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guides museum-goers
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A
virtual museum guide generates descriptions
of objects, on-the-fly, in your choice of
languages. The software also keeps track of
what you've seen in order to give you a more
edifying experience. The system works over
the Web, and could eventually be tapped for
online catalogs and tutoring.
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Scientists
spin thread from nanotubes
The electrical properties of microscopic rolls of
carbon have made them all the rage among researchers
building next-generation computer circuits. Carbon
nanotubes are also fantastically strong. Nanotube
strands that are larger than a human hair bring
these sturdy pieces of soot out from under the microscope.
Brain
cells control 3D cursor
Getting a monkey's brain and a software algorithm
to learn from each other boosts the chances that
disabled people will be able to use thought to control
prosthetic devices, and eventually even regain control
of paralyzed limbs.
Faster
growth heightens Web class divide
The faster a segment of the Web -- like bookselling
-- grows, the more the big fish crowd out the little
ones. A mathematical model could point out which
ponds have room for another shop.
One-way
heat valve possible
Heat generally flows from what's hot to what's colder.
But this doesn't always have to be the case. A simulation
shows it's possible to control the flow of heat
by using a combination of special materials. The
discovery could help chips keep their cool when
computers heat up.
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