What are the scientific parameters established for the release of genetically modified mosquito release in Maui?

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The scientific parameters established for the release of genetically modified mosquitoes in Maui are primarily focused on ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the technology, as well as minimizing potential environmental impacts. Here are some of the key parameters:

Safety and Efficacy:

  • Self-limiting gene: The mosquitoes are genetically engineered to contain a self-limiting gene that prevents their offspring from developing into adulthood. This ensures that the genetically modified population will not persist in the environment.   
  • Specificity: The genetically modified mosquitoes are designed to target only the specific mosquito species that transmit avian malaria, minimizing potential harm to other insect species.
  • Efficacy testing: Extensive laboratory and field testing is conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the genetically modified mosquitoes in reducing mosquito populations and preventing the spread of avian malaria.

Environmental Impact:

  • Non-target organisms: Studies are conducted to assess the potential impact of the genetically modified mosquitoes on non-target organisms, such as beneficial insects and pollinators.
  • Ecosystem effects: The potential effects of the genetically modified mosquitoes on the overall ecosystem are evaluated, including their impact on food webs and ecological processes.

Risk Assessment:

  • Risk assessment: A comprehensive risk assessment is conducted to identify and evaluate potential risks associated with the release of genetically modified mosquitoes, including ecological, health, and social risks.
  • Mitigation measures: Measures are put in place to mitigate potential risks, such as monitoring the release sites and implementing contingency plans.

Public Engagement:

  • Public input: Public input is sought throughout the process, including through public meetings and online consultations.
  • Transparency: Information about the project is made publicly available, including the scientific rationale, risk assessment, and mitigation measures.

It’s important to note that the specific parameters may vary depending on the particular project and the regulatory requirements in place.

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Technology Test Pilot

In 1995 At Maui High Performance Computing Center The Maui Scientific Analysis & Visualization of the Environment Program was first incubated. I was the principal investigator of this independant research project which was a joint development between MHPCC, Silicon Graphics Computers (SGI) & NKO.ORG. Using SGI Cosmo Worlds software, we pioneered the development of Internet based 3D virtual reality GIS based interactive worlds. In 1996 with a network of seven high performance SGI workstations we pioneered development of live streaming MPEG-1, MPEG-2, MPEG-4, Real Video and QuickTime Streaming Server utilizing Kassenna MediaBase software. In Maui 2002 we pioneered and tested the first wireless live streaming video using laptop computers and Maui Sky Fiber's portable 3G wireless device. In Maui we pioneered live streaming video using usb modems from AT&T , Verizon as well as live streaming from iPhone 3 over 3G wireless networks. Today The Maui S.A.V.E. Program has diversified into storm tracking including visualization and analysis of large, memory-intensive gridded data sets such as the National Hurricane Center's wind speed probabilities. I volunteer my services to numerous Disaster Services Organizations. In June 2013 I returned from Hurricane Sandy deployment as a computer operations service associate with the Disaster Services Technology Group assisting as The American Red Cross migrated from a Disaster Response Operation to Long Term Recovery Operations. Pioneering the production/editing and Internet distribution of HD video to sites like Youtube.com and Vimeo.com we are shining the light towards environmental and peace efforts of humans across the globe. Since 1992 I have held the vision of establishing Maui, Hawaii as the environmental sciences center of the world. After His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet came to Maui This vision has expanded to establishing Maui as the environmental & peace center of the world.