Cephalopods such as squids, cuttlefish, and octopi have enough intelligence to analyze their surroundings and change their color, shape and texture to match, to solve complex problems, and even to exhibit signs of boredom. So, how do their brains develop to be capable of such complexity? Researchers at FAS Center For Systems Biology used a method to study neural stem cells in a cephalod embryo and discovered their brains form in a way that’s very similar to our own. 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
