In 2021, the traces of a fingerprint were found on the top edge of Van Gogh’s painting “Olive Trees”. This piece isn’t unique, as about a dozen or more pieces by the master painter have fingerprints on them as well. Although the prints can’t be confirmed to be Van Gogh’s because they are often partial (and sometimes smudged) marks, they’re likely to be his. He may have not fixed them because he seemed to be more concerned with his works’ impact rather than their finer details. 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
