This week’s list of top data news highlights covers October 26, 2024 to November 1, 2024, and includes articles on using AI to improve math tutoring and developing a robot to harvest vineyards more efficiently.
1. Enhancing Dog Treatments
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a machine learning algorithm that can detect heart murmurs in dogs with 90 percent accuracy. The researchers trained the algorithm using data from 800 dogs across British veterinary centers, creating the largest dataset of dog heart sounds ever compiled. The algorithm offers an affordable screening tool for veterinarians to detect heart disease in dogs early, which is particularly helpful for smaller breeds that typically have a higher risk of developing disease in their heart valves.
Scion, a research institute within the New Zealand Forest Service, has developed an interactive training tool that uses virtual reality (VR) to train forestry workers on how to make thinning decisions, which entail selectively removing certain trees to improve the overall health of the forest ecosystem, in a simulated environment. The tool allows trainees to study the complexities of New Zealand’s forests and practice work tasks without the physical obstacles or pressure in real forests.
3. Enhancing Maritime Surveillance
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, a Japanese multinational company, has launched a satellite-mounted detector that improves maritime surveillance. Equipped with an Earth-observation camera and an AI-powered processor, the detector tracks hard-to-locate sea-faring vessels, especially those involved in potential illegal activities. The detector analyzes images directly on the satellite and transmits only essential data, reducing data transmission loads and improving detection efficiency on the high seas.
Researchers at Stanford University have created Tutor CoPilot, a teaching assistant running on OpenAI’s GPT-4 model that helps online tutors better explain math concepts to K-12 students. The researchers trained the model on a database of 700 math tutoring sessions. Tutor CoPilot connects with a virtual platform, which helps students find tutors virtually, and can generate targeted and customizable suggestions when tutors request help in addressing student misconceptions.
5. Building Quantum Infrastructure
Researchers at QuTech, a Netherlands-based research institute focusing on quantum computing and communication, have connected quantum processors across a 16-mile distance between the Dutch cities of Delft and The Hague by integrating quantum nodes with existing optical fiber infrastructure. The achievement can contribute to adapting current telecommunications infrastructure for a future quantum Internet.
6. Fighting Misinformation and Disinformation
Researchers at the Ben-Gurion University of the Negev in Israel have developed a machine learning algorithm that can identify sources of misinformation and disinformation on social media by analyzing user behavior patterns rather than only examining the articles they post. The algorithm monitors how users engage with groups of known misinformation sources, allowing it to quickly identify these sources more effectively than traditional fact-checking methods. The algorithm could help human fact checkers combat misinformation and disinformation more efficiently and at scale.
7. Training General-Purpose Robots
Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have developed a training technique to better teach robots to handle a variety of tasks—like picking up objects, moving items from one place to another, or doing household chores—without needing separate training for each specific task. By combining data from different sources, including simulations, vision inputs, and sensor readings, they created a unified training system that allows a single AI model to teach robots general skills they can adapt across tasks, making training faster and more efficient than traditional methods.
OpenAI has launched ChatGPT Search, a new tool in the application that allows users to search the web for real-time information that ChatGPT lists on the right-hand side of the screen similar to traditional search engines. Unlike other search engines, however, ChatGPT generates a summary for each query and allows users to ask follow-up questions conversationally.
Researchers at the Queen Mary University of London have partnered with a robotics company and a local vineyard to develop a robotic technology to streamline vineyard harvesting. Using advanced sensors and AI, the robots detect ripeness and gently pick grapes, ensuring they meet quality standards required for fine wine. The technology can make grape harvesting more efficient by improving yield quality and quantity.
LinkedIn has launched a new tool that uses AI to streamline recruiters’ tasks, including refining job descriptions and identifying suitable candidates. The tool uses AI to assess candidates based on transferable skills, offering tailored recommendations and learning from recruiter feedback.
