Research on computing hardware and its future. Covers quantum error-correction, cyber defense, novel materials, and AI frameworks.
A study of over 1,000 children found that excessive screen time is related to higher psychological difficulty scores, regardless of physical activity. Children who spent more than two hours per day on screens had better psychological scores, while those with moderate physical activity fared better in certain areas but worse in others.
Researchers have developed electromechanical switches that can withstand twice the heat as transistors, enabling computers to operate in extreme temperatures. The switches, made from silicon carbide and nanotechnology, perform better than transistors at high temperatures and have no discernible leakage.
Australian blind computer programmers James Teh and Michael Curran developed NVDA, a synthetic voice program that reads computer screen words as the cursor moves. The free software has been downloaded over 50,000 times and is available in 27 languages.
A Yale team has achieved the entanglement of three solid-state qubits for the first time, paving the way for quantum error correction and future quantum computing. The accomplishment builds on their previous development of a rudimentary solid-state quantum processor.
Researchers at Princeton University have developed 3D computer simulations of supernovae explosions, providing new insights into the universe. The simulations match massive blow-outs observed by astronomers and may lead to a better understanding of the physics involved.
The COGNITO project, led by the University of Bristol, aims to develop computer systems that can understand and predict human behavior and activity. By using on-body sensor networks and advanced computer vision algorithms, researchers hope to create systems that can assist people in skilled assembly and manipulation tasks.
Researchers at the University of Bristol have developed a silicon chip that uses two identical photons to perform complex calculations and simulations, paving the way for a new type of quantum computer. The device has the potential to solve problems that are currently beyond the capabilities of conventional computers.
Researchers create pressure-sensitive electronic material using semiconductor nanowires, enabling robots to grip fragile objects. The 'e-skin' technology also holds promise for restoring sense of touch in patients with prosthetic limbs.
A new method devised by Carnegie Mellon researchers enables computers to gain a deeper understanding of an image by reasoning about physical constraints. The method uses virtual blocks to build a three-dimensional approximation of the scene, improving accuracy in estimating layout and surface details.
A simplified clinical tool has led to the reclassification of millions of Americans into different risk groups, potentially affecting their treatment. The study found that 15% of adults were reclassified, with 10% moving to higher-risk groups and 5% to lower-risk groups, leading to potential over-treatment or under-treatment.
A Spanish research team has created a system that measures human physiological parameters and uses them to control virtual character behavior in real-time. The goal is to create a more immersive experience by tapping into the unconscious mind.
A study published in Atmospheric Environment found toxic elements in e-waste recycling emissions in southern China, posing health risks to workers and the environment. The research team identified carcinogens and persistent organic pollutants through mass spectrometry and other instrumentation.
Colin B. Macdonald received the 2010 Richard C. DiPrima Prize for his work on the Closest Point Method, advancing biology, materials science, and computer graphics applications.
A team of experts is proposing a new approach to deal with the variability in behavior of nano-scale computer components by re-thinking and enhancing the role that software can play. The National Science Foundation has awarded a $10 million grant to explore 'Variability-Aware Software for Efficient Computing with Nanoscale Devices.'
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a new approach to overcome the fundamental limitation of metamaterials, which could enable breakthroughs in transformation optics. By placing dye between two layers of silver, they were able to amplify light and reduce absorption, promising applications such as ultra-powerful microscopes,...
A new study reveals that Foldit players have successfully solved protein-folding problems that are too difficult for supercomputers, using intuitive leaps and strategic thinking. The game has shown promise in tackling medical challenges, such as designing proteins to combat diseases like the flu and HIV.
A new study found that getting angry may actually hurt one's cause in negotiations with East Asians, unlike in negotiations with European Americans. Cultural norms about expressing anger play a critical role in shaping reactions to emotional displays.
The NASA GOES Project provides continually updating 'movies' of satellite imagery for Hurricane Alley, allowing on-line viewing on iPhone and iPad. The latest large-scale movie can be accessed at http://goes.gsfc.nasa.gov/goescolor/goeseast/hurricane2/movie/alley_east_conus.mp4.
Multimedia talking touchscreens are helping researchers and clinicians improve communication, knowledge, and adherence to treatment for patients with diverse language skills. The technology provides a more private and accessible way for patients to complete questionnaires and access health information.
The Argonne Leadership Computing Facility has reached two billion processor-hours of computations, accelerating research in weeks or months. The ALCF is home to the IBM Blue Gene/P Intrepid, one of the fastest supercomputers in the world for open science.
The Iowa State researcher's 3D imaging technology has been used by Rock stars like U2 and featured in Radiohead's music video. The technology requires less data and memory than current tools, making it practical for the entertainment industry.
Purdue University researchers created an automated program to debug complex nuclear weapon simulations, reducing the time and difficulty of manual debugging. The tool, AutomaDeD, was 90% accurate in identifying errors and has potential applications in other parallel applications like climate modeling and high-energy particle physics.
A new study by Sarah Kaplan at the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management reveals that PowerPoint has a significant impact on strategy-making processes. The research shows that PowerPoint facilitates greater collaboration among team members and influences the discussion parameters, leading to more effective decision-making.
Researchers at Mangalore University have developed a novel method to generate silver nanoparticles using electron beam irradiation, which shows high activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including MRSA and E. coli O157.
Researchers found that laptops can increase students' engagement, attentiveness, and participation when used to facilitate interactive discussions and activities. Students reported feeling more attentive and able to learn when using LectureTools.
A study found that consumers are greatly influenced by images attached to brands, leading to a preference for one brand over another even when faced with contradictory product information. The researchers discovered that this effect is persistent and cannot be overcome by highly motivated participants.
A computerized system can accurately detect early eye problems related to diabetes and reduce the need for expensive human screenings. The system uses digital camera images of the retina to automatically identify signs of fluid and internal bleeding associated with diabetes damage.
A study published by the American College of Radiology suggests that standard X-rays are less effective than CT scans in detecting pelvic fractures. The research found that 48% of pelvic injuries were missed using standard X-rays alone, and that CT scans provide more complete evaluation of suspected pelvic injuries.
The developing world is projected to generate twice as much electronic waste (e-waste) as developed countries by 2030, with 400-700 million PCs discarded annually. Technological advances have led to a rapid decline in consumer electronics lifespan, prompting concerns about environmentally safe disposal methods.
The Minput system uses optical sensors on the back of a mobile phone or mp3 player to enable intuitive navigation through menus and photo galleries without obstructing the touchscreen. The method responds to up-down, side-to-side, twisting, and flicking motions, allowing for high-precision positioning.
Researchers have created a brain-like 'evolutionary circuit' in an organic molecular layer that can solve complex problems, mimicking natural phenomena like heat diffusion and cancer cell evolution. The processor also exhibits self-healing properties, unlike existing man-made computers.
Researchers at Cardiff University have successfully conducted experiments with photons, showing that pairs increase oscillation frequency and agreeing with theoretical predictions. The findings have long-term implications for information technology, including the potential to build logical systems based on quantum interactions.
Researchers at NIH/National Institute of General Medical Sciences have created a synthetic population using census data to simulate disease spread and study social networks. The virtual population accurately represents the country's demographics, allowing for faster and more accurate disease-spread simulations.
A University of Washington project aims to make all software open source, allowing users to add custom features to widely used programs. The Prefab system hijacks the display to customize user interaction, enabling people with disabilities to access previously inaccessible interfaces.
John Tate has made significant contributions to the field of algebraic number theory and arithmetic geometry. His work has resulted in the creation of fundamental concepts and the development of lasting impact on modern mathematics.
A team of life scientists and computer researchers, led by Thomas Brutnell, is working on the iPlant project to develop a computational pipeline for processing ultra-high-throughput sequence datasets. The goal is to make it easier to analyze large datasets and predict plant responses to environmental changes.
Primitive recycling processes used in developing countries contaminate air, water, and soil with pollutants like dioxins and toxic cyanide. Alternative solutions, such as paying recyclers not to recycle or promoting repair and reuse, are proposed to address the growing e-waste problem.
A team of researchers has developed a way to get modern, multiple-processor computers to behave in predictable ways by automatically parceling sets of commands. This allows well-behaved programs to run faster than on single processors, while also reducing errors and improving overall system reliability.
A systematic review of 28 clinical trials reveals that computer reminders improved processes of care by a median of 4.2%, with some studies showing only minor improvements.
University of Utah engineers created a computer-controlled hand and arm support to aid precision tasks with less fatigue. The Active Handrest allows users to maintain control while sensing tool position or force, increasing precision in tasks like surgery, painting, and electronics repair.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a miniature device capable of converting ultrafast laser pulses into bursts of radio-frequency signals. This technology has the potential to enable all communications to be transmitted from a single base station, making wires obsolete. The approach uses microring resonators to filter out ...
Teenagers who spend more time watching TV or using computers are more likely to report low attachment to parents and peers. Conversely, reading and homework are associated with a higher level of attachment to parents.
A recent study found that thousands of North American homes with peer-to-peer file-sharing software are vulnerable to data breaches, putting sensitive health information at risk. The study reveals that even simple search terms can expose private files containing personal and financial data.
Visual Analytics enables users to evaluate data more accurately by highlighting patterns and connections that may be overlooked, ultimately leading to reliable decision-making. The technology has significant potential for the financial market, allowing trends and risks to be identified quickly.
Researchers have determined the relationship between brain waves and attention using a brain-computer interface device. High-frequency beta oscillations are linked to anticipation of oncoming information, while slower delta oscillations act as an internal metronome to fine-tune attention.
The United Nations University has released a report highlighting the growing e-waste problem in developing countries, with sales of electronic products forecasted to rise sharply over the next decade. If left unaddressed, this could lead to hazardous waste mountains with serious consequences for the environment and public health.
Researchers at Georgia Tech are testing a mobile phone system called EatWell to encourage healthy eating habits. The system uses audio stories to connect community members and promote peer support, with surprising results showing that participants felt a sense of community despite limited interaction.
Researchers at the University of Washington studied brain signals in eight patients awaiting epilepsy surgery, finding that imagined movements can strengthen brain activity. After less than 10 minutes of practice, brain signals from imagined movement became significantly stronger than when actually performing the physical motion.
A team of mathematicians from Complutense University of Madrid develops a computer application to estimate the magnitude of natural disasters, providing useful information for NGOs. They also present an on-site humanitarian aid distribution model that could have been applied in the recent Haiti earthquake.
The MilkyWay@Home project uses volunteer computers from around the world to study dwarf galaxy movements and provide new details on dark matter. The project, which began in 2006, has surpassed one petaflop of computing speed and is the fastest computing project on the BOINC platform.
Researchers found that touch typing training significantly improved keyboarding speed in RA workers, regardless of impairment. However, impairments in hand function were associated with reduced mouse speeds, highlighting the need for effective strategies to maintain productivity in computer users with RA.
Researchers developed a computer program that accurately measures the meniscus in radiology images, providing potential biomarkers for osteoarthritis. The program's automated measurements are as reliable or more reliable than human interpretations, completing tasks in minutes rather than hours.
Researchers at Cornell University developed a method to control crystal growth, enabling the creation of smooth crystalline films. These films are crucial for producing defect-free semiconductors, a key component in modern computers and cell phones.
A European research team has created a method for locating plastic anti-personnel mines by analyzing temperature variations in the ground. The new system generates 3D thermal maps, reducing calculations by 34 times compared to other systems.
A new study found that university students who use interactive animations in their studies retain a better understanding of scientific concepts than those who don't. The animations, which can be manipulated to adjust real-world variables, demonstrate complex physics phenomena such as precipitation formation.
A new system, MultiLearn, allows up to four students to share a single computer for interactive math problems, effectively quadrupling the number of computers available. Early tests show that elementary school students are able to work independently on their own pace without distraction.
A new University of Pittsburgh study reveals that cigarette craving disrupts an individual's meta-awareness, making it harder to notice when the mind has wandered. Participants who craved cigarettes were more likely to acknowledge mind-wandering episodes, but their ability to recognize these episodes was impaired.
Researchers used electrocorticography (ECoG) to record brain activity and found that patients could type alphanumeric characters on a screen by focusing on specific letters. The technique showed promise for people with disorders like Lou Gehrig's disease and spinal cord injuries.
The article emphasizes the need for a more methodologically robust approach to evaluating eHealth systems. Researchers must recognize the importance of combined quantitative and qualitative work when assessing IT systems.
Researchers at MIT have developed a new technology that can convert waste heat into electricity with an efficiency of up to 90% of the Carnot Limit. This could lead to significant improvements in energy efficiency, such as double the talk time on cellphones and longer laptop battery life.