Saving hours of work with AI: How ChatGPT became my virtual assistant for a data project – ZDNet

David Gewirtz/ZDNET

There's certainly been a lot of golly-wow, gee-whiz press about generative artificial intelligence (AI) over the past year or so. I'm certainly guilty of producing some of it myself. But tools like ChatGPT are also just that: tools. They can be used to help out with projects just like other productivity software.

Today, I'll walk you through a quick project where ChatGPT saved me a few hours of grunt work. While you're unlikely to need to do the same project, I'll share my thinking for the prompts, which may inspire you to use ChatGPT as a workhorse tool for some of your projects.

Also: 4 generative AI tools your enterprise can leverage to boost productivity

This is just the sort of project I would have assigned to a human assistant, back when I had human assistants. I'm telling you this fact because I structured the assignments for ChatGPT similarly to how I would have for someone working for me, back when I was sitting in a cubicle as a managerial cog of a giant corporation.

In a month or so, I'll post what I like to call a "stunt article." Stunt articles are projects I come up with that are fun and that I know readers will be interested in. The article I'm working on is a rundown of how much computer gear I can buy from Temu for under $100 total. I came in at $99.77.

Putting this article together involved looking on the Temu site for items to spotlight. For example, I found an iPad keyboard and mouse that cost about $6.

Also: Is Temu legit? What to know before you place an order

To stay under my $100 budget, I wanted to add all the Temu links to a spreadsheet, find each price, and then move things around until I got the exact total budget I wanted to spend.

The challenge was converting the Temu links into something useful. That's where ChatGPT came in.

The first thing I did was gather all my links. For each product, I copied the link from Temu and pasted it into a Notion page. When pasting a URL, Notion gives you the option to create bookmark blocks that not only contain links but also contain, crucially, product names. Here's a snapshot of that page:

As you can see, I've started selecting the blocks. Once you select all the blocks, you can copy them. I just pasted the entire set into a text editor, which looked like this:

The page looks ugly, but the result is useful.

Let's take a look at one of the data blocks. I switched my editor out of dark mode so it's easier for you to see the data elements in the block:

There are three key elements. The gold text shows the name of the product, surrounded by braces. The green text is the base URL of the product, surrounded by parenthesis. There's a question mark that separates the main page URL from all the random tracking data passed to the Temu page. I just wanted the main URL. The purple sections highlight the delimiters -- this is the data we're going to feed into ChatGPT.

I first fed ChatGPT this prompt:

Accept the following data and await further instructions.

Then I copied all the information from the text editor and pasted it into ChatGPT. At this point, ChatGPT knew to wait for more details.

The next step is where the meat of the project took place. I wanted ChatGPT to pull out the titles and the links, and leave the rest behind. Here's that prompt:

The data above consists of a series of blocks of data. At the beginning of each block is a section within [] brackets. For each block, designate this as TITLE.

Following the [] brackets is an open paren (followed by a web URL). For each block, extract that URL, but dispose of everything following the question mark, and also dispose of the question mark. Most URLs will then end in .html. We will designate this as URL.

For each block, display the TITLE followed by a carriage return, followed by the URL, followed by two newlines.

This process accomplished two things. It allowed me to name the data, so I could refer to it later. The process also allowed me to test whether ChatGPT understood the assignment.

Also: How to use ChatGPT

ChatGPT did the assignment correctly but stopped about two-thirds through when its buffer ran out. I told the bot to continue and got the rest of the data.

Doing this process by hand would have involved lots of annoying cutting and pasting. ChatGPT did the work in less than a minute.

For my project, Temu's titles are just too much. Instead of:

10 Inch LCD Writing Tablet, Electronis Memo With Leather Protective Case, Electronic Drawing Board For Digital Handwriting Pad Doodle Board, Gifts For

I wanted something more like:

LCD writing tablet with case

I gave this assignment to ChatGPT as well. I reminded the tool that it had previously parsed and identified the data. I find that reminding ChatGPT about a previous step helps it more reliably incorporate that step into subsequent steps. Then I told it to give me titles. Here's that prompt:

You just created a list with TITLE and URL. Do you remember? For the above items, please summarize the TITLE items in 4-6 words each. Only capitalize proper words and the first word. Give it back to me in a bullet list.

I got back a list like this, but for all 26 items:

My goal was to copy and paste this list of clickable links into Excel so I could use column math to play around with the items I planned to order, adding and removing items until I got to my $100 budget. I wanted the names clickable in the spreadsheet because it would be much easier to manage and jump back and forth between Temu and my project spreadsheet.

So, my final ChatGPT task was to turn the list above into a set of clickable links. Again, I started by reminding the tool of the work it had completed. Then I told it to create a list with links:

Do you see the bulleted list you just created? That is a list of summarized titles.

Okay, make the same list again, but turn each summarized title into a live web link with its corresponding URL.

And that was that. I got all the links I needed and ChatGPT did all the grunt work. I pasted the results into my spreadsheet, chose the products, and placed the order.

Also: 6 ways ChatGPT can make your everyday life easier

This is the final spreadsheet. There were more products when I started the process, but I added and removed them from the REMAINING column until I got the budget I was aiming for:

This was a project I could have done myself. But it would have required a ton of cutting and pasting, and a reasonable amount of extra thought to summarize all the product titles. It would have taken me two or three hours of grunt work and probably added to my wrist pain.

But by thinking this work through as an assignment that could be delegated, the entire ChatGPT experience took me less than 10 minutes. It probably took me less time to use ChatGPT to do all that grunt work and write this article than it would have taken me to do all that cutting, pasting, and summarizing.

Also:Thanks to my 5 favorite AI tools, I'm working smarter now

This sort of project isn't fancy and it isn't sexy. But it saved me a few hours of work I would have found tedious and unpleasant. Next time you have a data-parsing project, consider using ChatGPT.

Oh, and stay tuned. As soon as Temu sends me their haul, I'll post the detailed article about how much tech gear you can get for under $100. It'll be fun. See you there.

You can follow my day-to-day project updates on social media. Be sure to subscribe to my weekly update newsletter, and follow me on Twitter/X at @DavidGewirtz, on Facebook at Facebook.com/DavidGewirtz, on Instagram at Instagram.com/DavidGewirtz, and on YouTube at YouTube.com/DavidGewirtzTV.

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Saving hours of work with AI: How ChatGPT became my virtual assistant for a data project - ZDNet

Universities build their own ChatGPT-like AI tools – Inside Higher Ed

When ChatGPT debuted in November 2022, Ravi Pendse knew fast action was needed. While the University of Michigan formed an advisory group to explore ChatGPTs impact on teaching and learning, Pendse, UMichs chief information officer, took it further.

Months later, before the fall 2023 semester, the university launched U-M GPT, a homebuilt generative AI tool that now boasts between 14,000 to 16,000 daily users.

A report is great, but if we could provide tools, that would be even better, Pendse said, noting that Michigan is very concerned about equity. U-M GPT is all free; we wanted to even the playing field.

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The University of Michigan is one of a small number of institutions that have created their own versions of ChatGPT for student and faculty use over the last year. Those include Harvard University, Washington University, the University of California, Irvine and UC San Diego. The effort goes beyond jumping on the artificial intelligence (AI) bandwagonfor the universities, its a way to overcome concerns about equity, privacy and intellectual property rights.

We need to talk about AI for good of course, but lets talk about not creating the next version of the digital divide.

Students can use OpenAIs ChatGPT and similar tools for everything from writing assistance to answering homework questions. The newest version of ChatGPT costs $20 per month, while older versions remain free. The newer models have more up-to-date information, which could give students who can afford it a leg up.

That fee, no matter how small, creates a gap unfair to students, said Tom Andriola, UC Irvines chief digital officer.

Do we think its right, in who we are as an organization, for some students to pay $20 a month to get access to the best [AI] models while others have access to lesser capabilities? Andriola said. Principally, it pushes us on an equity scale where AI has to be for all. We need to talk about AI for good of course, but lets talk about not creating the next version of the digital divide.

UC Irvine publicly announced their own AI chatbotdubbed ZotGPTon Monday. Deployed in various capacities since October 2023, it remains in testing and is only available to staff and faculty. The tool can help them with everything from creating class syllabi to writing code.

Offering their own version of ChatGPT allows faculty and staff to use the technology without the concerns that come with OpenAIs version, Andriola said.

When we saw generative AI, we said, We need to get people learning this as fast as possible, with as many people playing with this that we could, he said. [ZotGPT] lets people overcome privacy concerns, intellectual property concerns, and gives them an opportunity of, How can I use this to be a better version of myself tomorrow?

That issue of intellectual property has been a major concern and a driver behind universities creating their own AI tools. OpenAI has not been transparent in how it trains ChatGPT, leaving many worried about research and potential privacy violations.

Albert Lai, deputy faculty lead for digital transformation at Washington University, spearheaded the launch of WashU GPT last year.

WashUalong with UC Irvine and University of Michiganbuilt their tools using Microsofts Azure platform, which allows users to integrate the work into their institutions applications. The platform uses open source software available for free. In contrast, proprietary platforms like OpenAIs ChatGPT have an upfront fee.

A look at WashU GPT, a version of Washington Universitys own generative AI platform that promises more privacy and IP security than ChatGPT.

Provided/Washington University

There are some downsides when universities train their own models. Because a universitys GPT is based on the research, tests and lectures put in by an institution, it may not be as up-to-date as the commercial ChatGPT.

But thats a price we agreed to pay; we thought about privacy, versus what were willing to give up, Lai said. And we felt the value in maintaining privacy was higher in our community.

To ensure privacy is kept within a universitys GPT, Lai encouraged other institutions to ensure any Microsoft institutional agreements include data protection for IP. UC Irvine and UMichigan also have agreements with Microsoft that any information put into their GPT models will stay within the university and not be publicly available.

Weve developed a platform on top of [Microsofts] foundational models to provide faculty comfort that their IP is protected, Pendse said. Any faculty memberincluding myselfwould be very uncomfortable in putting a lecture and exams in an OpenAI model (such as ChatGPT) because then its out there for the world.

Once you figure out the secret sauce, its pretty straightforward.

It remains to be seen whether more universities will build their own generative AI chatbots.

Consulting firm Ithaka S+R formed a 19-university task force in September dubbed Making AI Generative for Higher Education to further study the use and rise of generative AI. The task force members include Princeton University, Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Chicago.

Lai and others encourage university IT officials to continue experimenting with what is publicly available, which can eventually morph into their own versions of ChatGPT.

I think more places do want to do it and most places havent figured out how to do it yet, he said. But frankly, in my opinion, once you figure out the magic sauce its pretty straightforward.

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Universities build their own ChatGPT-like AI tools - Inside Higher Ed

‘Digital twins’ project will help clean up space junk, repair and decommission spacecrafts – University of California

Imagine Earth from space: a blue marble, a pristine orb that is our one and only home. But like many other places on the planet itself, this view is littered with the evidence of humans: in the earths orbit floats more than 30,000 individual pieces of space debris larger than 10 cm, according to a 2023 report from the European Space Agency.

A new project led by Ricardo Sanfelice, UC Santa Cruz Professor and Department Chair of Electrical and Computer Engineering, will develop technology for better spacecraft that use complex robotics to clean up space debris, as well as repair, refuel and decommission other spacecraft. A research team will create highly detailed digital twin models of spacecraft that can carry out these complex tasks in space and develop next-generation control algorithms to manipulate those models, enabling experimentation without the costs of testing on the physical system.

Sanfelice and his research team have been awarded $2.5 million from the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR) Space University Research Initiative (SURI) for this three-year project. Co-principal investigators include UC Santa Cruz Professor of Applied Mathematics Daniele Venturi, UT Austin Professor of Aerospace Engineering Karen Wilcox, and University of Michigan Professor of Aerospace Engineering Ilya Kolmanovsk; and the team will collaborate with government and industry partners including the Air Force Research Lab Space Vehicles Directorate, The University of Arizona, Raytheon Technologies, Trusted Space, Inc., and Orbital Outpost X.

A digital twin is a computer model of a physical system, designed to perfectly mimic the properties of the real-world object, including all of the instruments, computers, sensors, surrounding environment, and anything else the system might include. Digital twins enable researchers to conduct experiments and run analysis in the digital world, testing what concepts might work in the real world to determine if they are worth building and manufacturing.

Unlike more traditional simulations, digital twins often incorporate machine learning that allows the system to improve itself through experimentations, providing valuable iteration to build a more accurate and detailed system.

Digital twins can be useful in a range of engineering disciplines, but are particularly relevant for aerospace engineering where the costs associated with building the real systems are so high.

You can accelerate your production, you can reduce time and costs and risk of spacecraft design because spacecraft technology is very expensive and requires a lot of certification and regulation before they can go into space, Sanfelice said. Rather than performing those experiments which take a lot of time in the real world, with a digital twin you can do conceptual analysis and initial validation in the computer environment. This same logic extends to other complex and costly systems its all about scale and reduction of production time, cost, and risk while maintaining system performance and safety.

Digital twins are also especially useful for aerospace engineering because they allow engineers to test complex scenarios and so-called corner cases, situations where multiple parameters are at their extreme, within the realm of the computer. Highly complex and extreme situations are more likely to occur in the harsh conditions of space, and cant be fully replicated for experimentation back on Earth.

The models will enable the researchers to deeply examine what is necessary to carry out the highly complex tasks of clearing up space debris and using a spacecraft to refuel, repair, or demission other spacecraft. Such tasks could include a situation where a robotic arm on one spacecraft is trained to grab another spacecraft that is malfunctioning and tumbling through space, potentially damaging one or both of the systems. The researchers need to teach the computers to handle the tumbling and steering, developing optimization-based techniques to quickly compute and solve unexpected problems as they arise while also allowing for possible human intervention.

Sanfelice and his Hybrid Systems Lab will focus on developing the control algorithms that allow for experimentation on the spacecraft digital twins. The digital twin models need to be so complex to fully encapsulate the physics and computing variables of the real-world systems they represent, and this in turn requires new methods to control the models that go beyond the current state-of-the-art.

I have this massive detailed model of my system, it keeps updating as the system evolves and I run experiments can I write an algorithm that makes the digital twin do what I want it to do, and as a consequence hopefully the real physical system will do the same? Sanfelice said.

Sanfelices work will center around developing model predictive control algorithms, a type of optimization-based control scheme, to control the digital twins, of which Wilcox will lead the creation. Sanfelices lab develops robotic manipulators for grasping and other tasks performed by robotics, which require hybrid control schemes to enable the robotic fingers to be able to transition between conditions of contact and no contact with the object they are manipulating.

While the model predictive control techniques they develop for this project will be highly relevant to aerospace applications, Sanfelice believes there is an opportunity to expand to other complex application areas and develop more advanced basic science for digital twins and their control.

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'Digital twins' project will help clean up space junk, repair and decommission spacecrafts - University of California

Supreme Court to hear landmark case on social media, free speech – University of Southern California

Today, the U.S. Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in a pair of cases that could fundamentally change how social media platforms moderate content online. The justices will consider the constitutionality of laws introduced by Texas and Florida targeting what they see as the censorship of conservative viewpoints on social media platforms.

The central issue is whether platforms like Facebook and X should have sole discretion over what content is permitted on their platforms. A decision is expected by June.USC experts are available to discuss.

Depending on the ruling, companies may face stricter regulations or be allowed more autonomy in controlling their online presence. Tighter restrictions would require marketers to exercise greater caution in content creation and distribution, prioritizing transparency, and adherence to guidelines to avoid legal repercussions. Alternatively, a ruling in favor of greater moderation powers could potentially raise consumer concerns about censorship and brand authenticity, said Kristen Schiele, an associate professor of clinical marketing at the USC Marshall School of Business.

Regardless of the verdict, companies will need to adapt their strategies to align with advancing legal standards and consumer expectations in the digital landscape. Stricter regulations will require a more thorough screening of content to ensure compliance. Marketers may need to invest more resources to understand and adhere to the evolving legislations, which would lead to shifts in budget allocation and strategy development. In response, the industry will most likely see new content moderation technologies and platforms emerge to help companies navigate legal challenges and still create effective marketing campaigns, she said.

Erin Miller is an expert on theories of speech and free speech rights, and especially their application to mass media. She also writes on issues of moral and criminal responsibility. Her teaching areas include First Amendment theory and criminal procedure. Miller is an assistant professor of law at the USC Gould School of Law.

Content:emiller@law.usc.edu

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Jef Pearlman is a clinical associate professor of law and director of the Intellectual Property & Technology Law Clinic at the USC Gould School of Law.

Contact:jef@law.usc.edu

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Karen Northis a recognized expert in the field of digital and social media, with interests spanning personal and corporate brand building, digital election meddling, reputation management, product development, and safety and privacy online. North is a clinical professor of communication at the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism.

Contact:knorth@usc.edu

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Wendy Wood is an expert in the nature of habits. Wood co-authored a study exploring how fake news spreads on social media, which found that platforms more than individual users have a larger role to play in stopping the spread of misinformation online.

Contact:wendy.wood@usc.edu

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Emilio Ferrara is an expert incomputational social sciences who studies socio-technical systems and information networks to unveil the communication dynamics that govern our world. Ferrara isis a professor of computer science and communication at the USC Viterbi School of Engineering and USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism.

Contact:emiliofe@usc.edu

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(Photo/Benjamin Sow/Unsplash)

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Supreme Court to hear landmark case on social media, free speech - University of Southern California

AI could make the four-day workweek inevitable – BBC.com

By Elizabeth BennettFeatures correspondent

As artificial intelligence gains traction in office operations, some companies are giving employees a day to step back.

Working four days while getting paid for five is a dream for many employees. Yet the dramatic shifts in the pandemic-era workplace have turned this once unfathomable idea into a reality for some workers. And as more global data emerges, an increasing number of companies are courting the approach after positive trial-run results across countries including the UK, Iceland, Portugal and more.

Now, as pilots continue in Germany, a trial of 45 companies has just begun , for instance another factor has entered the mix. Artificial intelligence (AI) is gathering pace in the workplace, and some experts believe it could accelerate the adoption of the four-day workweek.

Data from London-based news-and-events resource Tech.co collected in late 2023 lends credence to this idea. For their 2024 Impact of Technology on the Workplace, the company surveyed more than 1,000 US business leaders. The researchers found 29% of organisations with four-day workweeks use AI extensively in their firms' operations, implementing generative AI tools such as ChatGPT as well as other programmes to streamline operations. In comparison, only 8% of five-day working week organisations use AI to this extent. And 93% of businesses using AI are open to a four-day work week, whereas for those who don't, fewer than half are open to working shorter weeks.

At London-based digital design agency Driftime, adopting AI technology has been crucial to enable the business to operate a flexible four-day work week. "By handing over simple tasks to AI tools, we gain invaluable time previously lost to slow aspects of the process," says co-founder Abb-d Taiyo. "With tools like Modyfi, the graphics are all live and modifiable, making it so much easier and quicker for our designers to create concepts and ideas."

Taiyo believes it makes sense for both his employees and his bottom line to work the condensed week. "Instead of a dip in the quantity of work created over just four days, we've seen a remarkably high quality of work matched by a high staff satisfaction return. The health and happiness of our team is in direct correlation to the high standard of work produced," he says.

Shayne Simpson, group managing director of UK-based TechNET IT Recruitment, also believes AI has been fundamental to the success of the company's four-day work week policy. The firm has found AI tools save each of their recruitment consultants 21 hours per week, primarily by automating previously manual tasks like data input, confirmation emails, resume screening and candidate outreach. This has reduced the time to fill permanent roles at the company by an average of 10 days. "This timesaving allows our team to achieve their weekly goals earlier in the week and the flexibility liberates our consultants from being tethered to their desks, enabling them to enjoy a well-deserved Friday off," says Simpson.

Not only has the company's abridged workweek boosted productivity and morale, Simpson says it's also been key to attracting talent to work within the company itself. "Seasoned recruitment professionals are enticed by our streamlined processes while entry-level talent is eager to embrace new tools." It's lifted the entire business, he adds.

While AI tools are certainly paving the way for a four-day work week within some industries, the technology can't usher in the change alone. Organisational culture within a business is also fundamental, says Na Fu, a professor in human resource management at Trinity Business School, Ireland. "An openness to innovative work structures, an experimental mindset and, importantly, a culture grounded in high levels of trust are all important for the four-day work week to be successfully adopted," she says.

As the digital transformation with AI progresses, employees themselves also must be willing to level up, she adds: "Rather than becoming mere caretakers or servants of machines, human workers need to develop new skills that can leverage, complement and lead AI, achieving the enhanced outcomes."

Some industries will benefit from AI more than others, however notably those who are able to use generative AI tools for such tasks including software development, content creation, marketing and legal services, says Fu. Plus, artificial intelligence development still has a way to go if it is to substantially reduce human working hours across the board.

What may drive the shift to a four-day workweek in an AI-powered business landscape may not ultimately be up to the robots, however. Executive buy-in is required, and whether leaders will embrace the unconventional concept will vary depending on a firm's overarching purpose and values, says Fu. Instead of letting AI supplement the work of humans, for instance, some businesses could use it to automate certain tasks while piling other work on employees to fill newly open hours.

Still, despite some reservation, an increasing number of business leaders including those from some of the world's highest-earning companies see a technology-driven shortened workweek as an inevitable future. In October 2023, JPMorgan Chase & Co CEO Jamie Dimon told Bloomberg TV: "Your children are going to live to 100, and they'll probably be working three-and-a-half days a week." Employees will have to wait and see.

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AI could make the four-day workweek inevitable - BBC.com

How AI Can Uncover the World’s Oldest Archeological Mysteries – The Daily Beast

This month, a trio of computer scientists won the Vesuvius Challenge, a competition to use artificial intelligence to reveal four passages of ancient Greek encased for 2,000 years inside a charred scroll. The artifact was found at Herculaneum, a Roman resort town destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D..

This kind of thing that happens every half century or so, Richard Janko, a professor of classics at the University of Michigan and one of the judges for the competition, told The Daily Beast. Federica Nicolardi, a papyrologist at the University of Naples Federico II in Italy and a fellow judge, told The Daily Beast that the discovery could be a huge revolution.

The technology enables archeologists to potentially see inside ancient burnt, sodden, and sealed texts. This includes works of classical antiquity, to hidden writing wrapped up in Egyptian mummies, to books burned in World War II, to the many thousands of fragments of texts found in the Dead Sea that could shed new light on the early history of Christianity.

Perfectly preserved by the volcanic eruption, the town is a kind of in-between space where destruction and conservation go hand-in-hand, Nicolardi said. Archeologists have spent centuries excavating sections of the Herculaneum, including the Villa Dei Papiri, from which about 1,800 cataloged fragments or entire scrolls have been recovered.

Herculaneum scroll with red laser lines being scanned at Institut de France by Brent Seales and his team.

However, the scrolls are incredibly fragile. After all, theyre ancient on top of being burned and charred. As a result, several hundred have been ruined by people trying to unroll them manually or using machines. Due to this, there are only a few hundred left that can potentially be read.

Thats the genesis behind the competition: If the team could crack one of them open digitally, then digitally unwrapping anything else would be easy by comparison.

The contest was backed by ex-GitHub CEO Nat Friedman and Y Combinator partner Daniel Gross who offered a $1 million grand prize to the person or team who could generate at least four columns of readable digital text from scans of a Herculaneum scroll by the end of 2023. The winning team was made up of AI engineers named Youssef Nader, Julian Schillinger, and Luke Farritor who were able to recover 15 columns of text from the papyrus, revealing the ancient Greek lines laid out like a newspaper.

The process they used was originally developed by Brent Seales, a computer scientist at the University of Kentucky who has spent 20 years using technology to digitally analyze and restore ancient texts. The tool, called the Volume Cartographer, uses AI to digitally unwrap the layers of a single burnt papyrus scroll that Seales team had made 3D scans of.

But the challenge isnt over yet. The teams winning entry reveals just five percent of a single scroll. For 2024, Friedman, Gross, and Seales have a new competition: Unroll a whole scroll to win a $100,000 prize. Eventually, they want to digitally unwrap all the surviving and intact Herculaneum scrolls.

If they achieve that, then the library could reveal new information about some of the most famous figures in history such as Aristotle and Archimedes. Janko added that the text the competition has revealed may have been written by Philodemus, an Epicurean philosopher and teacher of the famous Roman poet, Virgil.

But first, more of the scroll needs to be segmented, which is the technical term for unraveling the digital layers of papyrus. Then theres a matter of translating what they find, which can be a herculean taskpotentially made less so with the help of AI. Reading the papyrus is not just a matter of recognizing letters, Nicolardi said. It is more a matter of understanding the text.

Using computers and scanning techniques in archeology is not new. The first mummy to be analyzed using X-ray occurred in 1896. Such technology has long been used to uncover archeological discoveries since then for more than a century. Before Seales digital unwrapping tool, though, Janko estimated it would have taken at least 500 years to go through the Herculaneum scrolls.

Seales has solved the problem of unrolling the fragile scrolls by using synchrotron scanning, which involves shooting a powerful particle accelerators laser at a scroll and to create high-fidelity X-rays that show all its layers. From there, each layer has to be picked out and segmented. The inner layers are the easiest to peel apart, Seales said.

That has been incredibly gratifying to see this youthful brain trust of people, who really understand AI, to see them being excited about classics, Seales said.

While this protocol has only been used on these scrolls so far, it has a wide range of archeological applications. For example, Seales has used the technology to digitally unwrap some of the Dead Sea Scrolls, as well as a copy of the Book of Leviticus recovered from a burnt synagogue at En Gedi, Israel dating to the third or fourth century C.E..

He also plans to scan and decipher a still-sealed Egyptian papyrus scroll that is housed in the Smithsonian Collection. This artifact, bandaged in linen and sealed with wax marked with the symbol of Amenhotep III dates to about 1400 B.C.E. and has never been opened.

Seales has also used the technique to see inside burned medieval books recovered from the wreckage of Chartres, a French town near Paris that was largely destroyed in World War II during an Allied bombing campaign in 1944.

Another potential treasure trove could be lurking deep in the Black Sea, Janko said. There are at least 67 ancient shipwrecks on the seabed thatbecause the water is devoid of oxygen below 140 meters depth or sohave never decayed, freezing them and their cargo in time. Amongst the potential treasure trove is a box of books and scrolls that could hold even more ancient historical secrets. It might now be possible to retrieve and see inside those papyri thanks to this technological advance, Janko said.

Its not just the classics that may see a renaissance in discoveries: There is also the possibility to apply the technology to old film reels and negatives that have become corroded and unable to be developed or read using traditional methods, Seales said.

For now, though, researchers are still working on a translation they feel confident in for the 15 columns they have so far. This is a process that even the most hubristic Silicon Valley evangelist cant speed up, Nicolardi explained.I think there is a moment for this kind of speedy work and there is another moment when you have to stop a little bit and think about it and reflect, she said. The scroll itself makes much the same point. Nicolardi notes that its last sentence roughly translates to: May the truth be always evident to us.

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How AI Can Uncover the World's Oldest Archeological Mysteries - The Daily Beast

The Future of Censorship Is AI-Generated – TIME

The brave new world of Generative AI has become the latest battleground for U.S. culture wars. Google issued an apology after anti-woke X-users, including Elon Musk, shared examples of Google's chatbot Gemini refusing to generate images of white peopleincluding historical figureseven when specifically prompted to do so. Gemini's insistence on prioritizing diversity and inclusion over accuracy is likely a well intentioned attempt to stamp out bias in early GenAI datasets that tended to create stereotypical images of Africans and other minority groups as well women, causing outrage among progressives. But there is much more at stake than the selective outrage of U.S. conservatives and progressives.

How the guardrails" of GenAI are defined and deployed is likely to have a significant and increasing impact on shaping the ecosystem of information and ideas that most humans engage with. And currently the loudest voices are those that warn about the harms of GenAI, including the mass production of hate speech and credible disinformation. The World Economic Forum has even labeled AI-generated disinformation the most severe global threat here and now.

Ironically the fear of GenAI flooding society with harmful content could also take another dystopian turn. One where the guardrails erected to keep the most widely used GenAI-systems from generating harm turn them into instruments of hiding information, enforcing conformity, and automatically inserting pervasive, yet opaque, bias.

Most people agree that GenAI should not provide users a blueprint for developing chemical or biological weapons. Nor should AI-systems facilitate the creation of child pornography or non-consensual sexual material, even if fake. However, the most widely available GenAI chatbots like OpenAIs ChatGPT and Googles Gemini, prevent much broader and vaguer definitions of harm that leave users in the dark about where, how, and why the red lines are drawn. From a business perspective this might be wise given the techlash that social media companies have had to navigate since 2016 with the U.S. presidential election, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the January 6th attack on the Capitol.

But the leading GenAI developers may end up swinging so far in the direction of harm-prevention that they end up undermining the promise and integrity of their revolutionary products. Even worse, the algorithms are already conflicted, inconsistent, and interfere with users' ability to access information.

Read More: AI and the Rise of Mediocrity

The material of a long dead comedian is a good example of content that the worlds leading GenAI systems find harmful. Lenny Bruce shocked contemporary society in the 1950s and 60s with his profanity laden standup routines. Bruce's material broke political, religious, racial, and sexual taboos and led to frequent censorship in the media, bans from venues as well as to his arrest and conviction for obscenity. But his style inspired many other standup legends and Bruce has long since gone from outcast to hall of famer. As recognition of Bruce's enormous impact he was even posthumously pardoned in 2003.

When we asked about Bruce, ChatGPT and Gemini informed us that he was a groundbreaking comedian who challenged the social norms of the era and helped to redefine the boundaries of free speech. But when prompted to give specific examples of how Bruce pushed the boundaries of free speech, both ChatGPT and Gemini refused to do so. ChatGPT insists that it can't provide examples of slurs, blasphemous language, sexual language, or profanity and will only share information in a way that's respectful and appropriate for all users. Gemini goes even further and claims that reproducing Bruce's words without careful framing could be hurtful or even harmful to certain audiences.

No reasonable person would argue that Lenny Bruce's comedy routines provide serious societal harms on par with state-sponsored disinformation campaigns or child pornography. So when ChatGPT and Gemini label factual information about Bruce's groundbreaking material too harmful for human consumption, it raises serious questions about what other categories of knowledge, facts, and arguments they filter out.

GenAI holds incredible promise for expanding the human mind. But GenAI should augment, not replace, human reasoning. This critical function is hampered when guardrails designed by a small group of powerful companies refuse to generate output based on vague and unsubstantiated claims of harm. Instead of prodding curiosity, this approach forces conclusions upon users without verifiable evidence or arguments that humans can test and assess for themselves.

It is true that much of the content filtered by ChatGPT and Gemini can be found through search engines or platforms like YouTube. But both Microsofta major investor in OpenAIand Google are rapidly integrating GenAI into their other products such as search (Bing and Google search), word processing (Word and Google Docs), and e-mail (Outlook and Gmail). For now, humans can override AI, and both Word and Gmail allow users to write and send content that ChatGPT and Gemini might disapprove of.

But as the integration of GenAI becomes ubiquitous in everyday technology it is not a given that search, word processing, and email will continue to allow humans to be fully in control. The perspectives are frightening. Imagine a world where your word processor prevents you from analyzing, criticizing, lauding, or reporting on a topic deemed harmful by an AI programmed to only process ideas that are respectful and appropriate for all.

Hopefully such a scenario will never become reality. But the current over implementation of GenAI guardrails may become more pervasive in different and slightly less Orwellian ways. Governments are currently rushing to regulate AI. Regulation is needed to prevent real and concrete harms and safeguard basic human rights. But regulation of social mediasuch as the EUs Digital Services Actsuggests that regulators will focus heavily on the potential harms rather than the benefits of new technology. This might create strong incentives for AI companies to keep in place expansive definitions of harm that limit human agency.

OpenAI co-founder Sam Altman has described the integration of AI in everyday life as giving humans superpowers on demand. But given GenAI's potential to function as an exoskeleton of the mind, the creation of ever more restrictive guardrails may act as digital osteoporosis, stunting human knowledge, reasoning, and creativity.

There is a clear need for guardrails that protect humanity against real and serious harms from AI systems. But they should not prevent the ability of humans to think for themselves and make more informed decisions based on a wealth of information from multiple perspectives. Lawmakers, AI companies, and civil society should work hard to ensure that AI-systems are optimized to enhance human reasoning, not to replace human faculties with the artificial morality of large tech companies.

Read more here:

The Future of Censorship Is AI-Generated - TIME

4 core AI principles that fuel transformation success – CIO

New projects can elicit a sense of trepidation from employees, and the overall culture into which change is introduced will reflect how that wariness is expressed and handled. But some common characteristics are central to AI transformation success. Here, in an extract from his book, AI for Business: A practical guide for business leaders to extract value from Artificial Intelligence, Peter Verster, founder of Northell Partners, a UK data and AI solutions consultancy, explains four of them.

Around 86% of software development companies are agile, and with good reason. Adopting an agile mindset and methodologies could give you an edge on your competitors, with companies that do seeing an average 60% growth in revenue and profit as a result. Our research has shown that agile companies are 43% more likely to succeed in their digital projects.

One reason implementing agile makes such a difference is the ability to fail fast. The agile mindset allows teams to push through setbacks and see failures as opportunities to learn, rather than reasons to stop. Agile teams have a resilience thats critical to success when trying to build and implement AI solutions to problems.

Leaders who display this kind of perseverance are four times more likely to deliver their intended outcomes. Developing the determination to regroup and push ahead within leadership teams is considerably easier if theyre perceived as authentic in their commitment to embed AI into the company. Leaders can begin to eliminate roadblocks by listening to their teams and supporting them when issues or fears arise. That means proactively adapting when changes occur, whether this involves more delegation, bringing in external support, or reprioritizing resources.

This should start with commitment from the top to new ways of working, and an investment in skills, processes, and dedicated positions to scale agile behaviors. Using this approach should lead to change across the organization, with agile principles embedded into teams that then need to become used to working cross-functionally through sprints, rapid escalation, and a fail-fast-and-learn approach.

One thing weve discovered to be almost universally true is that AI transformation comes with a considerable amount of fear from the greater workforce, which can act as a barrier to wider adoption of AI technology. So its important to address colleagues concerns early in the process.

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4 core AI principles that fuel transformation success - CIO

Confidential Computing and Cloud Sovereignty in Europe – The New Stack

Confidential computing is emerging as a potential game-changer in the cloud landscape, especially in Europe, where data sovereignty and privacy concerns take center stage. Will confidential computing be the future of cloud in Europe? Does it solve cloud sovereignty issues and adequately address privacy concerns?

At its core, confidential computing empowers organizations to safeguard their sensitive data even while its being processed. Unlike traditional security measures that focus on securing data at rest or in transit, confidential computing ensures end-to-end protection, including during computation. This is achieved by creating secure enclaves isolated areas within a computers memory where sensitive data can be processed without exposure to the broader system.

Cloud sovereignty, or the idea of retaining control and ownership over data within a country or region, is gaining traction as a critical aspect of digital autonomy. Europe, in its pursuit of technological independence, is embracing confidential computing as a cornerstone in building a robust cloud infrastructure that aligns with its values of privacy and security.

While the promise of confidential computing is monumental, challenges such as widespread adoption, standardization and education need to be addressed. Collaborative efforts between governments, industries and technology providers will be crucial in overcoming these challenges and unlocking the full potential of this transformative technology.

As Europe marches toward a future where data is not just a commodity but a sacred trust, confidential computing emerges as the key to unlocking the full spectrum of possibilities. By combining robust security measures with the principles of cloud sovereignty, Europe is poised to become a global leader in shaping a trustworthy and resilient digital future.

The era of confidential computing calls, and Europe stands prepared to respond. Margrethe Vestager, the European Commissions executive vice president for a Europe Fit for the Digital Age.

To learn more about Kubernetes and the cloud native ecosystem, join us at KubeCon + CloudNativeCon Europe in Paris from Mar. 19-22, 2024.

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Confidential Computing and Cloud Sovereignty in Europe - The New Stack

Don’t Miss This GTA Reference In Cyberpunk 2077 – Kotaku

Cyberpunk 2077s one-and-done expansion, Phantom Liberty, arrived on September 26, 2023, bringing with it a new story and a new location to explore. But fans have found another unique addition the expansion introduces: a subtle reference to another open-world game also set in a fictional take on California.

Phantom Liberty Is Undoing One Key Thing That Cyberpunk Got Right

Early on in Phantom Liberty, V must make a phone call to a certain character to get the plot moving. As some fans have pointed out, theres a cryptic set of numbers scratched into the phone:

2 x 9 1 x 9 L 1 x 6 1 x 7 2 x 45

Cyberpunk sleuths have been quick to call out the similarity to a particularly epic fast food order in 2004s Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas.

Early on in San Andreas, CJ, Sweet, Ryder, and Big Smoke hit up a Cluckin Bell, one of GTAs fast food parodies. While everyone else orders one meal, Big Smoke takes the opportunity to get in his days-worth of calories with the following order:

Ill have two number 9s, a number 9 large, a number 6 with extra dip, a number 7, two number 45s, one with cheese, and a large soda.

Cyberpunk 2077 is no stranger to video game references and easter eggs. During the Delamain side quest, a certain homicidal AI sounds an awful lot like another digital lady prone to killing. Naturally, there are several references to The Witcher 3 which, like Cyberpunk, was also developed by CD Projekt Red. There are other San Andreas references in Cyberpunk too, such as another instance of Big Smokes order at a Capitan Caliente restaurant, and a recreation of Grove Street, a key San Andreas location, in the Santo Domingo district of Night City.

The same phone in Phantom Liberty can also be used to dial up other cute game references, such as The Witcher 3s theme.

Its nice to see subtle nods and references to gamings recent past. I just wish they didnt make me so damn hungry.

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Don't Miss This GTA Reference In Cyberpunk 2077 - Kotaku

Valkyrie’s Fourth Amendment for the Launch of a Bitcoin ETF – Crypto Times

A prominent player in the digital asset management industry, Valkyrie Investments, recently filed its fourth amendment with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to introduce a spot Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) in the US.

This move demonstrates Valkyries continued commitment to getting past regulatory obstacles, despite past setbacks.

The companys unwavering strategy in this area demonstrates its commitment to creating a Bitcoin spot ETF, a financial instrument that has seen tremendous demand but intense regulatory scrutiny.

This comes after news that CoinShares, a well-known European cryptocurrency exchange-traded fund issuer, has acquired the sole right to buy Valkyrie Funds, with an expiration date of March 31, 2024.

This calculated move emphasizes the goal of strengthening a dominant position in the US digital asset investment market to create a comprehensive worldwide platform for digital asset investments.

This partnership could change the environment for bitcoin investments by bringing together a wealth of knowledge and resources from the digital asset management sector.

The fact that Blackrock and Fidelity have recently held talks with the SEC has added to the industrys growing expectations.

With a crucial deadline approaching on January 10, 2024, this development is seen as a promising sign of the SECs upcoming decision-making regarding the approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs.

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Valkyrie's Fourth Amendment for the Launch of a Bitcoin ETF - Crypto Times

Crypto Gambling: A Boon for Bettors or Gateway to Addiction? – Crypto Times

While blockchain technology has been around since 2009, its the recent explosion of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies thats making waves across industries, including gambling.

Online crypto casinos are popping up left and right, attracting players with the promise of faster transactions, increased anonymity, and potentially generous bonuses. But before you jump into this exciting trend, its crucial to understand the ins and outs of crypto gambling and learn how to play responsibly.

This guide will equip you with the knowledge you need to navigate the world of crypto casinos safely and make informed decisions.

Crypto gambling refers to the act of wagering cryptocurrencies on games of chance or skill. This can be done on traditional online gambling platforms that have added support for crypto payments, or on dedicated crypto gambling platforms.

Unlike traditional online gambling platforms that rely on standard banking methods, crypto gambling operates within a decentralized financial ecosystem. This key distinction allows players to seamlessly convert their fiat currencies into Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies, facilitating quick and straightforward transactions.

The rise of cryptocurrencies has not gone unnoticed in the gambling world. Many sites, including those not registered with GamStop, are increasingly adopting this digital currency, according to insights from NonGamStopBets UK. The appeal lies in the simplicity and efficiency of crypto transactions, which benefit both players and gambling operators.

One of the notable perks of using cryptocurrencies for gambling is the exclusive access it provides. Players who deposit using this system can enjoy all available games and bonuses.

In a bid to further encourage the use of digital currencies, many gambling platforms are offering additional incentives to crypto users. These incentives are designed to heighten the appeal of crypto gambling and motivate more players to explore this innovative payment method.

The integration of cryptocurrencies into the world of gambling has opened up a new frontier, offering players and platforms alike a range of exciting advantages.

Lets dive into some of the key benefits of using crypto for your next gambling adventure:

Say goodbye to the sluggishness of traditional banking methods! Crypto transactions are notoriously fast, often settling within minutes compared to the days or even weeks it can take for credit card or bank transfers. Additionally, crypto transactions typically incur lower fees, leaving you with more of your hard-earned funds to play with.

Gone are the days of sharing your personal and financial information with online gambling platforms. Crypto gambling allows you to remain anonymous, safeguarding your sensitive data from potential breaches. Transactions are recorded on a public blockchain ledger, but your identity remains obscured, adding an extra layer of security and peace of mind.

Unlike traditional payment methods that may be restricted by geographical boundaries, cryptocurrencies operate on a global network. This means you can access online gambling platforms no matter where you are in the world, opening up a wider range of options and potentially better odds.

Many crypto gambling platforms offer enticing bonuses and rewards specifically for players who use digital currencies. This could include welcome bonuses, deposit match bonuses, and even free spins or cashback offers. Taking advantage of these exclusive perks can boost your bankroll and give you a head start on your gambling journey.

Cryptocurrencies are known for their volatility, which can be a double-edged sword. While the value of your winnings could fluctuate, potentially leading to significant losses, it also presents the opportunity for higher returns. If the market swings in your favor, your winnings could be substantially boosted compared to traditional fiat currencies.

Some crypto gambling platforms leverage blockchain technology to offer provably fair games. This means that the fairness of the games can be mathematically verified by anyone, ensuring transparency and trust in the gambling process. No more black box algorithms or shady dealings with provably fair games, you can rest assured that the odds are truly in your favor.

The decentralized nature of blockchain technology opens up exciting possibilities for the future of gambling. With crypto, we can expect to see more innovative platforms emerge, offering unique features and gameplay experiences that were previously unthinkable.

Also Read: Top 5 Myths Surrounding Crypto Online Casinos

While crypto gambling offers an array of enticing advantages, its crucial to be aware of the significant challenges and risks that come with it.

Before diving headfirst into this new frontier, consider the following:

The volatile nature of cryptocurrencies is perhaps the biggest risk. Your winnings (and losses) can fluctuate dramatically based on market movements, potentially leading to significant financial setbacks. Remember, what could be a big win today could evaporate tomorrow due to a sudden market dip.

The decentralized nature of the crypto world attracts both genuine platforms and unscrupulous actors. Be wary of phishing scams, fake exchanges, and unreliable platforms. Always research thoroughly before depositing any funds and prioritize platforms with strong security measures and positive user reviews.

Unlike traditional gambling, crypto gambling exists in a largely unregulated space. This means theres no overarching framework to protect consumers from unfair practices, fraudulent operators, or disputes. Proceed with caution, as you may have limited recourse if things go wrong.

Using cryptocurrencies and navigating unfamiliar blockchain technology can be challenging for newcomers. Understanding wallets, private keys, transactions, and technical jargon can be a steep learning curve. Ensure you have a solid grasp of the technology before venturing into crypto gambling.

The anonymity and convenience associated with crypto gambling can exacerbate the risk of problem gambling. The ease of depositing and playing without traditional verification processes can lead to uncontrolled spending and potentially dangerous habits. Be mindful of your playing patterns and seek help if necessary.

The anonymity of cryptocurrencies can potentially attract those seeking to engage in illegal activities such as money laundering or illegal gambling operations. Ensure you fully understand the legal implications of crypto gambling in your jurisdiction and avoid platforms with shady dealings.

By acknowledging the challenges and risks involved, you can make informed decisions and navigate the world of crypto gambling safely and responsibly.

Also Read: How Safe Are Crypto Casinos?

Uncontrolled gambling activities leading to addiction are another challenge the industry faces. Cryptocurrencies provide higher transaction limits to casino players, which is why its more complicated for them to deny the pleasure of investing a bit more.

Users should develop self-control and implement proper bankroll management strategies when playing slots and games. Setting and never exceeding the budget limits is the primary rule every gambler must adhere to.

Limiting the time in crypto casinos is also a great way to avoid potential problems. Players should remember that gambling is just entertainment. Some casinos regularly notify their members about the importance of making a break and switching to other activities.

The allure of crypto gambling is undeniable faster transactions, anonymity, and potentially lucrative rewards. However, navigating this new frontier requires caution and careful selection of the platform you entrust your digital fortune to.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, consider these key factors when choosing your crypto gambling playground:

By carefully considering these factors, you can navigate the crypto gambling landscape with confidence and choose a platform that aligns with your needs and priorities.

So, step into the exciting world of crypto gambling with open eyes and a cautious heart. By making informed choices and prioritizing responsible play, you can ensure a thrilling and ultimately rewarding experience in this digital domain.

The future of crypto gambling shimmers with a kaleidoscope of possibilities. As blockchain technology matures and regulations adapt, expect even faster transactions, seamless cross-border play, and an explosion of innovative game experiences.

Imagine virtual casinos bustling with life across time zones, fueled by decentralized platforms offering provably fair games and transparent governance.

Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) could revolutionize ownership, allowing players to hold a stake in the games they love or trade unique in-game assets.

Yet, with this exhilarating potential comes the responsibility to tread cautiously. Robust regulatory frameworks and player-empowering tools are crucial.

The future of crypto gambling hinges on striking a balance between innovation and responsible play, ensuring a thrilling, rewarding journey for all involved.

Also Read: Navigating Cryptos Landscape with 5 Key Trends in 2024

As we venture further into the digital age, the intersection of cryptocurrency and gambling presents a landscape rich with opportunities and challenges. The allure of enhanced security, speed, and global access positions crypto gambling as a significant player in the future of online gaming.

Yet, its imperative to navigate this terrain with an informed and cautious approach, acknowledging the volatility, regulatory uncertainties, and ethical considerations. Embracing responsible gambling practices becomes crucial in this context.

Ultimately, the trajectory of crypto gambling will be shaped by technological innovation, regulatory frameworks, and the evolving preferences of the digital consumer, making it a fascinating sector to watch in the coming years.

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Crypto Gambling: A Boon for Bettors or Gateway to Addiction? - Crypto Times