In geometry, polyhedra (three-dimensional shapes made of polygons) have been at the centre of a mathematical problem. Until recently, mathematicians didn’t have proof of how to fold polyhedra without shrinking, squashing, or stretching it. Now, a group of researchers have presented proof that shows how to fold polyhedra flat using infinite folds. They started at a point far from the vertices (the intersection of two planes) and flattened it, then looked for another, repeating it infinitely with smaller folds as they got closer to a vertex. 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
