Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Pitfalls of AI speech-to-text in clinical settings

A study published by University of Cincinnati associate professor Nelly Elsayed highlights the importance of human review in AI-driven physicians' documentation to ensure transparency, privacy, and reliability. The research also emphasizes the need for clinicians to be trained on software before adoption to curb errors.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalInternational Journal of Medical Informatics·DateJul 14, 2026

University of Michigan implants first-in-human Paradromics wireless brain-computer interface, designed to restore communication

The University of Michigan has successfully implanted the first-in-human Paradromics wireless brain-computer interface, designed to restore communication for patients with difficulty speaking. The clinical trial will focus on the device's long-term safety and assess its ability to restore communication through synthesized text and speech.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 17, 2026

University of Michigan implants first-in-human Paradromics wireless brain-computer interface, designed to restore communication

Researchers at University of Michigan Health have implanted the first wireless brain-computer interface (BCI) to restore communication in a patient with motor neuron disease. The study, called Connect-One Early Feasibility Study, aims to assess the device's long-term safety and effectiveness in synthesizing text and speech.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 17, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

AI benefits from measured non-linearity

Researchers found that dosed nonlinearity improves model performance in various tasks, especially with limited data. Nonlinear units function like flexible switches, adapting linear processing modes based on context.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2026

Can Amazon Alexa or Google Home help detect Parkinson’s?

Researchers developed an AI-based screening tool using pangrams to detect Parkinson’s disease with nearly 86 percent accuracy. The web-based test analyzes voice recordings for subtle patterns linked to the neurodegenerative disease, identifying potential warning signs.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·Journalnpj Parkinson s Disease·DateJul 23, 2025

Do dogs understand words from AIC buttons?

A new study published in Scientific Reports reveals that audio quality severely affects dogs' ability to recognize and respond to recorded words. Dogs excelled at responding to direct human speech, but struggled with AIC buttons, which lost frequencies necessary for conveying human speech.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 29, 2025

Protecting audio privacy at the source

Researchers created a lightweight filter that can run on small microcontrollers, identifying and removing likely speech content from audio data before it's sent off the device. This helps balance utility and privacy, enabling devices like smart speakers to prioritize user security while still offering valuable sensing capabilities.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateApr 21, 2025
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.

Towards a fully automated approach for assessing English proficiency

A new study by Doshisha University demonstrates the feasibility and reliability of fully automated speaking tests for English language learners, enabling more frequent evaluation and larger-scale studies. The approach uses AI-powered speech recognition and computational metrics to assess language proficiency.

SourceDoshisha University·JournalResearch Methods in Applied Linguistics·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 11, 2025

Paralyzed man moves robotic arm with his thoughts

Researchers at UC San Francisco have enabled a paralyzed man to control a robotic arm through a device that relays signals from his brain to a computer. The device, known as a brain-computer interface (BCI), worked for a record 7 months without needing to be adjusted.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCell·DateMar 6, 2025

It’s not just what you say – it’s also how you say it

A Northwestern University study discovered a region of the brain processes subtle changes in voice pitch, transforming them into meaningful linguistic information that guides human understanding. The findings challenge long-held assumptions about speech perception and have implications for speech rehabilitation, AI-powered voice assist...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2025
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.

Synchronization in neural nets: Mathematical insight into neuron readout drives significant improvements in prediction accuracy

Researchers introduced a novel approach to enhance reservoir computing, incorporating a generalized readout that offers improved accuracy and robustness compared to conventional methods. The new method uses a nonlinear combination of reservoir variables to uncover deeper patterns in input data.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 16, 2025

Automatic speech recognition on par with humans in noisy conditions

Researchers found that humans still outperform ASR systems in noisy environments, but Whisper large-v3 matched human performance in all tested conditions except naturalistic pub noise. The system's ability to process acoustic properties and map them to the intended message was impressive.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalJASA Express Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2025
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.

Dogs can recognize familiar speakers

Researchers at Eötvös Loránd University found that dogs can recognize their owners based on pre-recorded speech, demonstrating an ability to discriminate between familiar voices. Dogs performed well in matching the correct owner with their voice, with performance best when hearing their main owner's voice.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateDec 17, 2024

Developing artificial intelligence tools for health care

Researchers developed a new benchmark for health care using reinforcement learning, which shows promise in managing chronic or psychiatric diseases. However, current methods are data-hungry and fail to perform accurately when tested on real-world data.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·DateDec 17, 2024

Heart rate activity influences when infants speak

Researchers found that babies' first vocalizations and attempts at forming words coincide with fluctuations in their heart rate. This discovery may indicate that successful speech development depends on predictable ranges of autonomic activity during infancy.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 2024
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.

Graz language database improves automatic speech recognition of Austrian German

Researchers at Graz University of Technology developed a new database to improve speech recognition of Austrian German using speech data from 38 speakers. They found that traditional HMM-based systems are more robust for short sentences and dialectal language, while transformer-based models excel with longer sentences and context.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalComputer Speech & Language·DateDec 12, 2024

Online training could help older adults communicate in noisy environments

Research by UCL experts found that online training can improve speech intelligibility for both older and younger adults, with a 30% improvement in understanding sentences spoken by new voices. The study suggests that practicing listening to regularly encountered voices could enhance everyday communication.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 9, 2024
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.

Speech Accessibility Project partners with The Matthew Foundation, Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress

The Speech Accessibility Project is working with two new partners, The Matthew Foundation and the Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress, to recruit adults with Down syndrome and other conditions. The project aims to provide voice command devices to improve inclusion and employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·DateNov 15, 2024
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.

Automatic speech recognition learned to understand people with Parkinson’s disease — by listening to them

Researchers trained an automatic speech recognizer on recordings from people with dysarthria related to Parkinson's disease, achieving a 30% accuracy improvement. The study, led by Mark Hasegawa-Johnson, provides valuable data for improving voice recognition devices.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Speech Language and Hearing Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 27, 2024

Researchers identify basic approaches for how people recognize words

A new study found that people with cochlear implants use the same three word-recognition dimensions as normal hearing people: Wait and See, Sustained Activation, and Slow Activation. These dimensions help explain how people recognize words, even with different ways of hearing.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateAug 29, 2024
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.

Developed a 21-language, fast and high-fidelity neural text-to-speech technology that works on smartphones

A novel, fast and high-quality neural text-to-speech model was successfully developed using a Transformer encoder + ConvNeXt decoder and MS-FC-HiFi-GAN. The model can synthesize one second of speech at high speed in just 0.1 seconds using a single CPU core, achieving eight times faster synthesis than conventional methods.

SourceNational Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT)·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 26, 2024

Building a better sarcasm detector #ASA186

Researchers developed a multimodal algorithm for improved sarcasm detection, examining multiple aspects of audio recordings for increased accuracy. The approach combines sentiment analysis using text and emotion recognition using audio for a comprehensive analysis.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateMay 16, 2024
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.

Machine listening: Making speech recognition systems more inclusive

Researchers found that African American English speakers adjust their speech rate and pitch variation when using voice technology, adopting a slower and more monotone register to be better understood. This adaptation helps address disparities in speech recognition systems and aims to improve inclusivity for diverse language varieties.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJASA Express Letters·DateApr 30, 2024

iTalkBetter app significantly improves speech in stroke patients

A new study published in eClinicalMedicine found that the iTalkBetter app significantly improved patients' ability to talk after six weeks of use. The app provided digital speech therapy for over 200 commonly used words, with a 13% increase in naming items and improvements in spontaneous speech.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalEClinicalMedicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 21, 2024

The brain processes speech and its echo separately

A recent study published in PLOS Biology found that the human brain can segregate direct speech from its echo, allowing for reliable recognition of echoic speech. This neural separation is essential for understanding conversations in noisy environments and is supported by magnetoencephalography recordings.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 15, 2024

Using AI-related technologies can significantly enhance human cognition, finds new study

A new study published in Frontiers in Artificial Intelligence found that training in Interlingual Respeaking, a new practice combining human collaboration with speech recognition software, can improve language professionals' cognitive abilities. The research, conducted by the University of Surrey, showed significant enhancements in wor...

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalFrontiers in Artificial Intelligence·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 18, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

What if Alexa or Siri sounded more like you? Study says you’ll like it better

Researchers found a strong preference for extroverted virtual assistants and increasing personality similarity led to higher ratings, more careful assessment of information, and resistance to persuasive attempts. The study's findings may have implications for ways to increase user resistance to misinformation.

SourcePenn State·JournalInternational Journal of Human-Computer Studies·DateNov 28, 2023
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Older adults perceive artificial intelligence as more human-like than younger adults do

A recent Baycrest study found that older adults are less able to distinguish between computer-generated and human speech compared to younger counterparts. This diminished ability could be related to older adults' reduced capacity to recognize emotions in speech, highlighting the need for AI-related training programs.

SourceBaycrest Centre for Geriatric Care·JournalInternational Journal of Speech Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 3, 2023

A brain-inspired computer model that understands speech like humans

Researchers developed a computer model based on human brain mechanisms to improve speech comprehension. The model extracts multilevel information from ongoing speech and uses non-linguistic knowledge for disambiguating word meanings. This approach is more human-like than existing language models like ChatGPT.

SourceNCCR Evolving Language (National Centre of Competence in Research)·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 22, 2023
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.

Music beats beeps: Researchers find redesigned medical alarms can better alert staff and improve patient experience

A new study by McMaster University researchers found that redesigned medical alarms with musical tones can improve speech recognition and reduce annoyance. The study suggests that changing the sounds of medical devices can make alarms less disruptive, allowing for better staff communication and reducing recovery times.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalBritish Journal of Anaesthesia·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 2023

Voice-activated system for hands-free, safer DNA handling

Scientists have created a small, portable device that can extract and pretreat bacterial DNA using voice commands, making it easier and safer for researchers to handle potentially infectious samples. The device has shown promise in extracting DNA from Salmonella Typhimurium with an efficiency of 70% in under a minute.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sensors·DateFeb 1, 2023

Bot gives nonnative speakers the floor in videoconferencing

A new study at Cornell University introduced an automated participant that periodically interrupts the conversation to give nonnative speakers a chance to speak. The AI bot increased participation from 12% to 17% of all words spoken, with nonnative speakers feeling valued and appreciated for their perspectives.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the ACM on Human-Computer Interaction·DateJan 31, 2023

LTI project aims to expand language technologies

A research team at Carnegie Mellon University is working to simplify data requirements for speech recognition models, aiming to reach 2,000 languages. By focusing on linguistic elements common across many languages and using a phylogenetic tree, the team hopes to eliminate the need for audio data.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateJan 10, 2023
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.

Our brain is a prediction machine that is always active

Researchers at Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics found that our brain is a prediction machine continuously making predictions on multiple levels. They analyzed brain activity while people listened to Hemingway or Sherlock Holmes stories and text, finding the brain response was stronger when words were unexpected in context.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2022

Machine learning improves human speech recognition

Researchers developed a machine learning model that provides good predictions for human speech recognition in noisy environments, benefiting hearing-impaired listeners. The model outperformed expectations and showed strong correlations with measured data.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·DateMar 1, 2022

MU earns $12 million in grants to boost science education, literacy

University of Missouri researchers are using a video game to teach middle schoolers about science and improving literacy outcomes for second graders through speech recognition software. The programs aim to increase student engagement and prepare them for future careers in various fields.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateFeb 4, 2022

Cognitive neuroscience could pave the way for emotionally intelligent robots

A novel auditory perception model simulates human ear dynamics to capture time dynamics of dimensional emotions. Neural networks then extract features that reflect this time dynamics, showing better emotion recognition performance than traditional acoustic-based features.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalNeural Networks·DateApr 28, 2021
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.

Automated speech recognition and racial bias

Researchers found that state-of-the-art ASR systems performed worse on black speakers than white speakers, with error rates of 0.35 and 0.19 words per hour respectively. The study attributes these disparities to limitations in the acoustic models' ability to capture African American Vernacular English pronunciation and prosody.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 23, 2020

Grainger engineers voice localization techniques for smart speakers

Researchers from the University of Illinois have developed a system called VoLoc that uses microphone array recordings and room echoes to infer user location within a home. This technology can improve smart devices' support for available skills, such as turn-on-light or increase-temperature commands.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·DateMar 11, 2020

Sound deprivation in one ear leads to speech recognition difficulties

A new study suggests that chronic conductive hearing loss due to middle-ear infections can lead to neural deficits and difficulties in noisy environments. Researchers found patients with longstanding conductive hearing impairment had lower speech-recognition scores on the affected side, even when speech was audible.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalEar and Hearing·DateSep 6, 2019

Sound sense: Brain 'listens' for distinctive features in sounds

Researchers developed a computational model that explores how the auditory system achieves accurate speech recognition by identifying distinct categories of sounds. The model found that the brain looks for informative features, such as those characteristic of a face, to distinguish between different vocalizations.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 26, 2019
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

RIT researchers use deep learning to help preserve the Seneca language

RIT researchers are building an automatic speech recognition application using deep learning to document and transcribe the traditional Seneca language. The project aims to support other rare or vanishing languages as well. The team has collected over 50 hours of recorded material and achieved promising results.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·DateOct 15, 2018

Researchers peer under the hoods of neural networks

Researchers used a newly developed interpretive technique to analyze neural networks trained for machine translation and speech recognition. They found that lower-level tasks, such as sound recognition or part-of-speech recognition, are prioritized before higher-level tasks like transcription or semantic interpretation.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateDec 11, 2017

Chip could make voice control ubiquitous in electronics

A new chip designed by MIT researchers has the potential to make voice control ubiquitous in electronics, offering significant power savings. The chip's ability to minimize memory bandwidth and compress weights associated with each node enables efficient speech recognition, making it practical for relatively simple electronic devices.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateFeb 13, 2017