Scientists have uncovered the fossilised remains of the largest ever known penguin on Earth: a whopping 340-pound behemoth that glided through the oceans of New Zealand more than 50 million years ago! This new species, Kumimanu fordycei, was found alongside eight other specimens and was estimated to be three times the size of the average 20-year-old man! New Zealand’s unique environmental conditions likely played a key role in the emergence and success of giant penguins, though what caused their extinction is still an unresolved question. 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
