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Studying the female form

Researchers developed a technique to extract body shape components from 3D data, classifying trunk shapes into five types. The study aims to improve clothing fit, comfort, and safety, with potential implications for body image disorders and ergonomics.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Computer Applications in Technology·DateMar 12, 2009

Giving doctors the complete picture

A new clinical support tool developed by Martin Were and Michael Weiner significantly improves communication between doctors, resulting in better implementation of medical recommendations. The tool reduces errors and saves healthcare dollars by decreasing delays in care and prioritizing specialty treatment.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·DateMar 6, 2009

'Now you see it, now you don't'

Researchers used computer artificial intelligence to create new types of pictures and test people's brain performance in visual search experiments. They found that the human brain uses a single mechanism to find targets in pictures, with difficulty levels varying from easy to hard.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalVision Research·DateFeb 15, 2009

Accidental wireless

A wireless Java-enabled system can automatically call emergency services after a rollover accident, potentially saving lives. The system uses inexpensive sensors to detect the type of accident and provides crucial information for response specialists.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Intelligent Defence Support Systems·DateFeb 9, 2009

Effects of brain exercise depend on opponent

A recent study found that playing games against a virtual opponent activates different brain areas than those activated when playing against a human opponent. The medial prefrontal cortex and other regions associated with 'Theory of Mind' were more active in male players believing they were competing with another human.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Neuroscience·DateFeb 3, 2009

European fusion computer comes to Julich

The new supercomputer will help researchers better understand complex plasma effects in the ITER fusion reactor through advanced computer simulations. The HPC-FF system will be optimized for European fusion scientists' simulation programs and will provide 101 teraflop/s computing power.

The auto change bicycle

Researchers in Taiwan have developed a computer algorithm that provides a gear-shifting sequence to optimize power output and maintain comfort while cycling. The system, tested on a 12-speed bicycle, minimizes power losses and gear shifts, allowing riders to pedal efficiently without fatigue.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Human Factors Modelling and Simulation·DateJan 13, 2009

Logical reversal

Reverse logistics allows companies to recycle and remanufacture used products, reducing waste and environmental damage. This process provides companies with a financial return through refurbished goods sales and capitalizes on their 'green' credentials in marketing terms.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Environment and Sustainable Development·DateJan 7, 2009

Gesture recognition

Researchers developed a computer system architecture that can recognize human gestures, enabling people with physical disabilities to interact with computers. The system uses datagloves with illuminated LEDs tracked by webcams to monitor hand or shoulder movements.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Arts and Technology·DateDec 18, 2008

Stanford: Quantum computing spins closer

Researchers at Stanford University have successfully flipped the spin of an electron and measured its new position, a key step towards faster quantum computing. The experiment achieved this in about 100 times less time than previous techniques, using ultrafast lasers.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature·DateNov 20, 2008

Proof by computer

New computer tools based on formal proof can provide nearly infallible proofs of important mathematical results. Formal proof assistants have become powerful enough to handle difficult proofs and explore mathematics independently.

SourceAmerican Mathematical Society·JournalNotices of the American Mathematical Society·DateNov 6, 2008

Catching quakes with laptops

The project uses laptops with built-in accelerometer chips to detect tremors, allowing for faster earthquake detection and more accurate location of strong motions. With many sensors, it's possible to provide several seconds of warning before an earthquake hits neighboring regions.

U-M to house leading drug database

The University of Michigan is developing the Community Structure-Activity Resource (CSAR) database, a centralized repository of experimental data on drug-making compounds. This resource will improve computer programs that predict drug effectiveness and significantly impact the drug development process.

'Virtual archaeologist' reconnects fragments of an ancient civilization

A team of Princeton University researchers has developed an automated system that can reconstruct wall paintings from fragments, reducing the time needed from years to months. The 'Griphos' system employs a combination of computer algorithms and mirrors traditional archaeological procedures, enabling archaeologists to use it as a tool.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalACM Transactions on Graphics·DateAug 15, 2008

Do we think that machines can think?

Researchers investigate how humans perceive humanoid robots and attribute mental qualities, finding increased brain activity in the medial prefrontal cortex. Participants enjoyed interactions more when robots displayed human-like features, suggesting a link between human-robot interaction and mentalizing.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 8, 2008

Why musicians make us weep and computers don't

A University of Sussex-led study found that the brain responds more strongly to piano sonatas played by musicians than by computers. The researchers discovered that the brain's electric activity increases when the music is performed with emotional expression, indicating a deeper understanding of musical meaning.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 8, 2008

Tongue Drive system lets persons with disabilities operate powered wheelchairs, computers

The Tongue Drive system allows individuals with severe disabilities, such as high-level spinal cord injuries, to control a computer and powered wheelchair using only their tongues. The system uses a small magnet attached to the tongue to direct cursor movement on a screen or joystick function in a powered wheelchair.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology Research News·JournalThe Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development·DateJun 30, 2008

The fight for the best quantum bit (qubit)

Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery by studying the interaction between two electrons in a carbon nanotube, paving the way for a quantum mechanical bit. The breakthrough could lead to the creation of a revolutionary quantum computer capable of solving complex calculations much faster than current computers.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalNature Physics·DateJun 25, 2008

Researchers develop neural implant that learns with the brain

University of Florida researchers have developed a neural implant that can learn and adapt with the brain, enabling devices to improve their performance over time. The system uses goal-setting and rewards to teach rats to control a robotic arm with their thoughts, demonstrating its potential for paralyzed patients and amputees.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalIEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering·DateJun 24, 2008