Measuring the nanoworld
A global study standardizes FRET measurement technology to pinpoint molecular distances at the nanoscale. This breakthrough enhances understanding of molecular machines and processes that underpin life.
Search results for “Acoustics”
506 results for "Acoustics"
Study defines mechanisms behind focused-ultrasound-assisted treatment of brain tumors
A study defines mechanisms behind focused-ultrasound-assisted treatment of brain tumors, improving drug delivery across the blood-brain barrier and into abnormal tumor tissues. The approach enhances permeability of endothelial cells lining tumor blood vessels, increasing cellular uptake of anti-cancer drugs.
SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 27, 2018
Putting gas under pressure
Researchers at KAUST have discovered that gas flames are more unstable at high pressures, which can lead to increased noise and pollution emissions. The study found that pressure fluctuations can cause thermoacoustic instability in gas turbines, potentially leading to damage or explosion.
SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalCombustion and Flame·DateJul 12, 2018
Researchers couple artificial atom to acoustic resonator
The study demonstrates an interaction between a qubit and surface acoustic waves in the quantum regime, enabling an alternative approach to quantum computer design. This allows for smaller, more stable, and compact quantum computers without the limitations of microwave radiation.
Guiding sound waves through a maze
A team of researchers from TU Wien has successfully guided sound waves through an air-filled tube containing irregular obstacles using their wave manipulation concept. By precisely controlling loudspeakers along the tube, they were able to counteract complex dispersal and enable the sound wave to pass with minimal restriction.
Chimpanzees start using a new tool-use gesture during an alpha male take over
In a study on chimpanzee communication, researchers found that males combined the 'leaf clip' gesture with pant hoots, making them more salient and acoustically complex. This behavior emerged during an alpha male takeover and may help alleviate stress and competition among males.
Scientists use hydrophone to listen in on methane seeps in ocean
Researchers recorded methane bubbles from seafloor off Oregon coast using hydrophone, estimating bubble size and frequency related to methane content. The study aims to use sound to estimate volume and rate of methane gas exiting seafloor fields.
New tech improves ability to reflect sound back to its source
Researchers developed a device that reflects sound in its original direction, more than doubling the effective range of previous technologies. The 'retroreflector' uses engineered materials to focus incoming sound waves onto a second layer, sending them back to their source.
Russian and Korean scientists developed effective and cheap sound-absorbing nanofoam
The new foam reacts to sound waves of high and low frequencies, cutting the level of noise transmission by 20-22 dB. The material is cheaper and easier to apply than aerogel, with improved acoustic characteristics obtained through additional impregnation with nanoparticles.
What causes the sound of a dripping tap -- and how do you stop it?
Scientists found that a trapped air bubble, not the water droplet itself, causes the 'plink' sound produced by a dripping tap. Changing surface tension or adding dish soap can stop the sound. The study published in Scientific Reports could lead to more efficient ways to measure rainfall or develop realistic water sounds for gaming and ...
Narwhals' acoustic behavior described using audio tagging
Researchers recorded narwhals in East Greenland, capturing six hours of audio that revealed three types of sounds: clicks, buzzes, and calls. The study found that narwhals produce buzzes at greater depths than clicks, and that a particular fjord had high buzzing rates, suggesting a preferred feeding area.
Chinese researchers achieve 3D underwater acoustic carpet cloak first with 'Black Panther'-like features
Researchers created a 3D underwater acoustic carpet cloak using transformation acoustics, hiding objects from detection instruments like sonar. The cloaked object mimicked the reflecting surface and was undetectable in every direction.
DFG to fund 14 new Collaborative Research Centres
The DFG is supporting top-level research at German universities with 14 new CRCs, covering topics like life emergence and hearing acoustics. The programme aims to improve understanding of diseases through innovative research projects.
Ultrasonic attack is unlikely, but incidental exposure presents plenty of problems
Exposure to ultrasonic sound waves may cause adverse health effects such as nausea, dizziness, and ringing ears. A growing body of evidence suggests that public safety guidelines are based on inadequate data from studies performed decades ago.
What does a 'normal' voice sound like?
A new study by Jody E. Kreiman investigates how people perceive voice quality and defines a 'normal' voice. The results show that listeners are consistent in their judgments of abnormal voices but disagree on what constitutes a 'normal' voice, highlighting the complexity of voice perception.
A New Metasurface Model Shows Potential to Control Acoustic Wave Reflection
Researchers developed a nonlinear elastic metasurface that can convert a soundwave's fundamental frequency to its second harmonic, advancing noise control technologies. This concept could isolate low frequencies, making it easier to absorb them, and potentially lead to new acoustic devices like diodes and transistors.
The writing on the wall
Researchers propose that cave art may have played a role in the development of human language, citing acoustic properties and visual representations. The study suggests that early humans used sound echoes to convey symbolic thinking, which eventually led to the creation of language.
What a handsome schnoz!
Research at Kyoto University found that larger noses are correlated with physical strength, reproductive ability, and the number of harem females. The study suggests that nasal enlargement modifies male vocalizations, making them more attractive to females.
Snapping shrimp may act as 'dinner bell' for gray whales off Oregon coast
Researchers have detected snapping shrimp off the Oregon coast and believe their loud clicking noise may attract eastern Pacific gray whales. The crustaceans are typically found in warm waters but were previously unknown to inhabit the cooler coastal areas.
USTC realizes strong indirect coupling in distant nanomechanical resonators
Scientists have successfully achieved strong coupling between distant phonon modes of graphene-based mechanical resonators using a phonon cavity mode. By tuning the resonant frequency of the phonon cavity mode, they can continuously tune the coupling strength between distant phonon modes.
New application for acoustics helps estimate marine life populations
Researchers used hydroacoustics to compare fish abundance within and outside Mexico's Cabo Pulmo National Park, finding a four-fold increase in protected areas. The study demonstrates a cost-effective method for assessing fish populations and highlights the importance of marine protected areas for maintaining sustainable fisheries.
FAU to develop novel real-time undersea wireless communications and surveillance technology
Researchers at Florida Atlantic University will design and deploy a software-defined testbed for real-time undersea wireless communications and surveillance. They aim to advance the state-of-the-art in 3D passive undersea acoustic localization by providing novel algorithmic solutions.
Expedition to 'health-check' southern right whales around South Georgia
A team of researchers is conducting a five-week survey to investigate the health of southern right whales in their feeding grounds off South Georgia. The study aims to unravel the mystery of high calf mortalities and understand how environmental conditions influence breeding success.
Fish and ships: Vessel traffic reduces communication ranges for Atlantic cod, haddock
NOAA scientists found that vessel traffic noise is reducing the distance over which Atlantic cod and haddock can communicate with each other. This may alter their daily behavior, feeding, mating, and socializing during critical biological periods.
Disorders of the voice can affect a politician's success
Researchers have found that vocal disorders in politicians can change how listeners perceive their leadership qualities, with a preference for post-disorder voices. The study also suggests that age-related traits may be associated with perceived charisma.
Pop the bubbly and hear the quality
Researchers investigated the sounds made by champagne bubbles to determine if they could infer bubble size and ultimately assess wine quality. By analyzing acoustic properties, they found that bubble size distribution can be obtained from simple measurements, potentially aiding in quality assurance testing of sparkling wines.
Rooftop wiretap aims to learn what crows gossip about at dusk
Researchers are using a high-tech approach to study the relationship between crow calls and their behavior, hoping to uncover the meaning behind their loud cawing. By analyzing audio recordings of the birds' vocalizations, they aim to gain insights into bird communication and behavior.
SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·DateDec 5, 2017
Earplugs unavoidable for musicians in the orchestra and at home
A recent study by Remy Wenmaekers reveals that physical measures have little effect in reducing sound levels due to instrument contribution. Earplugs are the only solution to help musicians reduce excessive sound levels, especially for trumpet and flute players.
SourceEindhoven University of Technology·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·DateNov 22, 2017
Shifting presence of North Atlantic right whales tracked with passive acoustics
Researchers tracked North Atlantic right whales using passive acoustic monitoring, finding they use nearly the entire eastern seaboard during winter and move around more than thought. The study revealed changes in their time spent in some areas and confirmed their presence along the East Coast year-round.
Quantum dots visualize tiny vibrational resonances
Researchers have discovered a way to visualize tiny vibrational resonances using quantum dots, which could lead to the development of new sensing technologies. The technique uses light waves to drive the motion of a thin membrane, creating patterns that can be visualized through an array of quantum dots.
Scientists eavesdrop on little-known beaked whales to learn how deeply they dive
Researchers from the NOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center used a towed linear hydrophone array to document dive depths for Gervais' and True's beaked whales, two of the least known species. The study provides new insights into their behavior, revealing that they dive as deep as 870 meters in search of food.
SourceNOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·DateOct 11, 2017
Asymmetric sound absorption lets in the light
Researchers have developed an asymmetric sound absorber that can absorb sound energy while allowing light and air to pass through. The system uses a two-port design with a waveguide, enabling near-total absorption of sound energy from outside the room.
Sound waves separate biological nanoparticles for 'liquid biopsies'
Researchers at Duke University have created a prototype device that uses sound waves and microfluidic technologies to sort out biological nanoparticles, known as exosomes, from blood samples. The device can isolate more than 80% of exosomes with a purity of 98%, offering a potential breakthrough for diagnostic or therapeutic devices.
A-MUD: A method for automatically detecting mouse song
Researchers developed an automatic detection method called A-MUD to analyze ultrasonic vocalizations in mice. The tool was compared to manual methods and commercial solutions, showing equal quality and lower error rates.
Researchers create magnetic RAM
A team of researchers has developed a novel type of memory called magnetoelectric memory, which reduces energy consumption by a factor of 10,000. This breakthrough technology could enable instant device startup and lower energy costs in computing hardware applications.
Whales turn tail at ocean mining noise
A new study found that humpback whales avoid loud ocean mining noise triggered by seismic air gun surveys, suggesting a clear avoidance reaction within a certain distance from the vessel. The research aims to improve current mitigation measures to prevent adverse effects of seismic air gun noise on large whale behavior.
Andone C. Lavery selected as 2017 recipient of the Walter Munk Award
Andone C. Lavery has been recognized for her work on zooplankton and physical microstructure using broadband acoustic measurement methods, providing new understanding of ocean physical processes and marine biology. The award also acknowledges her Arctic oil spill research, which shares similarities with Walter Munk's ATOC work.
Acoustic scientist sounds off about the location of cave paintings
A systematic acoustic study is proposed by David Lubman to investigate the potential relationship between the location of Paleolithic cave paintings and points of reverberation in caves. The study aims to determine whether there is a correlation between the placement of paintings and areas with good acoustics.
Biomechanical acoustics study sheds light on running injuries
Researchers investigated how runners adapt their running patterns to cope with shock-induced vibrations. Preliminary results suggest that the human body adjusts to stabilize energetics and protect the upper body, regardless of speed. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and develop strategies to prevent running injuries.
Curtains for privacy and quiet
Researchers developed a sound-insulating curtain system that can reduce outside noise levels by up to 26 decibels. The system uses multiple layers of fabrics with different acoustical impedances attached to aluminum tracks, creating variable zones for private conversations or meetings.
Ultrasound imaging of the brain and liver
Researchers have developed new noninvasive ultrasound techniques to image the brain and liver, overcoming limitations caused by bones in these areas. The DORT method uses a multi-element array to focus ultrasound waves through bones, while a lens-based transcranial focusing device has been patented for transskull imaging.
Could this strategy bring high-speed communications to the deep sea?
Researchers at Berkeley Lab found a way to pack more data in single acoustic beams for underwater communications, increasing information transmission rates. They demonstrated this by encoding binary data onto an acoustic signal, effectively increasing the amount of information that can be transmitted.
SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 26, 2017
Talking science
Karin Heineman, a seasoned science communicator, emphasizes the importance of capturing underlying stories and emotions in scientific discoveries. She shares her expertise on how to effectively convey complex ideas through video, highlighting its potential to impact audiences beyond the lab.
Creating a personalized, immersive audio environment
Researchers are using head-related transfer functions (HRTFs) to personalize audio in mixed and virtual reality. By capturing a person's unique acoustic fingerprint, the technology can create an immersive sound environment that simulates spatial hearing.
Exploring the potential of human echolocation
Researchers have identified that visually impaired people use the timbre, in addition to pitch and loudness, of echoes to navigate their surroundings. This skill is similar to animal echolocation but differs in how humans use sound to locate objects.
Seeing with your ears
Researchers developed a novel acoustics project that combines computer models and live concert recordings to produce immersive spatial audio and virtual reality experiences. The project aims to improve virtual reality and explore the effects of ear shape on 3D sound perception.
The friendly honk
Researchers introduce a new pedestrian-friendly car-horn sound that immediately alerts pedestrians of danger while reducing unpleasantness. The study, led by Myungjin Bae, uses the Mean Option Score (MOS) to evaluate candidate horn sounds, ranking them on a scale from bad to excellent.
Tiny bubbles offer sound solution for drug delivery
Researchers use tiny bubbles and ultrasound to safely open the blood-brain barrier, a heavily guarded system that prevents drug delivery. This breakthrough approach aims to advance next-generation brain therapies without surgery.
Using body noise to improve cancer detection
Researchers have developed a new approach to remedy the problem of hard-to-reach organs, such as the liver, by analyzing the natural shear waves produced biologically. Passive elastography uses this technology to measure tissue elasticity and diagnose cancer at an early stage.
Bee buzzes could help determine how to save their decreasing population
Researchers developed an inexpensive acoustic listening system to monitor bees in flight, allowing farmers to track pollination and increase food production. The technology, published in PLOS ONE, could also engage global 'citizen scientists' in monitoring bee activity in their backyards.
SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalPublication Library and Information Science·DateJun 7, 2017
Nano fiber feels forces and hears sounds made by cells
Engineers at UC San Diego developed a nano-sized optical fiber that can detect forces down to 160 femtonewtons and hear sounds down to -30 decibels, with applications in detecting bacteria, monitoring cellular behavior, and creating mini stethoscopes.
First underwater carpet cloak realized, with metamaterial
Researchers at Chinese Academy of Sciences create first underwater acoustic carpet cloak using transformation acoustics, controlling sound wave propagation. The carpet cloak, composed of layered brass plates, successfully mimics a reflecting plane and makes the cloaked object imperceptible to sound detection.
Rare cricket family sheds light on extinct Jurassic species' acoustics
Researchers studied a rare cricket family, grigs, to understand the evolution of sound generation in orthopterans. They found that grigs' wings represented an early transitional stage between fossilized ancestors and modern bush-crickets.
NASA's Webb Telescope team prepares for earsplitting acoustic test
The James Webb Space Telescope is set to undergo an earsplitting acoustic test, simulating the intense vibrations of launch. The team at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center has completed vibration testing and prepared the telescope for the test, which will push its limits.
Are drones disturbing marine mammals?
Researchers have found that drone noise does not travel far into the water, posing little threat to marine mammals. The study suggests that UAVs can be used safely in marine environments with proper permits and guidelines.
What makes your voice yours?
UCLA researchers Patricia Keating and Jody Kreiman analyzed recordings from 50 women to identify acoustic parameters distinguishing their voices. The study aims to understand which characteristics make a speaker's voice recognizable and how much change is perceptible to listeners.
How do children hear anger?
A team of researchers used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and acoustic analysis to study how children's brains respond to emotional speech cues. They found that lower frequency characteristics in voice spectra may play a significant role in understanding brain activity and differentiating emotional processing.
Tracking terrestrial animals
Researchers developed a system using acoustic beamforming to detect and locate Mojave Ground Squirrels on Edwards Air Force Base. The technology, inspired by WWI-era sound detection, is unobtrusive and can pinpoint animal locations over a large area. This innovation aims to support conservation efforts in harsh environments.
Using sound to stop destructive beetles in their tracks
Researchers at the University of Hawaii are using acoustics to understand and track the movement of the invasive Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle. By analyzing the beetle's chirp signatures, they hope to develop a new method for tracking and mitigating its impact on Hawaii's palm trees.
Owl-inspired wing design reduces wind turbine noise by 10 decibels
Researchers at Lehigh University developed a 3D-printed wing attachment inspired by owl feathers, reducing wind turbine noise by 10 decibels without impacting aerodynamics. The design can also reduce roughness and trailing-edge noise, with implications for improving man-made aerodynamic designs.