Wei-Jun Cai, a marine chemistry expert at the University of Delaware, has made an alarming discovery: ocean acidification in the western region of the Arctic Ocean is increasing three to four times faster than elsewhere. This rapid acidification is linked to the accelerated melting of ice in the region, threatening the survival of marine life and biological processes. Cai, along with a team of international collaborators, published the first analysis of the Arctic acidification in the journal Science. To protect our planet, Cai emphasizes the importance of international collaboration and continued research to further understand the effects of climate change. 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
