Serious tooth decay became a more widespread phenomenon after we discovered how to make refined sugar and sweets. It started with the upper class, who first had access to sugar. For example, Queen Victoria’s love of marzipan and other sweets reportedly caused her teeth to go black with rot. In contrast, ancient human and Norwegian teeth remains from a thousand years ago were near perfect aside from being worn down from use; rarely were their teeth afflicted with cavities. 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
