Month: February 2016

How is a Quantum Computer different from yours?

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NASA Quantum Computer Different
New NASA Quantum Computer Different!

How is a Quantum computer different from the computers we use today? They’re much faster, more complex and far more expensive.

Multi-state structure supports more adaptable algorithms

Quantum computing is based on a non-binary system where an atomic piece of data – like the bit – can have any possible number of states, rather than a simple 0 or 1. Quantum atomic data is called a qubit and its structure is somewhat like that of a molecule. This is significant because it enables us to represent and process massive complex data more effectively.

Data structured in this unique way can help us understand complex information that is difficult and unruly to work with even on the largest super computers. A topological approach based on data features can make representation intuitive, thus enabling us to extract valuable knowledge from huge data sets with elegance and simplicity.

What kind of outcomes can be expected from this revolutionary type of computing?

The Institute for Advanced Study advises that quantum computers would likely prove useful for needle in the haystack problems, completing them in 1 thousandth of the time a conventional search might take.

A quantum computer can be in multiple states at the same time. This enables parallel processing without parallel processors. It sounds fast and effective, but the problem arises in accessing the results. Why? Because by accessing just a single result the others disappear. Quantum interference solves this problem by combining multiple results into meaningful and measurable data.

Is a Quantum Computer different or better?

Quantum computers are expected to revolutionize artificial intelligence, transportation, space exploration, medicine and the development of pharmaceuticals, but they won’t be cheap. The price tag is not within the realm of most consumers or small businesses.

In 2014 Time Magazine discussed the $10 million cost of the first quantum computer. It was built by the Canadian Company D-Wave, in collaboration with the CIA, Jeff Bezos of Amazon and NASA. These colossal data users were the perfect partners because of the massive amounts of data they process.

A quantum computer may  be in your future if you use Amazon products, use any kind of transportation or appreciate space research and technology.

Linda Kaidan

 

Herkimer’s Fresh Water Wealth – Our World Class Resource

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Herkimer’s Fresh Water Wealth

In a world where just under 5 billion people are without water for one month a year, Herkimer has water in abundance. So much so that we seem to be wasting 43 percent of our water annually, according to the Mohawk Valley Authority. A recent audit by the State Comptroller’s Office revealed that almost half of the Mohawk Valley’s drinking water is unaccounted for— 8 to 9 million gallons of water per day.
Audits support the analyses needed for essential infrastructure improvements. “The executive director and plant engineer told us they believe the unaccounted-for water is due to underground leaks caused by an aging water system infrastructure,” the report continued.

Lakes, Rivers and Precipitation in Herkimer County

In our county, we not only get 35 to 45 inches of precipitation per year, but our abundant water resources from The Beaver River, East Canada Creek, West Canada Creek, the Mohawk, and the Independence and Moose rivers provide us a worry-free supply of water. Unlike the rest of the world, the Mohawk Valley is awash in fresh, clean water. ( New York State’s Department of Environmental Conservation provides detailed information on 19 lakes in Herkimer County.)

Great Lakes contain the second largest surface fresh water reserve on our planet

All of New York State is considered part of the Great Lakes Region of United States and Canada. Nearby Lake Ontario is only about a two-hour drive. It is directly accessible via the famous Erie canal. Twenty percent of all the fresh surface water on our planet is in the Great Lakes. This resource provides drinking water to 30 million people in the US and 10 million in Canada. The Toledo Blade calls the Great Lakes Region ground zero for our planet’s water needs.

Is a water pipeline in our future?

Popular Mechanics has a fascinating article on one of the most massive water pipeline projects in human history. China’s Central Water Transport project is expected to extend 786 miles and help to provide clean water to a portion of their 200 million urban dwellers in other parts of the country.
As fresh water vanishes from many places due to climate change, poor management and pollution, more and more people will be looking at our water resources as an essential asset for farming, drinking and manufacturing. Perhaps a pipeline will be in our future too.

Our water is a sought after asset that we must manage wisely

Let’s face it – we all need clean water to live. Water is essential for survival. It is an asset more precious than gold, platinum or oil. The Mohawk Valley’s abundant clean water supply is soon likely to be a strong magnet for new community development, agriculture and industry. Compared to the Silicon Valley, the Mohawk Valley has a secure future of stability and growth. Don’t ever undervalue the enormous water wealth of our village, our county and our region. We have it. And they will come.
Let’s be wise stewards of this vital resource in these times increasing scarcity.

Easy Spring Garden Herkimer NY

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An easy spring garden for Herkimer Village
We should create an easy spring garden like this one in Portland OR

With spring right around the corner, it’s time to think of growing an easy spring garden. You’ll find that a minimal investment of time and money will bring you bountiful and joyous results. You can see some great examples of community gardens located in Portland, OR. Herkimer can have them too.

Share seeds with friends (over 500 seeds for $1)

I have just ordered 11,000 non GMO heirloom seeds from Amazon.com for only $19. While I have no expectations of planting them all, I think that sharing them with some neighbors might create a rash of enthusiastic gardening. Growing vegetables and fruit with your family and neighbors can save you big bucks on food. You can also learn about agriculture, science, planning and  team work.

Ask for a place to garden if needed

For those of us who don’t have anywhere to garden, it’s time to petition our mayor for some land to use as a community garden.  One place that strikes me as a reasonable location esmithmitigation 1is the recently mitigated gas manufacturing site located at E Smith st and William. It was designated as a play area for children but is very boring and under used right now.

This site is already clean and cleared and has fresh topsoil tested by  the NY Department of Environmental Services. It also has sprinklers for garden watering.

Please contact me (Linda Kaidan herkimerpost@gmail.com) if you would like to talk about community gardening. Or just contact our Mayor directly.

Your new easy spring garden can offer you a great payoff in terms of fun, education and wonderful fresh food. It’s time to get started with planning.