Invention Awards

          Study:  Learning high-accuracy error decoding for quantum processors . The AlphaQubit decoder maintained its edge on simulated data with realistic noise, showcasing its ability to adapt to complex error distributions. Trained on both synthetic and experimental data, it represents a significant step forward in leveraging machine learning (ML) to overcome the limitations of traditional, human-designed algorithms in quantum error correction. Related Work Quantum computing has shown huge potential over recent years to transform various applications, whether that be in material science, machine learning, and optimization. However, these possibilities are dependant on overcoming the intrinsic error rates of physical quantum devices. Error correction, achieved through redundancy using logical qubits, is essential for fault-tolerant quantum computation. The surface code stands out for its high error tolerance, making it a leading approach. Yet, decodin...

  Human embryonic kidney cells (seen in this false-color scanning electron micrograph) share some of the same molecular mechanisms as memory-forming neurons. Kidney cells can make memories too. At least, in a molecular sense. Neurons have historically been the cell most associated with memory. But far outside the brain, kidney cells can also store information and recognize patterns in a similar way to neurons , researchers report November 7 in Nature Communications. “We’re not saying that this kind of memory helps you learn trigonometry or remember how to ride a bike or stores your childhood memories,” says Nikolay Kukushkin, a neuroscientist at New York University. “This research adds to the idea of memory; it doesn’t challenge the existing conceptions of memory in the brain.” In experiments, the kidney cells showed signs of what’s called a “massed-space effect.” This well-known feature of how memory works in the brain facilitates storing information in small chunks over time, rat...

  Exploring Cannabis for ADHD Cannabis, including marijuana and products containing cannabinoids and/or THC—the primary psychoactive compound in weed—has been promoted as a remedy for a wide range of conditions, from anxiety and sleep disorders to epilepsy and cancer-related pain. Dr. Jennie Ryan, a nursing researcher at Thomas Jefferson University, focuses on how cannabis affects symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Current ADHD treatments often involve medications like Adderall and cognitive behavioral therapy , which, while effective, can have drawbacks. “Parents are interested in cannabidiol, which does not contain THC,” says Dr. Ryan. “But we don’t have the science yet to back recommendations.” Reviewing the Evidence on Cannabis and ADHD In a recent review paper, Dr. Ryan and her colleagues plumbed the scientific literature to compile evidence, which is generally suggestive of interactions between cannabis and ADHD. The researchers focused on how canna...

  A new theory that explains how light and matter interact at the quantum level has enabled researchers to define for the first time the precise shape of a single photon. The nature of this interaction leads to infinite possibilities for light to exist and propagate, or travel, through its surrounding environment. This limitless possibility, however, makes the interactions exceptionally hard to model, and is a challenge that quantum physicists have been working to address for several decades. By grouping these possibilities into distinct sets, the Birmingham team were able to produce a model that describes not only the interactions between the photon and the emitter, but also how the energy from that interaction travels into the distant "far field." At the same time, they were able to use their calculations to produce a visualization of the photon itself. First author Dr. Benjamin Yuen, in the University's School of Physics, explained, "Our calculations enabled us...

  The Centre’s Department of Fisheries and the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB), Hyderabad are organizing a workshop on the application and demonstration of drone technology in fisheries and aquaculture at ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) in Kerala’s Kochi on Friday. The NFDB, along with innovative startups, will deliver a presentation highlighting the transformative potential of drone technology in the fisheries and aquaculture sector. The event will conclude with a live drone demonstration on various Drone applications in fisheries like fish transportation, fish feed dispensing, and life jacket dispensing for rescue operations etc. The workshop will offer a distinctive platform to highlight innovative technological advancements, focusing on the pivotal role of drone technology in transforming the fisheries sector and maximising its potential. It is expected that more than 700 fishermen and fisherwomen will participate in the event. The initi...