Aside from being an egg-laying mammal, the echidna is unique amongst other mammals because of its four-headed penis. How does it work? New research shows that it functions like a pair of two-headed penises; its urethra and erectile tissue split, so only one side of the penis is erect at a time, depending on which side gets more blood. Scientists speculate they evolved this way so they can ejaculate more often, increasing their chances of spreading their genes.
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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
