Robotics engineers are now taking steps toward building autonomous machines capable of performing surgical procedures. But navigating the human body can be quite challenging for robots because the internal conditions of patients differ from one person to another—for example, the placement of nerve tissues. Today, some machines are fully equipped with cameras, tracking devices, and precision tools to help the robots do the job. However, the biggest challenge here is to convince regulators and patients that autonomous robots are safe for use in surgical operations. Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
