AI translates thought to speech with unprecedented accuracy

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1. AI translates thought to speech with unprecedented accuracy

A groundbreaking study led by Julia Berezutskaya at Radboud University has utilized artificial intelligence to translate brain activity into speech with unparalleled accuracy. The research employed high-density electrocorticography to capture brain activity during speech production.

The study assessed three deep learning models for speech reconstruction: a recurrent neural network, a multilayered perceptron, and a DenseNet convolutional neural network. Across these models, the technology achieved an astounding 92% to 100% accuracy in decoding individual words, with more complex models outperforming simpler ones.

The findings hold immense potential, especially for individuals with severe motor impairments. The study suggests that the fusion of AI and brain-computer interfaces could revolutionize speech decoding and reconstruction, offering new communication avenues for those who cannot speak.

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2. Spain and Germany lead Europe in crafting AI governance

European countries are taking proactive steps to regulate artificial intelligence. Spain has established the Spanish Agency for the Supervision of Artificial Intelligence (AESIA), the EU's first AI regulatory body, aiming to set binding rules for AI development.

Germany is also making headway with its AI Action Plan, which includes a €1.6 billion investment in AI research and skills training. However, concerns have been raised about the slow tech transfer from academia to industry.

The UK is urged to accelerate its AI governance efforts to remain competitive, especially given advancements in the EU and the US. With Europe finalizing its pioneering AI Act, the continent aims to steer the global conversation on AI governance.

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3. AI is transforming space exploration

Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing space engineering, with SpaceX leading the charge through its AI autopilot system for the Falcon 9 spacecraft. The system autonomously performs complex tasks like docking with the International Space Station.

The UK Space Agency is also leveraging AI for space debris clean-up. An autonomous spacecraft is planned for a 2025 launch, aiming to capture and remove space debris. AI algorithms will enable the spacecraft to identify and collect debris autonomously.

AI's role in space engineering extends beyond these projects, impacting areas like intelligent satellite systems and mission risk assessment. The technology is opening new avenues for exploration and sustainability, making it a transformative force in the field.

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4. Baidu releases over 70 advanced language models

Baidu CEO Robin Li has announced the release of over 70 advanced language models in China, marking a milestone in the nation's burgeoning chatbot market. This follows recent regulatory approval allowing mass market deployment of chatbots by companies like Baidu.

The latest iteration of Baidu's chatbot, Ernie 3.5, boasts a processing speed twice as fast as its predecessor and 50% improved efficiency. Li indicated that Baidu is committed to continuous innovation, revealing plans for a new chatbot version in the near future.

With regulatory backing and cutting-edge chatbots like Ernie 3.5, Baidu is well-positioned to dominate China's chatbot market. The company's aggressive development of large-scale language models indicates a significant leap in capabilities, making Baidu a key player to watch.

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5. FDA-Approved AI tool to advance prostate cancer diagnosis

UF Health in Jacksonville has integrated a new FDA-approved tool that uses artificial intelligence to expedite prostate cancer diagnosis. Dr. Shahla Masood highlighted the technology's ability to significantly speed up the evaluation process.

The tool, developed by Paige Platform, has been shown to improve cancer detection rates by 7.3% on individual slide images. It serves as an aid to doctors, particularly in challenging cases, helping them distinguish between benign and malignant tissues.

While not a replacement for medical professionals, the technology enhances their diagnostic capabilities. UF Health plans to expand the use of this tool for detecting other diseases, signaling its broader applicability in healthcare.

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