Monday, May 15, 2023

Word Mart and the Crack Cocaine of Algorithms


A deep belief neural network based on silicon memristive synapses
Jan 2023, phys.org

Neuromorphic computing system supporting deep belief neural networks (DBNs), based on silicon-based memristors, energy-efficient devices that can both store and process information.

The artificial synapses created by the researchers were fabricated using commercial complementary-metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) processes. 

via Technion–Israel Institute of Technology and the Peng Cheng Laboratory: Wei Wang et al, A memristive deep belief neural network based on silicon synapses, Nature Electronics (2022). DOI: 10.1038/s41928-022-00878-9



On-chip mechanical exceptional points based on an optomechanical zipper cavity
Feb 2023, phys.org

Optomechanical zipper cavities.

via Tsinghua University in China: Ning Wu et al, On-chip mechanical exceptional points based on an optomechanical zipper cavity, Science Advances (2023). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abp8892

Also: Jing Zhang et al, A phonon laser operating at an exceptional point, Nature Photonics (2018). DOI: 10.1038/s41566-018-0213-5


TikTok sets 60-minute daily screen time limit for under-18s
Feb 2023, BBC News

'Crack cocaine of algorithms'
-Imran Ahmed, the Center for Countering Digital Hate

(And don't forget that China calls algorithms "electronic drugs" -- but in the U.S., they can't call it that because algorithms are engines of economic productivity.)


Is biodegradable better? Making sense of 'compostable' plastics
Mar 2023, phys.org

'Eternal pollutants'

"People tend to believe they're contributing to the protection of the planet while buying these products, but it's not at all the case." 

Biodegradable plastics break down quicker, but need to be disposed of correctly, whether it's in an industrial compost facility or a home compost, which most people don't have access to, meaning biodegradable plastics end up in recycling centres or landfills -- or worse, the environment.

But wait --

Some companies even claim to have developed edible plastics.

(Counterintuitively, bio-based plastics are not necessarily compostable or biodegradable, and and although they may contain some biomass like corn, potato starch, wood pulp or sugarcane, they may also contain fossil fuel-derived materials.)

via Surfrider Foundation Europe


And speaking of plastic:

Scientists make 'disturbing' find on remote island: plastic rocks
Mar 2023, phys.org

Plastiglomerates - similar to sedimentary rocks
Pyroplastics - similar to clastic rocks
Plastistones - previously unidentified, similar to igneous rocks formed by lava flow

The Plasticine - (you guessed it; you're in it.)

via Federal University of Parana in Brazil

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