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Laticia Lewis Recognized for Advancing Music Education and Cross-Genre Performance Excellence
By Kendra Hall New Jersey — Music education and live performance continue playing a vital role in shaping community culture, youth development, and creative opportunity. Across the Northeast, educators and performing artists are building platforms that extend beyond the stage and into classrooms, community centers, and private studios.
By Kendra Hall4 days ago in Interview
In Breakthrough, Israeli Scientists Use Deep-Brain Stimulation to Counter Schizophrenia. AI-Generated.
Israeli researchers have announced a medical breakthrough that could transform the treatment of schizophrenia, using deep-brain stimulation (DBS) to significantly reduce severe symptoms in patients who had not responded to conventional therapies. The development marks one of the first successful demonstrations of DBS targeting brain circuits linked directly to psychosis rather than movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease. The study, conducted by neuroscientists at Hebrew University of Jerusalem in collaboration with clinicians from Hadassah Medical Center, involved a small group of patients suffering from treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Researchers implanted ultra-thin electrodes into precise areas of the brain associated with hallucinations, disorganized thinking, and emotional regulation. Targeting the Roots of Psychosis Deep-brain stimulation works by delivering controlled electrical impulses to specific neural circuits, helping rebalance abnormal brain activity. While DBS has been widely used for years in neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and epilepsy, its application in psychiatric illnesses has remained experimental. According to the research team, patients who received the stimulation showed a marked reduction in auditory hallucinations and paranoia within weeks of activation. Several participants also demonstrated improved cognitive focus and emotional stability, allowing them to resume daily activities that had previously been impossible. “This is the first time we’ve been able to directly modulate the brain networks that drive schizophrenic symptoms,” said the study’s lead neurologist. “Instead of suppressing symptoms chemically, we are correcting faulty electrical signaling at its source.” A New Option for Resistant Cases Schizophrenia affects nearly 24 million people worldwide, according to the World Health Organization, and is commonly treated with antipsychotic medications. While drugs are effective for many patients, about 30 percent suffer from treatment-resistant schizophrenia, experiencing persistent hallucinations and delusions despite multiple medication trials. For these patients, options are limited, often involving long-term hospitalization and heavy sedation. The Israeli team believes DBS could offer a new path for those who have exhausted existing therapies. One patient involved in the trial described the change as “life-altering.” “The voices that controlled my life became quieter,” he said through a hospital statement. “For the first time in years, I felt like myself again.” Safety and Ethical Questions Despite promising results, researchers stress that the technique remains experimental. Implanting electrodes in the brain carries surgical risks, and long-term effects are still unknown. Ethical questions also surround the use of neuromodulation to influence thought patterns and behavior. Medical ethicists have urged caution, emphasizing the need for strict consent protocols and transparent oversight. “This technology touches the very core of identity and autonomy,” said one independent psychiatrist not involved in the study. “We must ensure that patient rights remain central.” The research team has stated that all participants volunteered after extensive psychological evaluation and that stimulation levels were carefully adjusted to avoid personality changes or cognitive impairment. Global Implications If validated in larger clinical trials, the breakthrough could reshape psychiatric medicine worldwide. Experts believe DBS could eventually be customized for different mental disorders, including severe depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. International interest in the findings has been swift. Medical institutions in Europe and North America have requested access to the study’s methodology, and discussions are underway for a multinational clinical trial involving dozens of patients. The Israeli government has also expressed support for expanding neuroscience funding, calling the research a milestone for mental health innovation. Looking Ahead The next phase of the project will involve testing DBS on a larger group of patients over longer periods to assess durability, side effects, and overall quality-of-life improvements. Researchers are also exploring non-invasive stimulation techniques that could replicate some of the benefits without surgery. While DBS will not replace medication for most patients, scientists believe it could become a specialized therapy for the most severe and resistant forms of schizophrenia. “This is not a cure,” the lead researcher cautioned, “but it is the strongest evidence yet that schizophrenia can be treated at the level of brain circuitry rather than just symptoms.” For millions living with the disorder and their families, the breakthrough offers new hope that science is moving closer to understanding—and controlling—the biological roots of mental illness.
By Fiaz Ahmed 4 days ago in Longevity
I Am Shah Rukh Khan Today, Because of Salim Khan”: SRK Reflects on Screenwriter’s Support in His Early Days. AI-Generated.
Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has credited legendary screenwriter Salim Khan for playing a crucial role in shaping his early career, saying that without his guidance and encouragement, his journey in the film industry might have taken a very different path. Speaking at a recent film event in Mumbai, Shah Rukh Khan became visibly emotional as he recalled the formative years of his career, when he was still an outsider struggling to establish himself in an industry dominated by established families and networks. “I am Shah Rukh Khan today because of Salim Khan,” the actor said. “At a time when I had nothing except ambition and confidence, he stood by me like a pillar and believed in me when very few did.” A Mentor in a Difficult Phase In the early 1990s, Shah Rukh Khan arrived in Mumbai after the loss of both his parents, carrying little more than dreams of acting and a background in television serials. While he found initial work in films such as Deewana and Baazigar, navigating Bollywood’s complex power structures was far from easy. According to SRK, Salim Khan offered him advice not just about scripts and performances but about survival in the industry. He recalled how the veteran writer would often guide him on professional conduct, humility, and patience. “Salim saab didn’t just teach me how to act,” Khan said. “He taught me how to live in this industry with dignity.” Salim Khan, known for his work as part of the iconic Salim-Javed duo, was already a towering figure in Indian cinema when Shah Rukh Khan was starting out. His influence and respect within the film fraternity helped open doors and shield young talent from early setbacks. Beyond Professional Support Shah Rukh Khan emphasized that the relationship went beyond professional mentorship. He described Salim Khan as a father figure during a time when he was emotionally vulnerable and trying to build a life in a new city. “I had lost my parents very young,” SRK said. “When Salim saab encouraged me, it felt like family was still watching over me.” The actor added that such emotional support is often overlooked in discussions about success. “People see stardom and money, but they don’t see the people who quietly guide you when you are uncertain,” he said. A Legacy of Storytelling Salim Khan’s contribution to Indian cinema is widely regarded as transformative. Alongside Javed Akhtar, he reshaped Bollywood storytelling in the 1970s with powerful narratives centered on the “angry young man,” most famously portrayed by Amitabh Bachchan. Shah Rukh Khan acknowledged that learning from such a legendary writer helped him understand character depth and storytelling from a different perspective. “I learned that heroes are not just about looks or lines. They are about emotion, struggle, and truth,” he said. Industry Reaction The remarks have resonated strongly across the film fraternity. Several actors and directors praised SRK for publicly acknowledging his mentor and highlighting the importance of gratitude in a highly competitive industry. Film historians noted that such relationships have long shaped Bollywood, where informal mentorship often substitutes for formal training institutions. SRK’s comments serve as a reminder that even the biggest stars rely on guidance and belief from others during their early years. Looking Ahead As Shah Rukh Khan continues to dominate box office charts and expand his presence globally, he remains vocal about the people who helped him reach the top. He concluded his remarks by urging young actors to seek wisdom from seniors and to respect the foundations of the industry. “Success is not just about talent,” he said. “It is about the people who hold your hand when you are afraid to walk alone.” For fans, the statement offered a rare glimpse into the emotional journey behind one of cinema’s most recognizable faces — a story of mentorship, resilience, and gratitude that underscores the human side of superstardom.
By Fiaz Ahmed 4 days ago in Geeks
The Teacher Who Won $1 Million for Turning India’s Slums into Open-Air Classrooms. AI-Generated.
An innovative Indian educator has captured global attention after winning a $1 million international teaching award for transforming some of India’s most underprivileged neighborhoods into open-air classrooms. Ranjitsinh Disale, a primary school teacher from Maharashtra, was recognized for his pioneering efforts to bring education directly into slum communities where poverty, migration, and social barriers had kept thousands of children out of school. Disale received the prestigious Global Teacher Prize, honoring educators who demonstrate exceptional impact and innovation. His work has been praised for blending community engagement, digital learning, and grassroots problem-solving to tackle long-standing educational inequality. Classrooms Without Walls In areas where schools were distant or overcrowded, Disale created outdoor learning spaces in narrow lanes, open fields, and community courtyards. Armed with portable teaching materials and a smartphone, he conducted lessons for children who could not attend formal schools due to family obligations or lack of documentation. “These children were invisible to the system,” Disale said during the award ceremony. “So I decided to make the system visible to them by bringing education to their doorstep.” His approach focused on flexibility. Lessons were scheduled around work hours for children who helped their families earn a living, and teaching methods were adapted for multilingual communities. Simple tools such as digital QR codes linked students to video lessons and reading materials, allowing them to continue learning even when teachers were not physically present. Breaking Social Barriers One of the most remarkable aspects of Disale’s work has been his success in encouraging girls’ education in conservative and marginalized communities. In regions where early marriage and social restrictions prevented girls from attending school, he negotiated directly with families and community leaders. Through awareness campaigns and community meetings, he demonstrated how education could improve health, income, and long-term security. As a result, enrollment among girls in his target areas rose dramatically, and several villages reported zero dropouts for multiple years. Local parents said the teacher’s dedication changed their perception of schooling. “We used to think education was not for our children,” one mother explained. “Now we see it as their future.” Technology as an Equalizer Disale’s model relies heavily on low-cost technology. He developed QR-coded textbooks that allowed students to scan pages using basic mobile phones and access recorded lessons. This proved especially useful during the COVID-19 pandemic, when schools across India were shut for months. By combining outdoor teaching with digital content, he ensured learning continuity even in the absence of classrooms. Education officials have since explored scaling his methods to other regions with limited infrastructure. Global Recognition The Global Teacher Prize jury praised Disale for “turning obstacles into opportunities” and for creating an education system that works beyond traditional school walls. Judges highlighted the sustainability of his methods and their potential to be replicated in slums and remote areas worldwide. Education experts say his achievement sends a powerful message about the role of teachers in social transformation. “This is not just about one classroom,” said an education policy analyst. “It’s about reimagining how and where education can happen.” Impact Beyond the Prize Disale has pledged to use a significant portion of his prize money to expand his initiatives and fund educational programs for disadvantaged children. He has also committed to sharing his teaching techniques with educators across India and abroad through workshops and online platforms. Rather than viewing the award as a personal triumph, he described it as recognition of teachers everywhere who work in difficult conditions. “This prize belongs to every teacher who refuses to give up on a child,” he said. A Model for the Future As India continues to grapple with educational inequality, Disale’s work offers a blueprint for community-based solutions. His open-air classrooms demonstrate that education does not require expensive buildings, only commitment, creativity, and trust from the community. In turning slums into spaces of learning, Ranjitsinh Disale has shown that innovation can flourish even in the most challenging environments. His story is a reminder that sometimes the most powerful classrooms are not enclosed by walls, but by hope.
By Fiaz Ahmed 4 days ago in Education
India to Make Rafale Jets with France in Boost to Defence Ties, Macron Says. AI-Generated.
India and France have announced a significant step forward in their defence partnership, with plans to manufacture Rafale jets in India in collaboration with French aerospace companies. French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed the development during a press briefing, describing the move as a major milestone in strategic and technological cooperation between the two nations. The joint production initiative is expected to enhance India’s domestic defence manufacturing capabilities, support local employment, and deepen bilateral ties in the aerospace and defence sectors. The Rafale program, initially introduced to India in 2016 with a procurement deal for 36 jets, has now evolved into a collaborative production venture aimed at both operational readiness and industrial development. Strengthening Strategic Partnership President Macron emphasized that the decision reflects France’s commitment to India as a key partner in Asia. “This agreement demonstrates our shared vision for strategic autonomy and defence modernization,” he said. French officials noted that the initiative goes beyond procurement, encompassing technology transfer, joint research, and indigenous manufacturing, in line with India’s Make in India policy. The Defence Ministry in New Delhi described the development as a “transformative step” for India’s air force capabilities. Officials highlighted that the locally assembled jets will incorporate advanced avionics, radar systems, and weapon integration, enhancing operational flexibility for the Indian Air Force. Industrial and Economic Benefits Beyond military advantages, the joint venture is expected to bring substantial economic benefits. French aerospace companies will collaborate with Indian firms to establish production lines, training programs, and quality control protocols. Analysts estimate that the initiative could create thousands of skilled jobs and strengthen India’s domestic defence industry ecosystem. Local manufacturing is also expected to reduce costs over time and ensure a more robust maintenance and upgrade cycle. Indian defence analysts said that producing Rafale jets domestically would reduce dependence on imports while increasing self-reliance in advanced combat aircraft technology. Technology Transfer and Skill Development A key feature of the collaboration is technology transfer, which will allow Indian engineers and technicians to work alongside French counterparts, gaining experience in cutting-edge aircraft design, assembly, and testing. The program also includes provisions for knowledge sharing on sensors, avionics, and precision weapon integration, enabling India to develop future-generation fighter jets based on Rafale technology. “This initiative is not just about acquiring aircraft; it’s about mastering the science and engineering behind them,” said a senior Indian Air Force official. “It represents a generational leap for India’s aerospace and defence capabilities.” Diplomatic Context The announcement comes amid heightened security challenges in South Asia, including border tensions and regional competition. Defence analysts noted that the Rafale production deal strengthens India’s deterrence posture while reinforcing strategic partnerships with key European powers. For France, the initiative cements its role as a reliable defence partner in Asia and underscores its commitment to supporting indigenous manufacturing in allied countries. It also reflects the broader European interest in deepening engagement with India in technology, trade, and security. Next Steps and Timeline Officials from both countries said discussions are underway to finalize technical specifications, production schedules, and local assembly locations. The first indigenously assembled jets are expected to roll out within a few years, with continuous upgrades planned to integrate the latest weaponry and avionics. India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) will work closely with French teams to ensure that domestic production meets stringent operational and safety standards. Both sides have emphasized transparency, quality control, and adherence to international norms in defence manufacturing. Conclusion The India-France Rafale production initiative marks a historic moment in bilateral defence cooperation, combining military modernization, industrial development, and technological collaboration. As India moves toward greater self-reliance in defence capabilities, the partnership with France serves as both a strategic and symbolic commitment to long-term cooperation in aerospace and security. President Macron described the venture as “a partnership of trust and shared ambition,” reflecting both countries’ commitment to strengthening ties in the face of evolving regional and global security challenges. For India, the program represents a decisive step in building a technologically advanced, self-sufficient air force while deepening international defence collaboration.
By Fiaz Ahmed 4 days ago in The Swamp
Shakima Brown Recognized for Strengthening Community Leadership Through Business and Advocacy
By Kendra Hall PHILADELPHIA — Community leadership continues to take shape through small business ownership, caregiving, and lived experience. Individuals balancing entrepreneurship, family responsibility, and service are influencing how support networks function at the local level.
By Kendra Hall4 days ago in Interview
My 2nd Interview with Misty Rae, From Vocal Challenge Winner To Best Selling Author
Misty Rae is a writer with a special passion for Black History. That passion stems from her mixed racial background. Her father was Black and the family are the descendants of slaves from South Carolina 's rice coast.
By Mariann Carroll4 days ago in Interview
Emri: Rising Star in the Music Industry
In the ever-evolving world of music, Emri, also known as Em, is carving out a unique space for himself, blending personal experiences with an infectious energy that resonates with fans. With a strong social media presence across platforms—Facebook (@Emri Em), Instagram (@Emri_Em), and Twitter (@EMRI_EM)—Emri is ready to share his journey and insights with the world.
By Quentin Perera4 days ago in Beat
