Articles tagged with Information Technology
The Global Technology Confidence Index post-election survey found that US tech firms are optimistic about the re-election of President Bush, with over half believing it will benefit their industry. The report also revealed mixed views on business and technology confidence, with some regions experiencing a sharp decline in optimism.
The development of spun carbon nanotube yarns has the potential to revolutionize engineered fabrics due to their excellent strength, toughness, and electrical/thermal conductivities. The new material is being explored for production of vests, soft body armor, medical devices, and other applications.
QFilter uses non-deterministic finite automata (NFA) to filter out parts of queries asking for unauthorized access, significantly improving query-response time. The technology offers a practical solution to the ongoing problem of database access controls without requiring substantial changes to existing databases.
A new framework for assessing multi-user, computer-supported cooperative systems is proposed by researchers at Penn State. They found that students who had better awareness of their collaborators' activities were more effective in collaborating on science projects. The study introduced new system features to support improved awareness ...
Researchers are studying the impact of electronic medical records on patient care for diabetes patients in Cleveland. The study aims to improve decision-making and outcomes by providing real-time alerts and decision-support tools for physicians.
A new study co-authored by Ann Mooney explores how CEO job demands influence strategic decisions and leader behaviors. The research reveals that varying levels of demand facing top executives are shaped by three factors: task challenges, performance challenges, and executive aspirations.
The AEX XML Schemas specify ways to express equipment requirements, enabling seamless data exchange and automating design collaboration. NIST and FIATECH plan to extend the standard to cover more types of equipment.
The Global Technology Confidence Index fell back to its lowest level for a year, with Japan and Europe experiencing significant downturns. In contrast, China's business confidence index showed an upward trend, indicating a surge in sales growth.
The ENCODE project aims to build a comprehensive 'parts list' of human DNA's sequence-based functional elements, including protein-coding genes and regulatory elements. The initiative will analyze the remaining 99% of the human genome using novel methods and technologies.
Indiana University is a national leader in new federal funding for health information technology, aiming to improve healthcare quality, safety, and efficiency. The state has received $6.5 million to develop and implement a statewide health information network.
The UK has played a significant role in CERN's history, contributing to groundbreaking research and technological advancements. The laboratory continues to be a hub for scientific discovery, with ongoing experiments searching for the Higgs boson and exploring dark matter.
A pilot project by Voxiva and PATH aims to track and reduce Japanese encephalitis incidence through improved surveillance and response. The system uses phone and web-based technology to collect and analyze data, enabling health officials to respond quickly to reported cases and identify outbreaks.
The NSF has awarded over $130 million to 120 new projects tackling various topics including interactive ocean observatories, stress corrosion cracking, and secure access to confidential social science data. The funding aims to advance science and engineering, economic prosperity, and national security.
Srinidhi Varadarajan designed a record-breaking, low-cost supercomputer that transformed the industry with its innovative use of off-the-shelf products. His work has opened doors to affordable high-performance computing for major research universities and enterprises.
The Virginia Tech Geospatial Center provides a statewide ESRI site license, resulting in cost savings and increased availability of GIS software. This collaboration also enhances economic development, environmental projects, and good governance across state agencies and localities.
Researchers found that a significant percentage of microarray probes don't match the latest RefSeq database information, leading to inaccurate results. Sequence-verified probes perform more consistently and accurately, improving diagnostic power and analysis of existing data sets.
iHOP, developed by Spanish scientists, is a gene-guided network system that converts 14 million PubMed abstracts into an interlinked resource. The system uses novel text-mining technology to detect biomedical entities and connect distant medical concepts through few intermediate genes.
The study found that a lack of universally accepted supply chain standards costs the auto industry over $5 billion annually and the electronics industry almost $3.9 billion. The lack of interoperability leads to duplicated efforts, redundant systems, and inefficient processes.
A study analyzing 3 million records from Alta Vista in 2002 found that consumers who used the interface had fewer queries per session and used fewer terms per query. The researchers suggest that radio buttons can help with information overload, but widespread adoption is hindered by technical issues and lack of individual site use.
The Global Justice XML Data Model, released in Version 3.0, enables efficient data sharing between federal, state, and local agencies. By providing a common language and vocabulary, the model allows for automatic translation of information across different systems, facilitating faster response to potential criminal and terrorist activity.
Researchers found that visual perception can stabilize in ambiguous conditions, independent of the memory of object identity. The mechanism underlying this stabilization is linked to the removal of local adaptation and depends on the stimulus location.
Science.gov 2.0 enhances the interagency science portal, searching 47 million pages of government R&D results in relevancy-ranked order. The new metasearch technology brings together the 30 largest databases, making them searchable via a single query.
A Georgia Institute of Technology study found that older adults are willing to sacrifice some privacy for technologies that enable them to live independently longer. The study evaluated various technologies, including Cook's Collage and FaceBot, which sparked both positive and negative reactions among participants.
Researchers at NCAR/University of Colorado Denver aim to create a system that sends real-time maps and predictions of wildfires to frontline firefighters. The team will use supercomputers, satellite and sensor monitoring, and meteorology to develop tools to warn firefighters about wildfire behavior.
STN International has launched Derwent World Patents Index First View, providing early access to the latest published patent documents. This new alerting companion file offers a comprehensive and timely overview of global patenting activity when used with Derwent World Patents Index.
A portable, wearable device called Tyflos enables visually impaired individuals to conduct daily tasks efficiently. The device uses computer vision and robotics technology to convert images into audio information, allowing users to navigate and interact with their environment.
The gift will establish a comprehensive center utilizing information technology to connect basic research and biological systems analysis. This will enable scientists to build on recent scientific developments, gain insights into biological function in health and diseases.
Researchers have developed materials that enable wavelength division multiplexing, transmitting 5 terabits of data per second. These new materials require less than one-fifth the voltage needed for standard lithium niobate crystals, improving performance by nearly fivefold in just four years.
The new standard provides detailed guidance on categorizing systems and assessing potential impact of security breaches. It will help agencies make informed decisions and implement cost-effective security measures, complemented by a companion standard specifying minimum federal system requirements.
The next generation of speech recognizers will go beyond conversion to text, using information detectors that provide a machine with digestible information. Researchers are working on new mathematical algorithms and paradigms to tackle the broader problem of human-to-machine and machine-to-human speech.
Dr. Latanya Sweeney's research focuses on de-identifying medical data to share for bio-terrorism surveillance while maintaining individual privacy protection. Her 'Privacert De-identification' software provides easy-to-use automated tools to render data sufficiently anonymous, preventing potential abuses.
The US will need to invest $450 billion in conventional electric infrastructure to meet growing demand by 20 years, but a smart energy approach can reduce this cost. By leveraging info tech, PNNL engineers aim to minimize new infrastructure, lower rates, and enhance grid security.
Two LSU professors are working to develop survivable sensor networks that can collect valuable data during disasters, which could be used in environmental monitoring, healthcare, and national security projects. The researchers also aim to ensure secure data transmission through methods like anonymous email tracking.
The Navy is testing a blog as part of the Defense Acquisition Incentive-Net Centricity (RAI-NC) initiative to speed up the exchange of information on new defense technologies. The pilot program, developed by Traction Software, enables users to post proprietary data and distribute general information among team members.
Virginia Tech researchers are developing wireless video sensor networks that can provide real-time visual data in critical situations. The goal is to improve the government's ability to prevent, detect, and respond to natural and man-made disasters.
The Virginia Tech 'X' supercomputer boasts 10.28 teraflops performance, a remarkable feat considering its construction took just two months and $5.2 million price tag. This achievement ranks X as the third fastest globally, outperforming many high-end supercomputers
The nTag device uses infrared links and RFID chips to connect people with common interests, alerting them to potential matches. Despite some initial issues, most delegates were impressed with the service, exchanging over 3,600 business cards during the event.
Research in the Journal of Industrial Ecology reveals that seemingly small e-commerce decisions can have significant environmental impacts, often shifting from positive to negative effects. Positive IT effects are typically limited to 5-20% reductions in pollution or energy use.
Stevens Institute of Technology has been ranked as the most connected campus in the nation, with a robust wired and wireless network. The university is expanding its network with its new Babbio Center for Technology Management, which will provide state-of-the-art facilities for leading-edge education in business and technology management.
A new software tool, LoopDA, allows architects and engineers to determine the size of natural ventilation openings needed for desired airflow rates. The program uses an engineering-based design process to control indoor air quality and thermal comfort.
A two-year study examines factors influencing female students' entry into and exit from RIT's IT program, comparing them to those in CS programs. The research aims to inform strategies for improving female student retention in IT departments.
Researchers analyzed over 450,000 web queries, finding half of users enter only one query with 54% viewing just one page of results. Site developers can improve odds by getting indexed by all search engines and crafting clear abstracts about their site's purpose.
The Virginia Tech program aims to develop improved wildlife management strategies for chimpanzee populations in east Africa. Researchers will use a multidisciplinary approach, combining data collection with information sharing and education.
Researchers studied business models adopted by European mobile operators, finding that interfirm networks offering content services can provide a competitive advantage. The study explores three models and their impact on the role of customers and content providers.
Dr. Thomas Rossby is recognized for his groundbreaking acoustically tracked floats and innovative methods to measure ocean currents, offering new insights into the North Atlantic circulation. His work has revolutionized our understanding of physical ocean processes using sound in the sea.
A Penn State researcher found that few churches have adopted IT tools, leaving them out of funding opportunities. Churches can provide digital literacy to bridge the digital divide and support urban areas.
A recent study by Dr. Lynette Kvasny found that minority women view technology training as empowering, enabling them to connect with their children and overcome poverty and social alienation. They see IT skills as a means to transform and shape inner-city communities, rather than just advancing in the workplace.
The Phone and Go service is a pioneering example of Demand Responsive Transport (DRT) services, utilizing information technology to facilitate greater responsiveness. Early indications show that the service is proving successful in rural areas with few existing bus links, offering passengers flexibility and convenience.
Researchers at Georgia Tech have developed a prototype software program called InfoCanvas, which creates an abstract pictorial representation of information people want to monitor. The canvas displays on a separate monitor and uses icons to represent different data elements, gradually changing as information updates.
A prototype PDA system made shopping easier and more efficient for participants, who appreciated the ability to identify item locations. However, difficulty holding the device while shopping was a drawback, prompting designers to create an alternative cart-mounted version.
The PNNL-developed microscale fuel processor, the smallest integrated catalytic fuel reformer in the world, provides a low-watt power source for hand-held devices. This compact system enables soldiers to operate essential electronic equipment without added weight or bulk.
Researchers from Delft University of Technology found that reinforced high-strength concrete cracks less quickly than previously believed. By omitting extra steps during the hardening process, costs can be saved and environmental impact reduced.
A new personal chemical agent detector has been developed using a hybrid of sensor technologies, offering high sensitivity and fast reaction time. The device is reusable, can differentiate between warfare agent threats and background environments, and requires minimal power.
The Office of Naval Research will host a venture initiative called the 'wargame,' which aims to improve the technology transition process. The game will examine venture capital decision-making and mechanisms for engaging the venture capital community.
Dalton's research team has developed new theory about the chemical behavior of solids, leading to innovative materials with effortless conversion capabilities. These materials have applications in intelligent sensors, remote monitoring, and medical diagnosis, as well as routing information on mobile military platforms.
The Office of Naval Research conducted a technology transition 'wargame' to explore approaches for rapid spin-out of emerging technologies into the commercial sector. The exercise examined three different models, including traditional government office, not-for-profit corporation, and for-profit company models.
A new protocol developed by Penn State professor Jonghun Park can allocate resources up to 10 times faster than existing technology. The decentralized protocol allows for efficient resource allocation, solves deadlock and livelock problems, and enables collaboration across multiple independent organizations.
The Navy's new concept, FORCEnet, focuses on integrating long-haul networks, knowledge management tools, and wireless technologies to support warfighters in the field. This initiative aims to provide real-time information advantage and enhance combat operations.
The Office of Naval Research has developed a new missile called the Affordable Weapon, designed to carry a significant payload to a target several hundred miles away. Equipped with GPS navigation and line-of-sight data links, the Affordable Weapon can fly directly to its target or loiter until directed by a forward observer.
Researchers have developed a reusable multi-agent infrastructure called RETSINA, which enables teams of intelligent agents to work together autonomously. This allows for more efficient collaboration among humans and agents in joint mission planning and execution.