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Why can hot water freeze faster than cold water?

Spanish researchers have confirmed how hot water freezes faster than cold water in granular fluids, a phenomenon known as the Mpemba effect. They also found that the opposite effect can occur: coldest liquids can heat up faster.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 14, 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.

Study: Junk food almost twice as distracting as healthy food

A study by Johns Hopkins University found that pictures of junk food are almost twice as distracting as healthy food images, even when people are focused on a task. The researchers tested this theory with participants who ate candy before completing a computer task.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalPsychonomic Bulletin & Review·DateOct 26, 2017

Patients prefer doctors not use computers in exam room

A new study found that patients with advanced cancer prefer face-to-face interaction with their doctors, with better communication skills and professionalism. After watching both videos, 72% of participants favored the face-to-face interaction, highlighting the importance of human connection in healthcare.

SourceAmerican Society of Clinical Oncology·DateOct 23, 2017
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Dartmouth to debut wearables that warn and wow at UIST 2017

Dartmouth College introduces several cutting-edge technology projects, including RetroShape, a smart watch that provides tactile feedback, and Frictio, a smart ring with calendar alerts. Pyro, a thumb-tip recognition technique, also showcases improved finger gesture interaction with computing applications.

SourceDartmouth College·DateOct 20, 2017

Liquid metal brings soft robotics a step closer

Researchers at University of Sussex and Swansea University have created a way to morph liquid metal into physical shapes, opening up new possibilities in soft robotics and shape-changing displays. The invention uses electrical charges to program the liquid metal, allowing it to dynamically change shape and form complex geometries.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·DateOct 16, 2017

Seeing the next dimension of computer chips

Scientists at Osaka University used scanning tunneling microscopy to create images of atomically flat side-surfaces of 3D silicon crystals, a crucial step towards designing smaller, faster, and more energy-efficient computer chips. The achievement paves the way for innovation in semiconductor manufacturing.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJapanese Journal of Applied Physics·DateOct 10, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Machine learning translates 'hidden' information to reveal chemistry in action

Scientists have developed a new machine learning method that can analyze x-ray data to reveal the structures and environments of catalysts during reactions. This allows for real-time analysis and optimization of reaction conditions, potentially leading to improved catalyst performance and faster production of desired products.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateOct 10, 2017

Superconductivity found in thin films of titanium oxide

Scientists at Tokyo Tech have reported superconductivity in two types of higher titanium oxides grown as ultrathin films. The materials exhibit a high transition temperature of up to 7.1 K, making them promising for fundamental physics and potential applications in faster computers.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 2, 2017

New 'building material' points toward quantum computers

Researchers have created a new building material that produces Majorana particles, which could lead to the development of faster quantum computers. The breakthrough enables the mass production of nano wires with Majorana properties, paving the way for more efficient computing.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 2, 2017

Goodbye, login. Hello, heart scan

A University at Buffalo-led team has developed a non-contact, remote biometric tool using the dimensions of your heart as an identifier. The system, which was three years in the making, continually monitors a user's heart to ensure only authorized individuals can access their computer.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·DateSep 25, 2017
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.

Obesity may adversely affect sperm quality

A recent study published in Andrologia reveals that obesity is associated with lower semen volume, sperm count, and motility. The findings suggest that weight loss before conception may improve fertility outcomes for couples seeking infertility treatment.

SourceWiley·JournalAndrologia·DateSep 20, 2017

Researchers use Wikipedia to give AI context clues

By leveraging Wikipedia's vast language database, researchers created a method to equip artificial intelligence agents with common-sense knowledge about object interactions. The team achieved promising results in text-based adventure games, improving the agent's performance on 12 out of 16 games.

SourceBrigham Young University·DateSep 19, 2017
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Cells programmed like computers to fight disease

Researchers at the University of Warwick have discovered a way to program cells using genetic engineering, enabling them to control actions such as fighting disease. The technique uses a common molecule called RNA, which can be engineered into sequences similar to computer code to instruct cells to perform specific actions.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateSep 18, 2017

Study clarifies how neural nets 'think' when processing language

Researchers develop a general-purpose technique to analyze neural networks trained for natural-language-processing tasks. The method applies to any black-box text-processing system, revealing idiosyncrasies in human translators' work and identifying gender biases in machine translation systems.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateSep 11, 2017

A magic formula to predict attraction is more elusive than ever

A new study used speed dating data to test if machine learning could predict unique romantic desire. The researchers found that while they could predict overall tendencies for someone to like and be liked by others, they couldn't anticipate which two people were a match.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 30, 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.

Don't multitask while you read this

Researchers conducted two experiments with UCLA students to test the impact of multitasking on memory. They found that divided attention impairs memory recall but does not affect focus on critical information.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 23, 2017

Trying to resist the urge to splurge? Ditch the smartphone

A UBC study found that consumers are more likely to buy hedonic products with touchscreen technology, evoking experiential thinking. The study advises consumers to put away their smartphones when shopping for guilty pleasures to save money.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalJournal of Retailing and Consumer Services·DateAug 16, 2017

New Machine Learning program shows promise for early Alzheimer's diagnosis

A new machine learning program developed by researchers at Case Western Reserve University appears to outperform other methods for diagnosing Alzheimer's disease before symptoms begin. The program integrates various indicators of the disease, including mild cognitive impairment, to predict who has Alzheimer's and those with mild cognit...

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 15, 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.

AI, crowdsourcing combine to close 'analogy gap'

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University developed a method for computers to mine databases of patents, inventions, and research papers to identify ideas that can be repurposed. This approach uses crowdsourcing and deep learning to analyze product descriptions and find analogous products, leading to innovative solutions.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateAug 10, 2017

USB connections make snooping easy

Researchers found that over 90% of USB-connected devices leak information to external devices when plugged into the same hub. This 'channel-to-channel crosstalk leakage' allows malicious devices to capture keystrokes and private info.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·DateAug 10, 2017

When you're blue, so are your Instagram photos

A new study has found a correlation between depressed people's Instagram photos and characteristics such as bluer tones, fewer faces, and a preference for filters that drain color. The algorithm's detection rate of 70% surpasses the success rate of general-practice doctors diagnosing depression in-person.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalEPJ Data Science·DateAug 7, 2017

Algorithms that can sketch, recreate 3-D shapes

Researchers developed FlowRep to create design sketches of everyday objects, leveraging insights from Gestalt psychology. The algorithm can produce comparable sketches to professional designers, with potential implications for 3D printing and fabrication.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·DateAug 1, 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.

Breakthrough software teaches computer characters to walk, run, even play soccer

Researchers at the University of British Columbia have developed a breakthrough algorithm called DeepLoco that enables computer characters to learn complex motor skills like walking and running through trial and error. The system uses deep reinforcement learning to allow characters to respond to their environment without hand-coding st...

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·DateJul 31, 2017

Making animated characters jump just got easier

A new tool from Disney Research enables novices and experts alike to create high-quality motion cycles in a matter of minutes, enhancing the creative process and expanding artist contributions. The tool uses an algorithm to extract the motion cycle from a performance, allowing for editing and customization.

SourceDisney Research·DateJul 28, 2017

Bringing deep learning to big screen animation

Researchers developed a deep learning model to remove noise from computer-generated images, enabling production-quality rendering at higher speeds. The technology, tested with millions of examples from films like Finding Dory and Cars 3, successfully preserved detail in scenes while removing unwanted artifacts.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·DateJul 26, 2017

Somersaulting simulation for jumping bots

A pair of new computational methods developed by researchers from MIT, University of Toronto, and Adobe Research generate simulations that match real-world behaviors at rates 70-times faster than previously possible. These methods can automate the design process used to create dynamic mechanisms for controlled jumping.

SourceAssociation for Computing Machinery·DateJul 26, 2017
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Atomic discovery opens door to greener, faster, smaller electronic circuitry

Scientists have developed a way to delete and replace out-of-place atoms in silicon chips, correcting communication pathways and enabling the creation of perfect patterns. This breakthrough allows for the production of ultra-low power atomic circuitry at room temperature, revolutionizing the field of electronics.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalACS Nano·DateJul 26, 2017

Living computers: RNA circuits transform cells into nanodevices

Researchers create RNA circuits that enable living cells to perform computations, producing complex logic capable of responding to multiple inputs. The technology has significant implications for fields like drug design, energy production, and cancer treatment.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature·DateJul 26, 2017

Colorizing images with deep neural networks

A team of UC Berkeley researchers has developed a new technique for real-time user-guided colorization using deep neural networks. The system enables novice users to quickly produce reasonable results by learning common colors for different objects and making recommendations in real-time.

SourceAssociation for Computing Machinery·DateJul 25, 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.

Ramesh Raskar of MIT to receive Computer Graphics Achievement Award

Ramesh Raskar has made significant impact in computational imaging, light transport and augmented reality with techniques like femto-photography. His work has led to applications such as EyeNetra, a low-cost technique to measure human refractive error and prescribe eyeglasses.

SourceAssociation for Computing Machinery·DateJul 25, 2017

Carnegie Mellon Robotics pioneer receives highest honor in computer graphics

Jessica Hodgins, a pioneer in character animation and robotics, has been recognized with the prestigious Steven Anson Coons Award for her outstanding contributions to computer graphics. Her work on physical simulation and control has advanced the development of realistic computer animations and human-robot interaction.

SourceAssociation for Computing Machinery·DateJul 24, 2017

3-D scanning with water

A global team of computer scientists and engineers developed an innovative technique for reconstructing complex objects using water displacement. The method accurately captures hidden parts of an object, previously inaccessible to laser scanners.

SourceAssociation for Computing Machinery·DateJul 21, 2017

Computers using linguistic clues to deduce photo content

Researchers at Disney Research and UC Davis have developed a method for computer vision programs to understand spatial relationships in images based on caption sentence structure. This approach enables accurate visual localizations for language inputs, outperforming baseline systems that do not consider natural language structure.

SourceDisney Research·DateJul 21, 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.

Making data-driven 3-D modeling easier

A new computational method called GRASS uses machine-learning techniques and artificial intelligence to automate the creation of plausible 3D shapes. The research paper showcases a generative recursive autoencoder for shape structures that can generate novel shapes without manual input.

SourceAssociation for Computing Machinery·DateJul 18, 2017

A computer that reads body language

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University developed a computer that can understand body poses and movements of multiple people in real-time, including finger poses, using a single camera and laptop. This enables new ways for people and machines to interact, such as more natural communication with computers by pointing at objects.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateJul 6, 2017

Your hands may reveal the struggle to maintain self-control

Researchers studied decision-making in real-time using mouse trajectories, finding that individuals with low self-control veer closer to unhealthy foods. The study suggests a more dynamical process where both healthy and unhealthy choices compete from the beginning, contradicting dual systems theory.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 6, 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.

Hospital, office physicians have differing laments about electronic records

A new study reveals widespread physician dissatisfaction with electronic health records (EHRs), with hospital-based physicians expressing concerns about reduced patient contact time and office-based physicians worrying about the quality of their interactions. Despite these challenges, some physicians have found ways to minimize disrupt...

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of Innovation in Health Informatics·DateJul 5, 2017

Hubble eyes a powerful galaxy with a password name

The Hubble Space Telescope has imaged a powerful Seyfert galaxy, 2XMM J143450.5+033843, emitting huge amounts of radiation due to its supermassive black hole. The galaxy is nearly 400 million light-years away and is one of the unlucky ones with a unique X-ray name.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 30, 2017

Ahead of the curve

Researchers at IST Austria have developed a new method to create self-actuating, smooth, and free-form objects called CurveUps. These objects are made up of tiny tiles sandwiched between pre-stretched latex layers that transform into a continuous shell during the process.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·DateJun 27, 2017

Piling on pressure solves enduring mystery about metal's makeup

Researchers solved a mystery about lithium's structure, revealing its atoms are arranged simply like oranges in a box, contrary to previous complex results. The study used high-pressure experiments and advanced quantum mechanics to accurately observe the material's fundamental properties.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalScience·DateJun 22, 2017
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Mathematicians deliver formal proof of Kepler Conjecture

A team led by Thomas Hales has delivered a formal proof of the Kepler Conjecture, resolving a centuries-old mathematical problem. The proof uses computer verification to establish certainty, addressing the community's inability to thoroughly verify previous attempts.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalForum of Mathematics Pi·DateJun 16, 2017

Graphene transistor could mean computers that are 1,000 times faster

Researchers have developed a graphene-based transistor that can produce massive jumps in computing speed and efficiency. By applying a magnetic field, the resistance of current flowing through the device can be controlled, allowing for faster processing speeds and reduced power consumption.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 13, 2017

UQ and partners taking computing out of this world

Researchers are developing new approach to computer technology, using mechanical vibrations for computations in aerospace applications. This method makes the computers more robust to radiation exposure and has potential for future commercial impacts.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·DateJun 8, 2017
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Researchers measure the coherence length in glasses using the supercomputer JANUS

Researchers from Spain and Italy used the JANUS supercomputer to reproduce an experimental protocol on spin glasses, connecting theoretical and experimental developments. The simulation revealed that microscopic and macroscopic correlation lengths are equal, providing a theoretical basis for studying physical systems.

SourceUniversity of Extremadura·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 30, 2017
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

A review of denoising medical images using machine learning approaches

Machine learning techniques are successfully applied to image-based diagnosis, disease detection, and prognosis in medical imaging. The review focuses on denoising methods using machine learning approaches to develop a systematic decision for diagnosing and prediction of medical images.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Medical Imaging Formerly Current Medical Imaging Reviews·DateMay 23, 2017

Nanophysics: Saving energy with a spot of silver

Scientists at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München demonstrate that tiny spots of silver can significantly reduce energy consumption in light-based computation. By exploiting the properties of plasmon oscillations, they achieve a balance between nanometer-scale dimensions and low energy loss.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Physics·DateMay 18, 2017

World's thinnest hologram paves path to new 3-D world

The RMIT team has developed a nano-hologram that is simple to make, can be seen without 3D goggles and is 1000 times thinner than a human hair. The discovery could transform industries such as medical diagnostics, education, data storage, defence and cyber security with the potential to display a wealth of data.

SourceRMIT University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 18, 2017

Under cyber attack: UH researchers look at how to catch a 'phisher'

A study by University of Houston researchers used publicly available emails from Hillary Clinton and Sarah Palin to analyze the characteristics of phishing emails. The results showed that participants had a 52% accuracy rate in detecting real emails, while more complex grammar fooled 74% of them.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateMay 16, 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.