@mastodon.acm.org
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References:
blog.siggraph.org
, forge.dyalog.com
Advancements in machine learning, APL programming, and computer graphics are driving innovation across various disciplines. ACM Transactions on Probabilistic Machine Learning (TOPML) is highlighting the importance of probabilistic machine learning with its recently launched journal, featuring high-quality research in the field. The journal's co-editors, Wray Buntine, Fang Liu, and Theodore Papamarkou, share their insights on the significance of probabilistic ML and the journal's mission to advance the field.
The APL Forge competition is encouraging developers to create innovative open-source libraries and commercial applications using Dyalog APL. This annual event aims to enhance awareness and usage of APL by challenging participants to solve problems and develop tools using the language. The competition awards £2,500 (GBP) and an expenses-paid trip to present at the next user meeting, making it a valuable opportunity for APL enthusiasts to showcase their skills and contribute to the community. The deadline for submissions is Monday 22 June 2026. SIGGRAPH 2025 will showcase advancements in 3D generative AI as part of its Technical Papers program. This year's program received a record number of submissions, highlighting the growing interest in artificial intelligence, large language models, robotics, and 3D modeling in VR. Professor Richard Zhang of Simon Fraser University has been inducted into the ACM SIGGRAPH Academy for his contributions to spectral and learning-based methods for geometric modeling and will be the SIGGRAPH 2025 Technical Papers Chair. Recommended read:
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Steve Vandenberg@Microsoft Security Blog
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Microsoft is making significant strides in AI and data security, demonstrated by recent advancements and reports. The company's commitment to responsible AI is highlighted in its 2025 Responsible AI Transparency Report, detailing efforts to build trustworthy AI technologies. Microsoft is also addressing the critical issue of data breach reporting, offering solutions like Microsoft Data Security Investigations to assist organizations in meeting stringent regulatory requirements such as GDPR and SEC rules. These initiatives underscore Microsoft's dedication to ethical and secure AI development and deployment across various sectors.
AI's transformative potential is being explored in higher education, with Microsoft providing AI solutions for creating AI-ready campuses. Institutions are focusing on using AI for unique differentiation and innovation rather than just automation and cost savings. Strategies include establishing guidelines for responsible AI use, fostering collaborative communities for knowledge sharing, and partnering with technology vendors like Microsoft, OpenAI, and NVIDIA. Comprehensive training programs are also essential to ensure stakeholders are proficient with AI tools, promoting a culture of experimentation and ethical AI practices. Furthermore, Microsoft Research has achieved a breakthrough in computational chemistry by using deep learning to enhance the accuracy of density functional theory (DFT). This advancement allows for more reliable predictions of molecular and material properties, accelerating scientific discovery in fields such as drug development, battery technology, and green fertilizers. By generating vast amounts of accurate data and using scalable deep-learning approaches, the team has overcome limitations in DFT, enabling the design of molecules and materials through computational simulations rather than relying solely on laboratory experiments. Recommended read:
References :
@forge.dyalog.com
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The APL Forge competition is in its final week, with the deadline for submissions set for Monday, June 23, 2024, at 12:00 UTC. This annual event is designed to promote the use and development of the APL programming language within the community. Participants are challenged to create innovative open-source libraries and commercial applications using Dyalog APL. The APL Forge is where developers are rewarded for using Dyalog APL to solve problems and develop libraries, applications, and tools.
Whether you're an individual, a group, or a company, if you have a passion for problem-solving in APL, this competition is for you. The APL Forge competition is rewarding participants for using Dyalog APL to solve problems and develop libraries, applications, and tools. The winner of the APL Forge competition will receive £2,500 (GBP) and an expenses-paid trip to present at our next user meeting. Those looking for inspiration are encouraged to check out the project ideas listed on the APL Forge website, where they can also find eligibility and judging criteria, submission guidelines, and frequently asked questions. For more information and to enter the APL Forge, visit forge.dyalog.com. Recommended read:
References :
@quantumcomputingreport.com
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References:
thequantuminsider.com
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The quantum computing industry is experiencing a surge in activity, marked by significant acquisitions and technological advancements. IonQ has announced its intent to acquire UK-based Oxford Ionics for $1.075 billion in stock and cash, uniting two leaders in trapped-ion quantum computing. This deal aims to accelerate the development of scalable and reliable quantum systems, targeting 256 high-fidelity qubits by 2026 and over 10,000 physical qubits by 2027. The acquisition combines IonQ's quantum computing stack with Oxford Ionics' semiconductor-compatible ion-trap technology, strengthening IonQ's technical capabilities and expanding its European presence. CEO of IonQ, Niccolo de Masi, highlighted the strategic importance of this acquisition, uniting talent from across the world to become the world’s best quantum computing, quantum communication and quantum networking ecosystem.
Recent advancements also include the activation of Europe’s first room-temperature quantum accelerator by Fraunhofer IAF, featuring Quantum Brilliance’s diamond-based QB-QDK2.0 system. This system utilizes nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers and operates without cryogenic requirements, seamlessly integrating into existing high-performance computing environments. It's co-located with classical processors and NVIDIA GPUs to support hybrid quantum-classical workloads. Moreover, IBM has announced plans to build the world’s first large-scale, error-corrected quantum computer named Starling, aiming for completion by 2028 and cloud availability by 2029. IBM claims it has cracked the code for quantum error correction, moving from science to engineering. Further bolstering the industry's growth, collaborative projects are demonstrating the potential of quantum computing in various applications. IonQ, in partnership with AstraZeneca, AWS, and NVIDIA, has showcased a quantum-accelerated drug discovery workflow that drastically reduces simulation time for key pharmaceutical reactions. Their hybrid system, integrating IonQ’s Forte quantum processor with NVIDIA CUDA-Q and AWS infrastructure, achieved over a 20-fold improvement in time-to-solution for the Suzuki-Miyaura reaction. Additionally, the Karnataka State Cabinet has approved the second phase of the Quantum Research Park at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru, allocating ₹48 crore ($5.595 million USD) to expand the state’s quantum technology infrastructure and foster collaboration between academia, startups, and industry. Recommended read:
References :
@www.microsoft.com
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Microsoft is making significant strides in enhancing digital security and technological advancement on multiple fronts. The company is actively pushing passkeys as a simpler and safer alternative to traditional passwords. Marking the shift, Microsoft joined the FIDO Alliance in celebrating the first "World Passkey Day," and has pledged to increase the adoption of passkeys, which offer a phishing-resistant authentication method utilizing face, fingerprint, or PIN. This initiative aims to combat the rising tide of password-based cyberattacks, which have surged to an alarming 7,000 attacks per second. Microsoft introduced Windows Hello as a way to sign into accounts without a password and this laid the ground work for an entirely new era of authentication.
Microsoft Vice Chair and President Brad Smith is also urging the United States and its allies to intensify their efforts in quantum computing. Smith emphasizes the increasing competition from countries like China and highlights the importance of bolstering investment, workforce development, and supply chain security to maintain U.S. technological leadership. Quantum computing promises transformative advancements in fields like medicine, energy, and national security. In addition to its quantum efforts, Microsoft has announced new European digital commitments, recognizing the importance of trans-Atlantic ties for economic growth. These commitments include datacenter operations in 16 countries and a Digital Resilience Commitment, reflecting the company's deep economic reliance on Europe. Recommended read:
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@physics.mit.edu
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References:
arstechnica.com
, physics.mit.edu
NASA astronaut Chris Williams, who earned a doctorate in physics from MIT in 2012, is set to launch to the International Space Station (ISS) on a Russian Soyuz rocket no earlier than November 2025. The rookie astronaut, a member of NASA's 23rd astronaut class, will join cosmonauts Sergey Kud-Sverchkov and Sergei Mikaev aboard the Soyuz MS-28, launching from Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. Williams will spend approximately eight months on the ISS as part of Expedition 74, serving as a flight engineer and continuing ongoing microgravity investigations into the effects of spaceflight.
This mission marks Williams' first assignment to space after completing his training. Prior to joining NASA, Williams completed a Medical Physics Residency training at Harvard Medical School and conducted research as a clinical physicist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. His selection for the Soyuz MS-28 mission follows the recent launch of fellow classmate Nichole Ayers on SpaceX's Crew-10 mission and the selection of Andre Douglas as part of NASA's Artemis 2 backup crew. The MS-28 crew will replace the MS-27 astronauts, including NASA's Jonny Kim, who arrived at the ISS in April. Separately, a new physics model has been developed to analyze the intricacies of bowling and determine the optimal conditions for achieving strikes. The model utilizes six differential equations relating to a rotating rigid body. This research considers several factors that influence a bowling ball's trajectory, including the composition and application of oil on bowling lanes, as well as the inherent asymmetries of bowling balls. The team of physicists involved in the study includes individuals with a strong background in bowling, including one who serves as a coach for Team England at the European Youth Championships. The study aims to move beyond statistical analysis of empirical data and provide a more comprehensive understanding of the physics behind bowling. Recommended read:
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The Google@The Official Google Blog
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Quantum computing is rapidly advancing, moving beyond a futuristic dream to become a tangible force in solving real-world problems. Experts predict that quantum utility, the point at which quantum computers offer practical advantages over classical computers, is at most 10 years away. This progress is fueled by the potential of quantum computers to optimize finance, discover new drugs, secure networks, and even build better batteries. The industry overwhelmingly agrees that this moment is fast approaching, with some anticipating it could arrive within the next one to five years.
The US military is taking a proactive approach by launching an initiative spearheaded by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) to identify the most promising quantum computer technologies. DARPA aims to discern which of the numerous quantum computers currently under development have the greatest potential to revolutionize American industries and the broader economy. This initiative underscores the strategic importance of quantum computing and the desire to be at the forefront of its development and application. However, challenges remain in achieving widespread quantum utility. Misconceptions about quantum computing are hindering advancement, highlighting the need for improved public and business education. Overcoming technical hurdles, particularly error correction, and acquiring sufficient talent are also key concerns. Despite these challenges, the collective progress and the focused efforts of both industry and government suggest that quantum computing is poised to make a significant impact in the near future. Recommended read:
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