#university of st andrews

[materialsscienceandengineering]

Hydrogen bonding discovery could transform the use of glowing properties in organic materials

New research from the University of St Andrews has uncovered how hydrogen bonds can enhance the phosphorescence efficiency and versatility of organic luminescent materials, potentially transforming fields such as imaging, anti-counterfeiting, and electronics. The research, led by Dr. Sen Wu, Dr. Tao Wang and Professor Eli Zysman-Colman from the School of Chemistry at St Andrews, and published in CCS Chemistry, reveals a major advancement in understanding how hydrogen bonding can improve the performance and adaptability of organic room-temperature phosphorescence (RTP) materials. By harnessing hydrogen bonds, these light-emitting materials, which glow after being exposed to light, could open new possibilities in areas such as imaging, data storage, and anti-counterfeiting technologies.

Read more.

[high-quality-tiktoks]

St Andrews version of samsam1298 video

[the-academic-explorer]

Snow in St Andrews

[shootinconstellations]

I never realised how gratifying it can be to learn a new skill because you missed a lab. Holy shit learning how to code for biology and actually feel pretty good about my skills. Granted I still need to google when I’m stuck but I feel great. ���

[platosworstnightmare]

So Iʼve noticed that articles like this

donʼt actually include any of Maris “inflammatory” remarks so I have decided to fill in the journalistic integrity that the BBC is apparently lacking by actually including what she said instead of just taking the universityʼs word for it.

Below is the email she was fired for, in its entirety, with no alterations or additions.

————————————

Trigger Warning: This email contains discussions of violence, loss of life, and humanitarian crises related to the Israeli-Palestine conflict, which some readers may find distressing. Please read with care.

-

Dear Students,

Disclaimer: Please note that the views and opinions expressed in this email are solely those of the Rector, independent of the University of St. Andrews. As the Rector, elected by and representing the student body, I am entitled to communicate my personal perspectives and understanding regarding the Israeli-Palestine conflict directly to the students who elected me.

Please note that the information contained in this email is accurate as of 21st November 2023, based on my research and the latest available data. However, the situation in the Israel-Palestine conflict is constantly evolving. Therefore, I urge you to seek the most recent information and exercise due diligence before taking any action based on this email's contents. It is important to stay informed through reliable sources as circumstances may have changed since the time of writing.

This message is not issued by the University, nor does it reflect the official policy or position of the University of St. Andrews. It should be read as an independent expression of the views held by me, in my capacity as an elected representative of the students. Any concerns or issues with the content of this message should be addressed directly to rector@st-andrews.ac.uk.

Introduction

In this email, I will explicitly call for a ceasefire, reflecting on the poignant vigils recently held within our community and addressing the ongoing conflict in Israel and Palestine. These vigils have brought to light the deep sorrow and collective humanity that bind us together in times of crisis. It's imperative that we address the current situation with both empathy and urgency.

I will also take this opportunity to firmly condemn any form of bigotry or hatred within our community. Our collective response to the conflict, while rooted in diverse perspectives, must steadfastly uphold the principles of respect, understanding, and compassion for all.

Vigils

In the last few weeks members of our community came together to reflect upon the ongoing conflict in Israel and Palestine while simultaneously mourning the loss of their friends, families, and community members. In two poignant vigils, student groups highlighted our collective grief and exemplified the humanity that binds us all.

On October 13th, members of the community solemnly commemorated the tragic October 7th terrorist attacks in Israel at the first of two vigils, honouring the lives lost in the largest massacre of Jewish people since the Holocaust. Organizers read aloud the names of those affected, accompanied by the hopeful yet sorrowful strains of 'One Day.' The vigil culminated in a silent pier procession, symbolizing solidarity, and remembrance.

In early November, following weeks of genocidal attacks by the Israeli government against Gaza, a second vigil took place in St. Salvator’s Quad. Participants at this gathering mourned the significant loss of life and the profound impact on humanity observed in both Israel and Gaza since the October attacks. Additionally, the vigil provided an opportunity to outline the long-standing conditions faced by Palestinians and to share a comprehensive account of the conflict's history. Organizers at the vigil expressed their sorrow, imparted knowledge, and called for humanitarian action. One powerful statement from the vigil particularly resonated with me: “And now, with the cutting off of their electricity, their voices have been silenced... It is our responsibility to speak up for them.” This statement highlighted our collective duty to advocate for those who cannot represent themselves, to raise awareness about their situation, and to inform our peers.

Casualties

While each vigil was organized by different student groups and focused on distinct aspects of the conflict, both events underscored a common thread of humanity: the understanding that every loss, irrespective of identity, is a profound tragedy. The recent escalations have indeed caused a staggering human toll with reports from human rights organisations indicate that in Gaza, over 13000+ people have been killed by Israeli forces, 70% of whom are children and women, and more than 27,400 have been injured in both Gaza and the West Bank. Over 1.7 million Palestinians have reportedly been displaced, with many fearing they’ll never be allowed to return to their homes. 4000+ Palestinians remain trapped under the rubble of collapsed buildings, as relentless bombardments, decimated infrastructure including roads, and lack of fuel due to the ongoing Israeli siege (continuous since 2007) prevent rescue workers from reaching them. In Israel, there have been at least 1,200 fatalities, and over 240 individuals are held captive. It is important to note that the majority of these casualties in both regions are civilians.

We must continue to recognize and condemn acts that are internationally regarded as humanitarian and war crimes. These include practices such as apartheid, siege, illegal occupation and collective punishment, which have been observed in the treatment of Palestinians. It is also crucial to acknowledge and denounce the actions by Hamas that qualify as war crimes, notably the taking of hostages and deliberately targeting civilians, which I have and continue to do. These actions by any party contribute to the cycle of violence and suffering and are contrary to international law and humanitarian standards.

I wholeheartedly believe that the complexity and nuances of the situation are no barriers to calling out actions that harm human life and dignity. At the same time, it's essential to acknowledge the reasons behind these actions, understanding that they are rooted in decades of oppression and systematic mistreatment. This historical context is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of the current dynamics and the resultant suffering. By recognizing this, we can better appreciate the deep-seated grievances and frustrations that have contributed to the current state of affairs.

Calling for an Immediate Ceasefire

These sentiments and the profound emotion expressed during our community vigils strengthen my resolve to advocate for an immediate ceasefire. While advocating for this ceasefire, it's crucial to emphasize the responsibility of Israel as the more powerful entity in this conflict. The relentless Israeli bombing campaign in Gaza must be brought to an end. While the release of hostages held by Hamas is undeniably important and necessary, it should not distract from the onus on Israel to cease its military actions that have and continue to cause significant human suffering.

A ceasefire should not only end active hostilities but also focus on critical humanitarian issues, such as ongoing efforts to rescue hostages. This includes a comprehensive recognition of the long history of mistreatment faced by Palestinians and the need for affirming and empowering their rights to freedom and stability. Only through such an approach can we begin to address the underlying causes of the conflict and pave the way for a future where both Israelis and Palestinians can live in peace and security. A ceasefire, by its very nature, requires all parties engaged in hostilities, without exception, to cease their military actions.

We must remind ourselves that despite our physical distance from the epicentre of the conflict, the devastation and loss of life impact us all as global citizens and as members of our respective communities, whether in this country or elsewhere. Our empathy and commitment to understanding these complex issues are crucial in fostering a more peaceful and just world.

I unequivocally condemn any form of bigotry, including but not limited to anti-Semitism and Islamophobia, especially in the context of this conflict. We must stand united against any rhetoric or actions that perpetuate hatred and division. Our Israeli, Palestinian, Jewish, Christian, Muslim, and other faith based as well as non-believing/secular communities, both in St. Andrews and beyond, share a common sorrow and many have also called for an immediate ceasefire. Importantly, condemning the actions of Hamas does not imply an indictment of all Palestinians, just as criticizing the actions of the Israeli government is not an attack on the Jewish faith or its adherents. Recognizing this distinction is crucial to ensure that our discourse does not inadvertently foster feelings of unsafety or marginalization within our community.

Final Thoughts

As we navigate these discussions, I recognize that some may disagree with the manner in which I have presented things here. While it's challenging to encapsulate the full nuance and the varying perspectives I've encountered in recent days without some contradiction, I want to be explicitly clear: my words are not intended to justify violence or dismiss the pain of any community. My aim is to highlight the potential for unity, solidarity, compassion, and action, ensuring that this does not come at the expense of anyone's safety or sense of belonging.

I must be honest about my stance, allowing myself to be guided by my commitment to preserving life and my firm stance against violence. Therefore, I take full responsibility for the sentiments expressed in this message, recognising my role as an independent voice and advocate for all students. While I acknowledge that some may not agree with my perspective, it is imperative to state unequivocally that peace is my guiding philosophy.

Further links and resources can be found here, these organisations are known for providing information, assistance, and advocacy related to the issues in the region. Amnesty St Andrews' Guide to Action for Gaza can also be found here, with more information on concrete actions we can all take to advance this call for a ceasefire.

In these times of grief and reflection, let us engage in informed and compassionate dialogue. Our goal should be to cultivate a narrative that fosters reconciliation and understanding, while also continuing to speak truth to power.

In the spirit of peace and humanity,

Stella

Stella Maris

(She/Her)

Rector

University of St Andrews

rector@st-andrews.ac.uk

see4@st-andrews.ac.uk

College Gate, North Street,

St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9AJ

IG: @Stella_StAndrewsRector

[teneebris]

st mary’s quad, st andrews, 19/06/2023

one of my favourite places ever🤍

[geologyedinburgh]

Program of the St Andrews Library for the upcoming October month. Walks, art class, finishing off with Halloween stories at the end of the month.

[archaeolorhi]

JUSTICE FOR LILIAS! The Torryburn Witch

LILIAS ADIE. A 64 year old woman falsely accused of witchcraft in Torryburn, Fife, Scotland. After dying in custody, she was buried in an unmarked intertidal grave so she could not arise to torment the living - as superstition goes.

In this video we look at Lilias, her accusation, imprisonment, grave and her STOLEN SKULL. THATS RIGHT. STOLEN. Don't forget to like and subscribe xoxo

[smbhax]

"Unlike other mammals, reindeer can see light in the ultraviolet spectrum."

"Researchers traveled to the Cairngorms mountains in the Scottish Highlands, which hosts more than 1,500 species of lichen as well as Britain’s only reindeer herd. They found reindeer moss absorbs UV light, meaning the white lichen that humans have trouble seeing against the snow stands out as dark patches to the animals."

[karan00]

https://enlighteningcareers.com/saitm-gurgaon/

[materialsscienceandengineering]

Research explores organic semiconductor materials for sustainable temperature sensors

New research into organic semiconductor materials, led by the University of St Andrews, paves the way for more sustainable temperature sensors for use in everyday technology. Thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) materials, the so-called third-generation of emitters used in organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), have attracted significant attention over the course of the last decades as alternative emitters to noble metal-containing phosphorescent complexes used in commercialized OLEDs like those in mobile phones. However, their use in other organic electronics applications such as sensors, has been much less explored. The new research, published in Nature Communications, led by Professor Eli Zysman-Colman from the School of Chemistry, discloses an organic TADF compound used for colorimetric temperature sensing having the widest spectral and temperature range compared to other organic optical temperature probes.

Read more.

[the-academic-explorer]

Getting those final papers in before the holidays...

[brutalistinteriors]

University of St Andrews Library, Scotland. Faulkner-Brown, Hendy, Watkinson, Stonor.

[thewales-family]

The Princess of Wales June 2024 Photo Challenge

4. Favourite photo(s) of Catherine at university

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Donald Padgett at The Advocate:

A state investigation into the Washington University Transgender Center at St. Louis Children’s Hospital has expanded to target therapists and social workers who may have minors seeking gender-affirming care. Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey is seeking redacted or lightly redacted medical records of patients who received care at the facility. The state investigation of the center is one of many currently underway, including one by U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley. The move left the state’s trans and healthcare communities with concern over future access to gender-affirming care for transgender youth in the state, the Missouri Independent reported.

“The attorney general has created a hostile environment for medical providers where they are afraid to stay and practice medicine,” Katy Erker-Lynch, executive director of PROMO, an LGBTQ+ advocacy group in the state, said. Bailey is reviewing the records at the Missouri Division of Professional Registration which oversees the state’s medical licensing as part of the investigation. He had earlier targeted Planned Parenthood Great Plains and Children’s Mercy, a hospital in Kansas City. Bailey has reportedly interviewed 57 healthcare professionals in connection with the investigation. Licensed clinical social worker Kelly Storck spoke with senior investigator Nick McBroom as part of the investigation.

[...]

The Center earlier turned over a spreadsheet providing information regarding patients seeking gender-affirming care, including visits, medications, and other normally private information. The mother of one patient who received care at the Center, a 17-year-old trans boy named Levi, described the investigation as “invasive” and said it was causing unwarranted disruption in their lives. “The state has already basically disrupted our lives,” Becky Hormuth told the Independent. “They’ve disrupted our families, our children’s lives with the legislation that has passed. Then for him to continue going on is even more invasive and damaging.” After Missouri passed a ban on gender-affirming care for minors last year, Bailey issued an emergency rule banning similar care for trans adults as well. In the document laying out the policy, he said these treatments “lack solid evidentiary support” and “pose very serious side effects.” He withdrew the rule when state lawmakers acted. Missouri Gov. Mike Parson, a Republican, signed the ban into law in June. It was quickly challenged in court, but a judge allowed it to go into effect.

Missouri AG Andrew Bailey (R) continues his farcical investigation into gender-affirming care providers, extending his targets to therapists and social workers who assist minors in obtaining gender-affirming care.

[geologyedinburgh]

Every Thursday from 1 pm till 2.30 pm. Eco Hub, Kinnessburn Road.