Scientists may have made a scientific breakthrough thanks to Pink Floyd.

Making Waves

The Story

Scientists may have made a scientific breakthrough thanks to Pink Floyd.

You have my attention.

Yesterday, scientists from the University of California, Berkeley, published a study explaining how they reconstructed a Pink Floyd song by decoding electrical brain activity. Scientists placed electrodes on 29 epilepsy patients' brain surfaces as they listened to three minutes of “Another Brick in the Wall (Part 1).” AI and computer models used the brain-activity patterns in each patient’s brain to help recreate the song's lyrics, rhythm, and melody. The scientists said they decided to use music instead of voice because “music is universal.” Now, the success of the study could be used to help paralyzed patients with neurological conditions.

How?

Researchers found an increased reaction in part of the temporal lobe (which processes sound and memory) when playing certain notes. The scientists hope the study could help answer why some patients that struggle with speech can sing but not speak. They also believe the research could help develop devices that can do more than just rely on speech — but can instead interpret sounds and emotions as well. The breakthrough could help tens of thousands of Americans who have difficulty with speech including ALS patients and those with non-verbal apraxia.

theSkimm

Researchers are celebrating the advancements, but say more research is needed. Still, the tech has some worried that neuroscience and ethics could become another brick in the wall for mental privacy.

Where all hands are on deck…

Maui. Yesterday, officials confirmed the death of 106 victims and began releasing the names of people killed during the Maui wildfires. Search and rescue efforts are still underway, but Hawaii Gov. Josh Green (D) estimates the death toll is expected to rise by 10 to 20 each day. Those with missing family members are being called to provide DNA samples to authorities to help identify victims. As residents grapple with loss, survivors and the Hawaii Tourism Authority have told vacationers “to leave” Maui. Thousands remain displaced and worry the destruction could exacerbate the state’s housing crisis. Developers have already set their eyes on the burnt property and Hawaii’s governor isn’t having it. He said he would consider a temporary ban on sales of any properties damaged in the fire.

What’s got some people checking their mailboxes…

A payment from Apple. Years after batterygate, some iPhone owners could be getting a whooping...$65 from the tech giant. Apple was accused of purposely slowing down older iPhones with aging batteries to push consumers to buy more phones. They faced millions in legal fees as customers filed complaints. Now, those same customers could be getting a check soon. Just enough money for a single phone case.

…Oh and for those trying to get that bag, anyone who wants a slice of the $725 million Meta payout has until Friday, August 25 to file. The company is paying up for allegedly sharing its users' data with third parties. Here’s the link to do that.

Who’s telling their side of the story…

The Tuohys. Yesterday, Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy’s lawyer called NFL star Michael Oher’s comments “hurtful” and as part of a “shakedown effort.” Oher alleged the Tuohys tricked him into a conservatorship and that he never saw any of “The Blind Side” money. Now, the Tuohys say Oher has tried to get money from the family before.

What may help fight some cancers…

A workout plan. Yesterday, a new study found that getting in shape earlier in life could reduce cancer risks by as much as 42% in some cases. Researchers specifically analyzed the cardiorespiratory fitness of individuals and experts say the results could push schools to promote heart health.

Who had big vibes at a Tiny Desk…

Post Malone.

While Sweetgreen is serving up a different kind of crunch…

Chick-fil-A is giving people another reason to eat mor chikin.