This week’s list of top data news highlights covers October 19, 2024 to October 25, 2024, and includes articles on a machine learning model to assess worker fatigue in factories and a new app to train pilots using VR headsets.
1. Diagnosing Parkinson’s Disease
An international group of researchers has developed a streamlined method to diagnose Parkinson’s disease using a single wearable sensor on a person’s lower back combined with a machine learning algorithm that analyzes data from the sensor to detect patterns associated with the disease. The researchers found that data from a single task—standing up, walking a few feet, turning around, and sitting down while performing a cognitive task—was enough for an accurate Parkinson’s diagnosis.
2. Generating Accurate Data Analyses
Anthropic, a San Francisco-based AI startup, has launched a new analysis tool in the company’s generative AI assistant Claude to analyze data that users provide in their prompts. With the new ability to write and run JavaScript code, Claude can now perform more precise mathematical calculations and generate visualizations like data dashboards from user-provided PDF files and spreadsheets.
3. Expanding Professional Networks
A San Francisco-based startup called Boardy has launched a networking service that uses AI to connect professionals who have similar interests, backgrounds, or goals. Users sign up on Boardy’s website by providing their phone number, and an automated AI voice assistant calls them to chat about their experience, professional interests, and goals to check if anyone in the Boardy network may be a good fit to connect.
A group of U.S. researchers have created a new system to monitor manufacturing workers’ fatigue levels in real time using a machine learning model to analyze data from wearable sensors. The system uses data on workers’ heart rate and arm movement data. Implementing the system in manufacturing plants could help boost productivity and minimize the risk of burnout in workers.
5. Advancing Quantum Computing
Scientists at Tsing Hua University in Taiwan have built the world’s smallest quantum computer using a single photon as a qubit. By using a light particle instead of superconducting qubits, the computer can operate at room temperature. The device is a proof of concept that could help overcome the current limitations in quantum computing, such as the need to cool down quantum computers to absolute zero to tap into laws of quantum physics.
Chipotle has partnered with Paradox, an AI software company, to launch a new hiring platform called Ava Cado to streamline hiring staff for the chain’s restaurants using generative AI. Ava Cado can screen applications, schedule and conduct interviews, and even make job offers in real-time. According to Chipotle, Ava Cado could reduce the time restaurant managers spend on hiring by up to 75 percent.
7. Streamlining Government Services
Government agencies in Puerto Rico are utilizing a new digital ID tool called IDEAL that enables agencies to securely share information they already have on residents when handling requests or providing services, with residents’ permission. This tool reduces the need for residents to repeatedly submit documents and allows faster and smoother access to services, like housing aid, by enabling agencies to pull relevant data directly from each other.
The World Health Organization has partnered with Saudi Arabia to launch Hajj health cards to ensure the public health of the roughly three million Muslims who travel to the holy city of Mecca yearly for pilgrimage. The tool will summarize a pilgrim’s health information, including medication needs, allergies, immunization status, and pre-existing conditions, to help the host government and medical providers ensure quality healthcare and safety for the pilgrims during the Hajj.
9. Predicting Heart Disease Risks
Researchers at the Imperial College London have created an AI tool that can help doctors identify patients with a high risk of heart attacks, heart failure, and heart rhythm problems and estimate the likelihood of death. The researchers trained the machine learning model on millions of tests recording electrical signals within and between the heart’s chambers, which doctors use to identify irregularities. A study concluded that the tool can accurately predict the risk that a patient will die in the decade after a heart scan.
A Canadian aviation training provider has created an immersive app to train pilots remotely using Apple’s Vision Pro virtual reality headset. The app, which pilots can use to train whenever and wherever they like, will simulate flight deck interactions and a guided tool can coach pilots on aircraft procedures and best practices.
Image credit: SEO Galaxy
