We may be able to resurrect a species of butterfly from extinction within this decade. Scientists are trying to bring back the Xerces Blue, an iridescent butterfly that once roamed the dunes of San Francisco’s Sunset district. They’re approaching its de-extinction from two directions: through genetic engineering, and through relocation of a seemingly closely related species called the Silvery Blue. The hope is that they will be able to artificially ‘evolve’ the Silvery Blue to become the Xerces Blue.
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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
