The build up to World War II may have started the shift to English as the dominant language in science, but it’s likely the aftermath that cemented it. After the war ravaged France, scientists exiled by Nazi Germany had nowhere to go besides the US. Aside from the growing scientific community in the country, the many conferences and journal translation efforts funded by America firmly established it as the language of science. 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
