If you’ve ever wanted to explore Ancient Egypt, playing Assassin’s Creed Origins might be the next best option to the real thing (or even better, as Egyptologist Chris Naunton argues). Chris and his colleagues Kate Sheppard and Gemma Renshaw marvel at the accuracy and level of detail Ubisoft poured into their rendition of Ptolemaic Egypt; the Temple of Hatshepsut, for example, looks identical to the real-life building, minus the modern additions of the ticket office and tarmac. 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
