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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

Psilocybin generates psychedelic experience by disrupting brain network

A new study finds that psilocybin temporarily desynchronizes the default mode network in the brain, creating a psychedelic experience. The study provides a neurobiological explanation for the drug's effects and lays groundwork for its potential use as a therapy for mental illnesses.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 17, 2024
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.

New technology to control the brain using magnetic fields developed

Researchers have developed Nano-MIND technology, which uses magnetism to selectively activate specific deep brain neural circuits, modulating complex brain functions such as cognition and emotion. The technology has been successfully tested in animals, demonstrating its potential to regulate feeding behaviors and maternal instincts.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 17, 2024

Metamaterials for the data highway

Scientists from HZDR, TU Chemnitz, TU Dresden, and Forschungszentrum Jülich have demonstrated the storage of entire bit sequences in cylindrical domains. The team's findings could lead to novel types of data storage and sensors, including magnetic variants of neural networks.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalAdvanced Electronic Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 16, 2024

Study reveals how an anesthesia drug induces unconsciousness

Researchers discovered that propofol, a commonly used anesthesia drug, induces unconsciousness by causing the brain to become increasingly unstable. This instability leads to chaotic brain activity, resulting in loss of consciousness. The study's findings could help develop better tools for monitoring patients during general anesthesia.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNeuron·DateJul 15, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Off-the-shelf wearable trackers provide clinically-useful information for patients with heart disease

A study published in Nature Medicine found that off-the-shelf wearable trackers can monitor the response to two treatments for atrial fibrillation and heart failure. The devices provided clinically useful information similar to in-person hospital assessments, with a neural network helping to analyze missing data.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 15, 2024

Neural networks made of light

Researchers at Max Planck Institute propose a new method for implementing neural networks with optical systems, which could lead to faster and more energy-efficient alternatives. The approach allows for parallel computations in high speeds limited by the speed of light, and can be applied to various physically different systems.

SourceMax Planck Institute for the Science of Light·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 2024

Researchers identify potential therapeutic target for management of thirst disorders

A recent study found that the cerebellum plays a crucial role in regulating thirst, with the hormone asprosin activating Purkinje neurons to enhance water intake. This discovery has significant implications for managing thirst disorders such as polydipsia and hypodipsia, for which current treatments are scarce.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJul 11, 2024
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Acoustic radiation and scattering: a new era with BINNs technology

Researchers developed Boundary Integrated Neural Networks (BINNs) for precise acoustic field analysis in unbounded domains. BINNs offer improved precision, efficiency, and reduced computational costs compared to traditional methods.

SourceMaximum Academic Press·JournalInternational Journal of Mechanical System Dynamics·DateJul 8, 2024

Groundbreaking approach to sleep study expands potential of sleep medicine

Researchers at the University of Houston have introduced a new method for sleep stage classification that can be performed at home and uses only two leads. This approach achieves expert-level agreement with the gold-standard polysomnography without expensive equipment, paving the way for more accessible and cost-effective sleep studies.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalComputers in Biology and Medicine·DateJul 2, 2024

Take-off! Researchers map fly’s neural networks that control wing and leg movement

Scientists at the University of Washington and Harvard Medical School have discovered the neural circuits that coordinate leg and wing movements in fruit flies. The study uses X-ray holographic nanotomography to map motor neurons controlling legs and wings, revealing pre-motor neurons coordinating motor neuron function.

SourceEuropean Synchrotron Radiation Facility·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 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.

From takeoff to flight, the wiring of a fly's nervous system is mapped

Researchers create detailed wiring diagram of motor circuits in fruit flies, revealing complex nerve coordination for leg and wing movements. The study advances understanding of how the central nervous system coordinates individual muscles for various behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2024

Charting super-colorful brain wiring using an AI's super-human eye

Scientists at Kyushu University created QDyeFinder, an AI pipeline that untangles the dense neuronal networks in the brain. The system uses a super-multicolor labeling protocol to tag neurons and then automatically identifies their structure by matching similar color combinations.

SourceKyushu University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2024

New computational model of real neurons could lead to better AI

A new model developed by Flatiron Institute researchers proposes that individual neurons exert more control over their surroundings, which could be replicated in artificial neural networks. This updated model treats neurons as tiny 'controllers' and may lead to better AI performance and efficiency.

SourceSimons Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 24, 2024
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Navigating the labyrinth: How AI tackles complex data sampling

Researchers investigated the efficiency of modern neural network-based generative models, comparing them to traditional sampling techniques. The study found that modern diffusion-based methods may face challenges due to a first-order phase transition, but also exhibit superior efficiency in certain cases.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 24, 2024

Innovative system enhances biological-artificial interactions in neurological research

A new tool, BioemuS, enables real-time emulation and hybridization of biological systems using biomimetic Spiking Neural Networks, addressing limitations of current pharmacological treatments. The system, developed through international collaboration, prioritizes cost efficiency and accessibility for closed-loop applications.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 20, 2024

Drone racing prepares neural-network AI for space

Researchers at Delft University of Technology use drone racing to test neural-network-based AI control systems planned for next-generation space missions. The goal is to achieve optimal onboard operations by continuously replanning trajectories, reducing resource consumption and boosting mission autonomy.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 19, 2024
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.

Controlling the precise timing of electrical pulses may offer promise for treating mild traumatic brain injury

Scientists at Virginia Tech have discovered that controlling the precise timing of electrical pulses can rebalance synaptic connections between nerve cells, selectively up- or down-regulating those connections. This finding suggests potential avenues for more effective treatment strategies for mild traumatic brain injuries.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2024

The fruit fly brain shows how simple commands turn into complex behaviors

Researchers discovered that command-like DNs in fruit flies recruit additional networks of neurons to orchestrate complex behaviors. The study shows that these networks work together to produce coordinated actions, transforming the way we understand brain signals and behavior.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature·DateJun 5, 2024

Internet addiction affects the behavior and development of adolescents

A new study found that internet addiction in adolescents can lead to changes in the brain's neural networks, resulting in addictive behaviors and tendencies. The study, published in PLOS Mental Health, reviewed 12 articles involving 237 young people aged 10-19 with a formal diagnosis of internet addiction.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPLOS Mental Health·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 4, 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.

Sorting complex light beams: A breakthrough in optical physics

A groundbreaking study introduces a method for sorting vector structured beams with spin-multiplexed diffractive metasurfaces, promising significant advancements in optical communication and quantum computing. This technology enables precise control over complex light beams, opening new avenues for scientific exploration.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateMay 31, 2024

Bio-inspired cameras and AI help drivers detect pedestrians and obstacles faster

Researchers have developed a system combining bio-inspired cameras with AI to quickly detect obstacles around cars, using less computational power. The hybrid system detects objects up to one hundred times faster than current systems while reducing data transmission and processing needs.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 29, 2024
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Light-activated drugs targeting adenosine A2A receptors in the brain that induce sleep

Researchers developed a novel light-sensitive drug that enhances extracellular adenosine activity, inducing sleep artificially without genetic modification. The drug overcomes issues with conventional photosensitive drugs, showcasing optochemistry's potential in targeting A2A receptors and regulating brain function.

SourceInternational Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine, University of Tsukuba·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 28, 2024

How neurons build a 3-D vascular structure to keep the retina healthy

Researchers at University of California - San Francisco discovered a new type of neuron that guides the formation of intricate 3D lattices of blood vessels in the retina. These perivascular neurons produce PIEZO2 protein to sense nearby cells and direct the lattice's growth.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCell·DateMay 23, 2024

Researchers find key differences in brain development between autistic boys and girls

A new study found significant differences in brain development between autistic boys and girls, with autistic females showing a thicker cortex at age 3 and faster cortical thinning into middle childhood. The findings highlight the need for longitudinal studies that include both sexes to better understand sex-specific changes in autism.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMay 22, 2024

Study models how ketamine’s molecular action leads to its effects on the brain

A new study uses computational modeling to understand how ketamine affects individual neurons, leading to changes in brain network function. The model predicts that ketamine can disinhibit network activity by shutting down certain inhibitory interneurons.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 21, 2024
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

U of M research team demonstrates cortex's self-organizing abilities in neural development

Researchers at the University of Minnesota have found that the cortex can transform unorganized inputs into highly organized patterns of activity, demonstrating self-organization. This process occurs entirely within the cortex itself, indicating that the brain is able to organize its own function during development.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 21, 2024

Unique brain circuit is linked to Body Mass Index

A newly discovered connection between two brain regions may help regulate how much we eat, according to a Northwestern University study. The weaker the connection between these regions, the higher a person's BMI, suggesting that individuals with weak brain circuits may overeat even when full.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJNeurosci·TypeObservational study·DateMay 16, 2024
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Animal brain inspired AI game changer for autonomous robots

Researchers at Delft University of Technology developed a drone that flies autonomously using neuromorphic image processing and control based on the workings of animal brains. The drone's deep neural network processes data up to 64 times faster and consumes three times less energy than when running on a GPU.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2024

Taking electroretinography to the next level with a soft multi-electrode system

A new soft multi-electrode system for electroretinography has been developed to overcome the limitations of traditional devices. The system uses a commercially available soft disposable contact lens with gold mesh electrodes, allowing for simultaneous measurement of electrical potentials from different regions of the retina. This innov...

SourceWaseda University·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 13, 2024

Learning the imperfections: a new approach to using neural networks for low-power digital pre-distortion (DPD) in mmWave systems

A new approach uses neural networks to automatically determine polynomial coefficients for digital pre-distortion (DPD) in RF-PAs, reducing hardware complexity and power efficiency. This method can correct non-linearities and support emerging standards without extensive real-time processing.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 10, 2024
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Generative AI that imitates human motion

The new approach combines central pattern generators (CPGs) with deep reinforcement learning (DRL), generating human-like movements for walking, running, and adapting to frequencies where motion data is absent. This breakthrough sets a new benchmark in robotics, offering unprecedented environmental adaptation capability.

SourceTohoku University·JournalIEEE Robotics and Automation Letters·DateMay 8, 2024

Unlocking consciousness: a new frontier in neuroscientific fusion

The study suggests that memory plays a pivotal role in shaping consciousness, contrasting the idea that computer-based Information Theory provides a sufficient framework for understanding neural memory. The researchers propose a novel perspective that memory underpins consciousness, introducing the concept of a "brain cloud" to illustr...

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalInternational Journal of Psychiatry Research·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 8, 2024

‘Mathematical microscope’ reveals novel, energy-efficient mechanism of working memory that works even during sleep

Researchers at UCLA Health discovered a novel, energy-efficient mechanism of working memory that reduces metabolic cost even during sleep. The discovery is published in Nature Communications and may provide an early diagnostic for Alzheimer's disease and related dementia.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 8, 2024

ChatGPT fails at heart risk assessment

A study by Washington State University found ChatGPT's generative AI system provided inconsistent heart risk assessments for patients with chest pain. The AI failed to match traditional methods used by physicians and returned different results for the same patient data, highlighting its limitations in high-stakes clinical situations.

SourceWashington State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 1, 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.

Magnetic microcoils unlock targeted single-neuron therapies for neurodegenerative disorders

Researchers have developed a magnetic coil array called MagPatch that can stimulate individual neurons with precision. The device uses soft magnetic materials to boost the magnetic field, reducing the need for high current levels.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Vacuum Science & Technology B Microelectronics and Nanometer Structures Processing Measurement and Phenomena·DateApr 23, 2024

U of T researchers map protein network dynamics during cell division

Researchers at U of T have mapped the movement of proteins encoded by the yeast genome throughout its cell cycle, identifying patterns of emergence and disappearance or movement to specific areas. The study provides a unique dataset that offers a genome-scale view of molecular changes during cell division.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalCell·DateApr 22, 2024

Perfect balance: How the brain fine-tunes its sensitivity

Researchers at the University of Basel discovered a molecular pathway that helps balance neural excitation and inhibition in the brain. This balance is crucial for preventing neurodevelopmental disorders like epilepsy, and understanding this process may lead to new treatments.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2024
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

When thoughts flow in one direction

A study by Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin found that human neurons communicate in a feed-forward manner, unlike mice where signals flow in loops. This discovery could further the development of artificial neural networks, leading to more efficient and cost-effective AI models.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalScience·DateApr 18, 2024

Selective sampling with Gromov–Hausdorff metric: Efficient dense-shape correspondence via Confidence-based sample consensus

This study introduces selective sampling with the Gromov–Hausdorff metric to improve dense-shape correspondence. It proposes a novel method that filters out unsatisfactory features during training and testing, improving alignment accuracy and reducing computation time.

SourceBeijing Zhongke Journal Publising Co. Ltd.·JournalVirtual Reality & Intelligent Hardware·DateApr 17, 2024

Photonic computation with sound waves

A research team has successfully created a new dimension in photonic machine learning by incorporating sound waves, enabling the creation of reconfigurable neuromorphic building blocks. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize computing tasks by providing high-speed and large-capacity solutions.

SourceMax Planck Institute for the Science of Light·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 16, 2024

Rice team demonstrates miniature brain stimulator in humans

The Digitally programmable Over-brain Therapeutic (DOT) device, the size of a pea, activates the motor cortex, allowing patients to move their hands. The technology offers greater patient autonomy and accessibility than current neurostimulation-based therapies.

SourceRice University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 12, 2024
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.

Connecting lab-grown brain cells provides insight into how our own brains work

Researchers at The University of Tokyo successfully connected lab-grown brain-mimicking tissue using axonal bundles, mimicking natural brain connections. This breakthrough enables the study of complex brain networks and their role in various neurological and psychiatric conditions.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 10, 2024

Brain-inspired computing may boil down to information transfer

Researchers focused on measuring information transfer in biological neurons, simulated neurons, and electronic neuromorphic systems. The team demonstrated that it is possible to transform biological circuits into electronic circuits while maintaining the amount of information transferred.

SourceIntelligent Computing·JournalIntelligent Computing·DateApr 8, 2024

Fuelling nerve cell function and plasticity

Researchers at University of Cologne's CECAD Cluster of Excellence discovered that mitochondrial fusion boosts new neuron plasticity. The study found that as new neurons mature, their mitochondria fuse to acquire elongated shapes, sustaining synaptic plasticity and refining brain circuits.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNeuron·DateApr 5, 2024
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.

Dartmouth researchers map how the brain regulates emotions

A new study identifies multiple emotion regulation systems in the human brain, providing targets for therapy. The research reveals that regions in the anterior prefrontal cortex and higher-level cortical hierarchies are involved in emotion regulation.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 3, 2024

Amazing! The classical optical neural network exhibits “quantum speedup”

A new type of optical neural network has been developed, exhibiting a quantum speedup similar to quantum neural networks. The network uses classical optical correlations as a carrier of information, allowing for efficient processing and convergence speed.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateApr 2, 2024

Investigating the loss of musical ability

A new study has identified the likely origin of tone deafness in the brain, finding that strokes causing amusia affect the right hemisphere and a specific region called the superior temporal gyrus. This discovery highlights the differences between processing music and language in the brain, with implications for diagnosis and treatment.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalJNeurosci·DateMar 26, 2024

The construction of visual attention highlighted at the neuronal level

Researchers used intracortical recordings to study the neural mechanisms behind exogenous attention, identifying three cortical networks activated in sequence as attention was captured by visual stimuli. The findings suggest a continuum of activity in the cortex, with attention emerging as a bridge between perception and action.

SourceInstitut du Cerveau (Paris Brain Institute)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 26, 2024
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.