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Lingam, Mirsayar, van Woesik Recognized as ‘Top Scholars’ by ScholarGPS
Florida Tech faculty members Manasvi Lingam, Mirmilad Mirsayar and Robert van Woesik were named “Top Scholars” by ScholarGPS for their contributions to academia over the last five years. Lingam, who studies astrobiology in the Department of Aerospace, Physics and Space Sciences, was ranked No. 9,562 in the world across all disciplines and nearly 15 million ranked scholars, placing him in the top 0.06% of the platform’s scholars globally. He faired strongly in other areas, including: No. 1,919 (0.1%) among 1.9 million scholars in physical sciences and mathematics No. 491 (0.09%) among 545,000 scholars in physics No. 42 (0.31%) among 13,590 scholars in the specialty area planets ScholarGPS cited Lingam’s strong publication record, the impact of his work and the notable quality of his scholarly contributions. He’s published 50 times since 2020, exploring the possible origins, evolution and future of life in the universe. Mirsayar, who studies aerospace engineering, was ranked No. 35,155 across all disciplines and nearly 15 million ranked scholars, placing him in the top 0.24% of scholars globally. He’s published 11 times between 2020-2023, covering topics such as fracture mechanics and solid mechanics. Other highlights include: No. 6 (0.06%) among 8,601 scholars in fracture mechanics No. 49 (1.7%) among 2,879 scholars in solid mechanics No. 315 (1.8%) among 16,847 scholars in reinforced concrete Van Woesik, who studies coral reef ecology, was ranked No. 58,081 across disciplines, putting him in the top 0.39% of nearly 15 million scholars globally. He’s had 22 publications since 2020, covering topics such as coral bleaching, thermal stress and climate change. Van Woesik, who studies coral reef ecology, was ranked No. 58,081 across disciplines, putting him in the top 0.39% of nearly 15 million scholars globally. He’s had 22 publications since 2020, covering topics such as coral bleaching, thermal stress and climate change. Other highlights include: No. 5,282 (0.32%) among 1.7 million scholars in life sciences No. 336 (0.38%) among 88,930 scholars of ecology and evolutionary biology No. 191 (0.95%) among 19,998 scholars of global change. ScholarGPS uses artificial intelligence and data mining technologies to rank individuals, academic institutions and programs. Scholars are ranked by their number of publications, their citations, their h-index and their ScholarGPS® Ranks, which includes all three metrics. If you're interested in connecting with Manasvi Lingam, Robert van Woesik and Mirmilad Mirsayar- simply contact Adam Lowenstein, Director of Media Communications at Florida Institute of Technology at adam@fit.edu to arrange an interview today.
Georgia Southern welcomes Georgia state leaders on Wexford Campus in Ireland
Georgia Southern University’s Wexford Campus in Ireland has been invigorating educational, civic, business and trade opportunities between Ireland’s southeast region and the state of Georgia since its establishment in 2022. The bicultural partnership has drawn the attention of state leaders in Georgia, prompting a recent visit to the international campus where Georgia Southern and its Irish partners welcomed the delegation. “We hosted legislators and leaders of industrial development and enterprise organizations,” said Howard Keeley, Ph.D., director of Georgia Southern’s Center for Irish Research and Teaching (CIRT). “These Georgia stakeholders believe that what Georgia Southern is doing in Ireland is important. One of the major concepts behind the Wexford Campus is that it’s a true campus, not just a study-abroad venue. So we’re pursuing several streams of activity. One is teaching and another is research. Another one is economic development, which includes internships and community engagement. We want to be in the community; therefore, to have leading constituents from a variety of industries in Georgia was very gratifying.” Among the attendees were U.S. Congressman Earl L. “Buddy” Carter; Georgia Department of Economic Development Commissioner Pat Wilson and five members of his senior staff, as well senior officials from electrical utilities, including Georgia Power; Trip Tollison, CEO of Savannah Economic Development Authority; Teresa MacCartney, chief operating officer for the University System of Georgia; and Georgia Rep. James Burchett (‘04), along with 10 additional members of the Georgia House of Representatives. “The main thing we wanted to do is show them what the student experience is like,” said Keeley. “We care about our students, and, using philanthropic funds, we’ve invested in a beautiful set of buildings, including one, built in 1886, that will house 50 students at a time. Each year, our goal is full capacity over six minimesters for a total of 300 Georgia Southern students. Historically a religious convent, that structure should open in spring 2026, after extensive remodeling. Many Georgia Southern students, including construction management and interior design majors, are gaining valuable professional skills by contributing to the endeavor.” The Wexford Campus already features the Learning Center, a historic administrative complex constructed in 1812 that has been transformed into a contemporary, high-tech educational space where students learn from local and international experts. They also present their research to peers and visiting Georgia Southern alumni while participating in high-impact experiential learning within the region. Visiting delegates were pleased to learn about the Honors College Global Scholars Program, which hosts 24 Honors College students who, taking an interdisciplinary approach, explore two themes for six weeks each spring in Ireland. This year, a prominent topic of study was sustainability in agriculture. One of Georgia Southern’s European research partners, South East Technological University Ireland, helped guide the students as they compared sustainability challenges along the coasts of Georgia and southeastern Ireland. The students drew on various research efforts, including important knowledge generated by Georgia Southern’s Institute for Water and Health. Similar integrated concepts also inform the summer and fall offerings. In 2024, they included two undergraduate global business courses, as well as the first Europe-based course from the MBA program at Georgia Southern’s Parker College of Business. One focus for the MBA students was Rosslare Europort, just south of Georgia Southern’s Wexford Campus, which has become Ireland’s fastest-growing port as multiple new direct routes to continental Europe have opened in response to Brexit. At a workshop facilitated by a top Rosslare Europort official, the MBA students explored international trade, logistics and supply chain management and the European regulatory environment. Spanning undergraduate, graduate and doctoral levels, the Wexford Campus has also provided courses in accounting, philosophy, sociology, geography, environmental biology, tourism and public health, among other disciplines. Shadowing Irish experts, population health science students from the Waters College of Health Professions focused on designing and delivering preventative-health programs, a critical matter in both Ireland and Georgia. “One of the metrics we use to measure success in Ireland is asking what makes it worthwhile for students to complete the course in Ireland as opposed to staying in the United States,” posed Keeley. “The bottom line is that we’re trying to provide a range of courses that look like Georgia Southern and that meet the degree needs, but also the employment needs in the state of Georgia. We’re always looking at how we can make our students more competitive, deepen their knowledge and give them as much hands-on experience as possible. This is really one of the things that we hope is a differentiator for us.” Notably, annual scholarships are available for the Honors College Global Scholars Program, Department of Political Science and International Studies students and Irish Studies students thanks to generous donations from alumni. In addition, philanthropic support has provided $1,000 to each participating student to offset the cost of transatlantic air travel. “The Wexford Campus’ directives exemplify Georgia Southern’s mission of providing holistic educational opportunities for our students to excel and grow,” said Annalee Ashley, Ed.D., Georgia Southern Vice President for External Affairs, Communications, and Strategic Initiatives, who participated in the trip. “Employers value global consciousness and intercultural skills when hiring, and our students who study abroad can enhance their skills, intellect and hireability in the marketplace. We are proud to serve Georgia and the entire southeastern region in this unique way, and to be supported by the state of Georgia as the University moves toward an R1 designation.” Beyond the campus, the group explored Johnstown Castle, an environmental and agricultural research center and heritage venue, as well as the Dunbrody Emigration Experience Center, whose newest permanent exhibition, Savannah Landing, is based on research by Georgia Southern students. The work highlights more than 170 years of historical ties that connect Savannah and Wexford, where hundreds boarded ships and crossed the Atlantic Ocean to arrive in Georgia’s coastal city in the mid-19th century. The centerpiece project, which was celebrated by the Irish prime minister at a ribbon-cutting in August, was made possible by $832,000 in research-grant funding, secured by the Dunbrody Center and Georgia Southern’s Center for Irish Research and Teaching. “Our guests got to experience history and understand the unique story that connects County Wexford to Savannah and, by extension, the state of Georgia,” noted Keeley. “Furthermore, they were able to see more than three-quarters of a million dollars of investment in Georgia Southern student work. That was super exciting.” The legislative group also met with Georgia Southern’s Irish partners, who shared what this relationship means to the people of Wexford and its hinterland, Southeast Ireland. “We invited all the players onto the field to strategically advance themes of education, economic development, and civic and cultural engagement,” said Keeley. “I believe they concluded that Ireland is a fit. It boasts a thriving economy that is modern, global and innovative. It’s the youngest economy in Europe in terms of workforce, and Ireland is one of the biggest investors in the U.S. economy.” Georgia Southern leadership and local Irish legislators, including four members of the Irish House of Representatives, Senator Malcolm Byrne and members of Wexford County Council, hosted Georgia’s VIPs with open arms. “They wanted to rally around us in the way that a family will rally around you,” said Keeley. “They couldn’t have done more. They totally rolled up their sleeves. It was a complete partnership hosting, and we were able to demonstrate that our network is so solid.” Wexford County Council leader Pip Breen shared opportunities for deeper connections with the Georgia delegation through the Irish nonprofit TradeBridge. Established in 2018, the entity facilitates trade and investment between the southeastern regions of Ireland and Georgia by developing new export markets and job creation opportunities. The trade corridor opens doors for southeastern Irish companies to establish a supportive base in southeastern Georgia, while also creating similar coordinates for companies based in southeastern Georgia to enter the European Union marketplace. Keeley, who was awarded the Presidential Distinguished Service Award for the Irish Abroad from the Government of Ireland in 2023, is a board member. “Georgia Southern’s footprint in southeastern Ireland is an important one for students and for the state of Georgia,” said Ga. Rep. Burchett. “The strides they are making not only allow students to participate in research in engineering, coastal sustainability, history and other important areas of study, but they also directly drive trade and investment opportunities between the southeastern regions of Georgia and Ireland. This was an amazing visit and we value our friendships within the Irish community.” Following the event, Burchett returned the hospitality with an invitation for Wexford County Council members to be recognized in person on the floor of the Georgia General Assembly in March 2025. “They very enthusiastically accepted the invitation,” Keeley shared. “I think when you’re involved in education, when you’re doing business and when you’re building out opportunities, the most important single thing is friendship and like-mindedness. You cannot achieve anything otherwise. There has to be this human-to-human connection. There has to be genuine mutual respect and mutual affection, and that was just in spades.” Georgia Southern’s Wexford Campus was featured on the national Irish TV program, “Nationwide.” You can see it here: Looking to know more, then let us help. Howard Keeley, director of Georgia Southern’s Center for Irish Research and Teaching, is available to speak with media. Simply click on his icon now to arrange an interview today.
New study shows alarming rate of potential species extinction due to climate change
A recent study authored by the University of Connecticut's Mark Urban found that close to one third of species across the globe would be at risk of extinction by the end of the century if greenhouse gases continue to increase at current levels. His study, published in the journal Science, looked at more than three decades of biodiversity and climate change research. The findings are alarming. The study found that if global temperatures rise to 2.7 degrees Fahrenheit (1.5 degrees Celsius) above the pre-industrial average temperature, exceeding the target of the Paris Agreement, extinctions would rapidly accelerate — especially for amphibians; species in mountain, island and freshwater ecosystems; and species in South America, Australia and New Zealand. Earth has already warmed about 1.8 F (1 C) since the Industrial Revolution. Climate change causes shifts in temperatures and precipitation patterns, altering habitats and species interactions. For instance, warmer temperatures have caused monarch butterfly migration to mismatch with the blooming of plants they pollinate. Many animal and plant species are shifting their ranges to higher latitudes or elevations to follow more favorable temperatures. While some species might adapt or migrate in response to changing environmental conditions, some can't survive the drastic environmental changes, resulting in population declines and sometimes extinction. Global assessments have predicted rising extinction risks for over a million species, but scientists have not clearly understood how exactly this growing risk is linked to climate change. The new study, published Thursday (Dec. 5) in the journal Science, analyzed over 30 years of biodiversity and climate change research, encompassing over 450 studies of most known species. If greenhouse gas emissions are managed in accordance with the Paris Agreement, nearly 1 in 50 species worldwide — an estimated 180,000 species — will be at risk of extinction by 2100. When the climate model's temperature is increased to a 4.9 F (2.7 C) rise, which is predicted under current international emissions commitments, 1 in 20 species around the world would be at risk of extinction. Hypothetical warming beyond this point makes the number of species at risk rise sharply: 14.9% of species were at risk of extinction under a 7.7 F (4.3 C) warming scenario, which assumes high greenhouse gas emissions. And 29.7% of all species would be at risk of extinction under a 9.7 F (5.4 C) warming scenario, a high estimate, but one that is possible given current emissions trends. The increase in the number of species at risk increases steeply beyond the 1.5 C warming target, study author Mark Urban, a biologist at the University of Connecticut told Live Science. "If we keep global warming to below 1.5 C, in accordance with the Paris Agreement, then the [extinction] risk from today to 1.5 C is not a large increase," Urban said. But at a 2.7 C rise, the trajectory accelerates. Species in South America, Australia and New Zealand face the greatest threats. Amphibians are the most threatened because amphibians' life cycles depend heavily on weather, and are highly sensitive to shifting rainfall patterns and drought, Urban said. Mountain, island and freshwater ecosystems have the most at-risk species, likely because these isolated environments are surrounded by inhospitable habitats for their species, making it difficult or impossible for them to migrate and seek more favorable climates, he added. Limiting greenhouse gas emissions can slow warming and halt these growing extinction risks, but understanding which species and ecosystems are most affected by climate change can also help target conservation efforts where they're needed most. Urban hopes the results have an impact on policymakers. "The main message for policymakers is that this relationship is much more certain," Urban said. "There's no longer the excuse to do nothing because these impacts are uncertain." December 5, 2024 - Live Science This is an important topic, and if you're a journalist looking to learn more, we can help. Mark Urban is an international award-winning scientist; a professor of ecology and evolutionary biology and the Arden Chair Ecology & Evolutionary Biology at UConn; and a global expert on climate change impacts on nature. He is available to speak with media - simply click on his icon now to arrange an interview today.
Humans have long taken inspiration from the natural world. From the indigenous cultures of the world who understand and utilize the properties of plant and animal products, to Leonardo da Vinci’s “flying machine” sketches inspired by his observations of flying birds, humankind has often looked to nature to help solve its problems and drive innovation. With rapid scientific advancements of the 19th and 20th centuries, and the exponential growth of sustainability practices over the last quarter century, the concepts of bio-inspired design and biomimicry have been increasingly pursued across myriad disciplines of study and implementation. Alyssa Stark, PhD, associate professor of biology at Villanova University, is one of the “boots-on-the-ground” researchers in pursuit of nature’s solutions to human problems. She recently took the time to chat with us about these fields, her research interests and the future of biomimicry. Villanova PR: We sometimes hear the terms “bio-inspired design” and “biomimicry” used interchangeably. Are they the same concept? Alyssa Stark: I see those as two different things. Bio-inspired design is when we are looking at an organism and see that it’s doing something that we want to emulate as humans. I work with animals that have unique adhesive properties. I ask questions like: Can we see that? Can we build it? Can we transfer that information, those ideas, those principles – it could be chemistry, physics, biological structure – and make something useful for us? That is also true with biomimicry, but the big difference for me is that we're keeping in mind the sustainability components. The natural world is not polluting. If we're using this biomimicry lens, how do we learn from nature to make products or solve problems in a sustainable way, keeping in mind the specific environment in which we are located? As an example, we wouldn't use a heavy water process if we were in the Arizona desert, instead we should look to our immediate surroundings to solve problems. PR: It seems the work going on in this field really takes a unique level of interdisciplinary collaboration. What types of different professionals are working in biomimicry? AS: It really pulls together biologists, engineers, physicists, chemists, even design artists and businesspeople. I've worked with a lot of different businesses that want to have sustainability in their company at broad levels by using biomimicry. They are not motivated by making a cool product, but realizing it actually saves them money if they think about their whole company in a biomimetic perspective. There are people who work on the social side of biomimicry, helping these companies completely restructure themselves to be more efficient and more time and money sensitive, without ever making a product. But of course, products are a huge part of it, too. And to make that happen, all of those professions, and more, are vital and active in this space. PR: In terms of products, what are some of the most successful examples of biomimetic designs being implemented? AS: A classic one is a building in Africa that doesn't have any air conditioning units because it has a series of vents like a termite mound. Or the bullet train being shaped like a kingfisher’s beak. One scientist found that whales have bumps on their fins, which you might think is not hydrodynamic. But as it turns out, it actually cuts through water more efficiently by creating little vortices. This concept was then applied to wind turbines. There are many examples of biomimicry actually working and being used. My mind is blown when I talk to an artist or designer about biomimicry because it's just wild the way they think. PR: Where does your overall work as a biologist fit into the world of biomimicry? AS: My hard science work is very much functional morphology – shape and structure of things and how they function. That includes behavior and their organismal interaction with the environment. I ask questions like: How do their structures function and perform? How sticky are they? How fast are they? How do they behave in their environment? What happens if they hit different challenges in their environment? My work kind of naturally fits well with biomimicry, especially for product development. I observe the natural world and then I start testing questions and predictions that I have about it, like figuring out how the heck this ant is sticking to this wet leaf. My results can then be applied directly. We have to first understand how these organisms work, and then others can run with it to try to put it to use. PR: What organisms do you work with and what about them are you studying? AS: I mostly study geckos, ants, and sea urchins and I just started working with some coral, looking at why some coral undergo bleaching, and some don’t. With sea urchins, we're also figuring out where their incredibly hard teeth are mineralized so we can understand it enough to try to mimic it. I like playing in that zone, because it still provides me a chance to do the hard science, but also talk to engineers and others and provide them information. With geckos, what I kind of broke open with my PhD thesis was that they have an adhesive that works in wet environments. Having a reusable adhesive that can work on skin, especially in the medical world, is a big problem and where most of my research lies. Think of a bug that you can’t pry off, but then it suddenly runs. How do these organisms move with such sticky feet? Figuring out how to make a reusable adhesive that doesn’t get dirty and can handle all these different environments is a difficult problem to solve. PR: How do you see this field evolving, especially as we strive for a greener, more sustainable future? AS: I would say the next step is the social levels of these big ecosystems. How do we build a city that functions like a rainforest or like a coral reef? Not just a product, but how do we actually shape our world by taking behaviors, processes, or systems that we see in the natural world to help us? Look at a pride of lions and their hierarchy, or what kind of feedback loops are there in an ant colony that allow them to give information back to their colony members quickly and share resources. I think that is the future of this field, and it’s an exciting future. *To learn more about Dr. Stark’s research and the field of biomimicry, click here to listen to a recent episode of NPR’s science show, “The Pulse.”
#ExpertSpotlight: The changing seasons and the significance of fall
As the season of autumn unfolds, its significance reaches far beyond the changing colors of leaves. Autumn marks a period of transition with deep-rooted scientific, natural, cultural, and religious meaning. From environmental changes and harvest cycles to cultural festivals and religious observances, this season plays a pivotal role in shaping human understanding of nature and time. Its broad significance makes autumn a compelling topic for journalists, with various angles of interest to a wide audience. Key sub-topics include: Scientific Understanding of Seasonal Change: Exploring the science behind autumn, including changes in daylight, temperature, and plant biology, and their impact on ecosystems and human health. Environmental and Ecological Impacts: Investigating how autumn affects biodiversity, wildlife behaviors, and ecological cycles such as migration and hibernation. Cultural Festivals and Traditions: Highlighting the cultural significance of autumn in global traditions, including festivals like Thanksgiving, Diwali, and Oktoberfest, which celebrate harvests and community. Religious Observances and Symbolism: Examining the religious significance of autumn in different faiths, such as Yom Kippur, Sukkot, and the Pagan celebration of Samhain, which connect the season with themes of renewal, reflection, and spirituality. The Role of Autumn in Art and Literature: Analyzing how autumn has been historically depicted in art, literature, and music, symbolizing themes of change, nostalgia, and impermanence. Autumn’s Economic and Agricultural Importance: Investigating the economic impact of autumn, particularly in agricultural sectors, tourism (fall foliage), and local economies dependent on seasonal goods and services. Autumn’s blend of natural beauty, cultural depth, and ecological importance offers rich opportunities for storytelling, inviting audiences to explore how this season influences our world in profound and interconnected ways. Connect with an expert about the the significance of fall: To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com
Sport and Study: Villanova University Faculty Offer Academic Lens to Paris Olympics Storylines
All eyes are on Paris: more than 10,000 athletes from 206 nations are set to compete in the Games of the XXXIII Olympiad, the third Olympics in the City of Love and the first since 1924. Below, Villanova University faculty members provide their academic expertise on the unique storylines and narratives already taking place as Paris 2024 gets underway. Portraying a National Image in the Opening Ceremony Étienne Achille, PhD Director of French and Francophone Studies After months of speculation, the daily Le Parisien has officially confirmed that renowned French-Malian singer Aya Nakamura will lend her vocals to an opening ceremony featuring an iconic backdrop steeped in history. “Nakamura is the most-streamed Francophone singer in the world, embodying France’s culture on a global stage, and she’ll be paying homage to one of the most cherished representatives of the chanson française,” said Dr. Achille, referring to reports she will sing one of beloved French crooner Charles Aznavour’s greatest hits. According to Dr. Achille, the pop star’s presence is significant and symbolic. “A performer, or even a flagbearer, can easily become the face of a global event like the Olympics,” he said. The details of the setting for the ceremony – in the heart of Paris, along the Seine – are just as intentionally symbolic. “Not only will this be the first opening ceremony to take place entirely outside of a stadium; its location along the river and the fact the delegations will be on boats are key. “It represents movement and connection to the world,” Dr. Achille said. “And Nakamura’s performance projects the image of a modern, multi-ethnic nation building on tradition while proudly marching into the future.” Swimming in the Seine: Safe or Not? Metin Duran, PhD Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering It is, perhaps, the most-asked question of the last few weeks. Is the Seine River, set to host multiple swimming events, safe? The river has been illegal to swim in for a century due to the presence of harmful bacteria such as E. Coli, and recent testing has reaffirmed this concern. The Seine, which had undergone an expensive cleaning to mitigate this issue, received the endorsement of Paris Mayor Ann Hidalgo, who personally took a dip in the water herself to attest to its safety. The stunt did little to convince experts such as Dr. Duran, who studies wastewater, to abandon concern about the potential health risks of athletes being exposed to pathogens in the water. “When we have fecal pollution, there is a high likelihood of pathogens being present,” Dr. Duran said. “Those could be viral, like a norovirus, or protozoan. “If you’re swimming in that water, you run the risk of ingesting it. Once you ingest that polluted water, you’re likely to contract some of those disease-causing pathogens. Ingesting this water doesn’t mean you’re necessarily going to get sick, but based on the number of people in a big city like Paris, there is a very high likelihood of some of these pathogens existing now in the river.” Accommodations for Breastfeeding Athletes Sunny Hallowell, PhD, APRN, PPCNP-BC Associate Professor of Nursing The IOC and Paris 2024 Organizing Committee is providing support to all breastfeeding athletes competing in the Games. A few national governing bodies, like the French Olympic Committee, are going a step further and offering hotel rooms near the Village for their country’s breastfeeding athletes to share with their children and spouses. “A few decades ago, the idea of a female athlete who also wanted to breastfeed their child was so taboo it may have prevented an athlete from competing,” said Dr. Hallowell. “Now, many female athletes who choose to breastfeed their newborns or toddlers conceptualize breastfeeding as another normal function of their remarkably athletic bodies.” Accommodation for breastfeeding athletes and increased awareness are needed more than ever. Dr. Hallowell notes that in addition to changing views on breastfeeding, the needs for such accommodations are increasing as the age of peak athletic performance also increases. “Advances in sports nutrition, wellness and lifestyle have extended the longevity and performance of many athletes into adulthood,” she said. And while some athletes with rigorous training regimens might feel “frustrated incorporating breastfeeding into the routine,” Dr. Hallowell says that for others, “breastfeeding provides both physical and socio-emotional benefits for the mother and the infant that allow the athlete to focus on the job of competition.” Protecting Against the Parisian Heat Ruth McDermott-Levy, PhD, MPH, RN, FAAN Professor of Nursing The potential for extreme heat in Paris has been a topic of concern for athletes and organizers, prompting certain outdoor events to be proactively scheduled at times to avoid the day’s worst heat. Current forecasts predict temperatures in the 90s for several days early on in the Games, which could be exacerbated by Paris’ reputation as an urban heat island, unable to cool due to lack of green space and building density. Dr. McDermott-Levy says the athletes are inherently vulnerable, because “the added stress of physical exertion during their events puts them at greater risk of heat-related illness.” But she also notes that many of the athletes have likely undergone pre-competition training in extreme heat conditions to acclimate and will have trainers and health professionals monitoring them frequently. “The group of concern are the workers at the stadiums, outdoor workers and spectators who are there to enjoy or work at the events and may have had little to no acclimation,” Dr. McDermott-Levy said. “They need to follow local instructions and take frequent breaks from the heat, seek shade and maintain hydration by avoiding alcohol and sugary drinks and drinking water.” How Nature Can Inspire Future Use of Olympic Infrastructure Alyssa Stark, PhD Assistant Professor of Biology Gone, hopefully, are the days of abandoned Olympic Villages and venues, overrun with weeds and rendered useless soon after the Games conclude. The IOC’s commitment to sustainability has been transparently relayed ahead of the 2024 Games, featuring a robust range of initiatives and programs. Dr. Stark is particularly interested in one aspect of ensuring a sustainable Olympics. “How will the structures, materials and systems they developed for the Olympics be re-used, re-shaped or re-worked afterward?” she posed. “This could include re-using buildings to larger scale or re-working transportation systems set in place for the Games that could then integrate into day-to-day life post Olympics.” At the root of her interest is the concept of biomimicry. “A lot of the way we think about designing, if we’re using this biomimicry lens, is how do we learn from nature to solve problems that we have in a sustainable way, keeping in mind the environment we are in?” Dr. Stark said. In this case, consider how something like a dwelling of a living creature might be repurposed to fit the needs of another creature, or serve another natural purpose, without harming the ecosystem. Could that inspire a way to re-use the Olympic infrastructure? “There are a ton of examples of [biomimicry] being used and working in products,” Dr. Stark said. “But I would say the next step is looking at the social levels of these big ecosystems – building architecture, city planning, flow of information and, in this instance, repurposing what was created for the Olympics.” Paris Could Be a Transportation Model for Major City Events in the United States Arash Tavakoli, PhD Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering Paris has invested 250 million Euro the last several years to transform the city to a 100% cycling city, making it one of the most bike-friendly municipalities in the world. Currently, more trips are being made by bicycles in Paris than by cars (11% vs. 4%), a trend that has permeated to the surrounding suburbs as well. With an influx of travelers in Paris for the Games, Dr. Tavakoli, an expert in human transportation, said, “The Olympics will be a test for how well these kinds of systems respond to high fluctuations in the population as compared to vehicle-centric systems.” While Paris is thousands of miles away from the United States, how bicycle, pedestrian and vehicle systems work during the Games could provide helpful insight ahead of major events in American cities. “With the World Cup coming to the U.S. in a few years, it will be interesting to compare [Paris] with how our own system responds to people’s needs,” Dr. Tavakoli said. “Not just based on traffic data and congestion, but also considering factors like how comfortable the transportation system is, how much it affects our well-being and how much it attracts a nonresident to enjoy the U.S. when their only option, for the most part, is a vehicle.”
Trillions of Cicadas are emerging ... let our experts explain what's happening.
It's an epic emergence ... and it's got everyone's attention. This year, we're seeing a historic double emergence of the 13-year and 17-year cicadas and i's why we've compiled a Spotlight to help if you're covering or just curious about all the 'buzz' happening across parts of America. The periodic emergence of cicadas is a natural phenomenon that captures public imagination and scientific interest alike. This event matters to the public not only because of its rarity and the sheer scale of cicada populations but also due to its significant ecological impact and cultural fascination. The emergence of cicadas offers numerous captivating story angles for journalists to explore, appealing to a broad audience: The biological and ecological significance of cicadas in their ecosystems The science behind the cicadas' unique life cycle and emergence patterns The impact of cicada emergence on local agriculture and ecosystems Cultural and historical perspectives on cicadas in folklore and tradition How climate change and environmental factors influence cicada populations Tips and advice for the public on managing cicada interactions and enjoying the spectacle As we witness the emergence of cicadas, journalists have an opportunity to delve into these multifaceted narratives, uncovering the wonders of this natural event and its broader implications for science, culture, and the environment. Connect with an Expert about the Cicada Emergence: John R. Cooley, MBA, Ph.D. Associate Professor in Residence · University of Connecticut David Rothenberg Distinguished Professor · New Jersey Institute of Technology Howard Russell Entomologist · Michigan State University Gary Parsons Academic Specialist · Michigan State University Keith Clay Professor and chair of the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology · Tulane University To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com Photo Credit: Bill Nino
Professor Roslyn Bill discusses her research into brain cell membranes with Dr Matt Derry Serious brain injuries and dementia are affected by the flow of water through a protein called aquaporin-4 in brain cell membranes Aquaporins are responsible for clearing the build-up of waste products in brain cells in a process Professor Bill likens to a ‘dishwasher for your brain’. Professor Roslyn Bill, co-founder of Aston Institute for Membrane Excellence (AIME), joins Dr Matt Derry to discuss her research into brain cell membranes in the latest Aston Originals podcast. Water moves in and out of brain cells through tiny protein channels in the cell membrane called aquaporins. One in particular, aquaporin-4, is the focus of Professor Bill’s research. In 2020, she was lead author on a paper published in prestigious journal Cell on how the channels open and close and how this can be controlled. Uncontrolled water entry into brain cells can occur after head trauma, causing swelling which leads to severe brain injuries of the type suffered by racing driver Michael Schumacher after a skiing accident. Finding drugs to control this water movement could lead to treatments to prevent brain swelling in the first place. This research into brain swelling and the contribution of aquaporins led Professor Bill to research into Alzheimer’s, a common form of dementia, which is also related to the action of aquaporins. Alzheimer’s is caused by a build-up of waste products in brain cells. In a process Professor Bill likened to a ‘dishwasher for your brain’, aquaporins are responsible for clearing this waste as we sleep. Professor Bill was selected for an Advanced Grant by the European Research Council (ERC) in 2023, which is being funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). The funded project will further investigate the process, and whether it might be possible to develop a drug to boost the ‘brain dishwasher’, which could be taken to slow or even prevent cognitive decline due to ageing. Bringing together this biological research with the polymer research of AIME, chemists like Dr Derry will help in the drug development and could also lead to totally different applications. Professor Bill said in the podcast to Dr Derry: “We can take the knowledge that we have of how these proteins work in cells and try and apply them to interesting applications in biotechnology. And this is where the sort of work that you (Dr Derry) do comes in, where you can develop plastic membranes, polymer membranes, and then take learning from the biology and try and make really, really good ways of purifying water, for example.” For more information about AIME, visit the webpage. The website also includes links to the previous AIME podcast and details about open positions.
The digits of pi are infinite. It’s an irrational number—one whose decimal never ends and never repeats. Over time, with brilliant minds and brilliant technology, humans have been able to calculate its digits further and further, now forming a 100-trillion decimal tail. In many ways, the infinitely long decimal expansion of pi is a metaphor for its limitless applicable value. With new ways of thinking, measuring and computing, the significance of pi has permeated throughout the study and use of mathematics and countless other disciplines. Pi is a mathematical constant by definition and also because of its ubiquity. “To offer an Augustinian-themed analogy, pi is to mathematics as Gregor Mendel’s peas are to biology,” said Katie Haymaker, PhD, associate professor of mathematics and statistics at Villanova University. “At first glance, Mendel’s experiments convey some basic understanding of the function of genetics. However, the way genes are expressed is incredibly complicated, and scientists continue to study genetics and gene therapies today. Similarly, mathematicians today study objects that are historically tied to the development of ideas inspired by explorations of pi. Pi is one gateway to a garden of mathematical possibilities.” Dr. Haymaker currently teaches a course called “Mathematics for Human Flourishing,” inspired by the Francis Su book of the same title. Her class discusses math in everyday life and how engaging in mathematical exploration can develop virtues like studying ethics or other humanities can and also expand quality of life. “I don’t have class this Pi Day, but usually I would share a little something about pi if I did,” she said. So, what exactly is pi? The easy answer is that it’s the ratio of the circumference (the length all the way round) to the diameter (the length across) for any circle. “If you measure across a circle with a piece of rope, how many pieces of the same rope would you need to measure around?” Dr. Haymaker explained. The never-ending answer starts with 3.14, hence the common celebration of Pi Day on March 14. This value has been studied for millennia: The ancient Egyptian Rhind Papyrus, dating to around 1650 BCE, offers a very close estimation for pi as 3.16049. Even the Bible, in 1 Kings 7:23, a circular vessel is described, and the ratio of circumference to diameter calculated to exactly three. “There are interesting explorations by biblical scholars about why this number is not exactly the value that we now know as pi, including that the brim around the vessel accounts for the discrepancy,” Dr. Haymaker said. Over time, novel methods for approximating pi were discovered, advancing humankind’s understanding of its value, and leading to various other paths of mathematical study. The famous Greek mathematician and inventor Archimedes, for instance, discovered a way to approximate pi’s value by use of a regular polygon (a closed geometric figure made of equal straight lines and angles). In those times, measuring a circle was not well defined, according to Dr. Haymaker. By placing the regular polygon inside the circle, the straight lines can be measured, those straight lines can be split to form a regular polygon with more measurable sides, and so forth. The more sides, the closer the measurement is to the true circumference of the circle. “That whole idea of approximating to the actual value is the main idea of calculus,” she said. “This notion by Archimedes predated that entire field.” Later, formulas were developed that surpassed Archimedes’ technique. A better approximation of pi was discovered around the year 450 by Chinese mathematician Tsu Ch’ung-chih, arriving at the easy-to-remember fraction 355/113. “This is one rational approximation to pi, and it’s also a fun Pi Day party trick because it’s the best approximation you can get with a fraction like this whose denominator is less than 10,000,” Dr. Haymaker said. These are just two examples of the many contributions made to advance the understanding of pi. Even the use of the Greek symbol to describe the ratio, which was popularized by 18th-century mathematician Leonhard Euler, was instrumental. Prior to that, there had been no agreed-upon symbol and the concept was often described using only words. In the thousands of years since the first recorded approximation of pi, the methods of its approximation—and pi itself—have been applied to multiple other fields of mathematical study such as trigonometry and calculus. For Dr. Haymaker, pi was important in the development of her own understanding of mathematics as well. “I have learned to expect the unexpected when it comes to pi,” she said. “It shows up in all sorts of places and it inspires us to dig deeper into why.” Today, pi can be calculated to 100-trillion decimal places (though only a dozen or so are needed for even the most accurate applications). On Pi Day 2023, 21-year-old Rajveer Meena memorized the first 70,000 digits, breaking a Guiness World Record in a mind-boggling 10-hour recitation. “I think that pi is fascinating to people because its digits behave in a random way and they go on forever,” Dr. Haymaker said. “If there is a string of numbers that is special to you—take 1842 for example—it exists somewhere in the digits of pi. In exploring pi, it feels like you are exploring the infinite, which naturally inspires mystical feelings about the number.” By the way, the string of numbers 1842 (the year Villanova was founded) appears at position 1738 counting from the first number after the decimal, according to the Pi-Search Page. So, whether it’s on March 14, July 22 (because the fraction 22/7 is a rational approximation of pi) or whenever you might celebrate, look down at that beautiful circular dessert you will cut into and think about “why pi(e)?” “Some people may scoff at Pi Day as being separate from ‘real’ mathematics,” Dr. Haymaker said. “But there is a joyfulness in celebrating this day that represents a deep connection that people have to mathematical discovery. After all, a person wrote the Rhind Papyrus, and it is people who program the computers that searched for the 100 trillionth digit of pi. This quest to understand is a deeply human endeavor. “To quote Francis Su, ‘the pursuit of math can, if grounded in human desires, build aspects of character and habits of mind that will allow you to live a more fully human life and experience the best of what life has to offer.’ So, if eating pie and other round foods on March 14 inspires someone to learn, ask questions, pursue answers and see themselves as an explorer of mathematics, then it is indeed a day to celebrate.”
Aston University to train the UK’s next generation of decarbonisation experts
Consortium led by the University is to receive almost £11 million to open doctoral training centre Will focus on use of biomass to replace fossil fuels and removal of CO2 “…part of the UK’s biggest-ever investment in engineering and physical sciences doctoral skills”. Aston University is to train the next generation of scientists tasked to remove greenhouse gases from the environment. A consortium led by the University is to receive almost £11 million to open a doctoral training centre which will focus on leading the UK towards net zero. The centre, based at Aston University, will bring together world-leading research expertise and facilities from the University of Nottingham, Queens University Belfast and the University of Warwick and more than 25 industrial partners. The funding has been announced by the UK science, innovation and technology secretary Michelle Donelan. The centre is to receive almost £8 million of government money while the remainder will be made up through match funding and support from industry and the four universities. The government has described it as part of the UK’s biggest-ever investment in engineering and physical sciences doctoral skills, totalling more than £1 billion. The Aston University centre will focus on the use of biomass to replace fossil fuels and removal (or capture) of CO2 from the atmosphere, with the potential to create new sources of fuels and chemicals. Integration of these two areas will lead to significant cost and energy savings. Called NET2Zero, the centre will train PhD students across the full range of engineered greenhouse gas removal techniques including direct air capture, CO2 utilisation (including chemical and material synthesis), biomass to energy with carbon capture and storage, and biochar. The students will work in the centre’s laboratories exploring the conversion of feedstock into alternative energy, improving conversion processes and measuring how the new technologies will impact the economy. Supported by a range of relevant industrial, academic and policy partners the centre will equip students to develop the broad range of skills essential for future leaders in decarbonisation. NET2Zero will be led by Professor Patricia Thornley, director of Aston University’s Energy and Bioproducts Research Institute (EBRI). She said: “I am delighted that this centre for doctoral training has been funded. The climate emergency is so stark that we can no longer rely on demand reduction and renewables to meet our decarbonisation targets. “If we are to have greenhouse gas removal options ready in time to be usefully deployed, we need to start now to expand our knowledge and explore the reality of how these can be deployed. This partnership of four leading UK universities with key industrial and policy partners will significantly augment the UK’s ability to deliver on its climate ambitions.” “We are absolutely delighted to be working with our partners to deliver this unique and exciting programme to train the technology leaders of the future. Our students will deliver research outcomes that are urgently needed and only made possible by combining the expertise and resources of all the centre’s academic and industry partners.” Science and technology secretary, Michelle Donelan, said: “As innovators across the world break new ground faster than ever, it is vital that government, business and academia invests in ambitious UK talent, giving them the tools to pioneer new discoveries that benefit all our lives while creating new jobs and growing the economy. “By targeting critical technologies including artificial intelligence and future telecoms, we are supporting world class universities across the UK to build the skills base we need to unleash the potential of future tech and maintain our country’s reputation as a hub of cutting-edge research and development.” Centres for doctoral training have a significant reputation in training future UK academics, industrialists and innovators who have gone on to develop the latest technologies. The University of Nottingham’s Dr Eleanor Binner said: “We are absolutely delighted to be working with our partners to deliver this unique and exciting programme to train the technology leaders of the future. Our students will deliver research outcomes that are urgently needed and only made possible by combining the expertise and resources of all the Centre’s academic and industry partners.” Her colleague Professor Hao Liu added: “We look forward to providing our best support to the NET2Zero CDT, including using our past and existing successful experience in leading other centres, to make this an exemplar.” Overall, there will be 65 new Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) centres for doctoral training which will support leading research in areas of national importance including the critical technologies AI, quantum technologies, semiconductors, telecoms and engineering biology. The funding is from a combination of £500 million from UK Research and Innovation and the Ministry of Defence, plus a further £590 million from universities and business partners. Notes to Editors EPSRC and BBSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Negative Emission Technologies for Net Zero (NET2ZERO) Led by: Professor Patricia Thornley, Aston University The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) is the main funding body for engineering and physical sciences research in the UK. Our portfolio covers a vast range of fields from digital technologies to clean energy, manufacturing to mathematics, advanced materials to chemistry. EPSRC invests in world-leading research and skills, advancing knowledge and delivering a sustainable, resilient and prosperous UK. We support new ideas and transformative technologies which are the foundations of innovation, improving our economy, environment and society. Working in partnership and co-investing with industry, we deliver against national and global priorities. The Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) invests in world-class bioscience research and training on behalf of the UK public. Our aim is to further scientific knowledge, to promote economic growth, wealth and job creation and to improve quality of life in the UK and beyond. Funded by government, BBSRC invested £451 million in world-class bioscience in 2019-20. We support research and training in universities and strategically funded institutes. BBSRC research and the people we fund are helping society to meet major challenges, including food security, green energy and healthier, longer lives. Our investments underpin important UK economic sectors, such as farming, food, industrial biotechnology and pharmaceuticals. About Centres for Doctoral Training A CDT trains doctoral students with each centre focused on a specific theme or topic. Most CDTs will support five cohorts (a new cohort starting each academic year) with a cohort supporting an average of thirteen students. Fourteen of the centres will have four cohorts rather than five. EPSRC supports doctoral students through three training routes (Doctoral Training Partnerships, ICASE awards and CDTs), and in the last 30 years has supported over 50,000 doctoral students. About Aston University For over a century, Aston University’s enduring purpose has been to make our world a better place through education, research and innovation, by enabling our students to succeed in work and life, and by supporting our communities to thrive economically, socially and culturally. Aston University’s history has been intertwined with the history of Birmingham, a remarkable city that once was the heartland of the Industrial Revolution and the manufacturing powerhouse of the world. Born out of the First Industrial Revolution, Aston University has a proud and distinct heritage dating back to our formation as the School of Metallurgy in 1875, the first UK College of Technology in 1951, gaining university status by Royal Charter in 1966, and becoming The Guardian University of the Year in 2020. Building on our outstanding past, we are now defining our place and role in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (and beyond) within a rapidly changing world. For media inquiries in relation to this release, contact Nicola Jones, Press and Communications Manager, on (+44) 7825 342091 or email: n.jones6@aston.ac.uk
