Intelligence
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While SETI is content to scan the skies for signals, Messaging Extraterrestrial Intelligence (METI) takes a more active approach. Radio transmissions containing snippets of music have been sent to a potentially-habitable planet about 12 light-years from Earth, in hopes of making first contact.
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Anytime discussion raising the possibility of a genetic basis behind intelligence comes up, we immediately enter a minefield of social and ethical controversies. A new study claims to have pinpointed 52 specific genes that play a major part in determining an individual's intelligence.
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ScienceUs humans know that even if someone believes something, that thing may not in fact be true. According to new research, however, some of our fellow apes may likewise be aware that what people think doesn't necessarily mesh with reality.
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ScienceResearchers have discovered that bees can learn to pull a string for food. Not only is this the first time insects have been seen to use this strategy, but the trained bees also spread the ability throughout the colony, prompting questions about social learning, culture and intelligence in animals.
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Anki's latest product takes advantage of AI, but there's nothing scary about it. Cozmo is a cute little robot capable of recognizing and engaging with humans, thanks to a combination of robotics, artificial intelligence and computer vision.
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Starling is a gadget that tracks the words a young child is exposed to. This is important because a higher lexical exposure can improve IQ and future emotional and social success. Starling has been developed by Versame and is fundraising on Indiegogo.
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By altering a single gene to inhibit the activity of an enzyme called phosphodiesterase (PDE4B), researchers have given the brainpower of mice a boost. The research could lead to new treatments for those with cognitive disorders and age-related cognitive decline.