We’re still unsure how bird nests manage to be sturdy, yet lightweight and springy. New research provides some insight into the physics of a bird’s nest. Short bamboo rods placed into a transparent cylinder — mimicking the sticks birds use as nesting material — were compressed, but showed little to no signs of bending or breaking because of the many contact points between individual rods. The contact points restrict bending, so the nests might hold themselves together due to this phenomenon. 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
