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AI to fight the spread of infectious diseases

A USC-developed algorithm can better locate and treat people living with undiagnosed infectious diseases, such as TB and gonorrhea. The algorithm optimizes disease spread models using behavioral, demographic, and epidemic trends to capture underlying population dynamics.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateFeb 20, 2018
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Mining for gold in a mountain of data

A team from Lehigh University's Industrial and Systems Engineering department participated in a workshop on big data optimization algorithms, theory, applications and systems. Researchers presented their work on Interior Point Methods, machine learning methodologies, and other topics relevant to big data analytics.

SourceLehigh University·DateFeb 15, 2018

Programming drones to fly in the face of uncertainty

NanoMap enables drones to fly through cluttered spaces like cities at high speeds using a simple yet effective approach that considers the drone's position in the world over time. The system reduces crash rates from over 90% to just 2%, making it suitable for applications such as search-and-rescue, defense, and package delivery.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, CSAIL·DateFeb 12, 2018

AI computer vision breakthrough IDs poachers in less than half a second

Researchers at USC Center for Artificial Intelligence in Society developed an AI algorithm, SPOT, to detect poachers in near real-time using infrared images. The algorithm can distinguish between humans and animals in just over three-tenths of a second, reducing the time spent on monitoring wildlife.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateFeb 8, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Drones learn to navigate autonomously by imitating cars and bicycles

Researchers developed DroNet, an algorithm that enables drones to safely navigate through urban environments using a normal camera and powerful artificial intelligence. The drones learned to respect safety rules and adapt to new environments, paving the way for fully autonomous drones in various applications.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalIEEE Robotics and Automation Letters·DateJan 23, 2018

Inverse-design approach leads to metadevices

The Northwestern University team developed highly efficient metadevices at millimeter-wave frequencies using inverse design principles and 3D printing. This approach starts with a function and asks what structure is needed to achieve the desired result, producing unexpected outcomes like broad bandwidth functionality.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 22, 2018

Algorithm improves integration of refugees

A new algorithm developed by Stanford researchers can help resettle refugees more effectively, improving their employment success and overall integration. The algorithm analyzes historical data on refugee resettlement and assigns placements that project a 40-70% increase in employment rates compared to actual outcomes.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience·DateJan 18, 2018

Let's make a deal: Could AI compromise better than humans?

A recent study by Brigham Young University researchers found that machines trained with an algorithm called S# outperformed humans in finding compromises that benefit both parties. The machines were able to learn from 'cheap talk' phrases and maintain cooperation, often more effectively than humans.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 18, 2018
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

An algorithm for refugee resettlement could boost employment and integration

A new algorithm developed by Stanford University's Immigration Policy Lab can optimize refugee resettlement, leading to improved employment and integration rates. The algorithm takes into account individual characteristics and local conditions to match refugees with the most suitable locations.

SourceStanford University - Immigration Policy Lab·JournalScience·DateJan 18, 2018

Researchers devise better recommendation algorithm

A new recommendation algorithm uses cosine similarity to predict customer preferences in high-dimensional spaces, leveraging the angle between user rating lines. The approach balances signal gain with noise introduction, resulting in more accurate predictions and better performance, particularly when ratings data is sparse.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateDec 6, 2017

Protein-folding simulations sped up

A new algorithm can speed up protein-folding simulations, allowing researchers to model phenomena that were previously out of reach. This technique can help scientists better understand and treat diseases like Alzheimer's, which is associated with amyloid-beta protein fragments forming hard plaques that disrupt neurons.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateDec 5, 2017
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Software optimizes train circulation control in real time

The Meta Planning Engine system detects changes in demand and uses multiple algorithms to find the best solution for traffic management. It provides flexibility and adaptability, allowing the software to choose the optimal algorithm for each situation.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateNov 29, 2017
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Fruit fly brains inform search engines of the future

Researchers at Salk Institute have found that fruit fly brains use an efficient method to perform similarity searches, expanding the dimension of odor information to improve detection. This approach could inform computer algorithms and enhance their ability to find similarities quickly.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalScience·DateNov 9, 2017

Scientists detect comets outside our solar system

A team of scientists and amateur astronomers have detected six exocomets, the smallest objects yet found outside our solar system, using transit photometry. The detection marks the first time an object as small as a comet has been identified using this technique.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateOct 26, 2017
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Six degrees of separation: Why it is a small world after all

Researchers from University of Leicester and KU Leuven found that information flow accounts for emergence of small-world networks in complex systems. These structures arise spontaneously in neuronal and social networks, and are characterized by short-cuts and hierarchical organization.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 19, 2017

Making big data a little smaller

Computer scientist Jelani Nelson finds Johnson-Lindenstrauss lemma best approach to reduce data dimensionality. The theorem helps speed up algorithms across various fields.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·DateOct 18, 2017

Brain study reveals how insects make beeline for home

Scientists discovered a network of neurons in bees' brains that integrates direction and distance changes, enabling them to return home. A detailed computer model was developed based on this research, which could lead to new algorithms for autonomous robots.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 5, 2017
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Do earthquakes have a 'tell'?

Researchers have discovered a potential method to predict nearby strong earthquakes by analyzing deep tremors. The study, published in the Journal of Geophysical Research: Solid Earth, found that changes in deep tremor patterns can signal an impending earthquake.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateOct 5, 2017

A new method provides better insights into real-world network evolution

Chinese scientists develop a new algorithm that leverages network structure characteristics to improve link prediction accuracy and robustness. Their experimental testing in various real-world networks yields better results than existing methods, leading to the creation of a novel method for predicting missing links.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateSep 13, 2017

Primary care practices use 4 complementary methods to identify high-risk patients

Four primary methods are used by primary care practices to risk stratify patient populations: practice-developed algorithm, AAFP clinical algorithm, payer claims/electronic health record, and clinical intuition. Practices that developed their own algorithm identify more high-risk patients than those using other methods.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 12, 2017

New software can detect when people text and drive

The system uses cameras and AI to detect hand movements deviating from normal driving behavior, grading them for possible safety threats. Researchers hope the technology will reduce traffic accidents caused by distracted drivers, a major contributor to global crashes.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·DateSep 8, 2017
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Stroke patient improvement with a brain-computer interface

A novel brain-computer interface (BCI) has been developed to improve motor function in stroke patients. The BCI produced a 36% improvement in motor function of a stroke-damaged hand after just 10 training sessions. This innovative therapy has shown promise for helping stroke patients recover from debilitating damage.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateAug 30, 2017
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Smart computers

A team of scientists from the University of Freiburg has created a self-learning algorithm that decodes human brain signals measured by an electroencephalogram (EEG) with high accuracy. The algorithm, based on brain-inspired models, can recognize and differentiate between various behavioral patterns from different movements, making it ...

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalHuman Brain Mapping·DateAug 18, 2017

Automated fingerprint analysis is one step closer to reality

Researchers from NIST and Michigan State University have developed an algorithm that automates the key decision point in fingerprint analysis, reducing human subjectivity and improving reliability. The new system uses machine learning to score latent prints based on their quality, allowing for more efficient processing of evidence.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Information Forensics and Security·DateAug 14, 2017
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Now showing: Researchers create first 3-D movie of virus in action

A team of researchers has created a three-dimensional movie showing a virus preparing to infect a healthy cell. The study uses powerful algorithms and X-ray imaging equipment to reveal the sequential images of the virus's molecular machinery. The findings provide new insights into how viruses undergo changes during infection.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin - Milwaukee·JournalNature Methods·DateAug 14, 2017

Machine learning could be key to producing stronger, less corrosive metals

A BYU research team has developed a machine learning approach to analyze grain boundaries in metals, enabling the prediction of material strength and corrosion resistance. By analyzing massive data sets, their algorithm provides insight into physical structures associated with specific mechanisms and properties.

SourceBrigham Young University·DateAug 8, 2017

An app for the perfect selfie

A smartphone app developed by computer scientists at the University of Waterloo uses an algorithm to direct users on camera positioning for optimal photos. The app, which has shown a 26% improvement in selfie quality, teaches users about composition principles and can be expanded to include additional factors.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·DateAug 2, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

New algorithm finds the optimal bond breaking point for single molecules

Researchers developed an algorithm to identify the stress-induced breakdown of molecular bonds, enabling efficient chemical synthesis and catalysis. The algorithm can be applied to any molecule, including biological ones, and has implications for various applications such as molecular machines and catalyst design.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateAug 1, 2017

Five times the computing power

FPGAs can now handle five times more calculations, saving industry huge sums and enabling new functionality without hardware replacement. Carl Ingemarsson's method optimizes signal routes in chips to achieve the boost.

SourceLinköping University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI) Systems·DateJul 21, 2017

A new system to estimate the duration of a walk in the countryside

Researchers at University of Seville developed an algorithm to estimate walk time based on length and gradient, achieving better results than current systems. The new method has practical applications for route management, emergency response, and urban planning.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalGeografisk Tidsskrift-Danish Journal of Geography·DateJul 11, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

New Berkeley lab algorithms extract biological structure from limited data

Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory develop Multi-Tiered Iterative Phasing (M-TIP) algorithm to determine molecular structure from sparse and noisy single-particle diffraction data. This approach reduces the amount of required information, enabling the extraction of more features from limited experiments.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 10, 2017

Seeing street change

A study using computer vision algorithms examines millions of Google Street View images to measure urban change, finding that high density and education are key drivers of improvement. The research also supports three classical theories of urban change, highlighting the importance of human capital and education in shaping cities.

SourceHarvard University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 6, 2017

Ensuring carpoolers are compatible is key to ridesharing success

Researchers matched would-be carpoolers with people driving to work based on social media data and found that compatibility increased satisfaction and reduced car use by 57% in Rome and 40% in San Francisco. This approach could lead to a dent in gridlock, reduce pollution and make commuting more enjoyable.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalTransportation Research Part C Emerging Technologies·DateJul 4, 2017
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Algorithm generates origami folding patterns for any shape

A universal algorithm for folding origami shapes guarantees a minimum number of seams, producing more practical and sturdy structures. The new method preserves the boundaries of the original piece of paper, allowing users to choose where seams meet.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateJun 23, 2017

Rattling DNA hustles transcribers to targets

New simulations reveal DNA's constant motion enables rapid transcription factor diffusion, contradicting the long-held assumption of rigid DNA. The findings have significant implications for understanding cell processes and potentially boost speed and accuracy in biological and medical research.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateJun 12, 2017
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Fitness trackers accurately measure heart rate but not calories burned, study finds

A recent Stanford University School of Medicine study found that fitness trackers generally accurately measure heart rate but struggle with calculating energy expenditure, which is often used to track calories burned. The study evaluated seven devices and found that six were accurate in measuring heart rate within 5% error, while none ...

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalJournal of Personalized Medicine·DateMay 24, 2017

New tools safeguard census data about where you live and work

Researchers at Duke University have developed new algorithms that enable analysis of sensitive data while guaranteeing individual privacy. The tools use a customized definition of privacy similar to differential privacy, injecting just enough noise to satisfy regulations and uphold the law.

SourceDuke University·DateMay 18, 2017
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Diabetes app forecasts blood sugar levels

Researchers developed a personalized algorithm that predicts the impact of particular foods on an individual's blood sugar levels. The Glucoracle app allows users to upload food and blood measurements, providing real-time predictions of post-meal blood sugar levels.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateApr 27, 2017
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

25 is 'golden age' for the ability to make random choices

A study published in PLOS Computational Biology found that humans' ability to make random choices peaks around age 25 and declines thereafter. The researchers assessed over 3,400 participants and used online tasks to evaluate their algorithmic randomness.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateApr 13, 2017