Tag: learn
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In the Grip of Necrobotic Spiders
Rice University mechanical engineers are showing how to repurpose deceased spiders as mechanical grippers that can blend into natural environments while picking up objects, like other insects, that outweigh them. Anthony and Jeff discuss the merits of using spider corpses as engineering materials. [more]
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Habit Forming and Microwave Friend
How much of our daily lives are lived out of habit? How can habits shape our behavior in positive ways? Anthony and Jeff take a look at new research that suggests habitual action has a much larger role to play in human life than previously thought. Then, how for would you go to talk to your imaginary friend? One Youtuber decided to use some pretty slick technology to do just that, but the results are surprising. Jeff and Anthony step through the story of AI gone frighteningly wrong. [more]
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Alien Dust-os and Pong Brains
New observations of the star known as KIC 8462852, or Tabby's Star, do not close the door on the idea of an advanced alien civilization. Jeff and Anthony step through the new data and imagine the possibilities. Then, a group of brain cells in a jar has been taught to play the video game Pong - and it does it better than artificial AI. Anthony and Jeff work through their feelings about a bio-computer. [more]
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Dog Buttons and Flying.. Cars?
Bunny the dog has 5 million Tik Tok followers and an array of buttons that let's her talk to them. By pressing a button, she can construct rudimentary sentences that her owner believes constitutes a sophisticated understanding of language. Anthony and Jeff discuss the research into Bunny and other animals, and whether this technique might be used to unlock communication in pets. Then, with over a dozen companies actively working on vertical take off and landing vehicles, is the flying car future actually happening? Jeff and Anthony take a look at the current state of personal air transportation. [more]
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PUF and Learn a Language Faster
Scientists have created a pattern that, according to researchers, is impossible to duplicate or forge, a feat that could quash counterfeiters. The key to these patterns lies in a two-step verification system that incorporates both micropatterns and the same principles used in whispering galleries. Jeff and Anthony discuss the idea of a Physical Unclonable Function and how it might be used. Then, what if you could stimulate your brain to become 10-15% more capable of learning a language? Researchers have found clues to being able to do it, and Anthony and Jeff discuss the benefits of brain plasticity. [more]
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