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Vineyard vigilance: Harnessing deep learning for grapevine disease detection

Mandal et al. | Aug 21, 2024

Vineyard vigilance: Harnessing deep learning for grapevine disease detection

Globally, the cultivation of 77.8 million tons of grapes each year underscores their significance in both diets and agriculture. However, grapevines face mounting threats from diseases such as black rot, Esca, and leaf blight. Traditional detection methods often lag, leading to reduced yields and poor fruit quality. To address this, authors used machine learning, specifically deep learning with Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), to enhance disease detection.

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An explainable AI framework for studying query complexity and hallucinations in LLM scheduling tasks

Thantron et al. | Nov 09, 2026

An explainable AI framework for studying query complexity and hallucinations in LLM scheduling tasks
Image credit: Immo Wegmann

In this study, we investigated how the complexity of a query can influence tool-use hallucinations in large language models that were tasked with setting an appointment. Using explainable AI (XAI) as a tool to test the hypothesis, we analyzed trends in hallucination rates by the type of query and saw results that when complexity and ambiguity of the query increased (such as asking for multiple days or unclear time ranges), the model was more likely to make errors due to misunderstanding time-related data from tool outputs. This shows that making large language models (LLMs) understand what seems logical to a human is still difficult, especially in complex tasks, and that knowing what causes these errors can help build more trustworthy AI systems.

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Algorithmic barriers: Investigating student perceptions of AI bias in subjective “culture fit” hiring

Mahatara et al. | May 25, 2026

Algorithmic barriers: Investigating student perceptions of AI bias in subjective “culture fit” hiring
Image credit: JonTyson

This study investigated perceptions of the emerging workforce toward the use of artificial intelligence in hiring, specifically for assessing subjective "culture fit." Through a mixed-methods survey of 150 high school and early-college students in Nepal, we found a significant disconnect between organizational adoption of AI and the profound skepticism of young job candidates, who express deep concerns about fairness, transparency, and the potential for AI to perpetuate systemic discrimination.

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A machine learning approach for abstraction and reasoning problems without large amounts of data

Isik et al. | Jun 25, 2022

A machine learning approach for abstraction and reasoning problems without large amounts of data

While remarkable in its ability to mirror human cognition, machine learning and its associated algorithms often require extensive data to prove effective in completing tasks. However, data is not always plentiful, with unpredictable events occurring throughout our daily lives that require flexibility by artificial intelligence utilized in technology such as personal assistants and self-driving vehicles. Driven by the need for AI to complete tasks without extensive training, the researchers in this article use fluid intelligence assessments to develop an algorithm capable of generalization and abstraction. By forgoing prioritization on skill-based training, this article demonstrates the potential of focusing on a more generalized cognitive ability for artificial intelligence, proving more flexible and thus human-like in solving unique tasks than skill-focused algorithms.

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Training and comparison of fine-tuned small language models as math tutoring assistants

Maheshwari et al. | Nov 11, 2026

Training and comparison of fine-tuned small language models as math tutoring assistants
Image credit: Josh Sorenson

Here the authors evaluateE various configurations of Llama 3.2 models (ranging from 1B to 8B parameters trained across 1 to 5 epochs) to serve as cost-effective math tutoring assistants for K-12 classrooms. Their findings show that while the largest 8B model trained for 5 epochs achieved peak accuracy, smaller fine-tuned models provide a viable, resource-efficient balance for practical educational deployment.

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