May19-25:Welcome to our weekly tech blog, your go-to destination for all things ACM (Association for Computing Machinery) and the latest updates from the tech world. Whether you're seeking career advice, staying updated on ACM events, exploring trending tech news, or getting to know prominent figures in the ACM community, we've got you covered. Join us on this weekly journey as we delve into the dynamic realm of computing, providing you with valuable insights and information to fuel your passion for technology.

Tech News:

1.NASA Launches Aircraft Modeling Software

NASA has introduced Aviary, a new digital modeling tool designed to help engineers simulate conceptual aircraft designs. Building on previous NASA software, Aviary enables users to input aircraft characteristics and generate detailed digital models, allowing for virtual testing before expensive flight tests. This tool is freely available on GitHub and can integrate with other codes and programs to enhance its capabilities. Jennifer Gratz, leading Aviary's development, emphasized its ability to combine detailed information from multiple systems, providing a comprehensive simulation environment for modern aircraft, including hybrid-electric models.

Aviary's key innovation lies in its user-friendly design and extensive documentation, making it accessible even to non-experts. Unlike its predecessors, which required modifications to achieve similar results, Aviary can seamlessly simulate how different variables affect each other, such as determining the necessary power for a battery to be effective. With comprehensive instructions and records of its development, Aviary aims to broaden its usability and benefit a wider range of researchers and engineers in the aviation field.

2.Google and Apple partner to fight location tracker stalking

Google and Apple’s collaboration underscores their recognition of the potential risks posed by Bluetooth trackers in enabling stalking and unauthorized tracking. The new alert system, integrated into updated iOS and Android devices, empowers users with greater awareness and control over their digital privacy. By proactively addressing concerns surrounding the misuse of location tracking technology, both companies are taking steps to ensure the safety and security of their users. This proactive approach reflects a broader industry trend towards prioritizing user privacy and protection in the development of new technologies.

3.Humane, the creator of the $700 Ai Pin, is reportedly seeking a buyer

Humane, the company behind the Ai Pin wearable gadget, is reportedly seeking a buyer with a price range between $750 million and $1 billion. Despite raising significant funding and boasting former Apple executives among its founders, Humane faced challenges with its product launch, including lukewarm reviews citing high price, limited functionality compared to smartphones, and technical issues like battery life and overheating.

High-profile criticism from influencers like Marques Brownlee further dampened prospects. The departure of the chief technology officer and a portion of the workforce added to the company's struggles. With uncertain market prospects, Humane's potential sale reflects its challenging position in the wearable tech landscape.

4.MIT students stole $25M in seconds by exploiting ETH blockchain bug, DOJ says

In a stunning revelation, the US Department of Justice unveiled an indictment detailing how two MIT students executed a crypto scheme, pocketing $25 million in a matter of seconds by exploiting a flaw in the Ethereum blockchain. Anton and James Peraire-Bueno, armed with their computer science and math expertise, allegedly orchestrated a sophisticated heist that rattled the very foundation of blockchain integrity. The indictment paints a picture of meticulous planning and execution, with the brothers leveraging their specialized skills to manipulate blockchain protocols and conceal their tracks through shell companies and foreign exchanges.

As authorities unraveled the scheme, uncovering incriminating online searches and financial maneuvers, it underscores the ongoing battle between innovation and security in the cryptocurrency landscape. With the SEC closely scrutinizing Ethereum-related investments, this brazen fraud could add fuel to the regulatory debate surrounding cryptocurrency ETF approvals.

5.Voice-Cloning Technology Bringing Key Supreme Court Moment to 'Life'

In a groundbreaking development, voice-cloning technology is bringing a key Supreme Court moment to life, allowing people to "hear" Chief Justice Earl Warren announce the historic Brown v. Board of Education decision on school desegregation. Through an innovative recreation called "Brown Revisited," listeners can experience Warren's reading of the decision, along with oral arguments by lawyers like Thurgood Marshall.

Spearheaded by former Northwestern University professor Jerry Goldman and aided by AI technology, the project aims to provide a more immersive understanding of historical court proceedings. While the growing capability of technology to recreate voices is impressive, it also raises ethical concerns about consent and the potential for misinformation. Nonetheless, projects like "Brown Revisited" offer a unique glimpse into history, bridging the gap between past and present through innovative use of technology.

6.Chatbot Instructs Robots to Help with Surgery

Surgical robots have long been a staple in operating rooms, but traditionally, their actions have been directed solely by human operators. Now, researchers are pioneering autonomous surgical robots capable of executing tasks like suturing wounds and dilating blood vessels. To bridge the gap between human control and autonomy, an innovative AI tool reminiscent of ChatGPT allows surgeons to issue text commands to these robots. This breakthrough promises enhanced precision and efficiency in surgical procedures, marking a significant advancement in medical technology.

People of ACM

Featured ACM Member: Nesime Tatbul

Nesime Tatbul, a Senior Research Scientist at Intel's Parallel Computing Lab and MIT's CSAIL, is known for her groundbreaking work in large-scale data management systems, particularly in stream processing and time series analytics. She explores the integration of AI/ML into data systems, aiming to improve accessibility and efficiency in managing time series data through projects like "Mach." Additionally, her research extends to practical machine learning techniques for query optimization, enhancing database performance in projects like Bao and AutoSteer. Working at the intersection of industry and academia, Tatbul leverages diverse collaborations to push the boundaries of data science and technology.

AWARDS AND MEMBER RECOGNITION

ACM and CSTA have announced the recipients of the 2023-2024 ACM/CSTA Cutler-Bell Prize in High School Computing, recognizing outstanding computer science talent in high school students. The prize comes with a $10,000 award for each recipient, to be presented at CSTA's annual conference in July. The recipients are Shobhit Agarwal, Franziska Borneff, Daniel Mathew, and Kosha Upadhyay, from high schools across the United States.

Additionally, ACM has issued a call for nominations for various awards, including the prestigious ACM Fellow designation, which recognizes the top 1% of ACM members for their exceptional contributions to computing and service to the community. The deadline for Fellow nominations is September 7, 2024. Nominations for Distinguished Member and Senior Member advanced grades of membership are also open, with deadlines of August 1, 2024, and June 3, 2024, respectively

Laws for LAWS? TPC Webinar Tackles Truly Hot Topic

In a recent HotTopics webinar titled "Death by Algorithm," experts discussed the use, control, and legality of Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems (LAWS). The panel, featuring Ronald Arkin, Gary Corn, Jack Shanahan, and Jody Westby, addressed the complex ethical and legal implications of these systems, moderated by Larry Medsker. ACM Europe Technology Policy Committee Chair Chris Hankin successfully advocated for the inclusion of AI explainability in a European Commission scoping paper, highlighting the importance of understanding AI's limits.

Meanwhile, ACM's US Technology Policy Committee (USTPC) submitted comments to the US Department of Homeland Security and the Office of Management and Budget, emphasizing the integration of privacy and security principles in AI development and implementation. These efforts were led by various USTPC members, including Josiah Dykstra, Carl Landwehr, Brian Dean, and Jody Westby, among others.

Welcome to ACM CareerNews

1. Generation Z Tech Workers Consider New Career Opportunities, Survey Finds:

   • A survey reveals that approximately 90% of Generation Z tech workers under age 25 are open to exploring new career opportunities in 2024.

   • Only 13% of young tech workers report being happy in their current roles, indicating a significant level of dissatisfaction.

   • Tech employers are urged to listen to the desires and expectations of in-demand workers in fields like AI, cloud, and cybersecurity to create successful workforce strategies.

2. Tech Job Seekers Utilize AI in Application Process for Enhanced Success:

   • Tech workers are increasingly incorporating AI into their job application process to improve their chances of success.

   • AI tools are utilized for tasks such as resume and cover letter optimization, social media profile enhancement, job searching, and interview preparation.

   • The goal is to leverage AI technology to unlock new career opportunities and increase the likelihood of securing desired positions.

3. Study Reveals Impact of Strict Return-to-Work Policies on Tech Worker Attrition Rates:

   • Recent research indicates that mandatory return-to-office policies implemented by some major tech companies are driving increased attrition rates.

   • Senior personnel are particularly affected by these policies, with higher rates of departure observed when strict return-to-work measures are enforced.

   • The findings underscore the importance of flexible work arrangements in retaining tech talent and adapting to the post-pandemic work environment.

In conclusion, our weekly blog serves as your go-to source for the latest updates on technology trends, ACM events, career guidance, and spotlights on notable figures within the ACM community. We're committed to keeping you informed, inspired, and empowered on your professional journey in the dynamic world of technology. Stay connected with us for more insightful content each week. Stay Connected: Follow us on LinkedIn for more updates, news, and insights from the ACM VVIT Student Chapter: ACM VVIT Student Chapter LinkedIn Page

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