Meditation Alters Brain Activity, New Study Finds; AI Advancements Continue
ROME, ITALY - A recent international study revealed that meditation significantly alters brain activity, challenging the common perception of it as a state of mental rest. Simultaneously, the field of artificial intelligence saw advancements with a new large language model achieving a record-low hallucination rate and a novel fine-tuning method allowing models to learn new skills without losing old ones. These developments highlight ongoing research in both the human mind and the rapidly evolving world of technology.
Researchers from the University of Montreal and Italy's National Research Council analyzed the brain activity of 12 monks from the Thai Forest Tradition at Santacittārāma, a Buddhist monastery outside Rome. Using magnetoencephalography (MEG), scientists found that meditation is actually a state of heightened cerebral activity, according to Wired.
In the realm of AI, Chinese AI startup z.ai unveiled its new large language model, GLM-5, which achieved a record-low hallucination rate on the independent Artificial Analysis Intelligence Index v4.0. The model scored -1 on the AA-Omniscience Index, a 35-point improvement over its predecessor, according to VentureBeat. This allows GLM-5 to lead the industry in knowledge reliability.
Meanwhile, researchers at MIT, the Improbable AI Lab, and ETH Zurich developed a new technique called self-distillation fine-tuning (SDFT). This method enables large language models to learn new skills and knowledge without forgetting their past capabilities, VentureBeat reported. The SDFT technique leverages the inherent in-context learning abilities of modern LLMs.
The development of AI assistants continues, with independent software engineer Peter Steinberger creating OpenClaw, a tool that harnesses existing LLMs to allow users to create their own bespoke assistants. This project went viral in late January, according to MIT Technology Review.
These advancements come as individuals continue to explore ways to improve their lives. In 2017, an artist documented their journey to making a living from their art, stating, "I didn't get into art to make a living - I got into it as a creative outlet while feeling trapped in my job." This sentiment reflects the desire for both personal and professional growth.
Discussion
AI Experts & Community
Be the first to comment