Scientific Computing: Artificial Neural Network

Artificial Neural Networks are computational models that are capable of machine learning and pattern recognition.  They were inspired by the animal central nervous system. Today, they are used in many fields and have been well-established in any discipline, especially medicine.  They can extract information from raw data and then build computer models for medical decision-making.
Now you know what they are capable of doing but what exactly are they? They  are basically systems of connected neurons that compute values from inputs by pushing information through the network.  According to the Wiley Online Library, these models contain computing nodes that operate as nonlinear summing devices.  The nodes are interconnected by weighted connection lines, and the weights are adjusted when data are presented to the network.  If successfully trained, the artificial neural networks can perform tasks such as classifying an object, predicting an outcome value, recognizing a pattern, and completing a known pattern.  

Since applications of artificial neural networks serve such broad spectrum of fields, they help validate research in those areas.  For example, medical decision support in medical applications.  These networks must be understood thoroughly before being used. Check out this list in which neural networks have been successfully applied.  

Computer Graphics: Computer-generated Imagery

Have you seen the latest Ender's game movie? No!? What are you doing reading this post then? In most movies like Ender's game, computer-generated imagery (CGI) is used.  It is an application of Computer Science (commonly referred to 3D graphics) to create special effects in films, television shows, simulators, commercials, etc.  Content is able to be produced without the use of extra props, and expensive set pieces. The real question is how are these special effects done? There are a few steps to incorporate CGI into a film:

1. Modeling
2. Animation
3. Rendering
4. Compositing

The first step is for an artist to create the images the director wants by the use of clay models, photographs, or drawings.  This could be the hybrid human-alien race in the movie Avatar in which actors take the place of them.  

The second step starts when the model is perfected. The animator tells the computer how the model moves.  An example of this could be how the Transformers move or how their face moves when they talk.
The next step is for a renderer (program that contains lighting, texture, shading, and more features) to create images showing the moving 3D models.  The director modifies the lighting and materials, often doing so until it looks perfect. 

Lastly, the CG images are combined with the live-action part using compositing software.