An extended kalman filter framework for joint phase noise, CFO and sampling time error estimation

We present a framework for joint estimation and compensation of three major oscillator impairments, namely sampling time error (STE), carrier frequency offset (CFO) and phase noise (PN). In particular, we model these impairments as Wiener processes and introduce a pilot-aided approach which facilitates their joint estimation. The proposed solution is carried out in two steps: first, an initial estimation of the transmitted symbols is acquired by applying an extended Kalman filter (EKF) on the pilot symbols and then, a second EKF is applied on the estimated symbols which yields an accurate tracking of STE, PN and CFO over an additive white Gaussian noise channel. Our numerical results demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed solution

Rationale for Utilization of Hydrogel Rectal Spacers in Dose Escalated SBRT for the Treatment of Unfavorable Risk Prostate Cancer

In this review we outline the current evidence for the use of hydrogel rectal spacers in the treatment paradigm for prostate cancer with external beam radiation therapy. We review their development, summarize clinical evidence, risk of adverse events, best practices for placement, treatment planning considerations and finally we outline a framework and rationale for the utilization of rectal spacers when treating unfavorable risk prostate cancer with dose escalated Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT)

Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy With Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy Boost for Unfavorable Prostate Cancer: Five-Year Outcomes

PURPOSE: Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) with brachytherapy boost for unfavorable prostate cancer has been shown to improve biochemical relapse-free survival compared to IMRT alone. Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) is a less-invasive alternative to brachytherapy. Early outcomes utilizing SBRT boost suggest low rates of high-grade toxicity with a maintained patient-reported quality of life. Here, we report the 5-year progression-free survival (PFS) and prostate cancer-specific survival (PCSS) of patients treated with IMRT plus SBRT boost. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between 2008 and 2020, 255 patients with unfavorable prostate cancer were treated with robotic SBRT (19.5 Gy in three fractions) followed by fiducial-guided IMRT (45-50.4 Gy) according to an institutional protocol. For the first year, the patient\u27s PSA level was monitored every 3 months, biannually for 2 years, and annually thereafter. Failure was defined as nadir + 2 ng/mL or a rising PSA with imaging suggestive of recurrence. Detection of recurrence also included digital rectal examination and imaging studies, such as MRI, CT, PET/CT, and/or bone scans. PFS and PCSS were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method. RESULTS: The median follow-up period was 71 months. According to the NCCN risk classification, 5% (13/255) of the patients had favorable intermediate-risk disease, 23% (57/255) had unfavorable intermediate-risk disease, 40% (102/255) had high-risk disease, and 32% (83/255) had very high-risk disease. Androgen deprivation therapy was administered to 80% (204/255) of the patients. Elective pelvic lymph node IMRT was performed in 28 (10%) patients. The PFS for all patients at 5 years was 81% (favorable intermediate risk, 91%; unfavorable intermediate risk, 89%; high-risk, 78%; and very-high risk, 72%). The PCSS for all patients at 5 years was 97% (favorable intermediate risk, 100%; unfavorable intermediate risk, 100%; high risk, 100%; and very high risk, 89%). CONCLUSION: The incidence of failure following IMRT plus SBRT for unfavorable prostate cancer remains low at 5 years

A study on vibration of Setar: stringed Persian musical instrument

Knowing how a musical instrument vibrates can benefit the tonal characteristics shaping of the instrument. In this research, an approach for investigating the mode shapes and natural frequencies of Setar body is addressed. First, mechanical properties of wood used in the production of Setar are analyzed experimentally. Then a numerical modal test is performed to find the mode shapes and natural frequencies of Setar structure. To validate the results obtained by the numerical method, experimental modal testing is also done for the structure, and it is found that the results of both the methods are in good consistency. As the vibration pattern of plates is of utmost importance in the production of musical instruments, vibration patterns of a Setar plate are experimentally extracted and the results are compared with finite element analysis