Our growing preference for starting families later in life could be causing more twin births. Although the rise of pregnancies resulting in multiple children can be partly attributed to in-vitro fertilization, studies show that women over 35 years of age are three to four times more likely to give birth to fraternal twins. It’s still unknown if the trend will continue, but a team of scientists speculate that populations could shift dramatically in the coming decades. 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
