Last year scientists made incredible discoveries about the origins of modern food staples, domestication and interspecies cooperation. One of the most fascinating finds was that the origin of chicken domestication can be traced back to 1650 BC in Thailand, and it follows the spread of grains such as rice and millet. This indicates that humans were influencing animal communities even before the oldest known domesticated animal – the dog – appeared. 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
