The Brainy Learning Algorithms of Numenta

The Brainy Learning Algorithms of Numenta – Technology Review

The system’s ability to make predictions about unfolding events is rooted in its unique capacity for processing temporal, or time-dependent, data. Conventional learning software cannot do that, because it can’t handle input consisting of many variables that change over time. Instead, engineers generally have to extract the handful of variables they think are useful and feed them into the algorithms.

That “pre-processing” isn’t necessary in models inspired by studies of biological brains, Arel says. Instead, the learning system can decide for itself what is important and what isn’t. This is an emerging field dubbed deep machine learning. “Most academic efforts are focused on processing images, though,” he says. “What’s unique about Numenta is that it’s able to handle temporal data, which opens up different kinds of applications.” Among the examples Hawkins envisions: businesses could better analyze human speech or patterns of electricity use in buildings.

But while this approach raises the prospect of systems that can learn about any kind of data rather than being specialized to just one task, Numenta still has to prove that its technology is widely applicable and cost-effective. It’s also unclear how the company will bring the technology to market, but it will probably be in the form of development tools rather than off-the-shelf products. “Now that the technology is really working,” Hawkins says, “next year will see us switch into product-development mode.”

Japan nano-tech team creates palladium-like alloy

Japan nano-tech team creates palladium-like alloy: report

Japanese researchers have created an alloy with properties similar to palladium, a precious metal used in many high-tech goods, a news report said Thursday, dubbing the breakthrough “present-day alchemy”

New dyes improve solar technologies for generating clean electricity and hydrogen fuel

New dyes improve solar technologies for generating clean electricity and hydrogen fuel

In laboratory tests, scientists at UB and the University of Rochester have shown that these chalcogenorhodamine systems produce hydrogen at unprecedented rates, in part because the dyes absorb light more intensely and transfer their electrons more efficiently than conventional dyes.

Sat-nav that’s ‘emotionally sensitive’: Cambridge scientist develops device that reacts to driver’s moods

Sat-nav that’s ‘emotionally sensitive’: Cambridge scientist develops device that reacts to driver’s moods | Mail Online

His device uses sensors to detect facial expressions, such as frowns, and voice recognition software to pick up rising irritation in the tone of a driver’s voice.

The prototype feeds this information into software attached to a robotic human head that sits alongside the driver.

When it detects a driver’s anger, it responds with sympathetic expressions. Researchers say the system could be further developed to avoid overloading a confused driver with information, for example by turning the volume down on the car radio or avoiding repeating instructions.

Professor Robinson said: ‘I love gadgets like GPS satellite navigation systems but I hate the fact they are so difficult to use, I think they were designed by sadists.

Want to stave off ailments of old age? Then try thinking young

Want to stave off ailments of old age? Then try thinking young | Mail Online

Those who think and dress in a youthful way are healthier than those who act their age, according to research.

Mind over matter, it seems, can improve everything from blood pressure to arthritis and eyesight.

Even the development of heart disease and cancer may, at least to a degree, be staved off by refusing to grow old gracefully.

The intriguing claims come from researchers at Harvard University, who reviewed a series of studies into how the mind influences the body.

Christina Aguilera performing “Bound to You” from “Burlesque”

YouTube – Christina Aguilera performing “Bound to You” from “Burlesque”

Vanotek – Red Square

YouTube – Vanotek – Red Square