After some math, aeronautical engineer Guy Gratton proclaims that an argox (argon and oxygen) atmosphere would explain a lot about how the world of Westeros works. Westeros, the fictional continent from Game of Thrones, is home to flying dragons, pyrophobia, and extremely aggressive people. A much denser argox atmosphere explains all of these: it makes dragon flight possible, contains a 30% oxygen concentration that makes everything more flammable, and is moderately narcotic (which explains the irrationality and aggressiveness of Westeros citizens). 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
