Browsed by
Author: Grace Springer

Studies show a gap in infant mortality rates by race, the driver: racism 

Studies show a gap in infant mortality rates by race, the driver: racism 

According to data from CDC WONDER, in the nine most populous Ohio counties, rates of infant mortality for Black/African American people are on average higher than those for white people.  The data points to inequalities in healthcare driven by racism.  Heather Rice, a professor, researcher and licensed nurse practitioner at Cleveland State University said the infant mortality rate is an indicator of population health. “Infant mortality is […] the probability that a child born in a particular year will die…

Read More Read More

Algae bloom toxins found in Lake Erie fish

Algae bloom toxins found in Lake Erie fish

A recent study found traces of toxic algae blooms in Lake Erie fish, but fishermen and researchers have yet to see the most harmful impacts.  The study, published in 2023, sampled 190 fish from Lake Erie in 2015 and 2017. Results found microcystins, a liver toxin, were retained in fish well after a harmful algal bloom.  René Shahmohamadloo, a postdoctoral fellow and main author of the study, said the results were both encouraging and concerning.  “Encouraging news was there were…

Read More Read More

The BORG: Gen Z’s party powerhouse

The BORG: Gen Z’s party powerhouse

The blackout rage gallon (BORG) rose to viral fame in 2020 and has since become the Gen Z drink of choice.  The BORG is a gallon jug filled with half water and half alcohol and flavored with electrolytes and caffeine mixers. Some say this is a safer approach to binge drinking, but many health and safety questions remain.  One Kent State student, who asked to remain anonymous to avoid being associated with binge drinking, explained how he prepares a BORG. …

Read More Read More

First year, first gen and the weight of the world

First year, first gen and the weight of the world

Shakur Cistrunk started college last semester with high expectations for himself. Being a first-generation college student, he feels “the weight of the world” to achieve.  Cistrunk grew up in Akron, Ohio with five siblings. Throughout his life, he found his community through music. He learned to play the trumpet in fifth grade. He first found a passion for the instrument when he discovered jazz. “Originally when I first started to play the trumpet, I really didn’t like it. It just…

Read More Read More