Secrets of the cicada's sound
Researchers have studied cicadas to understand their sound production, which is unique in the insect world. The cicada's chirp is nonlinear and involves a ribbed membrane that vibrates when its body deforms.
Search results for “Sound”
1,000+ results for "Sound"
Study shows how bilinguals switch between languages
A new study shows that bilinguals who learn two languages early in life have separate processing modes or sound systems for each language. The research found that participants perceived 'ba' and 'pa' sounds differently depending on the context, with a shift in perception when switching between languages.
Observation of second sound in a quantum gas
In a groundbreaking experiment, scientists detected the second sound wave in an ultracold quantum gas, validating a fundamental theory of superfluidity developed by Lev Landau. The observation was made possible by controlling and manipulating individual atoms using lasers.
Researchers discover world's most extreme hearing animal
Scientists at the University of Strathclyde have identified the greater wax moth as capable of sensing sound frequencies up to 300kHz, surpassing human and dolphin limitations. This discovery has significant implications for air-coupled ultrasound technology and may lead to advancements in micro-scale acoustic systems.
Virtual concert halls, buzzing cicadas, and more from ICA 2013 Montreal, June 2-7
Researchers will showcase advancements in sound technology, including virtual acoustic environments, novel microphone designs, and innovative methods for monitoring oil spills. The event aims to bring together experts from physics, engineering, and medicine to share their latest discoveries.
Scientists discover how brain's auditory center transmits information for decisions, actions
Researchers from Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory discover that specialized neurons in the auditory cortex transmit information to the striatum, forming a 'representative democracy' where minority neurons convey 'votes' to make decisions. This finding has implications for neural circuitry and decision-making.
Silly phone game puts illiterate Pakistanis in touch with potential employers
A research project called Polly has demonstrated the potential for teaching poorly educated people about automated voice services. The system, which adds funny sound effects to recorded messages, has been used by over 160,000 people, including some non-Pakistanis, and has handled almost 2.5 million calls.
An ancient biosonar sheds new light on the evolution of echolocation in toothed whales
Research reveals Ganges river dolphins produce low-intensity echolocation signals at surprising frequencies, while freshwater dolphins look for prey closer to home. The study provides a new perspective on the evolution of echolocation among toothed whales.
Shape from sound: New methods to probe the universe
Researchers developed a new mathematical tool to determine spacetime's shape from 'sound' pulses caused by quantum fluctuations. This technique connects quantum theory and general relativity via vibrational wavelengths, enabling novel probing of the universe.
Acoustic monitoring of Atlantic cod reveals clues to spawning behavior
Researchers used acoustic monitoring to record cod grunts in the wild for the first time, finding that male cod produce low-frequency sounds during spawning season. The study provides insights into cod behavior and distribution, informing conservation efforts.
SourceNOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center·JournalICES Journal of Marine Science·DateMar 22, 2013
Researchers discover a biological marker of dyslexia
Northwestern University researchers found that consistent encoding of sound undergirds the reading process, with unstable representation of sound associated with poorer readers. The study suggests that auditory training can improve response consistency and potentially alleviate dyslexia.
Strengthening speech networks to treat aphasia
Aphasia affects 80,000 people annually in the US, causing difficulty speaking and understanding language. Researchers at Brown University have developed a therapy to strengthen speech networks using guided speech and repetition exercises. Early testing with four patients showed improved precision and reduced errors.
Listening to cells: Scientists probe human cells with high-frequency sound
Researchers use picosecond ultrasonics to probe human cells' stiffness and viscosity, predicting potential applications in medical implants and cancer research. The technique could help identify cell disease and monitor cell activity without damaging the cells.
How to treat heat like light
Researchers at MIT have developed a novel method to manipulate heat by employing engineered materials with nanostructured semiconductor alloy crystals. This approach enables the concentration of heat phonons within a specific frequency range, allowing for control over heat flow similar to light waves.
Banded mongooses structure monosyllabic sounds in a similar way to humans
Behavioral biologists at the University of Zurich discovered that banded mongooses produce structured monosyllabic sounds, similar to human vowel and consonant systems. The calls provide information on identity and activity, demonstrating a complex sound expression structure.
Regeneration of sound sensing cells recovers hearing in mice with noise-induced deafness
Scientists have successfully regenerated sound sensing cells in mice with noise-induced deafness, partially reversing their hearing loss. The technique involves inhibiting the Notch signaling pathway to promote hair cell differentiation from surrounding supporting cells.
Songbird sings in 3D
A study published in BMC Biology has generated interactive 3D models of the zebra finch's syrinx, a complex vocal organ. The models reveal the delicate balance between strength and lightness required to control sound production at superfast speeds.
Super-fine sound beam could one day be an invisible scalpel
A new therapeutic ultrasound approach converts light to sound, focusing high-pressure waves to finer points than ever before. The device can blast and cut with pressure, rather than heat, potentially operating painlessly.
Dolphin hearing system component found in insects
Scientists found a unique lipid compound that amplifies sound and efficiently transmits it to the ear drums of insects, similar to toothed whales. The discovery opens up possibilities for new systems in ultrasound technologies.
'Smart stethoscope' advance in monitoring treatment of kidney stones
The 'Smart stethoscope' assesses the effectiveness of shock wave lithotripsy treatment for kidney stones by analyzing echoes after each shock wave hits the stone. This device has been shown to achieve high accuracy (94.7%) in clinical trials, reducing the need for repeat therapy and x-ray monitoring.
Grains gang up to bear brunt of missile and meteorite impacts
Researchers have discovered a jerky, non-smooth energy transfer from a meteorite or missile to sand and dirt grains during impact. The study shows that the sound wave and grains behave differently than previously assumed, with pulses moving along networks of grains, or force chains.
Bed bugs are not repelled by commercial ultrasonic frequency devices
Researchers found that commercial ultrasonic frequency devices did not deter or attract bed bugs, suggesting alternative methods may be more effective. The study's results highlight the importance of understanding bed bug bioacoustics and exploring low-frequency sounds produced by human hosts.
Scientists identify molecules in the ear that convert sound into brain signals
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute discover TMHS protein, a key component of mechanotransduction channels in the ear. The finding suggests a promising new approach to gene therapy for certain types of deafness, as it restores sound perception in newborn deaf mice.
Sound bullets in water
Scientists develop a device that can form and control sound bullets in water, with potential uses for underwater imaging and biomedical applications. The device, inspired by Newton's cradle, focuses high-amplitude pressure pulses into compact sound bullets that can be tightly focused on a target area.
Discovery could hold the key to super-sensory hearing
Scientists identify a novel structure that converts sound waves to mechanical energy, enabling insects to hear at remarkable frequencies. The discovery could lead to breakthroughs in acoustic sensor design and development.
Zeroing in on the 'science of sound propagation' in burning buildings
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have created an acoustic navigation system that can locate open doors inside burning buildings. The system uses a parametric array to create focused sound waves that can penetrate moderate-sized flames, providing firefighters with vital information to navigate safely.
Dinosaur-era acoustics: Global warming may give oceans the 'sound' of the Cretaceous
Researchers predict that global warming will acidify saltwater sufficiently to make low-frequency sound travel twice as far as it currently does. This could lead to a clearer understanding of the sound environment of marine mammals and the effects of human activity on their habitats.
The worst noises in the world: Why we recoil at unpleasant sounds
A recent study published in the Journal of Neuroscience found that the brain's amygdala and auditory cortex interact when processing negative emotions triggered by unpleasant sounds. The study used fMRI to examine how brains responded to a range of sounds, from knife-on-bottle to soothing water flowing.
New findings on the workings of the inner ear
Scientists at Karolinska Institutet have discovered that the hairs in the inner ear not only move sideways but also change in length when stimulated by sound waves. This finding provides new fundamental knowledge about the mechanisms of hearing and may help develop a new treatment for impaired hearing.
Hearing brains are 'deaf' to disappearance of sounds, study reveals
A study published in PLOS ONE reveals that our brains prioritize detecting new sounds over detecting when a sound disappears. In busy environments, participants often miss more than half of changes and experience longer reaction times to detect oncoming sounds.
Two bionic ears are better than the sum of their parts
Researchers found that bilateral cochlear implants restored binaural processing in deaf children who received the implants at a young age, but not those who delayed their second implant. The study suggests that early auditory experience is critical for binaural processing.
SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalCochlear Implants International·DateSep 20, 2012
Sound level around seriously ill patients 'like a busy road'
A study found sound levels around seriously ill patients in ICUs were significantly higher than WHO's recommended 30 dB. Patients experienced both positive and negative sounds, with uncontrollable alarms and treatments being most disturbing.
Treatment with fungi makes a modern violin sound like a Stradiavarius
The fungi treatment process modifies the acoustic properties of the instrument, making it sound indistinguishably similar to a Stradivarius. The research could soon make high-quality wood available for violin making.
UC research promises quiet cars -- even when hitting unexpected bumps in the road
University of Cincinnati researchers have created an adaptive, active algorithm to counter sudden road noises, such as those from potholes or bumps. The algorithm aims to reduce road-impact noise perceived by drivers by three to five decibels, significantly minimizing the resulting sound.
Sounds of northern lights are born close to ground
Scientists located auroral sounds near ground level, about 70 meters above the surface. The research reveals that energetic particles from the sun create sound closer to the ground than previously thought.
Turning down the dial: Ocean energy development with less sound
Scientists developed the first laboratory system to evaluate pile driving's effect on fish, finding individual blows above a certain sound level can irreparably harm them. The recommended sound threshold aims to minimize harm to marine animals while permitting ocean development.
Making music with real stars
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology's Sonification Lab converted numerical data from Kepler telescope star data into sounds to create a musically appealing melody. The team used this sound in a song by Echo Movement, showcasing the potential of sonification as a tool for analyzing large data sets.
It's all in the name -- predicting popularity through psychological science
A study found that baby names with popular phonemes in previous years became more popular, demonstrating a connection between cultural evolution and name popularity. The researchers also discovered a correlation between hurricane names and baby names, highlighting the influence of exposure on cultural trends.
In the hospital, the noisy hospital, the patient sleeps tonight?
A new study by Brigham and Women's Hospital found that common hospital noises can disrupt patient sleep, leading to temporary elevations in heart rate. The researchers also found that electronic sounds were the most arousing, even at low volumes, and that sleep stage affected how sound impacted arousal.
Brain area identified that determines distance from which sound originates
Researchers at MGH identified a brain area sensitive to sound distance, independent of loudness, using functional imaging. This discovery could help future studies of hearing disorders and sheds light on how the brain processes auditory signals.
SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 11, 2012
Between the ear and brain, an orderly orchestra of synapses
A University at Buffalo study finds that synapses in the cochlear nucleus are bundled together by plasticity, allowing for efficient transmission of sound information. This organization enables specialized bushy cells to develop unique sensitivities to sound characteristics.
Discoveries on the science of sound at acoustics meeting
Researchers explore how humans perceive sound in complex environments and track patterns over time. Volcanoes' low-frequency sounds offer insights into eruption behavior, while acoustic diodes promise improved ultrasound imaging.
Scientists find new pieces of hearing puzzle
Researchers have gained new understanding of how our sense of hearing works, finding a key link between touch and sound. The study reveals that specific proteins play a vital role in detecting high-frequency sounds and has implications for future research into hearing and touch.
Bilingualism fine-tunes hearing, enhances attention
Research at Northwestern University reveals that bilingualism sharpens the brain's ability to encode basic sound patterns and improve attention. Bilingual speakers outperform monolingual peers in processing complex sounds under noisy conditions.
SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 30, 2012
Autism Speaks awards $1.1 million to fund high priority studies
Autism Speaks has awarded $1.1 million in funding to support research projects focusing on differences between DSM-IV and proposed DSM-5 diagnostic criteria, the impact of flame retardants on immune systems, and strategies to improve quality of life for individuals with autism.
Discovery of hair-cell roots suggests the brain modulates sound sensitivity
The discovery of a previously unknown root extension in hair cells suggests the brain regulates sound sensitivity and head position. This finding challenges current understanding of how hair cells work, with the striated organelle connecting the rootlets to the cell membrane enabling feedback from the cell to the detectors.
SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 8, 2012
Teaching about hearing can save young people's ears
A University of Gothenburg researcher developed research-based teaching material on sound, hearing, and auditory health, which improved students' knowledge and attitudes towards high sound levels. The study found that teaching about hearing can positively change adolescents' behavior.
NIH-funded science on hearing research at annual ARO meeting
Researchers discuss advancements in cochlear implant technology and spiral ganglion cell regeneration, aiming to improve sound localization and processing. They also explore strategies for auditory training of older adults to enhance speech understanding in noisy environments.
Scientists decode brain waves to eavesdrop on what we hear
Researchers at UC Berkeley successfully decoded electrical activity in the brain's temporal lobe while listening to conversation, predicting words heard solely from temporal lobe activity. This breakthrough could enable reconstruction of imagined conversations for severely disabled individuals.
New research to enhance speech recognition technology
New research aims to create algorithms mimicking human brain sound processing to enhance speech intelligibility in noisy situations. The goal is to develop a brain-inspired speech enhancer that can identify sound sources and reduce the stigma associated with hearing aids.
Electron's negativity cut in half by supercomputer
Physicists at Duke University used supercomputers to simulate an ultra-cold atom and split a virtual electron in half, creating two particles with half the negative charge. This discovery provides clues about the behavior of fundamental particles and challenges traditional notions of particle indivisibility.
Researchers closer to understanding the evolution of sound production in fish
A study published in Frontiers in Zoology has found a hybrid system in pearl-perch that utilizes characteristics of both slow and fast systems for sound production. This discovery takes researchers closer to understanding the evolution of superfast sonic muscles that drive swimbladder vibration.
Sound and vision work hand in hand, UCLA psychologists report
A new UCLA psychology study finds that the senses of hearing and vision interact at a basic level before producing estimates, influencing the way we perceive the world. Even when sound is irrelevant to the task, it still affects our visual perception.
LMU speech scientist wins major ERC grant
Professor Jonathan Harrington, a LMU Munich phonetician, has been awarded an ERC Advanced Grant to investigate the origins of sound change in languages. His project aims to establish relationships between language evolution and language acquisition in children.
MU engineers developing military applications for smartphones
Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed smartphone-based systems to track military targets and locate remote objects through sound or sight. The technology utilizes smartphone sensors and wireless networks to provide precise locations, holding promise for both military and civilian uses.
Born to roar
Researchers found that the structure of lion and tiger vocal folds, including fat and viscoelastic properties, determines the low-frequency roars. The study challenges previous assumptions about the causes of loud roaring in these big cats.
Aggressive piranhas bark to say buzz off
Researchers found that red-bellied piranhas produce three distinct sounds: a barking noise, a drum-like percussive sound, and a softer 'croaking' sound. The fish's swim bladder vibrates in response to muscle contractions, producing these sounds.
Physicists localize 3-D matter waves for first time
Researchers at University of Illinois successfully localized quantum matter waves in three dimensions, a phenomenon theorized decades ago. The findings have implications for various electronics applications and could lead to better understanding and manipulation of materials.
Archivist in the sound library
Scientists at LMU Munich developed a mathematical model that accurately mimics human sound recognition, showing the brain compares stored and perceived sounds efficiently. The new library-based model predicts the flow of information from cerebrum to thalamus, enabling highly efficient real-time implementation.
Hummingbirds all a-flutter during courtship
Researchers identify cause of hummingbird courtship sounds: fluttering tail feathers generate louder sound when neighboring feathers flutter at the same frequency. The unique sound is thought to be a form of aerodynamic signaling during courtship.