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Evolution of learning is key to better artificial intelligence

The study demonstrates the evolution of associative learning in an artificial organism without a brain, allowing it to navigate complex environments and adapt to changing signals. This breakthrough has huge implications for developing robots that can learn from experiences as effectively as humans do.

SourceMichigan State University·DateSep 20, 2019

What artificial intelligence can teach us about proteins

A new algorithm called DeeProtein uses sensitivity analysis to unravel the secret of its predictions, providing valuable insights into protein functions. This technique enables researchers to identify critical regions in proteins that tolerate changes well or poorly, paving the way for targeted modifications.

SourceBIH at Charité·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateMay 15, 2019
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Intelligence can link to health and aging

A new study suggests that mitochondrial function may explain the link between general intelligence, health, and aging. Chronic stress can damage mitochondria, leading to age-related diseases such as Alzheimer's, highlighting the importance of promoting healthy mitochondria through regular exercise and a balanced diet.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateMay 8, 2019

Ultra-low power chips help make small robots more capable

Researchers developed a hybrid chip that uses pulse-width encoding to conserve power. The chip enables small robots to operate for several hours on low power consumption, facilitating reconnaissance, search-and-rescue, and other missions. It also accommodates model-based programming and collaborative reinforcement learning.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateMar 6, 2019
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.

3D-printed robot hand plays the piano

Researchers at the University of Cambridge developed a 3D-printed robotic hand that can play simple musical phrases on the piano using passive movement. The robot's wrist actuation allows it to mimic different playing styles, demonstrating the potential for smart mechanical design in achieving complex movement.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience Robotics·DateDec 19, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New models sense human trust in smart machines

Researchers developed two classification models that gauge human trust in intelligent machines using electroencephalography and galvanic skin response. The models achieved a mean accuracy of 71.22 percent, enabling real-time trust estimation.

SourcePurdue University·DateDec 11, 2018

Emotional intelligence: A new criterion for hiring?

Researchers at UNIGE and UNIBE developed an emotional intelligence test to measure skills in work environments. The test, called the Geneva Emotional Competence Test (GECO), evaluates understanding emotions, recognizing emotions, regulating one's own emotions, and managing other people's emotions.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateNov 13, 2018

Dog intelligence 'not exceptional'

Researchers found cognitive abilities of dogs matched by several species in domestic animals, social hunters, and carnivorans. The study suggests dogs' reputation as intelligent creatures may be overhyped.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalLearning & Behavior·DateOct 1, 2018

Your Facebook friends don't mean it, but they're likely hurting you daily

Research from University at Buffalo suggests that unintentional social exclusion on Facebook and other social media sites can hinder thought processes, leading to negative emotions and increased susceptibility to advertising messages. The study's findings highlight the importance of critical thinking when interacting with these platforms.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalSocial Science Computer Review·DateSep 26, 2018
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.

How we judge personality from faces depends on our beliefs about how personality works

A new study by NYU researchers found that people form impressions of others' personalities from facial features based on their pre-existing beliefs about personality. The study's findings suggest that face impressions are shaped by our own beliefs, and can be highly inaccurate but consequential in real-world outcomes.

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 27, 2018

Disaster relief: How can AI improve humanitarian assistance?

The workshop discussed how AI can help victims of disasters, including using unmanned aerial vehicles to find survivors and robots to communicate with trapped victims. The goal is to leverage AI to better deliver resources and people to those in urgent need.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateAug 8, 2018

First machine learning method capable of accurate extrapolation

Scientists developed a new machine learning method that can make accurate predictions for all possible conditions governed by the same physical dynamics. The method provides simple and interpretable descriptions of underlying physics, allowing for safer robot operation.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·DateJul 12, 2018
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.

How humans repress prejudices

Research by Dr Beate Krickel suggests that people can hold unconscious biases despite professing tolerant views. These biases can be detected using psychological tests, but may be masked by repression of negative emotions.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalPhilosophical Psychology·DateMay 16, 2018

What makes someone believe or reject science?

A new study found that poor-quality audio negatively affects perception of scientists and their research, while style triumphs over substance in communicating science. Researchers highlight the need to consider not only content but also delivery features.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalScience Communication·DateApr 12, 2018

A cosmic gorilla effect could blind the detection of aliens

Scientists warn that human brains may be overlooking signs of extraterrestrial life due to cognitive biases. Researchers conducted an experiment where participants failed to detect artificial structures in images, mirroring the famous gorilla suit test.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalActa Astronautica·DateApr 10, 2018
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.

Chimpanzee self-control is related to intelligence, Georgia State study finds

A recent study by Georgia State researchers found a correlation between chimpanzee self-control and general intelligence, mirroring the famous marshmallow test results in humans. The Hybrid Delay Task revealed that chimps who showed higher levels of generalized intelligence were more efficient in delayed gratification tests.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 8, 2018

We view ourselves and those we care about through 'rose-tinted glasses', study says

A new study from City, University of London, University of Oxford, and Yale University shows that people exhibit an 'optimism bias' when learning about others, with stronger vicarious optimism for those they care about. This bias affects how much people change their beliefs after receiving good or bad news.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalPsychological Science·DateFeb 2, 2018

Origin of hominids' reproductive success

Researchers found that human neurochemical profiles are consistent with enhanced sensitivity to social cues, promoting monogamy and reducing within-group aggression. Elevated serotonin and neuropeptide Y levels may have encouraged male provisioning, while a dopamine-dominated striatum could have led to increased brain size and language.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 22, 2018
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.

The conversational intelligence challenge finals

The Conversational Intelligence Challenge Finals saw six teams compete, with two winning teams developing modules for processing different scenarios and a command module that decides which routine should step in. The competition aimed to work out approaches for chatbot evaluation and human-to-machine dialogue collection.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·DateDec 15, 2017

Computer systems predict objects' responses to physical forces

Researchers at MIT develop computer systems that approximate human cognitive abilities to navigate the world. The systems learn to perceive physics by inferring object shapes and properties from visual data, and predicting how objects will behave based on that data.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateDec 14, 2017

With 'material robotics,' intelligent products won't even look like robots

Researchers in material robotics envision a future where technology seamlessly integrates into daily life, enabling intelligent products that adapt to our needs. By merging materials science and robotics, the goal is to create robots with 'brains' in their bodies, making them ubiquitous and invisible.

SourceOregon State University·JournalScience Robotics·DateNov 29, 2017
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.

Smart people have better connected brains

Research at Goethe University Frankfurt finds that more intelligent individuals have brain regions more strongly connected to each other within their own 'family', but less connected to others. This may help them filter out irrelevant information and focus on important tasks.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 22, 2017

Theory: Flexibility is at the heart of human intelligence

According to University of Illinois psychology professor Aron Barbey, the brain's ability to flexibly transition between network states is crucial for general intelligence. This flexibility involves forming and reforming connections in response to changing needs, supporting both crystallized and fluid intelligence.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·DateNov 19, 2017

Daydreaming is good. It means you're smart

A recent study from Georgia Institute of Technology suggests that daydreaming during meetings or at work might not be as bad as thought. Participants with more efficient brains scored higher on intellectual and creative ability tests.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNeuropsychologia·DateOct 24, 2017
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.

You would not ask a firefighter to perform open-heart surgery

A study by Iowa State University researchers found that collective intelligence theory does not apply to real-world teams due to factors like leadership and communication skills. The research contradicts previous findings supporting the concept, which has been widely adopted in business and management.

SourceIowa State University·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateOct 17, 2017

Data Science Institute professor leads team to design smart headphones

A Data Science Institute professor is leading a research team to develop an intelligent headphone system that detects sounds of approaching vehicles and sends audio alerts to pedestrians. The project aims to reduce pedestrian injuries and fatalities in crowded cities by providing a warning system for pedestrians wearing headphones.

SourceData Science Institute at Columbia·DateOct 4, 2017

Nutrition has benefits for brain network organization, new research finds

A new study found that monounsaturated fatty acids, particularly in olive oils, nuts, and avocados, are linked to improved cognitive performance. The researchers discovered a specific brain network, the dorsal attentional network, where these fatty acids positively impact general intelligence.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNeuroImage·DateSep 7, 2017

Apes' abilities misunderstood by decades of poor science

A new analysis argues that decades of research on apes' social intelligence is based on wishful thinking and flawed science. Scientists have assumed human babies are more socially capable than ape adults, leading to biased research designs.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalAnimal Cognition·DateAug 31, 2017

So-called 'bright girl effect' does not last into adulthood, study finds

A study from Case Western Reserve University found little evidence of a relationship between women's intelligence and their mindsets. The research challenged the idea of a 'bright girl effect,' which suggests that young females limit their own progress based on their perceived intelligence.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalIntelligence·DateAug 23, 2017
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.

Scientists find new genetic roots for intelligence

Researchers at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam identified 52 genes associated with intelligence, including 40 previously unknown discoveries. The study reveals a correlation between genetic influences on intelligence and educational attainment, as well as traits like autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia.

SourceVrije Universiteit Amsterdam·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 22, 2017

Is religion an evolved domain or instinct?

Researchers propose that religion is an evolved domain or instinct, while intelligence allows people to rise above instincts. This association is supported by historical evidence and recent survey data across different countries and groupings.

SourceSpringer·JournalEvolutionary Psychological Science·DateMay 17, 2017

Story tips from the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory, April 2017

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory are developing three new approaches to improve deep learning technologies. They are bringing together quantum, high-performance, and neuromorphic computing architectures to optimize complexity in a low-power environment. Additionally, scientists have created an approach to get a better look ...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalJournal of The Electrochemical Society·DateApr 3, 2017

Dogs, toddlers show similarities in social intelligence

Studies suggest that dogs and humans share a common type of social intelligence, which could help scientists better understand human evolution. Researchers found that dogs who excel in one social skill tend to perform well in related skills, similar to children, but not chimpanzees.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateFeb 27, 2017
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.

GMU researchers helping intelligence analysts make smart decisions

Researchers at George Mason University are developing a tool combining intelligent computer software and crowdsourcing to help intelligence analysts make informed decisions. The IARPA-funded Co-Arg project aims to provide cognitive assistants that can test hypotheses, evaluate evidence, and provide intelligent reasoning in high-stakes ...

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateFeb 20, 2017

Do you really get paid less if you're 'ugly'?

A study by Kanazawa and Still found that healthier and more intelligent people, as well as those with better personality traits, tend to earn higher salaries. In contrast, the 'ugliness premium' theory suggests that physically unattractive individuals earn less.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Business and Psychology·DateFeb 16, 2017

Internet use in class tied to lower test scores

Researchers found that laptop use in class was linked to poorer test scores, with social media and non-academic internet use being the biggest distractions. The study suggests that encouraging students to bring laptops to class without a clear purpose can negatively impact academic performance.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPsychological Science·DateDec 16, 2016

Study links nutrition to brain health and intelligence in older adults

A study by University of Illinois researchers links higher blood serum levels of lutein to better performance on crystallized intelligence tests in older adults. Participants with higher lutein levels also showed thicker gray matter in the parahippocampal cortex, a brain region associated with preserved cognitive function.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalFrontiers in Aging Neuroscience·DateDec 13, 2016
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Level of education is more decisive than intelligence for development of short-sightedness

A study by Mainz University Medical Center found that the level of education is more decisive than intelligence in developing short-sightedness. The researchers analyzed data from the Gutenberg Health Study and found a strong correlation between educational attainment and myopia, but not with cognitive ability.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateNov 15, 2016

Student well-being is greater in classrooms with higher emotional intelligence

Researchers found that group emotional intelligence and peer attachment positively relate to adolescent psychological well-being. Classrooms with greater emotional intelligence see stronger relationships between attachment and well-being, offering a potential tool for identifying classrooms in need of intervention.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalJournal of Adolescence·DateNov 10, 2016
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.

Brain 'reads' sentences the same in English and Portuguese

A study published in NeuroImage found that brain activation patterns are the same when decoding sentences in English and Portuguese. The research team developed a machine-learning algorithm to recognize sentence meaning in Portuguese based on neural activation patterns learned from English, achieving 67% accuracy.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalNeuroImage·DateNov 3, 2016

Here's looking at you -- finding allies through facial cues

Researchers found that men prefer masculine men as allies in a physical fight but feminine-looking women in emotional support, while women's preferences are the opposite. This suggests an evolutionary basis for these differences, with alliances benefiting ancestral males and improving their social rank.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateOct 5, 2016

Bloodthirsty brains

Research collaboration reveals that blood flow to the brain increased by 600% over human evolution, linked to intelligence growth. Ancient fossil skulls show larger holes in arteries, indicating faster increase in blood flow rate.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateAug 31, 2016
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Intelligent technology: The evolution and future of automation

The world is shifting towards Intelligent Technology, rethinking core principles of automation and Al to navigate an IT paradigm. The fifth era introduces a new control framework, bridging physical, mental, and augmented realities.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateAug 29, 2016

Did human-like intelligence evolve to care for helpless babies?

A new study suggests that human intelligence developed in response to the demands of caring for infants, who are born prematurely and require intelligent parents. The research found a strong correlation between weaning time and general intelligence in primates.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 23, 2016
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.

Sensitive people more vulnerable to online dating scams

A study by Dr Martin Graff of the University of South Wales found that sensitive and less emotionally intelligent individuals are more likely to be targeted in online dating scams. The victims tend to be efficient, organised, and disciplined but also more emotionally expressive.

SourceBritish Psychological Society·DateApr 27, 2016

Does a 'triple package' of traits predict success?

A new study by Union College psychology professors Joshua Hart and Christopher Chabris found that a 'triple package' of traits, including intelligence, conscientiousness, and economic advantage, are more likely to predict success than previously thought, contradicting Amy Chua's theory.

SourceUnion College·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateApr 20, 2016