Consisting of a fascinating visualisation and a slightly worrying reference to The Matrix, Tony Trans covers how biotech startup Corcital Labs have successfully engaged approximately one million living human brain cells in a game of single-player Pong. Learning the ropes of Pong quicker than some AI technologies, these human cells are placed on top of a sheet of “microelectrodes” which detect neuronal signals. The microelectrodes then translate, and dictate, to the Pong paddle one of two commands: left or right – the direction in which to move the paddle. Read full article here
Research
Improving media literacy could boost trust towards the news, IMPRESS report suggests
The UK media is regulated by the likes of IPSO and Ofcom. The report by press regulator IMPRESS highlights the link between low levels of media literacy and trust in the news. The study found that three quarters of those who did not know if journalists were regulated did not trust the news. It suggests that improving media literacy is one way to stem the erosion of trust, and shows that audiences have an appetite for information on news processes. Stakeholders need to collaborate in order to rebuild trust in the news, and independent media is well placed to do this. Read full article here