Impact Lab – Page 202 – A Laboratory of the Future Human Experience

Portable Robotic EV Charger “Ziggy” to Meet Growing Demand at U.S. Airport

June 12, 2023

As the demand for electric vehicles (EVs) continues to soar, the need for advanced charging technology becomes paramount. To address this, Ziggy, the portable robotic EV charger previously covered by Interesting Engineering, is soon to be installed at a U.S. airport. The deployment aims to cater to the growing number of travelers who own EVs, providing them with convenient charging options while they fly.

The first-of-its-kind installation will take place at the Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) International Airport in Texas, where Ziggy, developed by EV Safe Charge, will undergo a series of EV charging demonstrations from May through August. This partnership between DFW and EV Safe Charge will evaluate cutting-edge approaches to EV charging.

AI

AI Accelerates Discovery of Critical Biomarkers for Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Treatment Response

June 12, 2023

Scientists in Singapore, from Duke-NUS Medical School, A*STAR’s Genome Institute of Singapore (GIS), and Singapore General Hospital (SGH), alongside their colleagues, have harnessed the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to expedite the identification of crucial biomarkers that can predict the non-responsiveness of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) patients to conventional treatments. This early prognosis enables patients to receive potentially life-saving bone marrow transplants during the initial stages of the disease.

CML is a form of blood cancer triggered by a genetic mutation that permanently activates an enzyme called tyrosine kinase. This mutation occurs in a blood stem cell within the bone marrow, causing it to transform into an aggressive leukemic cell that eventually supplants healthy blood production.

AI

Los Alamos Scientists Develop Promising Interface-Type Memristor for Neuromorphic Computing

June 12, 2023

The human brain, often referred to as the most complex entity in the universe, has long fascinated scientists seeking to replicate its unparalleled computing capabilities. In a significant breakthrough, researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory have successfully created a new type of memristive device, demonstrating its potential for constructing artificial synapses in cutting-edge neuromorphic computing.

Memristors, or memristive devices, represent a highly sought-after circuit technology that possesses both memory and programming capabilities. Unlike conventional resistor technology, memristors possess the ability to retain their electrical state even when powered off, resembling the memory retention of the human brain. This unique characteristic opens up a realm of possibilities for computing and device development. Aiping Chen, a scientist at the Center for Integrated Nanotechnologies, explained the significance of data processing in today’s scientific advancements, encompassing fields such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, and artificial neural networks.

Robots

Robots: Key Enablers for the Growing In-Space Economy

June 11, 2023

As the cost of space launches continues to decrease, thanks to advancements like the Starship and other massive lift systems, the barriers to entry for the space economy are expected to significantly diminish. This shift raises the question: What comes next? Two acronyms—In-Space Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing (ISAM) and On-orbit Servicing (OOS)—have gained prominence in the literature, offering potential glimpses into the future. In a series of articles, we will explore the meaning and prospects of these acronyms. To begin, let us examine the role of robots in this equation.

Drone

Swiss Aerospace Startup Takes Step Towards Eco-Friendly Hypersonic Flight

June 11, 2023

A Swiss aerospace startup has made significant progress in merging eco-friendly and hypersonic technologies with the successful test flight of a prototype drone. Destinus CEO Mikhail Kokorich hailed the event as a demonstration of the potential for high-performance propulsion systems that are both efficient and environmentally friendly.

The unmanned Jungfrau prototype took off from a Munich airport and showcased the functionality and efficiency of hydrogen afterburners in real-world conditions. While it reached speeds of about 155 mph, a far cry from the threshold of hypersonic flight, the experiments validated the effectiveness of hydrogen afterburners. Destinus, a team of aerospace experts from across Europe, developed the afterburners in-house and integrated them with a conventional jet turbine powered by Jet A fuel. By injecting hydrogen into the exhaust stream, the system generated higher speeds and climb rates. This hybrid approach combining hydrogen and jet fuel not only improves efficiency but also reduces carbon emissions, as hydrogen only emits heat and water vapor instead of carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxide.

Health

Boston Children’s Hospital Explores the Impact of Generative AI in Healthcare

June 11, 2023

As hospitals adapt to various viral challenges, a new kind of viral phenomenon is gaining attention: generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace. Prominent healthcare institutions, like Boston Children’s Hospital, are at the forefront of embracing technological advancements to revolutionize productivity in the healthcare industry.

With healthcare accounting for approximately 18 percent of the U.S. GDP, it is natural for organizations to seek the latest technologies to enhance their operations. Boston Children’s Hospital, known for its consistent ranking among the top children’s hospitals in the United States, has a dedicated “Chief Innovation Officer” named John Brownstein. Brownstein, an epidemiologist, oversees the Innovation & Digital Health Accelerator division, which combines technology and health to drive innovation.

AI

Reserve Bank of India Urges Banks to Embrace AI and Blockchain for Sustainable Growth

June 11, 2023

Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Mahesh Kumar Jain, has emphasized the importance of Indian banks adopting innovative technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain to ensure sustainable growth and stability. Speaking at an RBI conference for bank directors, Jain discussed strategies to address risks associated with evolving customer expectations, technological disruptions, and cybersecurity threats.

Jain highlighted the significance of effective corporate governance and robust structures and processes in preparing for future risks. He emphasized that banks need to focus on technology adoption to overcome the challenges posed by these risks. Alongside digital transformation, enhancing customer experience, and investing in cybersecurity measures, Jain specifically recommended the adoption of AI and blockchain technologies by Indian banks.

Health

Vyjuvek: Rub-On Gene Therapy Revolutionizes Treatment for Genetic Skin Disorder

June 10, 2023

Sunburns are terrible. The skin blisters and peels. Even a light brush from putting on clothes or tucking into bed sheets is agony.

Now imagine having those blisters at just six months old. But the sun isn’t the culprit; your genes are.

Thousands of people in the US suffer from dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (DEB), a rare genetic disorder that severely affects the structure and integrity of the skin and eyes. Children with this illness have skin as delicate as wet tissue paper. Chronic painful blisters and wounds, sometimes even in their throats, are an everyday part of their lives from birth.

The underlying cause of DEB is a single gene mutation that impacts a critical protein responsible for maintaining skin integrity. This genetic error makes the illness an ideal candidate for gene therapy. However, due to the fragility of the skin, traditional gene therapy methods involving injections are difficult to tolerate.

But what if a genetic moisturizer could be the solution?

AI

Nvidia Emerges as the First Trillion-Dollar Chip Maker, Attracting AI Investors

June 8, 2023

Investors seeking a strong foundation for their AI investments have found it in Nvidia, as the company’s market capitalization has surpassed the trillion-dollar mark, making it the first chip maker to achieve this milestone.

As of the time of writing, Nvidia’s stock price has surged to $409.76 per share, propelling its market capitalization to an impressive $1.014 trillion.

Nvidia experienced a significant surge in fortunes following its recent financial report, which revealed a net income of $2.04 billion on revenue of $7.192 billion. Despite a 13 percent decline in revenue compared to the previous year, investors remained undeterred. This optimism stemmed from Nvidia’s estimate that the current quarter would generate a remarkable $11.0 billion in revenue, an extraordinary quarter-over-quarter increase. Responding to this promising outlook, Wall Street propelled the company’s shares from approximately $303 to just under $380 overnight.

Engineering

Zumo Unveils Futuristic Vision: Inflatable Skyscrapers with Sustainable Design

June 8, 2023

Architecture firm Zumo has captured the imagination of many with its recent Instagram post, featuring breathtaking images of inflatable skyscrapers that promise both awe-inspiring design and sustainable innovation.

Described as “colossal balloons” that could transform city skylines, Zumo’s revolutionary concept envisions towering structures that are lightweight, flexible, and environmentally friendly. Although the images are currently part of the firm’s imaginative exploration, Zumo believes that these inflatable skyscrapers could soon become a reality.

The illustrations depict the inflatable skyscrapers gracefully floating above iconic cities such as New York, Tokyo, London, and Dubai. The structures appear to be constructed from materials that are both lightweight and flexible, ensuring their ability to take on dynamic and transformative shapes. Most importantly, Zumo asserts that these architectural marvels are designed with sustainability at their core.

Space

Japan’s Ambitious Plan: Beaming Solar Energy from Space

June 8, 2023

Japan, alongside its space agency JAXA, has dedicated years to the pursuit of beaming solar energy from space. In 2015, a significant breakthrough was achieved when JAXA scientists successfully transmitted 1.8 kilowatts of power, equivalent to powering an electric kettle, over a distance of more than 50 meters using wireless receivers. Now, Japan is on the verge of bringing this technology one step closer to reality.

According to Nikkei, a Japanese public-private partnership aims to initiate the beaming of solar energy from space as early as 2025. Led by Naoki Shinohara, a Kyoto University professor who has been actively involved in space-based solar energy research since 2009, the project intends to deploy a series of small satellites into orbit. These satellites will collect solar energy and attempt to transmit it to ground-based receiving stations located hundreds of miles away.

security

Robotic Security Guards: A Promising Solution to Enhance Safety and Surveillance

June 8, 2023

The role of security guards is vital and often necessary, but their deployment can be limited by cost and availability. In Switzerland, residents have had the opportunity to witness the potential of a patrol bot developed by robotics start-up Ascento, affiliated with ETH Zurich. This innovative machine has shown promise as a replacement for human security guards, already serving as a guard for Swiss security firm Securitas AG.

A video released by ETH Zurich showcases the remarkable agility of this new security guard, enabling it to patrol various locations seamlessly. The robot’s capability to monitor diverse terrains with precision raises the question: Can it match the attention and responsiveness of a human guard? The incident involving a RoboCop in 2019 sparked skepticism when it failed to assist a woman in need despite her activating the emergency button. The incident highlighted the need for better integration and protocols for such robotic systems.