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World Water Day - United Nations World Water Development Report Launched | Media Advisory
World Water Day marks the launch of the United Nations World Water Development Report, a comprehensive review of the state of the world's freshwater resources. This day serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of water conservation, the challenges of water scarcity, and the need for sustainable management of this essential resource. As climate change accelerates and global demand for water increases, the findings of this report are more relevant than ever, offering a call to action for governments, businesses, and individuals worldwide. Key areas of focus include: Global Water Scarcity: The current status and future projections of freshwater availability. Impact of Climate Change on Water Resources: How global warming is affecting water cycles and availability. Innovative Water Management Solutions: Emerging technologies and strategies for sustainable water use. Water and Sanitation for All: Progress towards ensuring access to clean water and sanitation as a fundamental human right. Economic Implications of Water Management: The costs and benefits of investing in water infrastructure and conservation. International Cooperation on Water Issues: Examples of successful cross-border water management and conservation efforts. For journalists seeking research or insights for their coverage on this topic, here is a select list of experts. Michael Savarese Professor of Marine Science & Environmental Studies, Florida Gulf Coast University Karen Clay Professor, Carnegie Mellon University Pamela Grothe Assistant Professor University of Mary Washington Michael Vandenbergh Professor of Law, Vanderbilt University Tom Rand Managing Director at MaRS Cleantech Fund To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com Photo by Artem Beliaikin
Aston University and medicine manufacturer Catalent formed a Knowledge Transfer Partnership to identify more effective formulation additives The new selection matrix makes choosing the right additive quicker and the medicine development process shorter The project has been rated as ‘outstanding’ by Innovate UK A partnership between Aston University and contract medicine manufacturer Catalent has led to a faster process to identify the best ingredients for optimal medicine formulations, and has been rated as outstanding by Innovate UK. Catalent is a global leader in enabling pharma, biotechnology and consumer health partners to optimise product development, launch and full life-cycle supply for patients around the world. Its proprietary Zydis orally dissolving tablet (ODT) technology enables the absorption of drugs or active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) through the mouth tissues, which is much faster than absorption through the gut. However, many APIs have poor pre-gastric absorption and need to be combined with suitable excipients, or additives, to bind the active ingredients and speed up the process of dissolving and absorbing via the pre-gastric route. Identifying suitable excipients for the formulation is difficult, and so the Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) between Aston University and Catalent was set up to develop a faster, more efficient approach. A KTP is a three-way collaboration between a business, an academic partner and a highly qualified researcher, known as a KTP associate. The UK-wide programme helps businesses to improve their competitiveness and productivity through the better use of knowledge, technology and skills. Aston University is a sector leading KTP provider, with 80% of its completed projects being graded as very good or outstanding by Innovate UK, the national body. The project was led by Aston University’s Afzal Mohammed, professor of pharmaceutics in the School of Pharmacy and associate dean (impact and knowledge exchange) for the College of Health and Life Sciences, who has expertise in the design and optimisation of orally dissolving tablet formulation. He was supported by other colleagues from Aston Pharmacy School including Dr Daniel Kirby, whose main area of research is the formulation of age-appropriate medicines for the extremes of life, Dr Affiong Iyire, who has research expertise in mucosal drug delivery, and Dr Raj Badhan, who is a pharmacokinetics expert with research interests in analytical approaches to predict oral drug absorption. Dr Ruba Bnyan, who has a master’s degree and a PhD in pharmaceutical drug formulation, as well as experience in cell-based models, was the KTP associate for the project. The KTP partners developed a selection matrix, whereby, based on the API properties, Catalent formulation scientists can quickly identify excipients that will improve the absorption of the drug through the mouth. Adopting this novel tool allows for quicker and more efficient drug development and has the potential to increase the number of Zydis ODT candidates in the pipeline for future development. Desmond Wong, product development supervisor at Catalent, said: “This project has exceeded our initial expectations and has the potential to accelerate product development for our clients. Our strong relationship with the Aston University team on this KTP project highlights the transformative potential of collaborative research and its impact on pharmaceutical innovation.” Professor Mohammed said: “This has been a very successful project, which has been rated as ‘outstanding’ by Innovate UK. We plan to put it forward for a KTP award and are looking forward to continuing working with Catalent on our next KTP project.” For more information on the KTP visit the webpage.
#Expert Q&A: NJIT’s David Bader on AI, Data Science, Quantum Computing
Artificial intelligence, data science and the emerging field of quantum computing are among the hottest research topics in computing today. David Bader, a distinguished professor at New Jersey Institute of Technology’s Ying Wu College of Computing and the director of the university’s Institute for Data Science, offers his take on each. The Computer History Museum has recognized you for developing a Linux supercomputer using commodity hardware. Was that a life-shaping lesson? It was a venture into the unknown, leveraging the emerging potential of Linux and commodity hardware to build something that was both accessible and powerful. This experience taught me the importance of embracing risk and the value of resilience. There were technical hurdles, skepticism from peers and the daunting task of venturing beyond established norms. Also, the Linux supercomputer project was not just about the technology. It was about building a community around an idea. How do user-friendly AI systems like ChatGPT impact your work? It enriches the palette of methodologies and technologies at our disposal, enabling us to tackle more ambitious projects with greater efficiency and creativity. By integrating these AI systems into our research and educational programs, we're not just enhancing our ability to process and analyze data. We're also empowering students and researchers with the means to innovate and explore new horizons in data science without being hindered by the technical complexities that once acted as barriers. Some information workers fear that AI will make their careers obsolete. But tech progress can’t be stopped, so how should people adapt? By embracing these technologies, learning to work alongside them and leveraging their capabilities to enhance our own skill sets and productivity. Also, it's important to focus on the uniquely human skills that AI cannot replicate, such as creativity, emotional intelligence and critical thinking. By honing these abilities, workers can ensure they remain irreplaceable components of the workforce, capable of tasks that require a human touch — from complex decision-making to empathetic interactions with customers or clients. What should non-programmers learn about AI? It’s important to be aware of how AI decisions are made, the potential biases in AI systems and the ethical considerations of AI use. Additionally, developing data literacy is crucial, as it enables individuals to evaluate AI outputs and understand the importance of data quality and biases. A basic grasp of AI and machine learning concepts — even without programming skills — can demystify AI technologies and reveal their potential applications. Staying informed about AI advancements across various sectors can also inspire innovative ideas and foster interdisciplinary collaborations. There’s a sci-fi plot where computers get so smart that people lose control. The new class of user-friendly AI is making people excited but also nervous. Should we be afraid? While it’s natural to harbor concerns about the rapid progression of AI, allowing fear to dominate the discourse would be a disservice to the potential benefits these technologies can offer. Instead, this moment calls for proactive engagement with AI and an investment in understanding its inner workings, limitations and the ethical dilemmas it presents. By advocating for responsible AI development, emphasizing education and promoting transparency, we can foster an environment where AI serves as a tool for societal advancement. This approach ensures that we remain at the helm of AI's trajectory, steering it toward outcomes that uplift humanity rather than scenarios that fuel dystopian fears. What other emerging technologies excite you in their potential to transform computing? Quantum computing. This technology, with its potential to solve complex problems exponentially faster than classical computers, could revolutionize fields ranging from cryptography to drug discovery, climate modeling and beyond. Quantum computing's promise to tackle challenges currently beyond our reach, due to its fundamentally different approach to processing information, represents a leap forward in our computational capabilities. Its convergence with AI could lead to unprecedented advancements, making this era an incredibly thrilling time to be at the forefront of computing and data science. Looking to know more? We can help. David Bader is available to discuss AI, quantum computing and data science with media. Simply click on his icon to arrange an interview.
Oprah Hosts Primetime Special About Weight Loss Drugs on ABC | Media Advisory
Oprah Winfrey, a revered media mogul and advocate for health and wellness, is set to host a groundbreaking primetime special on ABC, focusing on the burgeoning field of weight loss drugs. The new special follows Winfrey’s exit from the board of weightwatchers, where she served for nearly a decade after acquiring a 10% stake in the company. This special promises to shed light on the science behind popular weight loss medications Ozempic, Mounjaro and Wegogy. As obesity rates continue to climb globally, the discussion around weight loss solutions becomes increasingly pertinent, touching on public health, self-image, and the pharmaceutical industry's role in shaping health standards. Key topics of interest include: Science and Effectiveness of Weight Loss Drugs: Exploring how these medications work and their success rates. Personal Stories of Transformation: Individuals' journeys with weight loss drugs, including challenges and triumphs. Ethical and Societal Implications: The debate over body image, health standards, and drug dependency. Regulatory Perspective and Safety: How these drugs are approved and monitored for public use. Impact on the Healthcare System: The potential effects on healthcare costs and accessibility. Cautions and Concerns: Are there serious side-effects and what are the risks related to taking these drugs? Future of Obesity Treatment: Innovations and next steps in treating obesity with pharmaceuticals. For journalists seeking research or insights for their coverage on this topic, here is a select list of experts. Rebecca Puhl, Ph.D. Professor of Human Development and Family Studies · University of Connecticut Professor Paul Gately Carnegie Professor of Exercise and Obesity and Co-Director of the Applied Centre for Obesity Research · Leeds Beckett University Rebecca Pearl Assistant Professor · University of Florida Jan D. Hirsch Founding Dean, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences · UC Irvine Amy Gorin, Ph.D. Professor, Department of Psychological Sciences · University of Connecticut James Lenhard, Jr., M.D., FACE, FACEP Medical Director · ChristianaCare To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com. Photo by Total Shape
Empowering Black and Latinx Boys in Their Postsecondary Journeys: The Role of School Communities
In a new study published in the American Educational Research Journal, Roderick L. Carey, assistant professor in the University of Delaware's College of Education and Human Development, offers a rich, ethnographic case study on how Black and Latinx boys imagine their postsecondary futures. With attention to the students’ first-person narratives about their school experiences and personal aspirations, Carey shows how their high school—a Mid-Atlantic college preparatory school in the United States—ultimately fails to understand and support their college, career and personal aspirations for life after graduation. “College is just one facet of a broader interconnected life that adolescents need support in imagining,” said Carey, who teaches and conducts research within CEHD’s Department of Human Development and Family Sciences. “Postsecondary future selves is a concept that folds together three pieces of that broader life—college, career and life condition, or ‘the 3Cs.’ By focusing on one, and ignoring the other two, educators miss the mark.” Carey is available to talk about this new study as well as the possible solutions to this issue. Her has been recently featured in Technical.ly and WHYY, an NPR affiliate. He can be contacted via his profile.
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
Municipalities around the world have invested significant resources to develop connected smart cities that use the Internet of Things (IoT) to improve sustainability, safety and efficiency. With this increased demand for IoT experience, the VCU College of Engineering formed the OpenCyberCity testbed in 2022. The 1:12 scale model city provides a realistic, small-scale cityscape where students and researchers can experiment with new and existing smart city technology. Sherif Abdelwahed, Ph.D., electrical and computer engineering professor, is director of OpenCyberCity. He recently answered some questions about new developments within the testbed. The OpenCyberCity is a smart city testbed, but are there any real-life cities that one could call a smart city? Several real-life locales are considered smart cities due to their extensive use of technology and data-driven initiatives to optimize infrastructure and services. Dubai is one of the most notable. They have implemented smart transportation systems, buildings and artificial intelligence to transform the city’s operations and make them more efficient. Other reputable smart cities include Singapore and Seoul, which utilize smart energy management, smart transportation and comprehensive data analytics for improved urban planning and services. Seoul, in particular, has an initiative with smart grids and connected street lights, which VCU Engineering’s own OpenCyberCity test bed is working to implement. How does the OpenCyberCity address privacy? With so much technology related to monitoring, how are individual citizens protected from these technologies? Privacy is a major concern for smart cities and it is one of the main research directions for VCU Engineering’s OpenCyberCity. We are developing several techniques to prevent unwanted surveillance of personal information. Sensitive data is protected by solid protocols and access restrictions that only allow authorized users to view the data. Our aim is to find a reasonable middle ground between technological progress and privacy rights, staying within legal and ethical bounds. Some techniques to address privacy concerns include: Data Anonymization: This makes it difficult to trace back information to individual identities. Within the testbed, we will evaluate how to protect individual privacy while maintaining data utility and assess the impact on data quality. Secure Data Storage and Transmission: Encrypt data to protect it from unauthorized access. In the smart city testbed, these access control mechanisms will be implemented within the testbed’s infrastructure. We will also test different data handling processes and access control models to determine their ability to safeguard sensitive data. Privacy Impact Assessments: Regularly evaluate potential privacy risks of new smart city projects in order to mitigate them and ensure the ethical handling of data by those with access. Policy and Regulation Development: Data and insights generated from OpenCyberCity experiments can inform the development of cybersecurity policies and regulations for smart cities. How is the College of Engineering’s OpenCyberCity test bed different from similar programs at other institutions? While other universities have similar smart-city-style programs, each has their own specialty. The VCU College of Engineering’s OpenCyberCity test bed focuses on real-world contexts, creating a physical space where new technologies, infrastructure, energy-efficient transportation and other smart city services can be tested in a controlled environment. Our lab monitors real-time data and develops smart buildings, smart hospitals and smart manufacturing buildings to enhance the city’s technologies. Recent additions to the OpenCyberCity allow for expanded research opportunities like: Advanced Manufacturing: Students can apply advanced manufacturing techniques in a controlled environment. They can also test new materials, processes and automation technologies to improve efficiency and product quality. Energy Efficiency Testing: Environmental engineers and sustainability experts can evaluate energy consumption patterns within the smart manufacturing unit to implement energy-saving measures and assess their impact on sustainability. Production Optimization: Manufacturers can use real-time data from the smart manufacturing unit to optimize production schedules, minimize downtime and reduce waste. Predictive maintenance algorithms also help prevent equipment breakdowns. Education and Training: Hands-on experience with state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies helps train the workforce of the future. Integration with Smart City Services: Data generated by the manufacturing unit can be integrated with smart city services. For example, production data can inform supply chain management and energy consumption data can contribute to overall city energy efficiency initiatives. How has the OpenCyberCity changed in the last year? Is the main focus still data security? What started with research examining, analyzing and evaluating the security of next-generation (NextG) applications, smart city operations and medical devices has expanded. Data security is now only one aspect of OpenCyberCity. Its scope has grown to encompass more expansive facets of cybersecurity like automation and data analytics in the domain of smart manufacturing systems. The implementation of a smart manufacturing system in 2023 is something students really enjoy. Thanks to the vendor we used, undergraduate students had the option to develop functionality for various features of the manufacturing plant. Graduate students were also able to research communications protocols and cybersecurity within the smart manufacturing system. What does the smart manufacturing system entail and what kind of work is occurring within that system? An automated system is there for students to work with. Robot arms, microcontrollers, conveyor belts, ramps, cameras and blocks to represent cargo form an environment that emulates a real manufacturing setting. We’re currently brainstorming an expansion of the smart manufacturing system in collaboration with the Commonwealth Cyber Initiative (CCI). We plan to set up two building models, one for manufacturing and one for distribution, linked by a sky bridge conveyor system that moves items between the locations. Students work to leverage convolutional neural networks that use images to facilitate machine learning. When paired with the advanced cameras, it forms a computer vision system that can accurately place blocks in a variety of lighting conditions, which can be a challenge for other systems. By having to optimize the communication protocols that command the smart manufacturing system’s robotic arms, students also get a sense for real-world constraints . The Raspberry Pi that functions as the controller for the system is limited in power, so finding efficiencies that also enable stability and precision with the arms is key. Is there an aspect of cybersecurity for these automated systems? Yes. Devices, sensors and communication networks integral to the IoT found in smart manufacturing systems and smart cities generate and share vast amounts of data. This makes them vulnerable to cybersecurity threats. Some of the issues we look to address include: Data Privacy: Smart systems collect and process vast amounts of data, including personal and sensitive information. Protecting this data from unauthorized access and breaches is a top priority. Device Vulnerabilities: Many IoT devices used in smart systems have limited computational resources and may not receive regular security updates, making them vulnerable to exploitation. Interconnectedness: The interconnected nature of smart city components increases the attack surface. A breach in one system can potentially compromise the entire network. Malware and Ransomware: Smart systems are susceptible to malware and ransomware attacks, which can disrupt services and extort organizations for financial gain. Insider Threats: Employees with malicious intent or negligence can pose significant risks to cybersecurity. Potential solutions to these problems include data encryption, frequent software updates, network segmentation with strict access controls, real-time intrusion detection (with automated responses to detected threats), strong user authentication methods, security training for users and the development of well-designed incident response plans.
Baylor Expert: Don't Lose Focus on Spiritual and Mental Well-being
Baylor Social Work professor shares tips and resources during stressful half-way mark of semester Holly Oxhandler, Ph.D., LMSW., associate dean for research and faculty development and associate professor in the Diana R. Garland School of Social Work. October marks the halfway point to the fall semester and can carry all the excitement, stress and anxiety of another academic term winding to a close. The month also typically marks one of the busiest times of the year for university counseling centers across the nation. With unique challenges in 2020 related to COVID-19, the University has acknowledged those hardships for all in the Baylor Family by taking the initiative to focus on mental health throughout October. Baylor University’s Holly Oxhandler, Ph.D., LMSW, associate dean for research and faculty development and associate professor in the Diana R. Garland School of Social Work, is an expert on mental health, primarily anxiety and depression, as well as religion and spirituality in clinical practice. In this Q&A, she shares tips and resources to students, faculty and staff who are facing all of the typical challenges of another mid-term while also navigating a global health crisis. Q: The 2020 fall semester provided challenges and obstacles never seen before in higher education. Why has COVID-19 been a uniquely stressful influence on the mental and spiritual well-being of students, faculty and staff? There are a number of reasons COVID-19 has been a uniquely stressful influence on the mental and spiritual well-being of those in higher education. First, there are the unanticipated layers and learning curves of new considerations and adjustments to course delivery, safety protocols, dining, campus activities and communication, to name a few, on top of the typical adjustments and emotions we all navigate at the beginning of each fall semester. Second, those in higher education entered fall 2020 without the “typical” summer that’s needed to reset, make adjustments and plan for the upcoming year’s activities. For example, many administrators, faculty and staff spent the summer not only planning for the usual upcoming academic year but also reconfiguring classes to be hybrid or online or simultaneously include both in-person and online students, in addition to modifying student activities and faculty research project timelines and plans. For degree programs that include internships, like social work, there have also been additional layers of consideration in order to comply with our professional accreditation standards. Third, we recognize that many students, their family members, as well as Baylor faculty and staff members’ loved ones, have been affected by the economic impact of COVID-19, adding a layer of financial stress. Fourth, many within the Baylor community – staff, faculty and students – have needed to juggle childcare and homeschooling their children as they continue to engage in their own work and/or educational expectations. Finally, the fear of contracting COVID-19, especially among the most vulnerable and high-risk populations, has been constantly present. Not only are we adjusting to this academic year with new ways of being and new protocols that keep us and one another safe, we’re also facing unexpected waves of fear and layers of grief for the missed events, opportunities and connections we had hoped to experience. As resilient as our community is, I think it’s important to remember we cannot “operate as usual” because things aren’t usual. Instead, we must allow ourselves and one another the time, margin, flexibility and grace needed to sit with and move through the rising emotions, grief, stress, loneliness, fear and uncertainty as they come. We cannot skip or bypass these emotions, but instead, must move through them, often with the support of loved ones and/or a trained mental health care provider. Q: Mental and spiritual health are challenging during even a typical semester experience. What are some of the effects and reactions you’ve witnessed to these circumstances among students, faculty and staff compared to a non-COVID-19 semester? As human beings navigating a global pandemic to the best of our ability, our mental and spiritual health have all been impacted to some degree this semester as we have individually and collectively faced a number of unexpected difficulties. I have also seen a beautiful response to the reality of this collective struggle in my interactions with Baylor faculty, staff and students that includes deep empathy for one another and an increase in valuing authenticity as we engage in the high-quality, meaningful work we each do. It has been a gift to witness Baylor community members holding space for colleagues’ and students’ vulnerability as we admit this is hard for various reasons and recognize that we cannot just push our way through this season. When we admit this isn’t easy and that we are all juggling so much to the best of our ability through thick layers of uncertainty, it gives those around us permission to admit their experiences, too. In fact, I think when we create space for that shared vulnerability and empathy in our interactions with others, we can better assess the current situation, remain present to one another and discern what steps are needed to move forward together, particularly because we’re not carrying an additional layer of effort pretending that everything is fine. That said, the Garland School of Social Work conducted a couple of well-being surveys since this summer to internally check in on how our faculty and staff are coping with this season and identify the biggest stressors they’re facing and sources of support. Our faculty and staff have also been continually checking in on our students through this season. Not only do we see many noting the same stressors that we’re all facing these days, normalizing how difficult this is for each of us, but the act of nonjudgmentally holding that space for ourselves and one another has been a tangible step of offering the care we know is uniquely woven into the Baylor experience. Q: How can individuals within the campus community tend to their spiritual health to close out the semester? I would invite readers to take a moment to pause and identify a few spiritual practices that uniquely support them well, even if that means thinking back to less stressful seasons. The key to note here is that these are practices which require regular engagement, similar to if we were to practice a new instrument or sport. Spiritual practices can vary based on our faith tradition and may include praying; meditating; centering prayer; reading our religious text; walking a labyrinth; journaling; practicing gratitude; listening to a sermon or faith-based podcast; praying over and contemplating scripture; engaging in creativity; practicing daily examen; or listening to spiritual music. Some practices may involve other individuals that can be done safely, including seeking spiritual direction, participating in a Bible or faith-based book study with others or engaging in worship (even virtually!). These practices can offer a sense of groundedness and a reminder that God is with us, including through this season. As we continue to navigate this season of uncertainty, it is critical that we intentionally weave in spiritual practices that offer rhythms, routines and a grounded faith that can support us well through the waves of difficulty. Especially on campus, I would encourage Baylor community members to follow along with Spiritual Life’s resources and events, or check out Better Together BU, a partnership supported by both Spiritual Life and Multicultural Affairs. Q: How can individuals within the campus community tend to their mental health to close out the semester? Tending to our mental health in this last stretch of the semester will be so important as we move into the stress of finals, the complex emotions tied to the holidays, grief with upcoming celebrations looking different this year (including how we celebrate holidays, who we celebrate with and the reality of many having lost loved ones to COVID-19) and the reality of seasonal affective disorder on the horizon. In fact, in a typical year, about 5% of U.S. adults have seasonal affective disorder (SAD), with another 10-20% having mild forms of it. In light of all of the added transition, uncertainty, complexity of caregiving and homeschooling while working/studying at home, layers of loneliness and grief, I do hope our Baylor students, staff and faculty will actively prioritize taking good care of their mental health and supporting others’ mental health care, too. One way I highlight this with my social work students is by recommending creating a self-care plan that pays attention to our physical health, mental health, social support and spiritual health. If we can identify some strategies to holistically care for ourselves well and be mindful of potential barriers to navigate, we may have more resilience and practices to draw from to cope with challenges and stressors that arise. Finally, although NAMI highlights that 1 in 5 of us are currently facing a mental health struggle, some studies have shown that over 80% of us will meet criteria for a mental illness by young adulthood or middle-age. Therefore, I highly recommend that anyone who is noticing any changes in their mood, diet, sleep habits, behaviors or overall well-being immediately reach out for help. Students are encouraged to reach out to Baylor’s Counseling Center, CARE team or the BARC. Faculty and staff also have resources available through Baylor’s employee assistance program. Other resources for finding a mental health provider include HelpPRO, Psychology Today, Low Cost Help or these additional resources. For those who are deeply struggling, please reach out to the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or text ‘HOME’ to 741-741 for the Crisis Text Line. As part of my faith and my social work values, I believe that each of us are worth caring for ourselves, including caring for our mental health alongside our spiritual and physical health. Q: What successes or bright spots have you seen within your campus experience that offer encouragement to how the Baylor Family has handled the crisis throughout the semester? I am regularly amazed by the Baylor students, faculty and staff, the ways we have navigated the crisis together this semester, and I am especially grateful for President Livingstone’s and Provost Brickhouse’s leadership since March. This semester, some bright spots have included Dr. Deborah Birx’s reflections on Baylor’s efforts to keep everyone safe from COVID-19, the Fall Faculty meeting and Dr. Peter Hotez’s appreciation of how Baylor leaders have kept the Baylor and Waco community safe and following along when Baylor students take over Baylor’s Instagram account (like Brandon Nottingham’s takeover on World Mental Health Day!). As the Garland School of Social Work’s associate dean for research and faculty development, I have also loved learning about the ways so many Baylor faculty are offering their unique research expertise and wisdom to serve others through this difficult time, such as Dr. Emily Smith’s “Friendly Neighbor Epidemiologist” Facebook page to explain COVID-19 information. I’ve also been reminded of what a gift it is to be a part of the Garland School of Social Work (GSSW) and this community of faculty, staff and students. The resilience, creativity, love for serving others, dedication to the social work profession and care for our students is so apparent within the GSSW. I have especially seen how my faculty and staff colleagues have adapted courses and assignments, creatively considered students’ needs and juggled their research responsibilities while extending grace to themselves and one another as we navigate this season together as a school to the best of our ability. Similarly, seeing our students’ resilience, flexibility, support of one another, commitment to the profession and heart for the clients and communities they serve is truly inspiring. Finally, Dean Jon Singletary’s servant-leader heart for the GSSW and the ways he has supported our school through so much transition over the last five years has been a gift. One example of this includes the two hours of weekly well-being time he extends for all GSSW staff and faculty to use in support of our spiritual and mental health care. Q: What gives you hope for the spring semester and beyond as students continue through their academic endeavors? Truthfully, our students’ presence and their enthusiasm over the fields of study they are dedicating their lives to gives me hope. As a professor, there is nothing like watching a student become fully alive in the work they are passionate about and feel as though they were made to do. Our students’ willingness to fully participate in the transformational education that Baylor offers, especially in this difficult season of COVID-19, is an honor to witness as a professor and certainly gives me hope. Further, seeing the ways our students are empathically caring for their neighbor by following Baylor’s safety guidelines, growing in their faith, checking in on one another, understanding faculty and staff are doing their very best and continuing to demonstrate their determination to learn and grow is an inspiration. My hope and prayer for our students as well as our staff and faculty colleagues as we move through the remainder of the fall semester and into the spring is that they rest as they need to and prioritize taking good care of their mental and spiritual health. I also pray that we recognize as a community that by caring for our spiritual and mental health, by taking this season one day at a time, by trusting we are doing our best and by reaching out for help when needed, we give others permission to do the same.
Leap year: Tips for using extra day on career and professional development
Having an extra day in a leap year provides you with a unique opportunity to invest time in your career and professional development. Jill Gugino Panté, director of the Lerner Career Services Center at the University of Delaware, offers six ideas to maximize the day. Dedicate time to enhance your skills. It is easy to find free courses, workshops and training videos on just about anything. Take five minutes to reflect on a skill you wish you had or were better, such as, say, Excel. YouTube, TikTok and LinkedIn Learning have hundreds of thousands of videos that can teach shortcuts, visual design, formulas and more. Use the day for networking. Reach out to professionals in your industry and schedule informational interviews. Reconnect with old classmates, former bosses or colleagues from another department and invite them to meet for coffee or lunch. Spend the day talking with someone about your career/professional development goals. Reflect on your career goals. Many of us do not take the time to articulate where we want to be this time next year or even four years from now. Start with three months, then move to six months, then a year. Do you want to learn a new skill? Meet with someone whose career you’ve admired? Change jobs? Ask for a raise? Career development can be thought of as a series of projects because thinking four years ahead can seem a little daunting. However, making goals for the next six months makes the process more manageable and tangible. Update your career documents. This means not only your resume but your LinkedIn profile and professional bio. If you don’t have access to a Career Coach, use Generative AI (like Chat GPT) to help you write better bullet points or update your “About” section on LinkedIn. Keep in mind that AI should be viewed as a supportive tool rather than a replacement for your active involvement in the process. Maintain a personal touch and let your unique personality shine through in your application materials and interviews. Focus on your well-being. How often do we get an extra day to focus on ourselves? And on this particular leap year, you may be feeling stressed and overwhelmed so focusing on career goals isn’t an option. Take the opportunity for self-care – go for a leisurely walk, engage in meditation or stretching exercises, or schedule an online session with a therapist or counselor. Investing time in personal wellness is important to address before you leap into professional development. Make deliberate choices that not only contribute to your career growth but also foster a sense of well-being. Here's a pro tip: mark a "professional/personal development boost" block on your calendar for each leap year, ensuring you fully capitalize on the extra day. This strategic scheduling will serve as a reminder to prioritize both your professional growth and personal wellness. To set up an interview with Gugino Panté, visit her profile and click on the contact button.
