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Patent mining indicates promising routes for research

A patent mining method developed by Brazilian scientists uses big data tools to identify technological routes, trends, and partnerships in various knowledge areas. The method has been validated in an analysis of studies on hemophilia, revealing a promising molecule called XTEN that can extend the half-life of recombinant factor VIII.

Gas sensing gut pill beats breath test diagnosis

A breakthrough swallowable sensor has been found to be 3,000 times more accurate than current technology for diagnosing gut disorders. The gas-sensing capsule provides real-time detection and measurement of hydrogen, carbon dioxide, and oxygen in the gut.

SourceRMIT University·JournalAlimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics·DateAug 1, 2018

Innovative technique converts white fat to brown fat

Researchers at Columbia University have developed a method to directly convert white fat to brown fat outside the body and then reimplant it in a patient. This technique uses fat-grafting procedures commonly performed by plastic surgeons, which is potentially safer than existing methods that use pharmaceuticals or chronic cold exposure.

Exhaled e-vapor particles evaporate in seconds -- new study

A new study published in Nicotine & Tobacco Research found that exhaled e-vapor particles are liquid droplets that evaporate within seconds, returning to background levels rapidly. This reinforces the evidence that vaping has a minimal impact on indoor air quality compared to smoking conventional cigarettes.

SourceFontem Ventures·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateJul 23, 2018

AI technology could help protect water supplies

Researchers have developed an AI system that can identify and quantify cyanobacteria in water samples in about one to two hours, reducing the need for expensive lab tests. This tool could provide early warnings of problems, helping to ensure safe drinking water and preventing public health issues.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 18, 2018

IBM-EPFL-NJIT team demonstrates novel synaptic architecture for brain inspired computing

The researchers developed a novel synaptic architecture that could lead to a new class of information processing systems inspired by the brain. Prototype chips containing over one million nanoscale memristive devices were used to implement a neural network for detecting hidden patterns and correlations in time-varying signals.

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 10, 2018

A structured solution

The University of Pittsburgh's Swanson School of Engineering is leading a $1 million project to advance design and manufacture of nuclear plant components via 3D printing. The team aims to develop innovative dissolvable supports, topology optimization, and microstructure design to reduce costs and improve structural integrity.