Atmospheric aerosols are the primary contributors to environmental pollution.As such aerosols are micro-to nanosized particles invisible to the naked eye,it is necessary to utilize LiDAR technology for their detection...Atmospheric aerosols are the primary contributors to environmental pollution.As such aerosols are micro-to nanosized particles invisible to the naked eye,it is necessary to utilize LiDAR technology for their detection.The laser radar echo signal is vulnerable to background light and electronic thermal noise.While single-photon LiDAR can effectively reduce background light interference,electronic thermal noise remains a significant challenge,especially at long distances and in environments with a low signal-to-noise ratio(SNR).However,conventional denoising methods cannot achieve satisfactory results in this case.In this paper,a novel adaptive continuous threshold wavelet denoising algorithm is proposed to filter out the noise.The algorithm features an adaptive threshold and a continuous threshold function.The adaptive threshold is dynamically adjusted according to the wavelet decomposition level,and the continuous threshold function ensures continuity with lower constant error,thus optimizing the denoising process.Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm has excellent performance in improving SNR and reducing root mean square error(RMSE)compared with other algorithms.Experimental results show that denoising of an actual LiDAR echo signal results in a 4.37 dB improvement in SNR and a 39.5%reduction in RMSE.The proposed method significantly enhances the ability of single-photon LiDAR to detect weak signals.展开更多
This study proposes a novel radar echo extrapolation algorithm,OF-ConvGRU,which integrates Optical Flow(OF)and Convolutional Gated Recurrent Unit(ConvGRU)methods for improved nowcasting.Using the Standardized Radar Da...This study proposes a novel radar echo extrapolation algorithm,OF-ConvGRU,which integrates Optical Flow(OF)and Convolutional Gated Recurrent Unit(ConvGRU)methods for improved nowcasting.Using the Standardized Radar Dataset of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area,the performance of OF-ConvGRU was evaluated against OF and ConvGRU methods.Threat Score(TS)and Bias Score(BIAS)were employed to assess extrapolation accuracy across various echo intensities(20-50 dBz)and weather phenomena.Results demonstrate that OF-ConvGRU significantly enhances prediction accuracy for moderate-intensity echoes(30-40 dBz),effectively combining OF s precise motion estimation with ConvGRU s nonlinear learning capabilities.However,challenges persist in low-intensity(20 dBz)and high-intensity(50 dBz)echo predictions.The study reveals distinct advantages of each method in specific contexts,highlighting the importance of multi-method approaches in operational nowcasting.OF-ConvGRU shows promise in balancing short-term accuracy with long-term stability,particularly for complex weather systems.展开更多
As a category of recurrent neural networks,echo state networks(ESNs)have been the topic of in-depth investigations and extensive applications in a diverse array of fields,with spectacular triumphs achieved.Nevertheles...As a category of recurrent neural networks,echo state networks(ESNs)have been the topic of in-depth investigations and extensive applications in a diverse array of fields,with spectacular triumphs achieved.Nevertheless,the traditional ESN and the majority of its variants are devised in the light of the second-order statistical information of data(e.g.,variance and covariance),while more information is neglected.In the context of information theoretic learning,correntropy demonstrates the capacity to grab more information from data.Therefore,under the guidelines of the maximum correntropy criterion,this paper proposes a correntropy-based echo state network(CESN)in which the first-order and higher-order information of data is captured,promoting robustness to noise.Furthermore,an incremental learning algorithm for the CESN is presented,which has the expertise to update the CESN when new data arrives,eliminating the need to retrain the network from scratch.Finally,experiments on benchmark problems and comparisons with existing works are provided to verify the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed CESN.展开更多
This study explored the application value of iterative decomposition of water and fatwith echo asymmetry and least-squares estimation(IDEAL-IQ)technology in the early diagnosis of ageing osteoporosis(OP).172 participa...This study explored the application value of iterative decomposition of water and fatwith echo asymmetry and least-squares estimation(IDEAL-IQ)technology in the early diagnosis of ageing osteoporosis(OP).172 participants were enrolled and underwentmagnetic resonance imaging(MRI)examinations on a 3.0T scanner.100 cases were included in the normal group(50 males and 50 females;mean age:45 years;age range:20e84 years).33 cases were included in the osteopenia group(17 males and 16 females;mean age:55 years;age range:43e83 years).39 caseswere includedintheOP group(19males and20females;meanage:58years;age range:48 e82 years).Conventional T1WI and T2WI were first obtained,followed by 3D-IDEAL-IQ-acqui-sition.Fat fraction(FF)and apparent transverse relaxation rate(R2*)resultswere automatically calculated from IDEAL-IQ-images on the console.Based on T1Wand T2W-images,300 ROIs for each participantweremanually delineated in L1-L5 vertebral bodies of five middle slices.In each age group of all normal subjects,each parameter was significantly correlated with gender.In male participants from the normal,osteopenia,and OP groups,statistical analysis revealed F values of 11319.292 and 180.130 for comparisons involving FF and R2*values,respectively(all p<0.0001).The sensitivity and specificity of FF values were 0.906 and 0.950,0.994 and 0.997,0.865 and 0.820,respectively.For R2*,they were 0.665 and 0.616,0.563 and 0.519,0.571 and 0.368,respectively.In female participants from the normal,osteopenia,and OP-groups,statis-tical analysis revealed F values of 12461.658 and 548.274 for comparisons involving FF and R2*values,respectively(all p<0.0001).The sensitivity and specificity of FF values were 0.985 and 0.991,0.996 and 0.996,0.581 and 0.678,respectively.For R2*,they were 0.698 and 0.730,0.603 and 0.665,0.622 and 0.525,respectively.Significant differences were indicated in the quanti-tative values among the three groups.FF value had good performance,while R2*value had poor performance indiscriminatingosteopenia andOP-groups.Overall,the IDEAL-IQ techniqueoffers specific reference indices that enable noninvasive and quantitative assessment of lumbar vertebrae bone metabolism,thereby providing diagnostic information for OP.展开更多
On-site and real-time non-destructive measurement of elastic constants for materials of a component in a in-service structure is a challenge due to structural complexities,such as ambiguous boundary,variable thickness...On-site and real-time non-destructive measurement of elastic constants for materials of a component in a in-service structure is a challenge due to structural complexities,such as ambiguous boundary,variable thickness,nonuniform material properties.This work develops for the first time a method that uses ultrasound echo groups and artificial neural network(ANN)for reliable on-site real-time identification of material parameters.The use of echo groups allows the use of lower frequencies,and hence more accommodative to structural complexity.To train the ANNs,a numerical model is established that is capable of computing the waveform of ultrasonic echo groups for any given set of material properties of a given structure.The waveform of an ultrasonic echo groups at an interest location on the surface the structure with material parameters varying in a predefined range are then computed using the numerical model.This results in a set of dataset for training the ANN model.Once the ANN is trained,the material parameters can be identified simultaneously using the actual measured echo waveform as input to the ANN.Intensive tests have been conducted both numerically and experimentally to evaluate the effectiveness and accuracy of the currently proposed method.The results show that the maximum identification error of numerical example is less than 2%,and the maximum identification error of experimental test is less than 7%.Compared with currently prevailing methods and equipment,the proposefy the density and thickness,in addition to the elastic constants.Moreover,the reliability and accuracy of inverse prediction is significantly improved.Thus,it has broad applications and enables real-time field measurements,which has not been fulfilled by any other available methods or equipment.展开更多
This paper presents an air-coupled impact echo(IE)technique that relies on the phase spectrum of the collected data to find the frequencies corresponding to the reflections from delaminations.The proposed technique ta...This paper presents an air-coupled impact echo(IE)technique that relies on the phase spectrum of the collected data to find the frequencies corresponding to the reflections from delaminations.The proposed technique takes advantage of the fact that the IE compression wave is not a propagating wave,but it is the 1st order symmetrical(S1)mode Lamb wave at zero group velocity(S1-ZGV).Therefore,it searches the phase spectra of the data collected by multiple sensors to locate the frequency corresponding to the lowest phase difference.As a result,the technique reduces the effect of propagating waves,including the direct acoustic wave and ambient noise.It is named the Constant Phase IE(CPIE).The performance of the CPIE is experimentally compared with the regular amplitude spectrum-based IE technique and two other multisensor IE techniques.The CPIE shows a performance advantage,especially in a noisy environment.展开更多
Background:Assessment and quantification of skeletal muscle within the aging population is vital for diagnosis,treatment,and injury/disease prevention.The clinical availability of assessing muscle quality through diag...Background:Assessment and quantification of skeletal muscle within the aging population is vital for diagnosis,treatment,and injury/disease prevention.The clinical availability of assessing muscle quality through diagnostic ultrasound presents an opportunity to be utilized as a screening tool for function-limiting diseases.However,relationships between muscle echogenicity and clinical functional assessments require authoritative analysis.Thus,we aimed to(a) synthesize the literature to assess the relationships between skeletal muscle echogenicity and physical function in older adults(≥60 years),(b) perform pooled analyses of relationships between skeletal muscle echogenicity and physical function,and(c) perform sub-analyses to determine between-muscle relationships.Methods:CINAHL,Embase,MEDLINE,PubMed,and Web of Science databases were systematically searched to identify articles relating skeletal muscle echogenicity to physical function in older adults.Risk-of-bias assessments were conducted along with funnel plot examination.Meta-analyses with and without sub-analyses for individual muscles were performed utilizing Fisher's Z transformation for the most common measures of physical function.Fisher's Z was back-transformed to Pearson's r for interpretation.Results:Fifty-one articles(n=5095,female=~2759,male=~2301,72.5± 5.8 years,mean±SD(1 study did not provide sex descriptors))were extracted for review,with previously unpublished data obtained from the authors of 13 studies.The rectus femoris(n=34) and isometric knee extension strength(n=22) were the most accessed muscle and physical qualities,respectively.The relationship between quadriceps echogenicity and knee extensor strength was moderate(n=2924,r=-0.36(95% confidence interval:-0.38 to-0.32),p <0.001),with all other meta-analyses(grip strength,walking speed,sit-to-stand,timed up-and-go) resulting in slightly weaker correlations(r:-0.34 to-0.23,all p <0.001).Sub-analyses determined minimal differences in predictive ability between muscle groups,although combining muscles(e.g.,rectus femoris+vastus lateralis) often re sulted in stronger correlations with maximal strength.Conclusion:While correlations are modest,the affordable,portable,and noninvasive ultrasonic assessment of muscle quality is a consistent predictor of physical function in older adults.Minimal between-muscle differences suggest that echogenicity estimates of muscle quality are systemic.Therefore,practitioners may be able to scan a single muscle to estimate full-body skeletal muscle quality/composition,while researchers should consider combining multiple muscles to strengthen the model.展开更多
Grouting defects are an inherent challenge in construction practices,exerting a considerable impact on the operational structural integrity of connections.This investigation employed the impact-echo technique for the ...Grouting defects are an inherent challenge in construction practices,exerting a considerable impact on the operational structural integrity of connections.This investigation employed the impact-echo technique for the detection of grouting anomalies within connections,enhancing its precision through the integration of wavelet packet energy principles for damage identification purposes.A series of grouting completeness assessments were meticulously conducted,taking into account variables such as the divergent material properties of the sleeves and the configuration of adjacent reinforcement.The findings revealed that:(i)the energy distribution for the highstrength concrete cohort predominantly occupied the frequency bands 42,44,45,and 47,whereas for other groups,it was concentrated within the 37 to 40 frequency band;(ii)the delineation of empty sleeves was effectively discernible by examining the wavelet packet energy ratios across the spectrum of frequencies,albeit distinguishing between sleeves with 50%and full grouting density proved challenging;and(iii)the wavelet packet energy analysis yielded variable detection outcomes contingent on the material attributes of the sleeves,demonstrating heightened sensitivity when applied to ultrahigh-performance concrete matrices and GFRP-reinforced steel bars.展开更多
BACKGROUND Inflammatory indices derived from complete blood tests have been reported to be associated with poor outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation(AF).The data about the relationship between inflammatory in...BACKGROUND Inflammatory indices derived from complete blood tests have been reported to be associated with poor outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation(AF).The data about the relationship between inflammatory indices and left atrial appendage thrombus(LAAT)or dense spontaneous echo contrast(SEC)are limited.AIM To explore the value of inflammatory indices for predicting the presence of LAAT or dense SEC in nonvalvular AF patients.METHODS A total of 406 patients with nonvalvular AF who underwent transesophageal echocardiography were included and divided into two groups based on the presence(study group)or absence(control group)of LAAT or dense SEC.Inflammatory indices,including the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio(NLR),platelet–tolymphocyte ratio(PLR),and lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio(LMR),were calculated from complete blood analysis.The associations of inflammatory indices RESULTS LAAT and dense SEC were detected in 11(2.7%)and 42(10.3%)patients,respectively.The PLR only showed an association with LAAT/dense SEC in the univariate model.Elevated NLR(odds ratio[OR]=1.48,95%confidence interval[CI]:1.11-1.98,P=0.007)and reduced LMR(OR=0.59,95%CI:0.41-0.83,P=0.003)were found to be independent risk factors for the presence of LAAT/dense SEC.The areas under the NLR and LMR curves for predicting LAAT/dense SEC were 0.73(95%CI:0.66-0.80,P<0.001)and 0.73(95%CI:0.65-0.81,P<0.001),respectively,while the cutoff values were 2.8(sensitivity:69.8%;specificity:64.0%)and 2.4(sensitivity:71.7%;specificity:60.6%),respectively.CONCLUSION Increased NLR and decreased LMR may predict LAAT/dense SEC in patients with nonvalvular AF.展开更多
This research study represents an ongoing research effort on Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP) with a focus on anomalous propagation of radar echo returns, mirroring established theoretical constructs of gravitat...This research study represents an ongoing research effort on Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP) with a focus on anomalous propagation of radar echo returns, mirroring established theoretical constructs of gravitational effects on light, which occur at higher frequencies and shorter wavelengths within the Electromagnetic Spectrum. These influences are also illustrated through other technologies, including Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) and the chromatic effects captured by hyperspectral cameras. This research addresses the complexities of interpreting unusual propagation patterns, such as Long Delay Echoes (LDE) and unexpected Field Echoes (UFE), which disrupt the anticipated propagation and echo protocols, thereby challenging our understanding and comprehension of radio transmission norms that may be influenced by a form of quantum entanglement. The paper posits a significant and largely unexamined correlation between these phenomena in the context of UAP activity, highlighting the urgent need for further research and innovative strategies in navigation technology and environmental monitoring to investigate these potential occurrences, which have remained enigmatic for nearly a century. Radar signals are vulnerable to intricate dynamics that can lead to Unusual Field Echoes (UFE), resulting in emergent anomalies, such as Multiple echo returns and LDEs. This study employed a 3-centimeter marine-based X-band radar operating in two scan geometries and a portable short-range millimeter-wave Doppler radar system. An analysis of these radar echoes over a two-year study identified signal propagation that deviated from navigational standards on Plan Position Indicators (PPI). This paper explores and investigates the potential impacts of UAP on radar transmission routes. Examining these complexities makes a case for an enhanced understanding of the interactions between established technological factors and elusive aerial phenomena.展开更多
Based on previously released data,this paper first presented the criteria for recognizing bow echoes and divided their life cycle into three stages:the development stage,the mature stage,and the attenuation stage.Base...Based on previously released data,this paper first presented the criteria for recognizing bow echoes and divided their life cycle into three stages:the development stage,the mature stage,and the attenuation stage.Based on Doppler weather radar data during 2011-2020,43 bow echo events(including 54 individual bow echoes)in western South China were identified.The spatial and temporal distributions,formation and dissipation modes of these bow echoes,and the severe weather they caused were statistically analyzed.The results show that:(1)The bow echo events were unevenly distributed year-to-year,but all occurred from March to July,with the highest in April and May and the lowest in July.The period from night to early morning was found to be the main period for bow echo generation and intensification.(2)A banded area from Hechi City on the southeastern edge of the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau to Wuzhou City in southeast Guangxi was identified as a high-incidence area of bow echoes.The length of bow echoes was correlated with their life cycle.(3)The origins of the bow echoes could be divided into five locations,most of which were in the eastern Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau.After entering western South China,their moving paths were categorized into three types,among which most bow echoes moved southeastward,generally because of the effect of cold air.Specifically,bow echoes generally moved eastward when cold air was weak or in the warm zone.Meanwhile,the fewest bow echoes moved northeastward.(4)Four modes of bow echo formation were identified:linearly organized,broken areal,linearly merging,and broken line.Dissipation could also be classified into four types.(5)The probability of convective weather generated by a bow echo was largest in the mature stage.展开更多
基金funded by the National Key R&D Program of China(Grant No.2022YFC3300705)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.62203056,12202048,and 62201056).
文摘Atmospheric aerosols are the primary contributors to environmental pollution.As such aerosols are micro-to nanosized particles invisible to the naked eye,it is necessary to utilize LiDAR technology for their detection.The laser radar echo signal is vulnerable to background light and electronic thermal noise.While single-photon LiDAR can effectively reduce background light interference,electronic thermal noise remains a significant challenge,especially at long distances and in environments with a low signal-to-noise ratio(SNR).However,conventional denoising methods cannot achieve satisfactory results in this case.In this paper,a novel adaptive continuous threshold wavelet denoising algorithm is proposed to filter out the noise.The algorithm features an adaptive threshold and a continuous threshold function.The adaptive threshold is dynamically adjusted according to the wavelet decomposition level,and the continuous threshold function ensures continuity with lower constant error,thus optimizing the denoising process.Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm has excellent performance in improving SNR and reducing root mean square error(RMSE)compared with other algorithms.Experimental results show that denoising of an actual LiDAR echo signal results in a 4.37 dB improvement in SNR and a 39.5%reduction in RMSE.The proposed method significantly enhances the ability of single-photon LiDAR to detect weak signals.
基金Scientific Research and Development Project of Hebei Meteorological Bureau(23ky08).
文摘This study proposes a novel radar echo extrapolation algorithm,OF-ConvGRU,which integrates Optical Flow(OF)and Convolutional Gated Recurrent Unit(ConvGRU)methods for improved nowcasting.Using the Standardized Radar Dataset of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area,the performance of OF-ConvGRU was evaluated against OF and ConvGRU methods.Threat Score(TS)and Bias Score(BIAS)were employed to assess extrapolation accuracy across various echo intensities(20-50 dBz)and weather phenomena.Results demonstrate that OF-ConvGRU significantly enhances prediction accuracy for moderate-intensity echoes(30-40 dBz),effectively combining OF s precise motion estimation with ConvGRU s nonlinear learning capabilities.However,challenges persist in low-intensity(20 dBz)and high-intensity(50 dBz)echo predictions.The study reveals distinct advantages of each method in specific contexts,highlighting the importance of multi-method approaches in operational nowcasting.OF-ConvGRU shows promise in balancing short-term accuracy with long-term stability,particularly for complex weather systems.
基金supported in part by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(62176109,62476115)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(lzujbky-2023-ey07,lzujbky-2023-it14)+1 种基金the Natural Science Foundation of Gansu Province(24JRRA488)the Supercomputing Center of Lanzhou University
文摘As a category of recurrent neural networks,echo state networks(ESNs)have been the topic of in-depth investigations and extensive applications in a diverse array of fields,with spectacular triumphs achieved.Nevertheless,the traditional ESN and the majority of its variants are devised in the light of the second-order statistical information of data(e.g.,variance and covariance),while more information is neglected.In the context of information theoretic learning,correntropy demonstrates the capacity to grab more information from data.Therefore,under the guidelines of the maximum correntropy criterion,this paper proposes a correntropy-based echo state network(CESN)in which the first-order and higher-order information of data is captured,promoting robustness to noise.Furthermore,an incremental learning algorithm for the CESN is presented,which has the expertise to update the CESN when new data arrives,eliminating the need to retrain the network from scratch.Finally,experiments on benchmark problems and comparisons with existing works are provided to verify the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed CESN.
基金supported by the Planned Project Grant(Grant No.3502Z20199064)from the Science and Technology Bureau of Xiamen(CN)the training project(Grant No.2020GGB067)of the youth and middle-aged talents of Fujian Provincial Health Commission(CN).
文摘This study explored the application value of iterative decomposition of water and fatwith echo asymmetry and least-squares estimation(IDEAL-IQ)technology in the early diagnosis of ageing osteoporosis(OP).172 participants were enrolled and underwentmagnetic resonance imaging(MRI)examinations on a 3.0T scanner.100 cases were included in the normal group(50 males and 50 females;mean age:45 years;age range:20e84 years).33 cases were included in the osteopenia group(17 males and 16 females;mean age:55 years;age range:43e83 years).39 caseswere includedintheOP group(19males and20females;meanage:58years;age range:48 e82 years).Conventional T1WI and T2WI were first obtained,followed by 3D-IDEAL-IQ-acqui-sition.Fat fraction(FF)and apparent transverse relaxation rate(R2*)resultswere automatically calculated from IDEAL-IQ-images on the console.Based on T1Wand T2W-images,300 ROIs for each participantweremanually delineated in L1-L5 vertebral bodies of five middle slices.In each age group of all normal subjects,each parameter was significantly correlated with gender.In male participants from the normal,osteopenia,and OP groups,statistical analysis revealed F values of 11319.292 and 180.130 for comparisons involving FF and R2*values,respectively(all p<0.0001).The sensitivity and specificity of FF values were 0.906 and 0.950,0.994 and 0.997,0.865 and 0.820,respectively.For R2*,they were 0.665 and 0.616,0.563 and 0.519,0.571 and 0.368,respectively.In female participants from the normal,osteopenia,and OP-groups,statis-tical analysis revealed F values of 12461.658 and 548.274 for comparisons involving FF and R2*values,respectively(all p<0.0001).The sensitivity and specificity of FF values were 0.985 and 0.991,0.996 and 0.996,0.581 and 0.678,respectively.For R2*,they were 0.698 and 0.730,0.603 and 0.665,0.622 and 0.525,respectively.Significant differences were indicated in the quanti-tative values among the three groups.FF value had good performance,while R2*value had poor performance indiscriminatingosteopenia andOP-groups.Overall,the IDEAL-IQ techniqueoffers specific reference indices that enable noninvasive and quantitative assessment of lumbar vertebrae bone metabolism,thereby providing diagnostic information for OP.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.51805141)Funds for Creative Research Groups of Hebei Province of China(Grant No.E2020202142)+2 种基金Tianjin Municipal Science and Technology Plan Project of China(Grant No.19ZXZNGX00100)Key R&D Program of Hebei Province of China(Grant No.19227208D)National Key Research and development Program of China(Grant No.2020YFB2009400).
文摘On-site and real-time non-destructive measurement of elastic constants for materials of a component in a in-service structure is a challenge due to structural complexities,such as ambiguous boundary,variable thickness,nonuniform material properties.This work develops for the first time a method that uses ultrasound echo groups and artificial neural network(ANN)for reliable on-site real-time identification of material parameters.The use of echo groups allows the use of lower frequencies,and hence more accommodative to structural complexity.To train the ANNs,a numerical model is established that is capable of computing the waveform of ultrasonic echo groups for any given set of material properties of a given structure.The waveform of an ultrasonic echo groups at an interest location on the surface the structure with material parameters varying in a predefined range are then computed using the numerical model.This results in a set of dataset for training the ANN model.Once the ANN is trained,the material parameters can be identified simultaneously using the actual measured echo waveform as input to the ANN.Intensive tests have been conducted both numerically and experimentally to evaluate the effectiveness and accuracy of the currently proposed method.The results show that the maximum identification error of numerical example is less than 2%,and the maximum identification error of experimental test is less than 7%.Compared with currently prevailing methods and equipment,the proposefy the density and thickness,in addition to the elastic constants.Moreover,the reliability and accuracy of inverse prediction is significantly improved.Thus,it has broad applications and enables real-time field measurements,which has not been fulfilled by any other available methods or equipment.
文摘This paper presents an air-coupled impact echo(IE)technique that relies on the phase spectrum of the collected data to find the frequencies corresponding to the reflections from delaminations.The proposed technique takes advantage of the fact that the IE compression wave is not a propagating wave,but it is the 1st order symmetrical(S1)mode Lamb wave at zero group velocity(S1-ZGV).Therefore,it searches the phase spectra of the data collected by multiple sensors to locate the frequency corresponding to the lowest phase difference.As a result,the technique reduces the effect of propagating waves,including the direct acoustic wave and ambient noise.It is named the Constant Phase IE(CPIE).The performance of the CPIE is experimentally compared with the regular amplitude spectrum-based IE technique and two other multisensor IE techniques.The CPIE shows a performance advantage,especially in a noisy environment.
文摘Background:Assessment and quantification of skeletal muscle within the aging population is vital for diagnosis,treatment,and injury/disease prevention.The clinical availability of assessing muscle quality through diagnostic ultrasound presents an opportunity to be utilized as a screening tool for function-limiting diseases.However,relationships between muscle echogenicity and clinical functional assessments require authoritative analysis.Thus,we aimed to(a) synthesize the literature to assess the relationships between skeletal muscle echogenicity and physical function in older adults(≥60 years),(b) perform pooled analyses of relationships between skeletal muscle echogenicity and physical function,and(c) perform sub-analyses to determine between-muscle relationships.Methods:CINAHL,Embase,MEDLINE,PubMed,and Web of Science databases were systematically searched to identify articles relating skeletal muscle echogenicity to physical function in older adults.Risk-of-bias assessments were conducted along with funnel plot examination.Meta-analyses with and without sub-analyses for individual muscles were performed utilizing Fisher's Z transformation for the most common measures of physical function.Fisher's Z was back-transformed to Pearson's r for interpretation.Results:Fifty-one articles(n=5095,female=~2759,male=~2301,72.5± 5.8 years,mean±SD(1 study did not provide sex descriptors))were extracted for review,with previously unpublished data obtained from the authors of 13 studies.The rectus femoris(n=34) and isometric knee extension strength(n=22) were the most accessed muscle and physical qualities,respectively.The relationship between quadriceps echogenicity and knee extensor strength was moderate(n=2924,r=-0.36(95% confidence interval:-0.38 to-0.32),p <0.001),with all other meta-analyses(grip strength,walking speed,sit-to-stand,timed up-and-go) resulting in slightly weaker correlations(r:-0.34 to-0.23,all p <0.001).Sub-analyses determined minimal differences in predictive ability between muscle groups,although combining muscles(e.g.,rectus femoris+vastus lateralis) often re sulted in stronger correlations with maximal strength.Conclusion:While correlations are modest,the affordable,portable,and noninvasive ultrasonic assessment of muscle quality is a consistent predictor of physical function in older adults.Minimal between-muscle differences suggest that echogenicity estimates of muscle quality are systemic.Therefore,practitioners may be able to scan a single muscle to estimate full-body skeletal muscle quality/composition,while researchers should consider combining multiple muscles to strengthen the model.
基金supported by financial support from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(U1904177)the Excellent Youth Natural Science Foundation of Henan Province of China(212300410079)+2 种基金the Subproject of the Key Project of the National Development and Reform Commission of China(202203001)the Project of Young Key Teachers in Henan Province of China(2019GGJS01)Horizontal Research Projects(20230352A).
文摘Grouting defects are an inherent challenge in construction practices,exerting a considerable impact on the operational structural integrity of connections.This investigation employed the impact-echo technique for the detection of grouting anomalies within connections,enhancing its precision through the integration of wavelet packet energy principles for damage identification purposes.A series of grouting completeness assessments were meticulously conducted,taking into account variables such as the divergent material properties of the sleeves and the configuration of adjacent reinforcement.The findings revealed that:(i)the energy distribution for the highstrength concrete cohort predominantly occupied the frequency bands 42,44,45,and 47,whereas for other groups,it was concentrated within the 37 to 40 frequency band;(ii)the delineation of empty sleeves was effectively discernible by examining the wavelet packet energy ratios across the spectrum of frequencies,albeit distinguishing between sleeves with 50%and full grouting density proved challenging;and(iii)the wavelet packet energy analysis yielded variable detection outcomes contingent on the material attributes of the sleeves,demonstrating heightened sensitivity when applied to ultrahigh-performance concrete matrices and GFRP-reinforced steel bars.
基金Public Welfare Technology Project of Ningbo Science and Technology Bureau,No.2023S140Medical Health Science and Technology Project of Zhejiang Province Health Commission,No.2024KY1518.
文摘BACKGROUND Inflammatory indices derived from complete blood tests have been reported to be associated with poor outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation(AF).The data about the relationship between inflammatory indices and left atrial appendage thrombus(LAAT)or dense spontaneous echo contrast(SEC)are limited.AIM To explore the value of inflammatory indices for predicting the presence of LAAT or dense SEC in nonvalvular AF patients.METHODS A total of 406 patients with nonvalvular AF who underwent transesophageal echocardiography were included and divided into two groups based on the presence(study group)or absence(control group)of LAAT or dense SEC.Inflammatory indices,including the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio(NLR),platelet–tolymphocyte ratio(PLR),and lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio(LMR),were calculated from complete blood analysis.The associations of inflammatory indices RESULTS LAAT and dense SEC were detected in 11(2.7%)and 42(10.3%)patients,respectively.The PLR only showed an association with LAAT/dense SEC in the univariate model.Elevated NLR(odds ratio[OR]=1.48,95%confidence interval[CI]:1.11-1.98,P=0.007)and reduced LMR(OR=0.59,95%CI:0.41-0.83,P=0.003)were found to be independent risk factors for the presence of LAAT/dense SEC.The areas under the NLR and LMR curves for predicting LAAT/dense SEC were 0.73(95%CI:0.66-0.80,P<0.001)and 0.73(95%CI:0.65-0.81,P<0.001),respectively,while the cutoff values were 2.8(sensitivity:69.8%;specificity:64.0%)and 2.4(sensitivity:71.7%;specificity:60.6%),respectively.CONCLUSION Increased NLR and decreased LMR may predict LAAT/dense SEC in patients with nonvalvular AF.
文摘This research study represents an ongoing research effort on Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP) with a focus on anomalous propagation of radar echo returns, mirroring established theoretical constructs of gravitational effects on light, which occur at higher frequencies and shorter wavelengths within the Electromagnetic Spectrum. These influences are also illustrated through other technologies, including Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) and the chromatic effects captured by hyperspectral cameras. This research addresses the complexities of interpreting unusual propagation patterns, such as Long Delay Echoes (LDE) and unexpected Field Echoes (UFE), which disrupt the anticipated propagation and echo protocols, thereby challenging our understanding and comprehension of radio transmission norms that may be influenced by a form of quantum entanglement. The paper posits a significant and largely unexamined correlation between these phenomena in the context of UAP activity, highlighting the urgent need for further research and innovative strategies in navigation technology and environmental monitoring to investigate these potential occurrences, which have remained enigmatic for nearly a century. Radar signals are vulnerable to intricate dynamics that can lead to Unusual Field Echoes (UFE), resulting in emergent anomalies, such as Multiple echo returns and LDEs. This study employed a 3-centimeter marine-based X-band radar operating in two scan geometries and a portable short-range millimeter-wave Doppler radar system. An analysis of these radar echoes over a two-year study identified signal propagation that deviated from navigational standards on Plan Position Indicators (PPI). This paper explores and investigates the potential impacts of UAP on radar transmission routes. Examining these complexities makes a case for an enhanced understanding of the interactions between established technological factors and elusive aerial phenomena.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(52239006,41975001,41930972)Natural Science Foundation of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region(2022GXNSFBA035565)。
文摘Based on previously released data,this paper first presented the criteria for recognizing bow echoes and divided their life cycle into three stages:the development stage,the mature stage,and the attenuation stage.Based on Doppler weather radar data during 2011-2020,43 bow echo events(including 54 individual bow echoes)in western South China were identified.The spatial and temporal distributions,formation and dissipation modes of these bow echoes,and the severe weather they caused were statistically analyzed.The results show that:(1)The bow echo events were unevenly distributed year-to-year,but all occurred from March to July,with the highest in April and May and the lowest in July.The period from night to early morning was found to be the main period for bow echo generation and intensification.(2)A banded area from Hechi City on the southeastern edge of the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau to Wuzhou City in southeast Guangxi was identified as a high-incidence area of bow echoes.The length of bow echoes was correlated with their life cycle.(3)The origins of the bow echoes could be divided into five locations,most of which were in the eastern Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau.After entering western South China,their moving paths were categorized into three types,among which most bow echoes moved southeastward,generally because of the effect of cold air.Specifically,bow echoes generally moved eastward when cold air was weak or in the warm zone.Meanwhile,the fewest bow echoes moved northeastward.(4)Four modes of bow echo formation were identified:linearly organized,broken areal,linearly merging,and broken line.Dissipation could also be classified into four types.(5)The probability of convective weather generated by a bow echo was largest in the mature stage.
