We Use Math Blog

Max Little is an applied mathematician who developed a voice analysis software for Parkinson’s disease screening. The Parkinson’s Voice Initiative asked for volunteers to recite simple vocal sounds over the phone which were recorded for further analysis. This algorithmic software has a 98.6% accuracy rate in detecting Parkinson’s disease. Though it is not yet an official method of diagnosis, its cost effectiveness, simplicity in screening, and ability to reach a large population make it very promising. Click here for a link to Max Little’s talk explaining his initiative, and click here to find out more and monitor the study’s progress.

Before Microsoft, Bill Gates was a mathematician! During his sophomore year at Harvard, he formulated an algorithm to figure out the minimum number of flips it takes to sort a stack of pancakes. Listen to or read the NPR interview with Dr. Lewis, Gates’ professor who introduced him to the problem. For background information and the “burnt pancake problem, ” click here.

A new study from Western University shows a correlation between fluency in basic math and high achievement on the math portion of the PSAT. Watch the video and read more here.

A new world-wide initiative, Mathematics of Planet Earth 2013, will tackle global issues such as natural disasters and sustainability. Mathematicians will dedicate the year 2013 to researching and finding solutions for problems plaguing our world. Another major objective of the project is to inform the public of the relevance of math in modern calamities. Read more about MPE2013 here. Check the website for upcoming events and discoveries. The United States launch of this initiative is this week at the Joint Math Meeting in San Diego, California.