Although fires raze through swathes of forest, life still perseveres; there are several species of bacteria and fungi that thrive despite the high heat. Scientists will be examining these hardy species to figure out what traits they have that allows them to survive in bushfires. However, they do have a few clues about these traits. One of these traits may be the ability to eat the nitrogen contained in charcoal and wax from burnt wood and leaves, making a bountiful food source after a fire. 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
