Humans once regarded saliva as the ultimate cure for disease. The English, in particular, believed that saliva, when ingested with bread and mixed with digestive fluids, could cure gout, asthma, and dropsy. Research has shown that there are some morsels of truth to it: saliva contains minute traces of antibacterial compounds. But scientists are more interested in saliva as a non-invasive diagnostic tool, as they have minute traces of biologically active molecules that can tell professionals the overall health of the body. 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
