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BACKGROUND: About one-third of older adults aged 65 years and older often have mild cognitive impairment or dementia. Acoustic and psycho-linguistic features derived from conversation may be of great diagnostic value because speech involves verbal memory and cognitive and neuromuscular processes. The relative decline in these processes, however, may not be linear and remains understudied. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to establish associations between cognitive abilities and various attributes of speech and natural language production. To date, the majority of research has been cross-sectional, relying mostly on data from structured interactions and restricted to textual versus acoustic analyses. METHODS: In a sample of 71 older (mean age 83.3, SD 7.0 years) community-dwelling adults who completed qualitative interviews and cognitive testing, we investigated the performance of both acoustic and psycholinguistic features associated with cognitive deficits contemporaneously and at a 1-2 years follow up (mean follow-up time 512.3, SD 84.5 days). RESULTS: Combined acoustic and psycholinguistic features achieved high performance (F1-scores 0.73-0.86) and sensitivity (up to 0.90) in estimating cognitive deficits across multiple domains. Performance remained high when acoustic and psycholinguistic features were used to predict follow-up cognitive performance. The psycholinguistic features that were most successful at classifying high cognitive impairment reflected vocabulary richness, the quantity of speech produced, and the fragmentation of speech, whereas the analogous top-ranked acoustic features reflected breathing and nonverbal vocalizations such as giggles or laughter. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that both acoustic and psycholinguistic features extracted from qualitative interviews may be reliable markers of cognitive deficits in late life.

PURPOSE: NF2-related schwannomatosis (NF2) is characterized by bilateral vestibular schwannomas (VS) often causing hearing and neurologic deficits, with currently no FDA-approved drug treatment. Pre-clinical studies highlighted the potential of mTORC1 inhibition in delaying schwannoma progression. We conducted a prospective open-label, phase II study of everolimus for progressive VS in NF2 patients and investigated imaging as a potential biomarker predicting effects on growth trajectory. METHODS: The trial enrolled 12 NF2 patients with progressive VS. Participants received oral everolimus daily for 52 weeks. Brain imaging was obtained quarterly. As primary endpoint, radiographic response (RR) was defined as ≥ 20% decrease in target VS volume. Secondary endpoints included other tumors RR, hearing outcomes, drug safety and quality of life (QOL). RESULTS: Eight participants completed the trial and four discontinued the drug early due to significant volumetric VS progression. After 52 weeks of treatment, the median annual VS growth rate decreased from 77.2% at baseline to 29.4%. There was no VS RR and 3 of 8 (37.5%) participants had stable disease. Decreased or unchanged VS volume after 3 months of treatment was predictive of stabilization at 12 months. Seven of eight participants had stable hearing during treatment except one with a decline in word recognition score. Ten of twelve participants reported only minimal changes to their QOL scores. CONCLUSIONS: Volumetric imaging at 3 months can serve as an early biomarker to predict long-term sensitivity to everolimus treatment. Everolimus may represent a safe treatment option to decrease the growth of NF2-related VS in patients who have stable hearing and neurological condition. TRN: NCT01345136 (April 29, 2011).

BACKGROUND: The choice of an appropriate strategy for intracanalicular vestibular schwannoma (ICVS) is still debated. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis with the aim to compare treatment outcomes amongst management strategies (conservative surveillance (CS), microsurgical resection (MR), or stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS)) aiming to inform guideline recommendations on behalf of the International Stereotactic Radiosurgery Society (ISRS). METHODS: Using PRISMA guidelines, we reviewed manuscripts published between January 1990 and October 2021 referenced in PubMed or Embase. Inclusion criteria were peer-reviewed clinical studies or case series reporting a cohort of ICVS managed with CS, MR, or SRS. Primary outcome measures included tumor control, the need for additional treatment, hearing outcomes, and posttreatment neurological deficits. These were pooled using meta-analytical techniques and compared using meta-regression with random effect. RESULTS: Forty studies were included (2371 patients). The weighted pooled estimates for tumor control were 96% and 65% in SRS and CS series, respectively (P

OBJECTIVE: Cystic vestibular schwannomas (cVSs) have more variable and less favorable clinical outcomes after microsurgical resection compared with solid VS (sVS). This study compares the preoperative presentation and postoperative outcomes between cVS and sVS. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study. SETTING: Two tertiary skull base referral centers. METHODS: Consecutive adult patients who underwent VS resection from 2016 to 2021 were included. Univariate and multivariate analyses compared differences in baseline symptoms and postoperative outcomes between cVS and sVS. RESULTS: There were a total of 315 patients (64% female; mean age, 54 yrs) and 46 (15%) were cystic. cVS were significantly larger than sVS (maximum diameter, 28 vs. 18 mm, p < 0.001) and had higher rates of dysphagia and dysphonia preoperatively (p < 0.02). cVSs were more likely to undergo translabyrinthine resection (76 vs. 50%, p = 0.001) and have a higher rate of subtotal resection (STR) compared with sVS (30 vs. 13%, p = 0.003). At latest follow-up, fewer cVS achieved good facial nerve (FN) outcome (House-Brackmann [HB] I/II) (80 vs. 90%, p = 0.048). Subanalysis of cVS and sVS matched in tumor size, and surgical approach did not show differences in the rate of STR or FN outcomes (HB I/II, 82 vs. 78%, p = 0.79). CONCLUSION: In this large multi-institutional series, cVSs represent a distinct entity and are characterized by larger tumor size and higher incidence of atypical symptoms. Although cVSs were more likely to undergo STR and portend worse FN outcomes than sVSs, this may be due to their larger tumor size rather than the presence of the cystic component.

Background/Objectives: Obstetric ultrasound is one of the most commonly used imaging modalities during pregnancy to detect any fetal abnormalities. The aim of this systematic review was to appraise all available scientific literature and summarize current evidence regarding the safety of fetal ultrasound by using the thermal index (TI) and mechanical index (MI). Methods: We applied the PRISMA guidelines in order to prepare the review, and a 2-step process was performed in order to evaluate the available literature and decide which studies to be included. A thorough search of the Medline, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases was performed. Randomized and non-randomized studies were considered for review. The MI and TI were available in ultrasound machines after 1993; thus, studies before that year would not provide data on these two indexes. Results: A total of 21 studies were included in this review, including prospective, retrospective, cross-sectional, and survey-type studies. A common theme of the majority of the studies is the increased acoustic output available to the machines with time and the limited awareness of where the MI/TI indexes are from the operators. Conclusions: This review indicates that, while obstetric ultrasound is predominantly safe, there is a need for operators to consistently observe MI/TI indexes and adhere to the ALARA principle to minimize potential risks. [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]

Train noise is a kind of green, non‐destructive and strong‐energy artificial seismic sources, which is widely used in railway safety monitoring, near‐surface imaging and urban underground space exploration. Distributed acoustic sensing is a new seismic acquisition technology, which has the advantages of dense sampling, simple deployment and strong anti‐electromagnetic interference ability. In recent years, distributed acoustic sensing has been gradually applied in the fields of urban traffic microseism monitoring, crack detection and underground space imaging. However, previous studies mainly focused on microseism interferometry using train event coda noise, and there is limited research on the workflow of interferometry imaging using distributed acoustic sensing–based heavy train events noise (with short coda windows), which produces an abundant of near‐source interference. Aiming at proving the effectiveness of this idea, we investigated a process workflow to get underground shear‐velocity structure based on distributed acoustic sensing recorded heavy traffic noise near Qinhuangdao train station. A weighted sliding absolute average method is used to weaken the strong amplitude to the coda wave level and reduce the near‐source influence. We demonstrated that the cross‐coherence interferometry method, after spectral whitening, has the best effect on sidelobe suppression in the virtual source surface wave shot gathers, through a comparative analysis of cross‐correlation and cross‐coherence results. For obtaining concentrated energy and strong continuity in phase velocity spectra, we selected the time windows with high spatial coherence and signal‐to‐noise ratio not less than 1.2 for stacking from 720 time windows in F–K domain. When dividing subarrays to extract pseudo‐two‐dimensional profile, we set the overlap rate between adjacent time windows to 80% to increase stacking times, enhancing the precision of phase velocity spectra and reducing the errors of picking dispersion curve. Our results show that heavy traffic train events noise (non‐pure coda) can be used to detect underground velocity structure with clear dispersion and high inversion reliability. This research provides a new processing flow for distributed acoustic sensing train noise imaging and can be applied in future urban underground space exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the increasing use of drones for both commercial and recreational purposes has led to heightened concerns regarding airspace safety. To address these issues, machine learning (ML) based drone detection and classification have emerged. This study explores the potential of ML-based drone classification, utilizing technologies like radar, visual, acoustic, and radiofrequency sensing systems. It undertakes a comprehensive examination of the existing literature in this domain, with a focus on various sensing modalities and their respective technological implementations. The study indicates that MLbased drone classification is promising, with numerous successful individual contributions. It is crucial to note, however, that much of the research in this field is experimental, making it difficult to compare results from various articles. There is also a noteworthy lack of reference datasets to help in the evaluation of different solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electron-piezoelectric phonon interaction provides a significant extrinsic channel for energy relaxation in a graphene sheet placed on a polar substrate. We report in this paper our analytical and numerical investigations on energy relaxation rate and power loss density in graphene sheet on a polar substrate considering the electron-piezoelectric phonon scattering channel in the Boltzmann transport approach. We overcome the earlier crude approximations made to achieve the reported analytical results and compare the obtained results for their compliance with the numerical findings for the graphene sheet on the GaAs substrate. The obtained analytical expression for energy relaxation rate is valid for all temperatures and electron energies. The analytical result for power loss density limits its validity for low electron densities (< 1 0 1 2 cm − 2). It is observed that the relaxation rate due to surface piezoelectric phonons in graphene on GaAs substrate is directly proportional to temperatures above ∼ 1 0 K , below which temperature independence is seen. Also, it is observed that the relaxation rate is linearly dependent on electron energy, E k at low temperatures, and E k independent at high temperatures. Moreover, the relaxation rate is electron density-independent for all (low to high) temperatures. The seemingly odd (from earlier reported behavior) temperature-independent, linearly dependent E k and n independent relaxation rate behavior for low temperatures is attributed to the approximation used so far in the phononic statistical occupation factor in deriving the relaxation rate in the low-temperature Bloch-Gruneisen (BG) regime. In undoped graphene, we have found that the power loss behavior follows a crossover from T e 5 to T e 4 behavior while moving from low (∼ 2 0 K) to high (∼ 1 0 0 0 K) electron temperature. This behavior contradicts the study by Zhang et al. [Phys. Rev. B 87, 075443 (2013)] and M. Ansari [Physica E: Low Dimens. Syst. Nanostruct. 131, 114722 (2021)] which reported low-temperature BG behavior of T e 3 . This behavior is again attributed to using BG regime approximation for statistical occupation factors. Our findings are in agreement with the experimental work by Chen et al. [Nature Nanotechnol.  3, 206 (2008)] and You et al. [Appl. Phys. Lett. 115, 043104 (2019)]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stored products, such as grains and processed foods, are susceptible to infestation by various insects. The early detection of insects in the supply chain is crucial, as introducing invasive pests to new environments may cause disproportionate harm. The STAR Center at Stevens Institute of Technology developed the Acoustic Stored Product Insect Detection System (A-SPIDS) to detect pests in stored products. The system, which comprises a sound-insulated container for product samples with a built-in internal array of piezoelectric sensors and additional electret microphones to record outside noise, was used to conduct numerous measurements of the vibroacoustic signatures of various insects, including the Callosobruchus maculatus, Tribolium confusum, and Tenebrio molitor, in different materials. A normalization method was implemented using the ambient noise of the sensors as a reference, to accommodate for the proprietary, non-calibrated sensors and allowing to set relative detection thresholds for unknown sensitivities. The normalized envelope of the filtered signals was used to characterize and compare the insect signals by estimating the Normalized Signal Pulse Amplitude (NSPA) and the Normalized Spectral Energy Level (NSEL). These parameters characterize the insect detection Signal Noise Ratio (SNR) for pulse-based detection (NSPA) and averaged energy-based detection (NSEL). These metrics provided an initial step towards the design of a reliable detection algorithm. In the conducted tests NSPA was significantly larger than NSEL. The NSPA reached 70 d B for T. molitor in corn flakes. The insect signals were lower in flour where the averaged NSPA and NSEL values were around 40 dB and 11 d B to 16 d B , respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blue bull (Boselaphus tragocamelus), the largest antelope is causing significant crop losses in Punjab, India and farmers are continuously struggling to get rid of this menace. During present study, various mitigation tactics like physical barriers (such as barbed wire fencing, chain-linked fencing, electric fencing, and nylon net), mechanical and visual deterrent (such as bioacoustic and LED bulb, reflective ribbon) and repellents (such as phenyl, neelbo, and repellent based formulation i.e., RBF) were evaluated in different crops against the blue bull. Among physical barriers, chain-linked fencing, electric fencing, and nylon net, each at a height of ≥ 7 feet, had given promising results by providing complete protection for ≥ 2 year with a single application cost. Whereas barbed wire fencing and electric fencing at a height of 4–5 feet were not very effective against these animals, as they easily crossed fencings at lower height. All these physical barriers were not cost effective except in maize crop, which is the most preferred crop by blue bull. Bioacoustic device and reflective ribbon successfully reduced animal visits or percent damage and provided short term relief; however, after some time, animals developed habituation against these methods. Among chemical repellents, RBF significantly reduced the percent crop damage, was cost effective and remained operative for 21–69 days, while phenyl and neelbo exhibited effectiveness for only 7–14 days. Thus, this study suggests that while comprehensive damage prevention by physical barriers might be difficult or unaffordable for farmers, the use of repellent based formulation at vulnerable stages of crops can prevent damage for longer durations. Implementing a diverse set of management devices at the appropriate times can form an economically viable strategy to maintain blue bull damage within acceptable limits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this pilot study was to explore the efficacy of an intensive 3 week water resistance phonation (WRP) therapy program for people with presbyphonia. Method: Participants included 13 people with presbyphonia who received intensive WRP therapy. All participants completed eight sessions of therapy over 3 weeks. Auditory perceptual ratings, and acoustic and aerodynamic assessments were performed before and after treatment. Participants also completed the voice-related quality of life questionnaire before and after the treatment. Result: After 3 weeks of intensive voice therapy, significant improvements were demonstrated in acoustic, aerodynamic, and auditory perceptual parameters, as well as patient perceptions of voice-related quality of life. Acoustically, it was found there were significant decreases in shimmer (p = 0.019), noise-to-harmonic ratio (p = 0.016), and smoothed cepstral peak prominence (p = 0.001). Perceptually, the clients with presbyphonia showed significant reductions in the ratings of the overall grade, roughness, asthenia, and strain. Moreover, there was a significant increase in the total score of the Mandarin version of the Voice-Related Quality of Life measure post-therapy. Conclusion: The investigation provides preliminary evidence that people with presbyphonia can improve their vocal function and voice-related quality of life through intensive WRP therapy within a short period of time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In humans, saccular acoustic sensitivity has been confirmed. The aim of this study was to determine the scores of the word-in-noise perception test at the saccular acoustic sensitivity level. Methodology: In this randomized clinical trial study, 101 participants in the age group of 14 to 25 years with normal hearing and middle ear function, detectable vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMP), normal states of mental health, and night sleep were investigated. The scores of word-in-noise perception and word-in-noise discrimination tests were evaluated for each person at two intensity levels, most comfortable level (MCL) and saccular acoustic sensitivity. Mann-Whitney was used for the multiple comparisons. Results: There was a significant difference between the scores of the word-in-noise perception test at MCL and saccular acoustic sensitivity (U = 3971.50, Z = − 2.10, p' = 0.04), and also between the scores of the word-in-noise discrimination test at the MCL compared to saccular acoustic sensitivity (U = 399.89, Z = − 2.49, p' = 0.04). Word-in-noise discrimination scores in MCL (U = 3484.00, Z = -3.72, p' = 0.00) and saccular acoustic sensitivity (U = 705.50, Z = − 3.78, p' = 0.00) were higher than word-in-noise perception. Conclusions: Word-in-noise perception and word-in-noise discrimination scores are higher in saccular acoustic sensitivity level than MCL, suggesting that the vestibular system participates in loud speech perception. Also, in people with normal hearing thresholds, word-in-noise perception scores will be lower than word-in-noise discrimination scores for both loud and common intensity levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dual-ported shroud casing has two ports over the impeller section in a centrifugal compressor, different from the traditional ported shroud casing. This paper uses numerical simulations and experiments to investigate the effects of the dual-ported shroud on the centrifugal compressor, including aerodynamic performance and aeroacoustics. According to the experimentally measured compressor performance map, the novel finding is that the dual-port casing treatment extends the compressor operating range by improving the instability margin and increasing the compressor choke flow capacity. The mechanism contributing to the choke flow capacity increase is the bypass function. The dual-ported shroud casing bypasses a part of the air to enter the impeller channels at the blade tips without going through the impeller geometry throat. Besides the benefits, the efficiency and aero-acoustic measurements identify the disadvantages of the dual-ports casing treatment: the peak efficiency deterioration at high rotational speeds and louder noise emission at the compressor inlet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractObjectiveDesignStudy SampleResultsConclusionsAudiological tests on smartphones require consistent microphone recordings across device types with a reasonable standard uncertainty (2-3 Decibel (dB)) of the sound pressure level at the microphone. However, the calibration of smartphone microphones by the non-expert user is still an unsolved issue. We show that whistling on standardized glass bottles permits a coarse sound level calibration with an uncertainty that is smaller than the standard uncertainty of clinical audiograms (4.9dB) and enough for mobile health (mHealth) products.We define and test a calibration procedure with bottle-whistles for smartphones. The empirical sound pressure levels are used to calculate the mean and standard deviation of a single measurement.Two uncalibrated studies with a total of 30 participants, one calibrated study with 11 participants.The mean maximal sound pressure level of 330 ml Vichy-shape bottle-whistles at 50 cm distance is 92.8 ± 1.6dB sound pressure level (SPL). The sound pressure level variation of a single measurement is 3.0dB SPL.In comparison to other possible ways of level calibration estimates for smartphones (e.g. level of own voice, level of common environmental sounds), the current method appears to be robust in background noise and easily reproducible with glass bottles of defined dimensions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accelerating rate of human impact and environmental change severely affects marine biodiversity and increases the urgency to implement the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) 30×30 plan for conserving 30% of sea areas by 2030. However, area‐based conservation targets are complex to identify in a 3‐dimensional (3D) ocean where deep‐sea features such as seamounts have been seldom studied mostly due to challenging methodologies to implement at great depths. Yet, the use of emerging technologies, such as environmental DNA combined with modern modeling frameworks, could help address the problem. We collected environmental DNA, echosounder acoustic, and video data at 15 seamounts and deep island slopes across the Coral Sea. We modeled 7 fish community metrics and the abundances of 45 individual species and molecular operational taxonomic units (MOTUs) in benthic and pelagic waters (down to 600‐m deep) with boosted regression trees and generalized joint attribute models to describe biodiversity on seamounts and deep slopes and identify 3D protection solutions for achieving the CBD area target in New Caledonia (1.4 million km2). We prioritized the identified conservation units in a 3D space, based on various biodiversity targets, to meet the goal of protecting at least 30% of the spatial domain, with a focus on areas with high biodiversity. The relationship between biodiversity protection targets and the spatial area protected by the solution was linear. The scenario protecting 30% of each biodiversity metric preserved almost 30% of the considered spatial domain and accounted for the 3D distribution of biodiversity. Our study paves the way for the use of combined data collection methodologies to improve biodiversity estimates in 3D structured marine environments for the selection of conservation areas and for the use of biodiversity targets to achieve area‐based international targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Childhood and adolescence are essential stages in the development of voice and speech quality; therefore, it is essential to understand the vocal changes that occur during this period. Frequency-based measurement methods like cepstral measurements stand out among the methods described, which are able to identify f o and estimate the periodicity and noise in the acoustic wave without establishing individual cycles of the sound wave. Two hundred seventy-one recordings (128 female and 131 male) from children and adolescents aged 5 to 18 years with no vocal complaints were analyzed. Three speech-language pathologists assessed the vocal quality and determined as appropriate for the age. The recordings were divided into six age groups (G1:5-7; G2:8-9; G3:10-11; G4:12; G5:13-15 and G6:16-18 years old). Sustained production of the vowel /a/ were inspected and edited using the PRAAT software. Then, it was extract de Cepstrum Peak Prominence Smoothed (CPPS) using a script in the same software. A Two-way ANOVA was applied to investigate the effect of sex, age and sex*age interaction, followed by Bonferroni's correction for each gender separately. Finally, the Student's t test for independent samples was performed to compare genders within each age group. Male children and adolescents from G5 and G6 had higher CPPS measures than G1, G2 and G3 (P ≤ 0.001). In addition, G6 also had higher values than G4 (P ≤ 0.001). There was no difference between age groups in the female group. In turn, sex differences were reported from 12 years of age onwards, with higher CPPS values found for male participants compared to female participants (P ≤ 0.01). Vocal changes that usually occur from childhood to adolescence are reflected in the acoustic CPPS measure in males, resulting in higher values in the 13 to 18 years old. On the other hand, no changes in CPPS values were observed in the age groups of female participants. Males have higher CPPS values than females and that sex differences are reported after 12 years of age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to conduct an acoustic analysis through noise measurements of a hybrid propulsion system intended for implementation on a drone, from which the main noise sources can be identified for further research on noise reduction techniques. Additionally, the noise was characterized by performing spectral analysis and identifying the tonal components that contribute to the overall noise. The propelling force system consists of a micro-turboshaft coupled with a gearbox connected to an electric generator. The propulsion system consists of a micro-turboshaft coupled with a gearbox connected to an electric generator. The electric current produced by the generator powers an electric ducted fan (EDF). The engineturbo-engine was tested in free-field conditions for noise generation at different speeds, and for this, an array of microphones was installed, positioned polarly around the system and near the intake and exhaust. Consequently, based on the test results, the acoustic directivity was plotted, revealing that the highest noise levels are at the front and rear of the engine. The noise level at a distance of 1.5 m from the turboengine exceeds 90 dBA at all tested speeds. Spectral analyses of both the far-field acoustic signals (measured with a polar microphone array) and the near-field signals (microphones positioned near the intake and exhaust) revealed that the primary contributors to the overall noise are the micromotor's compressor, specifically the gas dynamic phenomena in the fan (BPF and 2× BPF). Thus, it was determined that at the intake level, the main noise contribution comes from the high-frequency components of the compressor, while at the exhaust level, the noise mainly originates from the combustion chamber, characterized by low-frequency components (up to 2 kHz). The findings from this study have practical applications in the design and development of quieter drone propulsion systems. By identifying and targeting the primary noise sources, engineers can implement effective noise reduction strategies, leading to drones that are less disruptive in urban environments and other noise-sensitive areas. This can enhance the acceptance and deployment of drone technology in various sectors, including logistics, surveillance, and environmental monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundSchwannomas are common peripheral nerve sheath tumors that can cause severe morbidity given their stereotypic intracranial and paraspinal locations. Similar to many solid tumors, schwannomas and other nerve sheath tumors are primarily thought to arise due to aberrant hyperactivation of the RAS growth factor signaling pathway. Here, we sought to further define the molecular pathogenesis of schwannomas.MethodsWe performed comprehensive genomic profiling on a cohort of 96 human schwannomas, as well as DNA methylation profiling on a subset. Functional studies including RNA sequencing, chromatin immunoprecipitation-DNA sequencing, electrophoretic mobility shift assay, and luciferase reporter assays were performed in a fetal glial cell model following transduction with wildtype and tumor-derived mutant isoforms of SOX10.ResultsWe identified that nearly one-third of sporadic schwannomas lack alterations in known nerve sheath tumor genes and instead harbor novel recurrent in-frame insertion/deletion mutations in SOX10, which encodes a transcription factor responsible for controlling Schwann cell differentiation and myelination. SOX10 indel mutations were highly enriched in schwannomas arising from nonvestibular cranial nerves (eg facial, trigeminal, vagus) and were absent from vestibular nerve schwannomas driven by NF2 mutation. Functional studies revealed these SOX10 indel mutations have retained DNA binding capacity but impaired transactivation of glial differentiation and myelination gene programs.ConclusionsWe thus speculate that SOX10 indel mutations drive a unique subtype of schwannomas by impeding proper differentiation of immature Schwann cells.

Abstract Background In humans, saccular acoustic sensitivity has been confirmed. The aim of this study was to determine the scores of the word-in-noise perception test at the saccular acoustic sensitivity level. Methodology In this randomized clinical trial study, 101 participants in the age group of 14 to 25 years with normal hearing and middle ear function, detectable vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMP), normal states of mental health, and night sleep were investigated. The scores of word-in-noise perception and word-in-noise discrimination tests were evaluated for each person at two intensity levels, most comfortable level (MCL) and saccular acoustic sensitivity. Mann-Whitney was used for the multiple comparisons. Results There was a significant difference between the scores of the word-in-noise perception test at MCL and saccular acoustic sensitivity (U = 3971.50, Z = − 2.10, p’ = 0.04), and also between the scores of the word-in-noise discrimination test at the MCL compared to saccular acoustic sensitivity (U = 399.89, Z = − 2.49, p’ = 0.04). Word-in-noise discrimination scores in MCL (U = 3484.00, Z = -3.72, p’ = 0.00) and saccular acoustic sensitivity (U = 705.50, Z = − 3.78, p’ = 0.00) were higher than word-in-noise perception. Conclusions Word-in-noise perception and word-in-noise discrimination scores are higher in saccular acoustic sensitivity level than MCL, suggesting that the vestibular system participates in loud speech perception. Also, in people with normal hearing thresholds, word-in-noise perception scores will be lower than word-in-noise discrimination scores for both loud and common intensity levels.

Dolphin communication involves acoustic signals, including whistles, and the well-studied bottlenose dolphins produce individually distinctive whistles called signature whistles (SWs). The production of a potential SW by an injured Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin has been reported, but no study has attempted to validate this finding in this species. Using data collected during encounters with free-ranging Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins at two locations in the northern South China Sea, we investigated the production of SWs by these dolphins. Of the 3846 analysed whistles, 37% were identified as potential SWs (PSWs) using the SIGnature whistle IDentification method and categorized into 82 PSW types. Overall, PSWs were identified during 54% of encounters. Given the high production rate of stereotyped whistles (62% of all whistles in 90% of encounters) compared with the identified PSWs, we suggest that the SIGnature whistle IDentification method criteria cannot be fully adapted for the detection of SWs in Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins, and more research should be conducted to adapt the criteria to the species. In addition, the characteristics of PSWs differed slightly between locations, potentially because of the geographical separation of populations and habitat differences (e.g. noise levels). The present results confirm the production of stereotyped whistles, including PSWs, by Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins. Further research should be conducted to confirm whether these whistles are similar to bottlenose dolphins' SWs. • Signature whistles encoding individual identity are used by several dolphin species. • Acoustic recordings from two populations of S. chinensis were analysed. • Using the SIGID method, 82 potential signature whistle types were identified. • Potential signature whistle production rate is slightly lower than in other species. • Further research should be conducted to validate this finding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research article investigates the effects of object's vibration and fluid movement on the acoustics of subsonic flows, specifically focusing on the scattering of acoustic waves by a vibrating rigid plate submerged in uniform flow. The acoustic plane wave that impacts the plate, coupled with its oscillatory motion, causes a disruption in the fluid medium. This disturbance, in turn, gives rise to a Rayleigh wave that propagates along the boundary separating the plate and the fluid. The study uses the Wiener‐Hopf technique to analytically model the acoustic scattering by a rigid barrier of finite dimensions and analyze the relationship between acoustics and structures. The method involves applying Fourier transformations to the governing boundary value problem and resolving the Wiener‐Hopf equations using the factorization theorem, Liouville's theorem, and analytical continuation. The integral equations of scattered potential computed asymptotically are used to describe the acoustic characteristics of structures and their interaction with fluid flow in subsonic conditions. The findings of the study reveal the sharp peaks of the scattered potential at certain angles with more oscillation in high subsonic flow. Also, increasing the frequency of the vibrating plate increases the amplitude of the scattered potential but is attenuated in mean flow whereas enhancing plate vibrations amplifies the scattered sound, and it is more vibrant in high subsonic flow than mean flow and no fluid flow. This research has applications in noise reduction, aeronautical engineering, and the detection of underwater structures using acoustic waves and micropolar elastic media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to conduct an acoustic analysis through noise measurements of a hybrid propulsion system intended for implementation on a drone, from which the main noise sources can be identified for further research on noise reduction techniques. Additionally, the noise was characterized by performing spectral analysis and identifying the tonal components that contribute to the overall noise. The propelling force system consists of a micro-turboshaft coupled with a gearbox connected to an electric generator. The propulsion system consists of a micro-turboshaft coupled with a gearbox connected to an electric generator. The electric current produced by the generator powers an electric ducted fan (EDF). The engineturbo-engine was tested in free-field conditions for noise generation at different speeds, and for this, an array of microphones was installed, positioned polarly around the system and near the intake and exhaust. Consequently, based on the test results, the acoustic directivity was plotted, revealing that the highest noise levels are at the front and rear of the engine. The noise level at a distance of 1.5 m from the turboengine exceeds 90 dBA at all tested speeds. Spectral analyses of both the far-field acoustic signals (measured with a polar microphone array) and the near-field signals (microphones positioned near the intake and exhaust) revealed that the primary contributors to the overall noise are the micromotor’s compressor, specifically the gas dynamic phenomena in the fan (BPF and 2× BPF). Thus, it was determined that at the intake level, the main noise contribution comes from the high-frequency components of the compressor, while at the exhaust level, the noise mainly originates from the combustion chamber, characterized by low-frequency components (up to 2 kHz). The findings from this study have practical applications in the design and development of quieter drone propulsion systems. By identifying and targeting the primary noise sources, engineers can implement effective noise reduction strategies, leading to drones that are less disruptive in urban environments and other noise-sensitive areas. This can enhance the acceptance and deployment of drone technology in various sectors, including logistics, surveillance, and environmental monitoring.

The development of biodegradable hybrid fibre composites is gaining pace in the automotive and construction industries due to their lightweight structural applications, which offer considerable benefits for the environment. In this present investigation, hybrid bio composites were fabricated using a compression molding machine with plain woven jute and aloe vera mats along with polyester resin as the matrix. Six types of hybrid biocomposite laminates were prepared by varying the stacking arrangement of jute and aloe-vera mats to analyse the impact of stacking arrangements on vibration damping and acoustic behaviour of these hybrid bio composites. From the results, it is concluded that the maximum value of natural frequency is obtained from the JJAJ type of composite. i.e., 157, 326, and 370 Hz for Modes I, II, and III respectively, due to good interlacing of fibres in the weft and warp directions. J/J/A/J (AJ3) hybrid bio composite has highest sound absorption coefficient of 0.47 at 3000 Hz, and a better transmission loss i.e 19.84 dB, according to the results of the acoustic research. The comparison of experimental and theoretical analysis was carried out, and found that experimental and theoretical values are closely related to each other.

Some acoustic parameters of animal vocalisations have been shown to reliably indicate male quality and play a role in mate and rival assessment. Reindeer possess a peculiar vocal tract anatomy involving a laryngeal air sac which probably acts as an additional filter, making it a candidate species for novel investigations in the field of bioacoustics. We investigated whether some acoustic parameters of male rutting vocalisations were good indicators of age and body weight (used as an index for body size). We did this by performing acoustic analyses using recordings collected from a semi-domesticated reindeer population in northern Finland. We found the age of subadult males (aged 2.5–4.5 years) to be negatively correlated with formant F3 and formant spacing, suggesting that their vocalisations convey information on the caller's age. Individual formant frequencies were not affected by male body weight, but formant spacing was lower in heavier males. Despite the presence of the laryngeal air sac, formant spacing seems to be an acoustic parameter influencing mate and rival assessment in reindeer as it gives an honest indication of male body size. We discuss the importance of reliable acoustic cues to quality indices in sexual selection contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The proposed revisit to a classical problem in fluid–structure interaction is due to an interest in the analysis of the narrow resonances corresponding to a low-frequency fluid-borne wave, inspired by modeling and design of metamaterials. In this case, numerical implementations would greatly benefit from preliminary asymptotic predictions. The normal incidence of an acoustic wave is studied for a circular cylindrical shell governed by plane strain equations in elasticity. A novel high-order asymptotic procedure is established considering for the first time all the peculiarities of the low-frequency behavior of a thin fluid-loaded cylinder. The obtained results are exposed in the form suggested by the Resonance Scattering Theory. It is shown that the pressure scattered by rigid cylinder is the best choice for a background component. Simple explicit formulae for resonant frequencies, amplitudes, and widths are presented. They support various important observations, including comparison between widths and the error of the asymptotic expansion for frequencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives, Purpose, or Aim: The study aimed to decrease noise levels in the ICU, anticipated to have adverse effects on both patients and staff, by implementing enhancements in acoustic design. Background: Recognizing ICU noise as a significant disruptor of sleep and a potential hindrance to patient recovery, this study was conducted at a 40-bed ICU in Fiona Stanley Hospital in Perth, Australia. Methods: A comprehensive mixed-methods approach was employed, encompassing surveys, site analysis, and acoustic measurements. Survey data highlighted the importance of patient sleep quality, emphasizing the negative impact of noise on work performance, patient connection, and job satisfaction. Room acoustics analysis revealed noise levels ranging from 60 to 90 dB(A) in the presence of patients, surpassing sleep disruption criteria. Results: Utilizing an iterative 3D design modeling process, the study simulated significant acoustic treatment upgrades. The design integrated effective acoustic treatments within patient rooms, aiming to reduce noise levels and minimize transmission to adjacent areas. Rigorous evaluation using industry-standard acoustic software highlights the design's efficacy in reducing noise transmission in particular. Additionally, cost implications were examined, comparing standard ICU construction with acoustically treated options for new construction and refurbishment projects. Conclusions: This study provides valuable insights into design-based solutions for addressing noise-related challenges in the ICU. While the focus is on improving the acoustic environment by reducing noise levels and minimizing transmission to adjacent areas. It is important to clarify that direct measurements of patient outcomes were not conducted. The potential impact of these solutions on health outcomes, particularly sleep quality, remains a crucial aspect for consideration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Processing real-world sounds requires acoustic and higher-order semantic information. We tested the theory that individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) show enhanced processing of acoustic features and impaired processing of semantic information. Methods: We used a change deafness task that required detection of speech and non-speech auditory objects being replaced and a speech-in-noise task using spoken sentences that must be comprehended in the presence of background speech to examine the extent to which 7–15 year old children with ASD (n = 27) rely on acoustic and semantic information, compared to age-matched (n = 27) and IQ-matched (n = 27) groups of typically developing (TD) children. Within a larger group of 7–15 year old TD children (n = 105) we correlated IQ, ASD symptoms, and the use of acoustic and semantic information. Results: Children with ASD performed worse overall at the change deafness task relative to the age-matched TD controls, but they did not differ from IQ-matched controls. All groups utilized acoustic and semantic information similarly and displayed an attentional bias towards changes that involved the human voice. Similarly, for the speech-in-noise task, age-matched–but not IQ-matched–TD controls performed better overall than the ASD group. However, all groups used semantic context to a similar degree. Among TD children, neither IQ nor the presence of ASD symptoms predict the use of acoustic or semantic information. Conclusion: Children with and without ASD used acoustic and semantic information similarly during auditory change deafness and speech-in-noise tasks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reflection waveform inversion is a powerful technique to build a large‐scale velocity model of the subsurface by fitting the reflected recorded seismic waves. The reflection waveform inversion is designed based on the pillar concept of model and data‐scale separation. Therefore, its success is related to the ability of its forward modelling engine to separate reflected events distinctly from other propagation modes (diving waves, multiples, etc.). However, the standard Born modelling based on the two‐way wave equation may generate internal multiples in case of an insufficient smooth background model. These internal multiples may lead to a distorted sensitivity kernel, which adds more non‐linearity to the inverse problem. In addition, simulating the wave equation using two‐way propagators is still an overburden step of the algorithm especially in large three‐dimensional real surveys. In this proposal, we introduce an alternative to the two‐way wave equation by using a one‐way approach for the reflection waveform inversion. The Born modelling based on one‐way propagators significantly reduces the computational cost and I think it should be allows to relax the smooth background velocity model assumption by restricting the forward modelling to primary reflected waves. After a brief theoretical description of the one‐way waveform inversion, we present an application of the algorithm on the real marine dataset to review its promises and pitfalls. Our approach produces an acceptable large‐scale velocity model whose accuracy is confirmed by the migrated image and the offset gathers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted with 37 11th grade secondary school students and had as its focus to verify the different levels of sophistication in students' explanations regarding the propagation of sound in air. A pre- and a post-test were conducted after a one-month intervention, focusing on learning about sound propagation in air. Data analysis allowed for comparing the progressions in the sophistication of students' explanations and validating the proposed categorical structure of the hierarchical levels of learning progressions (LPs). The validity was confirmed by the consistency of the category hierarchy, assessed in terms of the difficulty coefficients of LPs levels, which were distinct in the two tests but maintained the established order in the construct maps. In the pretest, the more sophisticated levels of LPs were not elucidated, but after instruction, in the posttest, there were explanations at all levels. The results also reveal the importance of instruction focused on LPs, so that students can present more sophisticated explanations, and their utility for future investigations using this approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Additive manufacturing (AM) of metal components is expanding as a developing technique for fabricating high-value and large-scale metal parts. Among various metal AM procedures, wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) received special attention in recent years due to its unique potential for fabricating complex geometries in industrial scale and applications. In this study, a step forward for developing a continuous, multi-layer in-situ monitoring technique based on acoustic signatures recorded by acoustic emission nondestructive method over the deposition process is presented. The major goal of this research is to investigate if previously proven single-layer monitoring procedures based on acoustic signatures can be expanded toward a robust multi-layer and continuous monitoring method. Two different types of materials have been used in a WAAM process equipped with acoustic emission sensors, and recorded signals were analyzed by traditional statistical assessment as well as a K-mean clustering machine learning algorithm. The findings affirm the effectiveness of acoustic signals in monitoring processes during the continuous deposition of material and indicate that acoustic signals can reliably identify distinct process states across all layers. This underscores the reliability of acoustic signals as a multi-layer process monitoring method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Linear transportation infrastructures (LTIs) are established drivers of habitat fragmentation and barrier effects. Yet, they represent an increasing surface of managed seminatural habitats where increased consideration of biodiversity outputs is needed in an era of global biodiversity decline. A combined effort by both scientists and stakeholders is, therefore, needed to evaluate the promises and limits of these alternatives so that they best achieve their conservation potential. Our study explores the effects of forest powerline clearings on biodiversity, as well as the potential benefits of integrated vegetation management (IVM) as alternatives to clear‐cuts. We recorded the acoustic activity at 35 pairs of forest/clearing stations in two forested regions of France in 2021. Our results suggest that powerline clearings represent increased movement opportunities for bats and, most particularly, edge‐foraging species. They also provide suitable habitats for bush‐cricket species, particularly species requiring thermophilic conditions. We detected no direct benefit from IVM on bat communities. However, bush‐cricket communities appeared richer, more acoustically active, and statistically different from adjacent forests in clearings favoring secondary vegetation compared with clear‐cut ones. This collaborative study provides data on understudied taxa in the context of LTIs and sheds light on conservation promises and limits associated with their management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We developed an algorithm to simulate two‐dimensional frequency domain acoustic‐wave response in a transversely isotropic medium with a tilted symmetry axis. The algorithm employs a support operator finite‐difference method for modelling. This method constructs a nine‐point stencil finite‐difference scheme for second‐order elliptic equations for generalized anisotropic physical properties. The medium's properties are described as P‐wave velocity on the symmetric axis, density, Thomsen's anisotropic parameters (epsilon and delta) and the tilt angle. The benchmarking analysis of the modelled amplitude is illustrated using an isotropic whole‐space model. Several synthetic experiments are conducted to evaluate the accuracy of the scheme for anisotropic models. The results suggest that the developed algorithm simulates the P‐wave solution and the fictitious S‐wave mode as reported in the literature. Simulation for a heterogeneous model with a spatially varying tilt angle of the medium symmetry axis is performed to ascertain the algorithm's robustness. The outcomes of the numerical experiments demonstrate that the developed algorithm can accurately simulate the frequency domain response of acoustic waves in the tilted anisotropic media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the impact of habitat management on the seasonal and spatial activities of bat species in Mediterranean scrublands of southern France. Three study sites, presenting managed and unmanaged scrublands, were sampled by acoustic recording to assess their ecological potential for bat conservation. General linear mixed models (GLMMs) were used to identify the key factors driving variation in activity patterns of these areas. A total of 16 bat species were recorded, and no significant differences in taxonomic composition were found between managed and unmanaged areas. Bats have an opportunistic tendency to explore different habitats over long distances. In addition to the strong seasonal dynamics observed in most species, we found evidence of a shift in activity rhythms suggesting species adaptation to seasonal thermal variations and prey availability. In this study, the impact of managed areas on activity patterns depends on the functional traits of each species. Level of activity differed considerably from one species to another, suggesting that the 'management' effect is not the only ecological parameter involved in conditioning bats' preferred occupancy patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The comfort level of human being can be increased by effective noise management without damaging the external environmental resources. The burning of rice stubble particularly in rice growing Asian countries makes the situation bad to worst. Rice stubble deserve for an immediate solution of in product development for its sustainable disposal. Rice stubble, cotton fly waste were used to manufacture composite material to be used as acoustic panel. Rice stubble powder 60%, 70%, and 80%, cotton fly waste 20%, 30%, and 40% by weight, and polyurethane (PU) resin were used to manufacture composite as acoustic panels. The composites were tested for pore size, morphology, water absorbability, and noise reduction coefficient (NRC) mainly. Acceptable level of NRC and other features were achieved. This study will provide a new pathway to use the discarded challenging waste materials to manufacture wealth-generating products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate patterns of cochlear ossification (CO) in cadaveric temporal bones of patients who underwent vestibular schwannoma (VS) surgery via the translabyrinthine (TL), middle cranial fossa (MF), or retrosigmoid (RS) approaches. STUDY DESIGN: Histopathologic analysis of cadaveric temporal bones. SETTING: Multi-institutional national temporal bone repository. METHODS: The National Institute of Deafness and Communication Disorders and House Temporal Bone Laboratory at the University of California, Los Angeles and the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Otopathology Laboratory were searched for cadaveric temporal bones with a history of VS for which microsurgery was performed. Exclusion criteria included non-VS and perioperative death within 30 days of surgery. Temporal bones were analyzed histologically for CO of the basal, middle, and apical turns. RESULTS: Of 92 temporal bones with a history of schwannoma from both databases, 12 of these cases met the inclusion criteria. The approaches for tumor excision included 2 MF, 4 RS, and 6 TL approaches. CO was observed in all temporal bones that had undergone TL surgery. Among temporal bones that had undergone MF or RS surgeries, 5/6 had no CO, and 1/6 had partial ossification. This single case was noted to have intraoperative vestibular violation after RS surgery upon histopathologic and chart review. CONCLUSION: In this temporal bone series, all temporal bones that had undergone TL demonstrated varying degrees of CO on histological analysis. MF and RS cases did not exhibit CO except in the case of vestibular violation. When cochlear implantation is planned or possible after VS surgery, surgeons may consider using a surgical approach that does not violate the labyrinth.

Abstract Optical turbidity and acoustic sensors have been widely used in laboratory experiments and field studies to investigate suspended particulate matter concentration over the last four decades. Both methods face a serious challenge as laboratory and in‐situ calibrations are usually required. Furthermore, in coastal and estuarine environments, the coexistence of mud and sand often results in multimodal particle size distributions, amplifying erroneous measurements. This paper proposes a new approach of combining a pair of optical turbidity‐acoustic sensors to estimate the total concentration and sediment composition of a mud/sand mixture in an efficient way without an extensive calibration. More specifically, we first carried out a set of 54 bimodal size regime experiments to derive empirical functions of optical‐acoustic signals, concentrations, and mud/sand fractions. The functionalities of these relationships were then tested and validated using more complex multimodal size regime experiments over 30 optical‐acoustic pairs of 5 wavelengths (420, 532, 620, 700, 852 nm) and six frequencies (0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8 MHz). In the range of our data, without prior knowledge of particle size distribution, combinations between optical wavelengths 620–700 nm and acoustic frequencies 4–6 MHz predict mud/sand fraction and total concentration with the variation

In recent years, the increasing use of drones for both commercial and recreational purposes has led to heightened concerns regarding airspace safety. To address these issues, machine learning (ML) based drone detection and classification have emerged. This study explores the potential of ML-based drone classification, utilizing technologies like radar, visual, acoustic, and radio-frequency sensing systems. It undertakes a comprehensive examination of the existing literature in this domain, with a focus on various sensing modalities and their respective technological implementations. The study indicates that ML-based drone classification is promising, with numerous successful individual contributions. It is crucial to note, however, that much of the research in this field is experimental, making it difficult to compare results from various articles. There is also a noteworthy lack of reference datasets to help in the evaluation of different solutions.

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An 8-year-old female pre-metamorphic axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) was examined for a suspected anterior lens luxation. Slit-lamp biomicroscopy revealed two lens-like structures in the anterior chamber of the right eye (OD), each with cataractous change. Ultrasound biomicroscopy and optical coherence tomography (OCT) were performed without sedation, and revealed small lenticular structures each with distinct nuclei and cortices. Although a distinct connection of the two lenticular structures could not be definitively ruled out, the structures appeared separate. Each of the lenticular structures was closely associated with its respective iris leaflet. This report demonstrates application of advanced imaging for diagnostic use in axolotl ophthalmology, showing that imaging of the lens can be performed without sedation, topical anesthetic, nor contact gel with high diagnostic quality. Although two distinct lenses were diagnosed with no historical evidence of trauma, the small sizes of each lenticular structure, with no detectable connection between them, are suggestive of a possible regenerative abnormality. This report opens discussion for the regenerative capabilities of the pre-metamorphic adult axolotl and possible implementations of their use in regenerative medicine research for the development of future therapies.