The hottest Research Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Health Politics Topics

Have We Been Fooled by PrimeWorld?

Holodoxa • 39 implied HN points • 21 Jul 22
🔬 Science Research
  1. Critically looking at flashy but weak academic research is essential to avoid misguided social initiatives based on unreliable findings
  2. Popular media and journalistic venues often promote non-replicable science as easy solutions to complex problems, leading to wasteful institutional investments in ineffective programs
  3. Emphasizing rigorous scientific methods and exploring alternative solutions beyond 'quick fixes' is crucial in addressing social issues and avoiding costly yet ineffective interventions

Scientists are not Kings

A Biologist's Guide to Life • 58 implied HN points • 07 Oct 23
🔬 Science Research
  1. Narrative and ideology can sometimes blur the truth in our society.
  2. Scientific authoritarianism can lead to conflicts and challenges in public policy.
  3. Questioning and challenging scientific recommendations is not anti-science; it's fundamental to the spirit of science itself.

An Ultima Genomics Sample Dataset

ASeq Newsletter • 51 implied HN points • 20 Nov 23
🔬 Science Research
  1. Ultima Genomics focuses on ultra-high throughput sequencing at a lower cost compared to Illumina.
  2. Data quality in Ultima's release is slightly worse than Illumina, but could still be sufficient for most applications.
  3. It will be interesting to see how Ultima performs in the market and how Illumina responds.

The PromethION...

ASeq Newsletter • 7 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🔬 Science Research
  1. The PromethION flowcell might have a lower cost of goods sold compared to the MinION. This could be a reason for its continued use despite falling sales of the MinION.
  2. There’s speculation about who is involved in making and designing the PromethION and its costs. Understanding this could shed light on its future.
  3. The author seems to question why Oxford is not considering cancelling the MinION given its declining sales, which shows concern for business decisions.
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The Last Few Years In DNA Sequencing

ASeq Newsletter • 14 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🔬 Science Research
  1. New companies have started making sequencers similar to Illumina's, which is a big step for the market. More choices mean users can find better prices and features.
  2. The quality of data from these new sequencers is almost as good as Illumina's. This could force Illumina to lower its prices to stay competitive.
  3. It looks like Illumina's profits have taken a hit due to this increased competition. It's important to keep an eye on how their financials change going forward.

UX Roundup: Poor AI Performance Conversing with Patients | AI Character Mashups | 2025 AI Trends | Accelerating Science

Jakob Nielsen on UX • 15 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Research
  1. AI does not perform well in conversations with patients. It struggles to ask important follow-up questions, leading to missed information.
  2. Some famous characters are now public domain, allowing for creative mashups and new stories using AI. This could change how content is produced.
  3. In 2025, we can expect powerful AI trends, including smarter AI agents that can think and plan, and a mix of very large and very small AI models for different uses.

Equal Ventures Hiring MBA Research Interns

Equal Ventures • 59 implied HN points • 09 Aug 21
💼 Business Research
  1. Equal Ventures is hiring MBA Research Interns to work on specific verticals like Care Economies, Climate / Energy, Insurance, Retail, and Supply Chain / Logistics.
  2. The role focuses on developing investment themes and a research database, providing a ground-level view at a high-growth VC fund.
  3. Ideal candidates for the internship are professional, intellectually curious, self-directed, and friendly, with experience in market research.

Illumina Reagent Volumes And Recipes

ASeq Newsletter • 58 implied HN points • 27 Aug 23
🕹 Technology Research
  1. Illumina does not provide public disclosure on reagent volumes, but you can measure them from kits.
  2. Recipe files for different Illumina sequencing platforms are available online to guide reagent amounts for the flowcell.
  3. A Google doc has extracted reagent steps for a deblock/incorporation cycle from various Illumina recipe files.

The role of Claudin-1 in fibrotic disease

Axial • 14 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🔬 Science Research
  1. Claudin-1 is a protein that plays a key role in fibrotic diseases. When it gets exposed outside its normal area in tissues, it can trigger harmful processes that lead to excessive scarring.
  2. Research shows that targeting Claudin-1 could be a promising way to treat fibrosis in different organs. Approaches like using specific antibodies have shown positive results in reducing fibrosis in animal studies.
  3. Future studies need to focus on understanding how Claudin-1 works in detail and testing these new treatments in humans. This could lead to better options for people suffering from fibrotic diseases.

Science Magazine Reaches New Low, Defames Their Critics

The DisInformation Chronicle • 35 implied HN points • 19 Mar 24
🔬 Science Research
  1. Science Magazine published a defamatory article attacking critics but later had to retract false information, exposing a consistent theme of inaccuracy in science reporting.
  2. The journalists at Science Magazine showed bias and ignored evidence that contradicted their reporting, leading to criticism for unethical practices.
  3. Researchers pointed out flawed research and misleading behavior from virologists, highlighting the importance of ethical journalism and integrity in science reporting.

Lynn Margulis and her ground breaking research

the rohn report • 59 implied HN points • 22 Jul 21
🔬 Science Research
  1. The biosphere operates through symbiosis, not competition or predation. Cooperation and getting along have been key to the development of complex life forms on Earth.
  2. Lynn Margulis' groundbreaking research on endosymbiosis challenged traditional Darwinian principles and highlighted the importance of symbiotic relationships in evolution.
  3. Symbiosis, not just natural selection through predation, is a major driver of evolutionary change and has shaped the diverse and interconnected world we live in.

A Revolution in Cartography

The Oswald Spengler Project • 2 HN points • 14 May 24
🚌 Education Research
  1. Spengler emphasized the importance of updating historical maps to reflect the latest research findings and to aid in understanding the development of civilizations over time.
  2. He proposed a new approach to cartography, stressing the need to include geographical details like terrain, agriculture, and migration routes to enhance historical analyses.
  3. Collaboration between experts from multiple disciplines is crucial in creating comprehensive maps that can visually represent historical, cultural, and anthropological data for better understanding.

Dorian Abbot: What I would change at NSF

Critical Mass • 16 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🔬 Science Research
  1. The National Science Foundation (NSF) should focus more on funding high-quality scientific research. This means evaluating projects based on merit rather than identity politics.
  2. Some specific areas for change include revising the NSF's vision and core values to align them with their original purpose.
  3. There is a call to eliminate offices and initiatives that prioritize diversity and inclusion over scientific merit, like the Committee on Equal Opportunities in Science and Engineering.

The HiSeq X Flowcell

ASeq Newsletter • 43 implied HN points • 18 Dec 23
🔬 Science Research
  1. About 30% of reagents may be wasted in dead volume on the HiSeq X Flowcell.
  2. The flowcell channels on the HiSeq X have a volume range of 15 to 20 uL.
  3. There could be significant cost implications if reagents costs are a large part of the sequencing expenses.

Why Doesn’t My Model Work?

The Gradient • 36 implied HN points • 24 Feb 24
🔬 Science Research
  1. Machine learning models can sometimes seem good but fail when applied to real-world data due to complexities that cause overfitting without being obvious
  2. Issues with machine learning models are increasingly reported in scientific and popular media, impacting tasks like pandemic response or water quality assessments
  3. Preventing mistakes in machine learning involves using tools like the REFORMS checklist for ML-based science to ensure reproducibility and accuracy

Another Brick In The Wall

Gradient Ascendant • 16 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Research
  1. AI models are hitting a point where progress is slowing down. This means that just getting more data or tweaking algorithms might not lead to big breakthroughs anymore.
  2. Even if AI isn't changing dramatically right now, it's still a useful tool for many people. Startups in this space might find it easier to succeed without the threat of a huge game-changing model wiping them out.
  3. With the slowdown in AI development, concerns about AI risks might lessen. Policymakers will have to address how people continue using current chatbots, even with their flaws.

Weekend roundup: GPT-4 is here

philsiarri • 67 implied HN points • 17 Mar 23
🕹 Technology Research
  1. GPT-4 is the latest version of OpenAI's large language model and it's generating attention
  2. Experts note that GPT-4 is an improvement over GPT-3.5 but not groundbreaking
  3. Researchers have positive views on GPT-4 despite concerns about its secretive engineering

5-second tests: Measuring first impressions

UX Psychology • 39 implied HN points • 29 Nov 21
🕹 Technology Research
  1. The 5-second test is a form of usability testing to measure users' first impressions of a design by showing them a fixed interface for a short time.
  2. Aesthetic elements influence users' first impressions, which form quickly within the first few seconds of viewing a design. Designers have a limited time to make a good first impression.
  3. The 5-second test is effective for assessing perceived usability and initial reactions to an interface, but it does not measure actual usability or comprehension of complex information.

Insights from the Research Community: Plans for 2024 and Strategies for Implementation

Askwhy: UX Research, Product Management, Design & Careers • 33 implied HN points • 27 Feb 24
💼 Business Research
  1. Avoid unnecessary research by understanding when it's not appropriate, like for problem-solving issues instead of validation.
  2. Prevent overcommitting by scoping projects well, building in time buffers, and looking at historical data to manage workload effectively.
  3. Enhance visibility for your UX research work by selecting the right method for your audience, sharing updates in product meetings, and knowing your stakeholders.

SPECIAL TUESDAY VSRF LIVE TONIGHT: Episode 205 with Dr. Brian Hooker, PhD.

Steve Kirsch's newsletter • 1 implied HN point • 25 Nov 25
🏥 Health Politics Research
  1. Tonight's episode features Dr. Brian Hooker talking about the COVID Index, a new tool for understanding COVID-related science. It's a database that collects important research that was ignored during the pandemic.
  2. The COVID Index aims to show the evidence that was left out of the public conversation about COVID. It includes studies, articles, and testimonies that provide a fuller picture of the pandemic.
  3. Dr. Hooker will explain how to use the Index and why it's important for anyone wanting to learn more about the actual science and information surrounding COVID.

Transannular C–H functionalization of cycloalkane carboxylic acids

Axial • 14 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
🔬 Science Research
  1. New methods to make cyclic compounds called carbocycles are being developed. These methods are more efficient than traditional ones.
  2. Two new types of ligands help improve the ability to manipulate these compounds, making the process more controlled. This is especially important for challenging structures.
  3. The research shows that creating complex molecules can be done in fewer steps than before, which saves time and resources in drug development.

Why Does Cluster Generation Take 5HOURS!?

ASeq Newsletter • 51 implied HN points • 25 Jul 23
🔬 Science Research
  1. Cluster generation time by Illumina seems to be increasing across various instruments.
  2. Illumina aims to increase cluster template density for smaller clusters and reduced imaging time.
  3. Various patents suggest methods used by Illumina to boost primer density and template density in clusters.

Mark Zuckerberg Wants You To Think That His Algorithms are All-Powerful

Never Met a Science • 50 implied HN points • 28 Jul 23
🕹 Technology Research
  1. Temporal validity in social media experiments may be challenging due to the fast-paced nature of platforms like TikTok.
  2. Social media companies emphasize the power of their algorithms to drive ad revenue, but may be cautious about influencing elections.
  3. The interaction between producers and consumers, influenced by social feedback, plays a crucial role in the dynamics of social media content.

An N terminomics toolbox combining 2-pyridine carboxaldehyde probes and click chemistry for profiling protease specificity

Axial • 37 implied HN points • 12 Dec 23
🔬 Science Research
  1. The paper introduces an expanded toolbox of reagents for profiling protease substrates and specificity using chemoproteomic methods.
  2. The work demonstrated high N-terminal selectivity with little intrinsic sequence bias beyond a requirement for a backbone amide at position 2.
  3. The 2PCA toolkit enables a broad range of applications in protease biology research by providing selective N-terminal labeling reagents that are easy to implement.

Monosemanticity at Home: My Attempt at Replicating Anthropic's Interpretability Research from Scratch

Jake Ward's Blog • 2 HN points • 30 Apr 24
🕹 Technology Research
  1. Large language models like ChatGPT have complex, learned logic that is difficult to interpret due to 'superposition' - where single neurons correspond to multiple functions.
  2. Techniques like sparse dictionary learning can decompose artificial neurons into 'features' that exhibit 'monosemanticity', making the models more interpretable.
  3. Reproducing research on model interpretability shows promise for breakthroughs and indicates a shift towards engineering challenges over scientific barriers.

January Newsletter

RSS DS+AI Section • 35 implied HN points • 02 Jan 24
🕹 Technology Research
  1. Continuing work on expanding accreditation for data science professionals
  2. Hot topics include bias, ethics, and regulation in data science and AI
  3. Exciting developments in research, generative AI, and real world applications

March 2023 Roundup

Intercalation Station • 19 implied HN points • 05 Apr 23
🕹 Technology Research
  1. New regulations for protecting marine life through ocean protection agreement
  2. Focus on advancements in silicon anode technology for batteries in smartphones and electric vehicles
  3. Decrease in raw material prices like lithium, nickel, and cobalt due to increased production and demand dynamics

How Is A Flowcell Made? How Much Does It Cost?

ASeq Newsletter • 36 implied HN points • 21 Dec 23
🔬 Science Research
  1. The construction of a flowcell involves specific materials like Kapton KJ and Black Kapton.
  2. Some tests were done on the channel material, showing properties like self-extinguishing and tackiness at high temperatures.
  3. Channels are formed using a piece of cover glass and a section of the flowcell plastic material.

The AI Explosion Might Never Happen

Am I Stronger Yet? • 43 HN points • 19 Sep 23
🕹 Technology Research
  1. The AI explosion may not happen as many expect due to a limit in recursive self-improvement.
  2. Feedback loops often lead to growth, but eventually encounter limiting factors like diminishing returns.
  3. AI progress may accelerate as AIs reach superhuman levels, but challenges like data limitations and increasing complexity may prevent a full-blown singularity.

The best of engineering enablement in 2024

Engineering Enablement • 12 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Research
  1. Companies are using AI tools to help engineers work faster, with data showing that these tools can significantly improve productivity. For example, tasks were completed 40% faster in some studies.
  2. Understanding the differences between platform engineering and developer experience teams is important for improving how developers work. Companies are putting focus on their developer productivity teams to ensure that their developers have what they need.
  3. New frameworks are being introduced to measure developer productivity more effectively. These frameworks help identify inefficiencies and understand how developers feel about their working conditions.

You are not a method

Counting Stuff • 54 implied HN points • 02 May 23
🕹 Technology Research
  1. Teams are often created to fill niche use cases, leading to specialized roles and organizational politics.
  2. Being type-cast into a specific role can limit opportunities for growth and variety in work tasks.
  3. To break out of being type-cast, showcase your ability to do different kinds of work and actively seek out diverse opportunities.

Gemini 2.0 Pro, Diffusion model for video restoration, OmniHuman , o3-mini, Deep Research in ChatGPT and Open-source DeepResearch, GitHub Agent mode, Arena-Price Plot, Pikadditions and more

AI Brews • 10 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Research
  1. Gemini 2.0 Pro has been updated, bringing new features and improvements to Google's AI offerings.
  2. Topaz Labs introduced a diffusion model that can enhance old videos to high-resolution, making it easier to restore low-quality footage.
  3. ByteDance's new AI system, OmniHuman, animates photographs into realistic videos, leading to more lifelike movements and speech from still images.

The Research Philosophy of DeepMind 🧠

Sector 6 | The Newsletter of AIM • 19 implied HN points • 18 Dec 22
🕹 Technology Research
  1. DeepMind focuses heavily on making AI reliable and robust. This means they work hard to ensure that their AI technologies can be trusted in real-world applications.
  2. The research philosophy of DeepMind is guided by science. They aim to apply AI in scientific fields to solve complex problems and advance human knowledge.
  3. Pushmeet Kohli, who leads research at DeepMind, emphasizes collaboration and interdisciplinary work. By bringing together different knowledge areas, they can create better AI solutions.