle tension dysphonia and improving voice training techniques. Level of evidence: level 4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the effects of a trapezoidal sleeper track (TST) on the vibration and noise of rail transit viaducts, the wheel–rail interaction model was first built according to the vehicle–track coupling dynamics theory. Subsequently, the vibration responses of the viaduct were analyzed using the beam–slab finite element method, and its radiated noise was calculated using the acoustic boundary element method. The modeling method was verified based on the test data of a 3 × 40 m continuous rigid frame bridge. Taking the Jialing River Bridge of Chongqing Rail Transit Line 9 as the background, the control effects of the TST on the vibration and noise of the viaduct and the effective laws of different track parameters on the bridge noise were analyzed. Results show that the simulated and measured values are in good agreement; for example, the modeling methods are reliable; the radiated noise of the viaduct is influenced by the vibration responses under the action of train load, which are jointly determined by dynamic wheel–rail force (external excitation) and displacement admittance (self-vibration characteristics); compared with embedded sleeper track (EST), the TST can reduce the overall vibration acceleration level and sound pressure level of the box girder web plate by 13.9 dB and 7.8 dB, respectively; the stiffness of the damping path is the primary factor influencing the noise of the elevated box girder, followed by the sleeper thickness and the fastener stiffness; taking the bottom plate as an example, the stiffness of the damping pad is reduced by 1 and the overall sound pressure level can be reduced by approximately 3 dB; the sleeper thickness is increased by 1, and the overall sound pressure level can be reduced by 1–2 dB; and the fastener stiffness is reduced by 1, and the noise reduction is within 1 dB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Exposure to excessive noise volumes is an occupational health and safety risk. Australian guidelines recommend a time weighted exposure maximum of 85 dB (dB) or a maximum peak noise level of up to 140 dB, as chronic and repeated high dB exposure can result in significant hearing impairment. The aim of this study was to assess the volume of noise generated by common surgical instruments while utilizing the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) app. Methods: Sound levels were measured using the NIOSH app. The NIOSH app was used to take equivalent continuous A‐weighted sound levels (LAeq) and the C‐weighted peak sound pressure (LCpeak) measurements for specific instruments while in use in theatre. A minimum of three readings per instrument were taken at immediate and working distances. Results: LAeq measurements ranged from 62.9 to 89.3 dB. The Padgett Dermatome and Frazier Sucker exceeded recommended exposure limits with an averaged LAeq reading of 85.7 dB(A) and 85.1 dB(A) respectively. LCpeak readings ranged from 89.9 to 114.7 dB(C) with none of the instruments exceeding a peak sound level beyond the recommended level of 140 dB(C). Conclusion: The cumulative effect of loud surgical instruments across prolonged or combined operations may result in theatre staff being exposed to hazardous noise levels, impacting the health and wellbeing of staff, staff performance and patient care. Utilization of a phone app can improve the awareness of noise pollution in theatres, thereby empowering staff to be proactive about their health and improvement of their work environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Through extensive literature review, it has been found that sparse Bayesian learning (SBL) is mainly applied to traditional scalar hydrophones and is rarely applied to vector hydrophones. This article proposes a direction of arrival (DOA) estimation method for vector hydrophones based on SBL (Vector-SBL). Firstly, vector hydrophones capture both sound pressure and particle velocity, enabling the acquisition of multidimensional sound field information. Secondly, SBL accurately reconstructs the received vector signal, addressing challenges like low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), limited snapshots, and coherent sources. Finally, precise DOA estimation is achieved for multiple sources without prior knowledge of their number. Simulation experiments have shown that compared with the OMP, MUSIC, and CBF algorithms, the proposed method exhibits higher DOA estimation accuracy under conditions of low SNR, small snapshots, multiple sources, and coherent sources. Furthermore, it demonstrates superior resolution when dealing with closely spaced signal sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gas extraction is crucial for coal mine safety, yet pipeline blockages by solid slag and water severely hinder efficiency and pose risks. Traditional detection methods are limited by rapid signal attenuation and noise interference. In this study, an acoustic detection technology is introduced for pipeline blockages, utilizing sensors at potential blockage points to collect sound wave data. Experiments with a scaled pipeline model reveal that slag blockages produce characteristic peaks in the 1200 Hz–2000 Hz range, while water blockages show peaks in the 1 kHz–2 kHz and 3.5 kHz–4.5 kHz bands. The longitudinal blockage intensity and extraction pressure significantly affect the sound pressure levels. A reliable fitting model predicts the blockage intensity based on acoustic signals, achieving high accuracy. This novel method enhances blockage identification, offering a non-invasive, cost-effective solution that improves coal mine safety and efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractIn the present work, an iterative eigenvalue method (IEM) is proposed and combined with the boundary element method (BEM) to perform the structural acoustical analysis of the orthotropic steel deck (OSD) damped with constrained layer damping (CLD), through which the frequency-dependent properties of the viscoelastic core can be accurately considered. Then, a series of hammer tests are carried out in a semi-anechoic chamber to verify the acoustic prediction method. It shows that the simulated structural noises basically agree with the test results, and the overall deviations at the field points M2 and M8 are merely 2.4 and 2.3 dB, respectively. Subsequently, taking the thicknesses of the damping layer and the constraining layer, as well as the material properties of the constraining layer as design variables, a central composite experiment is designed and combined with response surface methodology (RSM) to fit the relationship between analysis objectives and design variables. With the objective of minimizing the acoustic radiation power, a program for finding the optimal values of design variables is developed based on the interior penalty function method. Through iterative computations, the optimal points are numerically determined as t1 = 2.3 mm and t2 = 0.3 mm for the thicknesses of the damping layer and the constraining layer, respectively. Steel alloy is found to be the optimal material for the constraining layer. After optimizing CLD treatment, the overall acoustical power level can be reduced from 97.7 dB to 93.1 dB and the overall sound pressure levels (SPLs) at the field points M2 and M8 can be reduced from 89.2 dB to 83.5 and 76.9 dB to 70.3 dB, respectively, indicating that the optimization of CLD design parameters can significantly improve acoustic performance of the CLD-damped structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a computational technique to model hydroacoustic waveforms from teleseismic earthquakes recorded by mid-column Mermaid floats deployed in the Pacific, taking into consideration bathymetric effects that modify seismo-acoustic conversions at the ocean bottom and acoustic wave propagation in the ocean layer, including reverberations. Our approach couples axisymmetric spectral-element simulations performed for moment-tensor earthquakes in a 1-D solid Earth to a 2-D Cartesian fluid–solid coupled spectral-element simulation that captures the conversion from displacement to acoustic pressure at an ocean-bottom interface with accurate bathymetry. We applied our workflow to 1129 seismograms for 682 earthquakes from 16 Mermaid s (short for Mobile Earthquake Recording in Marine Areas by Independent Divers) owned by Princeton University that were deployed in the Southern Pacific as part of the South Pacific Plume Imaging and Modeling (SPPIM) project. We compare the modelled synthetic waveforms to the observed records in individually selected frequency bands aimed at reducing local noise levels while maximizing earthquake-generated signal content. The modelled waveforms match the observations very well, with a median correlation coefficient of 0.72, and some as high as 0.95. We compare our correlation-based traveltime measurements to measurements made on the same data set determined by automated arrival-time picking and ray- traced traveltime predictions, with the aim of opening up the use of Mermaid records for global seismic tomography via full-waveform inversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, an investigation on the acoustic performance of a simple expansion chamber muffler with side outlet has been presented. The investigation for the muffler is done in the 10–2400 Hz frequency range. The muffler is analyzed analytically, computationally, and experimentally. The computational and analytical modellings of the muffler have been done by using the finite element and transfer matrix methods, respectively for the determination of transmission loss. As the transfer matrix method is unable to capture the higher order modes above the cut-off frequency of the muffler, the finite element method has been adopted as the computational method. Additionally, the accuracy in the analytical and computational modelling of the muffler is checked with the experimental investigation. The two-load method is used in this study for muffler to determine the transmission loss and band power. The side outlet of the muffler introduces an extra impedance due to the shunt element and hence the effectiveness of the muffler can be improved. This muffler shows an overall improvement of 24.73 dB in the transmission loss when compared with the transmission loss of the simple expansion chamber muffler with an axial outlet in 10–2400 Hz frequency range. Specifically, the simple expansion chamber muffler with side outlet is more effective than the simple expansion chamber muffler with an axial outlet in 350–680 Hz, 1040–1350 Hz, 1570–1590 Hz, and 1850–2400 Hz frequency ranges. The comparison among the different techniques shows a fair agreement in the results. The transmission loss, variation of the band power in the 1/3rd octave band, and sound pressure level contours for the muffler at the selected frequencies have been presented. This study offers an advantage in the design of the automotive mufflers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Methods Results Conclusion To systematically review the literature on noise exposure within the neonatal intensive care unit/special care nursery settings, specifically to describe: noise characteristics, sources of noise and ways of measuring noise.Systematic searches were conducted through databases Medline, Embase and PubMed. Studies were included if they met the inclusion criteria (1) reported noise characteristics; (2) reported noise exposure measurements; (3) in the neonatal intensive care unit/ special care nursery settings. Methods and key findings were extracted from included studies. Quality analysis was done using a modified version of the Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale.We identified 1651 studies, screened 871, reviewed 112 and included 47. All reported NICU average equivalent sound levels were consistently louder than recommended guidelines (45 dB). The most consistent association with higher sound pressure levels were noise sources grouped under people congregation. Half of the studies did not use measuring devices adhering to international sound level meter (SLM) standards.All NICUs exceeded recommended accumulative sound levels. People were the most consistent source of noise. Sound pressure levels need to be consistently measured with devices adhering to international SLM standards in future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogels can serve as local drug delivery depots that protect the biological activity of labile therapeutics. However, drug release from conventional hydrogels is typically rapid, which is not ideal for many therapeutic agents. We developed a composite hydrogel that enables sustained drug release in response to ultrasound. The composite, termed an acoustically responsive scaffold (ARS), consists of a fibrin hydrogel and a phase-shift emulsion. Upon exposure to ultrasound, the emulsion is vaporized into bubbles, which leads to release of drugs contained within the emulsion. Previously, ARSs have been used in regenerative applications to stimulate blood vessel growth. Here, we characterize the release kinetics and mechanisms of ARSs. Release exhibits a triphasic pattern compromising a slow phase prior to ultrasound exposure; a transient, fast phase immediately after ultrasound exposure that follows a sigmoidal profile; and a sustained, steady phase. In each phase, we demonstrate how derived kinetics parameters are impacted by the ARS composition (e.g., fibrin and emulsion concentrations) and ultrasound properties (e.g., acoustic pressure, pulse duration). Using confocal microscopy, protein assays, and B-mode ultrasound imaging, we demonstrate that drug release from an ARS is independent of fibrin degradation and dependent on bubble growth. These results are critical in optimizing ARSs for delivery of therapeutic agents. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]