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Transforming acoustic waves with a chip

Researchers have developed a new acoustic wave-producing technology on an electronic chip, enabling customizable curved waves for trapping objects, routing wave information, and transporting fluids. This innovation has significant potential in medical applications, such as noninvasive surgery and biosensors.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 8, 2025

Seven-octave ultrabroadband metamaterial absorbers

Researchers have developed a metamaterial absorber spanning seven octaves that demonstrates an average absorption coefficient of 0.944, covering the entire audible spectrum. The absorber's compact profile and ultrabroadband performance show promising applications in aerospace noise reduction and precision acoustic environment control.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 6, 2025

Advanced noise suppression technology for improved search and rescue drones

A novel AI-based noise suppression system has been developed to improve the effectiveness of search and rescue drones during natural disasters. The system uses Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) to accurately learn UAV propeller sound data and eliminate noise, allowing operators to clearly hear and recognize human sounds.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Services Computing·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 6, 2024

Taming noise behind bars #Acoustics23

The article discusses the importance of acoustic design in prison environments, where constant noise is harmful to both prisoners and staff. By incorporating speech intelligibility, strategic noise reduction, and privacy considerations, acoustic design can improve communication dynamics and alleviate negative social interactions.

Exposure to airplane noise increases risk of sleeping fewer than 7 hours per night

A new study found that people exposed to moderate aircraft noise were less likely to get the minimum recommended sleep each night. The risk increased among those living near airports or large water bodies, as well as those with no hearing loss. Exposure levels as low as 45 dB were associated with short sleep duration.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeObservational study·DateMay 1, 2023

On the way to smart hearing aids

The Collaborative Research Centre Hearing Acoustics is developing smart hearing aids that use artificial intelligence to adjust to different environments. The project, which aims to create more adaptable hearing devices, has received $8.1 million in funding for another four years.

Binding together repelling atoms

Theoretical predictions show that controlled noise from an environment can bind repelling atoms together, creating a bound state with exotic properties. This novel mechanism could lead to improved cooling of atomic quantum gases.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 31, 2013