Add BrightSurf on Google Email

There is more to motor imagery than mental simulation

Researchers found that stroke patients with severe motor impairments used alternative mental strategies to complete tasks, suggesting a more complex phenomenon than previously thought. The study suggests that motor imagery may be a key factor in creative problem-solving and innovation.

SourceElsevier·JournalCortex·DateSep 9, 2010

Going live to the beating heart

Researchers at Max Planck have developed an new MRI method that significantly accelerates image acquisition time, allowing for 'live recordings' of moving joints and organs. This breakthrough enables direct monitoring of heart muscle pumping and blood flow, potentially improving diagnosis of conditions like coronary heart disease.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalJournal of Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance·DateAug 30, 2010

New algorithm to improve video game quality

Morgan McGuire and Dr. David Luebke developed a new method for computerized lighting and light sources that can improve video game graphics to film-like quality in faster time. The algorithm reverses the process of producing light effects, pulling it onto the world and pushing it into the image, resulting in a faster processing speed.

To see or not to see

Scientists identified rapid bursts of neural activity in high-order visual centers when patients correctly recognized target images, suggesting a 'threshold' for conscious perceptual awareness. The study found that brain processing time is crucial for ignition, with mask presentation too soon 'killing' visual input signals.

Caltech scientists create robot surrogate for blind persons in testing visual prostheses

Researchers at Caltech have developed a robot called CYCLOPS that simulates the visual experience of blind individuals with implanted visual prostheses, refining design and enhancing its effectiveness. The robot's camera system processes images, allowing scientists to test various enhancements without relying on actual blind users.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalComputer Methods and Programs in Biomedicine·DateOct 19, 2009

How scientists think: Fostering creativity in problem solving

Researchers found that scientists combine model-based cognitive problem-solving with creativity to develop a better understanding of the system under investigation. This approach allows scientists to build real-world models and make predictions, leading to novel problem solutions.

SourceWiley·JournalTopics in Cognitive Science·DateSep 21, 2009

Blur's noise and distortion reversed

Researchers develop modified recurrent Hopfield neural network to quickly process images, reducing distortion, noise and blurring. The approach shows significant improvement in image quality by 39-67% and takes half the time of other methods.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Signal and Imaging Systems Engineering·DateJul 8, 2009

Seeing a brain as it learns to see

A Duke University research team observed a naïve brain organizing itself to interpret images of motion for the first time. The study revealed that individual neurons develop specific responses and become organized into functional assemblies called cortical columns.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature·DateOct 22, 2008

New tool for 'right first time' drug manufacture

The new technology characterizes particle shapes using a probe that collects images of the crystallization process, enabling pharmaceutical companies to monitor and optimize processes. This approach has the potential to revolutionize the pharmaceutical manufacturing sector by achieving 'Six Sigma' quality standards.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalOrganic Process Research & Development·DateSep 22, 2008

A look into the nanoscale

Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory have developed a new imaging technique that allows for the capture of ultra-fast dynamics of solid materials at the nanoscale. This breakthrough enables the study of previously inaccessible phenomena such as fracture, shock formation and phase growth.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalNature Photonics·DateJun 23, 2008

University of Miami's CSTARS to host valuable hurricane, typhoon satellite image library

The University of Miami's CSTARS will host a library of high-quality images collected via spaceborne C-Band Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) to aid in understanding hurricane and typhoon dynamics. The database will provide approved scientists with free access to imagery that can help shape storm models and resource distribution.

Wine labels with animals: Why they work

Researchers found that consumers associate animal logos more strongly with themselves than traditional product-related logos. This association enhances brand evaluation and recognition. The study's findings challenge conventional branding wisdom, suggesting unique visual identifiers can be effective in marketing.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 17, 2008

The hand can't be fooled, study shows

A study published in Psychological Science found that our grasp reflects the real size of objects, not their apparent size, even when they appear distorted through optical illusions. This supports the two visual systems hypothesis, which suggests that our brain has two separate systems for processing images and controlling actions.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 10, 2008