Do insects feel pain? While there’s not enough research on this, some scientists are advocating for the protection of insects in research. They want invertebrates to be subjected to the same ethical standards as vertebrates, such as the use of anaesthetics and humane euthanasia. The poorer treatment of insects is based on the previous assumption that spineless creatures are less complex and incapable of higher-order brain function; this movement is a precaution in case we do find out that they can feel pain. 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
