In March 2021, researchers at UC San Diego reported a device designed to perform a neural-network activation function directly in hardware. The work explored a way to reduce the circuitry and energy involved in that part of a network.
The prototype used a heated vanadium-dioxide layer whose resistance could change gradually. The team combined activation devices with a synaptic array and demonstrated image edge detection. The study appeared in Nature Nanotechnology.
The researchers described a small experimental system, not a ready replacement for general-purpose AI hardware. More layers and more demanding tasks would require further development. The archive preserves the distinction between a promising device-level result and the engineering needed for a complete, scalable computing platform.
Research paper — Nature Nanotechnology ↗A February 2021 archive story described how Revolutionary Fitness Cali in Fresno used computer-controlled exercise equipment. Owner Rochelle Collinwood discussed an ARX Omni resistance machine and a CAROL stationary bike.
In February 2021, the archive covered research led by MIT’s Caroline Uhler into identifying existing drugs for further investigation against Covid-19. The work considered gene-expression changes associated with both infection and ageing.
The original November 2022 explainer introduced three terms often grouped together under artificial intelligence: narrow AI, general AI and superintelligence. They describe different levels of capability, rather than three interchangeable labels for the same technology.
Tell us about your project — we'll tell you honestly whether we can help.