An honest and humorous delve into the variety of functions that an Acknowledgements section can fulfil. One can “assert scholarly pedigree and intellectual genealogy” by presenting their list of formidably intelligent colleagues and accomplishments. On the other side of the spectrum, the acknowledgements section can be a medium for amusement, “basically the worst kind of Oscar acceptance speech.” Alternatively, if settling grudges and seeking revenge is your modus operandi, you can “strategically omit” individuals to rouse them into “bewail[ing] their manifold sins and wickedness.” 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
