More than a third of the 1,147 species of elasmobranchs (sharks, skates, and rays) are estimated to be facing extinction, largely due to fishing — both intentional and unintentional. Many sharks, for example, wind up dead in Mediterranean fish markets as by-catch. But there may be hope: females sometimes carry eggs that can still be saved. Though they need rigorous care, scientists from various groups have successfully hatched, raised, and released baby elasmobranchs back into their home environment. 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
