Editor's note

Terrorists in cities around the world have turned cars and trucks into weapons for attacking crowds of people. But, as computer scientist Jeremy Straub writes, safety equipment already common on new cars could be programmed to stop would-be attackers’ efforts and save lives.

Yesterday President Trump finally revealed his pick to be the next chair of the Federal Reserve, offering arguably the second-most-powerful job in the world – after his own – to current board member and former investment banker Jerome Powell. Who is he and why does his appointment matter? University of California Merced economist Greg Wright explains.

And today is National Sandwich Day. Like many popular foods, the sandwiches we know and love evolved from earlier versions – some more appetizing than others – and were influenced by a range of social and cultural forces.

Jeff Inglis

Science + Technology Editor

Top stories

Existing cars can stop when they detect pedestrians. Yauhen_D/Shutterstock.com

On-board computers and sensors could stop the next car-based attack

Jeremy Straub, North Dakota State University

Driver aid systems and self-driving vehicle control systems could override a driver who is trying to attack people and prevent tragedy.

This man may soon be the world’s ‘second-most-powerful person.’ AP Photo/Andrew Harnik

Trump names 'safe' choice to lead the Federal Reserve: 5 questions answered

Greg Wright, University of California, Merced

The chair of the Federal Reserve is often considered the world's 'second-most-powerful person.' So who is Jerome Powell and why does it matter that he may soon head the Fed?

Anna_Pustynnikova

In America's sandwiches, the story of a nation

Paul Freedman, Yale University; Andrew P. Haley, The University of Southern Mississippi; Imogene L. Lim, Vancouver Island University; Ken Albala, University of the Pacific; Megan Elias, Boston University

Five food experts peer under the bread to plumb the histories of the country's unique sandwiches, from favorites like tuna fish to lesser-known fare like the woodcock.

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Today’s quote

Any comprehensive response to a health issue must consider those who have not developed the problem.

 

To stop the opioid epidemic, the White House should embrace prevention

M. Dolores Cimini

University at Albany, State University of New York

M. Dolores Cimini