The world of glass appears deceptively simple – a seemingly random network of atoms. However, recent research at the University of Tsukuba has shed light on the existence of a “hidden order” within this disorderly structure. This invisible arrangement plays a crucial role in determining vibrational fluctuations in the terahertz (THz) frequency range, which significantly impact the physical properties of glass.

At first glance, glass may seem like a jumbled mess of atomic structures. Yet, when subjected to X-ray and neutron beam analysis, a faint but consistent periodic feature known as the first sharp diffraction peak (FSDP) emerges. Concurrently, glass exhibits a boson peak (BP), a vibrational anomaly in the THz range that contributes to its low thermal conductivity, mechanical characteristics, and THz range light absorption. Despite extensive research, the precise relationship between the FSDP and BP has remained unclear – until now.

Using heterogeneous elasticity theory, researchers have identified a direct correlation between the emergence of the BP and the presence of the FSDP. The theoretical model indicates that the scale of elastic inhomogeneity necessary for BP manifestation aligns with that of the FSDP. This suggests that the FSDP is a determining factor in the vibrational behavior of glasses within the THz band.

These groundbreaking findings are expected to inform the development of novel glass materials with tunable boson peaks, enabling targeted control of their thermal and mechanical properties. By unlocking the secrets of the hidden order in glass, researchers can now explore new possibilities for creating materials with tailored properties, opening doors to innovative applications across various industries.

Harnessing Microbubbles for Advanced Fluid Control
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Researchers at Kyoto University have made a groundbreaking discovery in the manipulation of microbubbles to control fluids. By precisely adjusting the distance between these tiny bubbles, scientists can fundamentally alter liquid flow, revolutionizing applications in medical and chemical fields.

The team’s innovative setup employs laser light to photothermally heat degassed water, allowing them to generate two microbubbles that spontaneously vibrate at sub-megahertz frequencies. These vibrations interact with each other, synchronizing their movements and influencing the surrounding fluid flow.

By adjusting the distance between the bubbles by just 10 micrometers, researchers observed a staggering change in vibration frequency of over 50%. This remarkable finding has significant implications for fluid control tools in various industries.

“We did not expect to observe such clear vibrational coupling between two oscillating bubbles,” says corresponding author Kyoko Namura. “The vibrations of the bubbles we generated were very stable over time and highly reproducible, allowing us to capture changes in their vibrations when their relative positions were even slightly adjusted.”

This breakthrough provides a new method for fluid control in various applications, including medical and chemical fields where faster analysis and data collection are essential. The research team plans to explore ways to actively select bubble vibration frequencies and modes, control larger arrays of bubbles, and analyze the sound waves and flows generated around them.

Harnessing microbubbles has the potential to revolutionize various industries, offering a more efficient and accurate way to manipulate fluids. As researchers continue to push the boundaries of this technology, we can expect to see exciting advancements in fields such as medicine, chemistry, and beyond.

The sensation of being enveloped by a powerful sound is one we’ve all experienced at some point – whether it’s the rumble of a plane taking off or the thumping bass of a concert. But what if I told you that this experience goes beyond just our ears and brain? Research suggests that our cells, too, respond to sound waves in profound ways.

Sound, as a phenomenon, is often considered simple and straightforward. It’s a mechanical wave transmitted through substances, existing everywhere in the non-equilibrated material world. However, its significance extends far beyond mere existence. Sound serves as a vital source of environmental information for living beings, and its impact on our cells is only just beginning to be understood.

A team of researchers from Kyoto University have been studying the effects of sound on cellular activities. Building upon previous work, they designed an experiment to investigate how acoustic pressure can induce cellular responses. The setup involved attaching a vibration transducer to a cell culture dish, which was then connected to an amplifier and digital audio player. This allowed them to emit sound signals within the range of physiological frequencies to cultured cells.

The researchers analyzed the effects using various methods, including RNA-sequencing, microscopy, and more. Their results revealed that cells do indeed respond to audible acoustic stimulation, with significant effects on cell-level activities. One particular finding was the suppression of adipocyte differentiation – a process by which preadipocytes transform into fat cells. This opens up possibilities for using acoustics to control cell and tissue states.

The study also identified about 190 sound-sensitive genes and observed how sound signals are transmitted through subcellular mechanisms. Perhaps most significantly, this research challenges the traditional understanding of sound perception in living beings, which holds that it’s mediated by receptive organs like the brain. It turns out that our cells respond to sounds, too.

The implications of this study are profound, offering potential benefits for medicine and healthcare. Sound-based therapies could become a non-invasive, safe, and immediate tool for treating various conditions. As we continue to explore the hidden language of sound, we may uncover even more surprising ways in which it influences our cells and overall well-being.