There is a high mortality rate -- with an average life span of only 47 -- minimal infrastructure and limited tools for economic development.

CNN: Commentary: A week with the heroes

This was the first fall in a decade and dashed hopes that the life span of the average Russian would beat the Gorbachev-era peak and exceed 70 years for the first time ever.

WSJ: A Lost Opportunity to Save Russia

If the SenesTech taste test proves successful and birth-control bait is used throughout the transit system, the average life span of subway rats which now tops out at about one year, according to Mr. Lamb would probably rise slightly even as the total population declines.

WSJ: MTA Sets New Tactic in Rat War