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Objective: Micronutrient status, specifically vitamin D and iron, represent modifiable factors for optimizing military readiness. The primary purpose of this investigation was to determine associations between micronutrient deficiency (i.e., iron status and 25-hydroxy-vitamin D [25(OH)D]) and operationally relevant outcomes (i.e., skeletal health, musculoskeletal injury) at baseline and post-10 weeks of arduous military training. Methods: A total of 227 (177 men, 50 women) Marine Officer Candidates School (OCS) candidates who completed OCS training with complete data sets were included in this analysis. Vitamin D and iron status indicators were collected at two timepoints, pre (baseline) and post OCS. Musculoskeletal outcomes at the mid- and proximal tibial diaphysis were assessed via peripheral quantitative computed tomography. Results: Micronutrient status declined following OCS training in men and women and was associated with musculoskeletal outcomes including greater bone strength (strength strain index) at the mid-diaphysis site in those with optimal status (M = 38.26 mm3, SE = 15.59) versus those without (M = −8.03 mm3, SE = 17.27). In women (p =.037), endosteal circumference was greater in the deficient group (M = 53.26 mm, SE = 1.19) compared with the optimal group (M = 49.47 mm, SE = 1.31) at the proximal diaphysis. In men, greater baseline hepcidin concentrations were associated with an increased likelihood of suffering musculoskeletal injury during training. Conclusions: Vitamin D and iron status declined over the course of training, suggesting impaired micronutrient status. Differences in musculoskeletal outcomes by micronutrient group suggests optimal vitamin D and ferritin concentrations may exert beneficial effects on bone fatigability and fracture reduction during military training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We provide quantitative evidence on the relationship between military spending and innovation in the 19th century. Combining innovation data from world fairs and historical military data across Europe, we show that national military spending is associated with national innovation toward war logistics such as food processing, but less toward war technology such as guns. This innovation pattern reflects differences in the historical markets for war supplies: while the armed forces sourced weapons globally, the food market remained local. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The higher education (HE) sector in Myanmar is currently in a fragile, backward-looking state. Its fragility is due to the 2021 coup with its consequent civil disobedience movement, continued conflict between the military and people's defence force, the junta's spurious delivery of a post-Covid and post-coup education system, and the junta's apparent abandoning of the previous civilian government's progress with the National Education Strategic Plan. It is backward-looking because the current junta, like previous juntas in Myanmar, use education as a tool for military propaganda and to populate the education system with civil servants that are loyal, or at least supine, to the military. The task of this chapter is to provide an overview of HE in Myanmar and how its current condition aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 4.3. This task is contextualised by considering the role of universities in the history of socio-political uprisings in Myanmar. Universities as theatres of communicative action have been and continue to be spaces of public resistance. This resistance and its accompanying vertical tension continue to shape the physical constitution of universities and the delivery of HE in Myanmar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sweat dermatitis is an irritant inflammatory dermatosis commonly encountered in tropics during summers. Profuse sweating triggered by high heat index, friction, clothing, outdoor activities, military training, overcrowding, prolonged working in ill-ventilated places, etc., are responsible or this dermatitis. Aim was to study the clinical, dermoscopic, vapometric, histopathological, and immunohistochemistry (IHC) findings in sweat dermatitis. Twenty-five patients of sweat dermatitis attending out-patient department (OPD) of tertiary care hospital, were recruited over a period of three months (June to August 2022). A detailed history was followed by dermatological examination, dermoscopy, vapometry, histopathology, and IHC studies. Twenty-five patients were included in the study. There was male preponderance with male: female ratio of 2.1:1. The mean age of patients was 30.36 years. Dermatological examination in all patients revealed brownish "parchment"-like, shiny "crinkled cellophane paper"-like patches over the entire upper back and shoulder region with areas of exfoliation. Dermoscopy revealed increased skin markings, deep brown pigmentary changes with superimposed whitish scales with islands of eroded skin, and prominent eccrine duct openings. Vapometric analysis revealed increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL) in the affected area in 88% of patients. Histopathological examination showed features of spongiotic dermatitis. IHC with CK7 (cytoplasmic) highlighted the normal eccrine coils. Sweat dermatitis is common seasonal dermatoses in tropics, but it remains undiagnosed due to lack of awareness. This study aims to sensitize medical doctors and dermatologists about sweat dermatitis and prevention strategies that can be helpful in mitigating it. The study also discusses the role of investigative modalities, such as dermoscopy, vapometry, histopathology, and IHC, in sweat dermatitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research shows that higher education can help veterans build a new sense of identity, purpose and belonging after leaving the military. There are critical gaps, however, in our understanding of student veterans in the Australian context. This article aims to map the experiences of Australian veterans across the student life cycle to improve our understanding of this unique group. We systematically address the higher education stages of pre-access, access, participation, and attainment. Fourteen autobiographical interviews were conducted to obtain detailed and nuanced personal reflections. Findings demonstrate that veterans often make exemplary students who are motivated to pursue altruistic careers. However, transitions between the military and higher education can be difficult to navigate. We argue the need for a structured pathway between the military and higher education and increased support for veterans across the student life cycle. We recommend a range of initiatives to prepare veterans to thrive in higher education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European Union Military Schools and Academies (EUMSAs) have long grappled with persistent gender imbalances among their student body, indicative of an entrenched male‐centric culture within these institutions. In recognition of this issue, the collaborative Military Gender Studies initiative was launched under the auspices of the Erasmus+ program. This project involved partners from Bulgaria, Italy, Portugal and Romania, each offering unique insights shaped by their diverse socio‐political contexts. This research aims to go beyond mere acknowledgment of disparities and instead seeks to identify actionable strategies that can foster genuine equity, diversity and inclusivity within the EUMSAs. To this end, a comprehensive data‐gathering approach was employed, incorporating various qualitative methods including face‐to‐face interviews, face‐to‐face focus groups, direct observations and analysis of official documentation sourced from the referred EUMSAs. The resulting insights highlight the need for substantial improvements in institutional gender policies. Particularly, while efforts have been made to instill gender sensitivity within fitness assessments, their impact has been disappointingly limited. Furthermore, the practice of assigning military roles based solely on gender has been found to undermine both effectiveness and fairness within the schools/academies. Conversely, an encouraging sentiment pervades among the student body, advocating for a curriculum that incorporates gender‐related subjects into the EUMSA educational framework (curriculum). This suggests a growing recognition of the importance of addressing gender issues not only in policy but also in practice, signalling a promising shift towards a more inclusive and equitable environment within the EUMSAs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the resistance to Israel from Latin American countries, focusing on progressive governments calling for an end to the genocide in Gaza. Actions such as barring Israeli companies from events and suspending weapon purchases have deepened criticism of Israel's actions. The article also highlights Israel's influence in Latin America, particularly in military and economic sectors, and the use of Israeli technology and surveillance systems in the region. Latin American countries have shown solidarity with Palestine, with some severing diplomatic ties with Israel in response to the ongoing conflict. [Extracted from the article]

The military schools opened in the Ottoman Empire from 1773 onwards influenced the shaping of modern educational structures. In 1856, with the Edict of Reform, which was proclaimed to protect the rights of non-Muslims, the opening of sanbyan schools outside Istanbul and schools that would serve the non-Muslims' own communities were accelerated. In 1869, with the General Education Regulation, educational institutions were reorganised as iptidai rüştiye, idadi and sultani. The Idadi Schools, which were opened after the Sıbyan and Rüştiye Schools, started education in order to train students for military schools and later turned into secondary education. The first Idadi School was opened in 1873 in the same building with Darülmaarif and some of the students of Darülmaarif were enrolled in the Idadi School. The aim of the idadi schools was to integrate Muslim and non-Muslim students by educating them together and to educate them with a common culture. II. Abdulhamid had many educational buildings, especially İdadi schools, built in order to spread modern education. In this study, the plan and façade features of the Mardin Idadi School, which was built by the Armenian architect Lole in 1900 in Mardin, were examined. Within the scope of the study, the architectural features of Mardin Idadi Mektebi are compared with the school buildings built in Balıkesir, Kırklareli, Konya and Aksaray, three of which were built in the Late Ottoman Period and one in the Early Republican Period. In the comparison, similarities and differences in terms of period characteristics and the effect of the local elements of the region where they were built were investigated through examples selected from regions with different cultural, climatic and topographical data from the centre to the provinces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mind wandering is common during daily activities and is even more prevalent under stressful conditions, which could lead to lapses in attention and poor performance. Newly recruited military personnel who undergo demanding training often experience high levels of stress. It is therefore imperative to find ways to foster mental health and avoid performance deterioration related to mind wandering in times of intense military training. This feasibility study investigated the effectiveness of an established low-dose mindfulness-based intervention (MBI), called Mindfulness-based Attention Training (MBAT), on mind wandering, attentional performance, and well-being, delivered by a facilitator who was taught how to deliver MBAT. A sample of newly recruited Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) Junior Officers (n = 17) undergoing demanding training participated in the 8-week long MBI with one weekly contact session. Measures of well-being and the Sustained Attention to Response Task (SART) were completed 4 weeks prior to the MBAT, at the start of the MBAT, at the end of the MBAT and 4 weeks after completion of the MBAT. Results suggest that MBAT might protect from performance decline during intense training and enhance levels of well-being at follow-up. These findings highlight the valuable role of mindfulness as a component in military training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using qualitative content analysis, this article focuses on the question of how conscripts in the Estonian Defense Forces perceive a good military leader. We found that interpersonal competency was the most desirable trait, followed by leadership competency, highlighting the value placed on human-centered approaches rather management skills, at least in training situations. The article concludes that the younger generation needs reasoning and individual consideration above all, and value the balance between a demanding and tolerant attitude, which creates a natural followership for leaders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapidly evolving domain of military space operations has become increasingly integral to national security and defense strategies. Emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), simulators and extended reality (XR) tools such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), are revolutionizing how military forces train and operate. These innovations not only enhance the effectiveness of military missions but also necessitate a revaluation of the education and training required for space personnel. This paper explores the current applications of these technologies in military space operations, identifies potential challenges associated with their integration and proposes future research to guide the development of educational and training programs. By examining the historical evolution of military space activities, the roles and activities of space personnel and the integration of advanced technologies, this paper aims to provide an understanding of how emerging technologies are shaping military space operations and the current and future implications for education and training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sexual assault prevention is a priority for the military and is likely to be most effective when tailored to specific needs and individual experiences. Technology advances make it possible to integrate individualized programming into group education settings common to military training, but this approach is not without potential challenges. Prior to implementing and evaluating a novel prevention program, it is critical to conduct a feasibility study to assess the extent to which the program can be successfully implemented, is acceptable to participants, and can be rigorously evaluated. This paper presents the results of a large feasibility study of the Sexual Communication and Consent (SCC) program in Air Force Basic Military Training. The objectives were to understand (1) the suitability and acceptability of SCC and study procedures, (2) the research team's resources and ability to manage and implement the study and SCC, and (3) the appropriateness of the data collection procedures and outcome measures. Methods: The 26-week feasibility study involved more than 9000 trainees. At pretest, the sample was 73% male and 90% straight. Half of trainees (51%) reported not being in a romantic relationship, and 46% reported being in an exclusive romantic relationship. SCC involved 6 h of training over two sessions delivered 2 weeks apart. Sessions combined tablet-based training that was tailored to individual sexual assault risk (for revictimization, first-time victimization, or perpetration based on a screening instrument) with instructor-led classroom activities and discussion. Results: Trainee, instructor, and observer data indicated that the program was feasible, implemented with high fidelity, and acceptable to trainees. Technology and data collection procedures worked well, but time constraints led to program changes, missed content, and missing survey data. Staff time and skill requirements for SCC implementation exceeded those of standard training. Conclusions: Our results suggest that high-quality implementation of tailored sexual assault prevention training is feasible in a military environment, and they inform recommendations for program revisions, future evaluation, and sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Civilian and military police forensic practitioners are periodically tasked with responding to mass fatality incidents and disasters. A key component of these responses is comprehensive pre-deployment preparation by first responders. Although collaboration is often necessary in the field, training is often organization- or sector-specific. In response to recent recognition of the potential benefits of collaboration between military police and civilian police, this commentary documents a collaborative training exercise undertaken at a taphonomic facility by Australian civilian and military police forensic practitioners, along with other forensic specialists. It discusses the rationale for collaborative training and some of the potential benefits of such exercises. The article concludes with some suggestions for consideration to further strengthen future training opportunities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After receiving the results of the first study from the cycle of research on the principle of the supremacy of law in education under military emergency, it turned out to be necessary to conduct the next study on the accessibility of education in Ukraine during the mentioned period. It is also associated with the activities of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine and the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine, which in 2024 changed the rules for admission to higher educational institutions and limited access to education for those seeking education who declared their desire to study full-time and on a paid basis in postgraduate studies for obtaining the third (educational and scientific) level of higher education. The Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine, as has always been the case, defended its discriminatory reforms regarding the availability of education, referring to the introduction of a military emergency in Ukraine and problems in the process of mobilizing students for war. At the same time, access to education was limited both for paid education recipients (at their own expense) and for free education recipients (at the expense of state and local allocations). In turn, taking into account the fact that in Ukraine the system of grant education at the expense of scholarships from universities, philanthropists, and sponsors practically does not operate, this situation became a certain cataclysm in the field of education, which negatively affected both students (who began to go abroad en masse) and higher educational institutions. First of all, it is connected with depriving a number of young scientists of the opportunity to continue their research through postgraduate study, and secondly, with depriving higher educational institutions of income, the absence of which can lead such educational institutions to bankruptcy. As a result, the legality of the actions of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine and the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine regarding restricting access to education became acute in Ukrainian society. This article is the second article from the cycle of research. It contains the results of a legal study of education accessibility during the military emergency in Ukraine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To date, many legal problems have arisen in the field of education related to the activities of the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine. The specified problems were exposed in 2024, directly during the 2024 admission campaign, when the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine and the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine interfered in the process of admission to higher educational institutions of students who declared their desire to study full-time and on a paid basis in postgraduate studies for obtaining the third (academic and scientific) level of higher education. In March 2024, the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine adopted a new Procedure for admission to higher education in 2024, to which within four months during the admissions campaign more than ten amendments were performed. After that, in May 2024, the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine made new changes to the resolutions of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine on training and certification of scientific-pedagogical and scientific personnel, which also changed the conditions for admission to educational institutions. Subsequently, the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine established some features of acquiring and renewing the status of a higher education recipient in 2024, which limited access to education for a certain category. As a result of the mentioned activity, a confrontation escalated in Ukrainian society, where the students and rectors of higher educational institutions, accusing the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine of exceeding their powers, appeared on the one hand. On the other hand, the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine arose, defending its reforms, referring to the existence of martial law in Ukraine and problems in the process of mobilizing students for war. Considering the above, there was a general need for legal studies of the legal conditions of educational activity through the prism of generally accepted human rights and freedoms including martial law conditions in Ukraine. This article is the first article from the cycle of research. It contains the results of a legal study of the principle of the supremacy of law in education during the military emergency in Ukraine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the article, the authors provided a description of the types of service training, namely functional training, general training, tactical training, fire training, physical training. It was concluded that in order to improve the professional training of police officers, it is urgent to implement the measures of structural revision of its varieties, as well as qualitative updating of its content, taking into account the modern challenges that exist in police activity, the development of the National Police at the current stage of state formation. Taking into account the content of training on functional training, it has been proven that it would be more correct to talk about “functional and legal training”, which is proposed to be defined as a set of measures aimed at the acquisition and improvement of police knowledge, abilities and skills in the field of regulatory and legal support of official activities, features of police activity, taking into account the specifics of the functional duties of police officers, necessary for the successful performance of their official duties. It was emphasized the need to improve the name of the “life safety” component of general training, replacing it with the name “policeman’s personal safety and life safety”. The expediency of mastering tactical medicine by police officers was determined, which was proposed to be added to the component of pre-medical training. The need to include issues of improving the tactics of driving a company car in tactical training has been proven; effective use of the main varieties of special equipment, technical devices, technical means and specialized software, in particular, the tactics of using UAVs; tactics of police actions under the influence of sources of ionizing radiation. The position of scientists regarding the need to form a new model of physical training within the framework of service training of police officers with the implementation of NATO standards is supported, for which the following measures are proposed: studying the positive experience of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in terms of developing methodological recommendations for individual physical training of servicemen according to NATO standards; review of standards for physical training; creation of a typical program of physical training within the framework of official training of police officers. The need to introduce a new type of training in the system of police officer training – “general military training” – has been proven. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The history of Neapolitan artillery during the period of Carlo Filangieri reflects an era of military modernization. After the establishment of the Naval Academy in 1735, Carlo di Borbone founded the Corps Academy and the Engineers Academy, merging these institutions in 1769 into the Royal Military Academy. Military facilities were strategically located in the triangle formed by the Royal Palace, Castelnuovo, and the Naval Arsenal, with modern facilities also in Castellammare, Poggioreale, Gaeta, Capua, Torre Annunziata, and Mongiana. The Artillery Arsenal and the Royal Foundry were central to the production of military equipment, utilizing advanced technologies. The Royal Weapon Assembly handled weapon assembly, while the Royal Factory of Torre Annunziata produced cutting and firearms. Carlo Filangieri played a crucial role in reorganizing the military industry and promoting protectionist policies. In 1834, under the leadership of Ferdinand II, Filangieri was appointed to head the reorganization of the Artillery Corps, improving existing facilities and promoting self-sufficiency in military supplies. This period marked a transition toward industrialization of military production in the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, highlighting the importance of having a well-equipped central arsenal to ensure the political and military autonomy of the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This scoping review focuses on student veterans' transition and reintegration into education and presents key themes in international student veteran research. Grounded in a literature search in ERIC, Scopus, and Web of Science, our scoping review includes 137 articles across research disciplines. It covers publications from the last 15 years, with a transnational focus. Analysis of these articles resulted in two key themes: (1) Transition challenges of student veterans, including differences in military and academic learning, mental health challenges in class and on campus, and social interaction with non-veteran students and faculty. (2) Support efforts for student veterans, including becoming a veteran-friendly campus, academic support, mental health support, and social support. In addition to discussing these key themes across articles, we map prevalent conceptual frameworks, and discuss commonly used definitions of student veterans, veteran demographics, as well as descriptions of military education culture and academic education culture that we found in the literature. The subsequent discussion highlights that the academic success of student veterans often focuses on metrics, which highlights the qualification function of education, while disregarding the socialisation of veterans in education and their development of relative autonomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A common occupational task for the military is carrying heavy loads for long periods of time. The US Army has set a time standard of 3 hours to complete a 19.31-km march with a 15.9-kg ruck sack for combat arms training and specialty schools. The purpose of this study was to identify characteristics associated with 19.31-km foot march completion rates in Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) Cadets. Demographics, anthropometrics/body composition, Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) scores, and vertical countermovement jump (CMJ) data were collected on 65 ROTC cadets who conducted a 19.31-km foot march. Independent t tests and Mann-Whitney U tests compared variables between those who did and did not finish the foot march in less than 3 hours. Logistic regressions were used to calculate the odds of completing the foot march using military experience, fat-free mass, ACFT, and CMJ outcomes. Cadets who met the 3 hours standard had lower body fat percent, greater fat-free mass, higher ACFT scores, and higher CMJs than those who did not. In addition, for every one point increase in ACFT score and 1-kg increase in fat-free mass, a cadet's chances of finishing the foot march increased by 6.1 and 24%, respectively. When analyzing ACFT events separately, 2-mile run was the only significant variable, and for every 1 point increase in 2-mile run score, a cadet's chances of finishing the foot march increased by 9%. Thus, aspiring and current soldiers should train to improve aerobic fitness and build muscle mass in preparation for load carriage requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subconcussive blast exposure has been shown to alter neurological functioning. However, the extent to which neurological dysfunction persists after blast exposure is unknown. This longitudinal study examined the potential short- and long-term effects of repeated subconcussive blast exposure on neuromotor performance from heavy weapons training in military personnel. A total of 214 participants were assessed; 137 were exposed to repeated subconcussive blasts and 77 were not exposed to blasts (controls). Participants completed a short stepping-in-place task while an Android smartphone app placed on their thigh recorded movement kinematics. We showed acute suppression of neuromotor variability 6 h after subconcussive blast exposure, followed by a rebound to levels not different from baseline at the 72 h, 2-week, and 3-month post-tests. It is postulated that this suppression of neuromotor variability results from a reduction in the functional degrees of freedom from the subconcussive neurological insult. It is important to note that this change in behavior is short-lived, with a return to pre-blast exposure movement kinematics within 72 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Concussion, also known as mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), is a condition with unique ties to military service. Service members (SMs) are inherently at a higher risk for concussive injuries due to the intense physical training environment and combat operational tempo required to serve. The Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence (TBICoE) is the US Department of Defense authority on this condition and provides a thorough approach to management of concussion and associated symptom sequela. OBJECTIVES: This article seeks to review the TBICoE approach to the management and rehabilitation of military SMs with mTBI, and highlight resources available to military medical providers. METHODS: The authors reviewed evidence and TBICoE resources to provide this comprehensive overview of the TBICoE approach to management and rehabilitation of concussion in military SMs. RESULTS: A progressive return to activity protocol in conjunction with symptom-guided management of common post-concussive sequelae, including headache, vestibular and oculomotor issues, sleep dysfunction, cognitive rehabilitation, and behavioral health comorbidities are essential for concussion management in the acute, post-acute and chronic phases of injury. CONCLUSION: The TBICoE approach to the rehabilitation of military SMs is comprehensive, and includes initial management with a stepwise return to duty protocol and an objective return to duty screening. The mainstays of treatment for SMs with post-acute and chronic post-concussion symptoms are headache management, vestibular and oculomotor rehabilitation, sleep interventions, cognitive rehabilitation, and early intervention for behavioral health comorbidities. These evidence-based strategies may be applied in the treatment of SMs in the US and internationally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Military training centers and seagoing vessels are often environments at high risk for the spread of COVID-19 and other contagious diseases, because military trainees and personnel arrive after traveling from many parts of the country and live in congregate settings. We examined whether levels of SARS-CoV-2 genetic material in wastewater correlated with SARS-CoV-2 infections among military personnel living in communal barracks and vessels at US Coast Guard training centers in the United States. Methods: The Coast Guard developed and established 3 laboratories with wastewater testing capability at Coast Guard training centers from March 2021 through August 2022. We analyzed wastewater from barracks housing trainees and from 4 Coast Guard vessels for the presence of SARS-CoV-2 genes N and E and quantified the results relative to levels of a fecal indicator virus, pepper mild mottle virus. We compared quantified data with the timing of medically diagnosed COVID-19 infection among (1) military personnel who had presented with symptoms or had been discovered through contact tracing and had medical tests and (2) military personnel who had been discovered through routine surveillance by positive SARS-CoV-2 antigen or polymerase chain reaction test results. Results: Levels of viral genes in wastewater at Coast Guard locations were best correlated with diagnosed COVID-19 cases when wastewater testing was performed twice weekly with passive samplers deployed for the entire week; such testing detected ≥1 COVID-19 case 69.8% of the time and ≥3 cases 88.3% of the time. Wastewater assessment in vessels did not continue because of logistical constraints. Conclusion: Wastewater testing is an effective tool for measuring the presence and patterns of SARS-CoV-2 infections among military populations. Success with wastewater testing for SARS-CoV-2 infections suggests that other diseases may be assessed with similar approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Overuse musculoskeletal injuries (MSKI) remain a significant medical challenge in military personnel undergoing military training courses; further understanding of the biological process leading to overuse MSKI development and biological signatures for injury risk are warranted. The purpose of this study was to determine the association between overuse MSKI occurrence and physiological characteristics of allostatic load characterized as maladaptive biological responses to chronic stress measured by wearable devices in US Marine Corps officer candidates during a 10-wk training course. Methods: Devices recorded energy expenditure (EE), daytime heart rate (HR), sleeping HR, and sleep architecture (time and percentage of deep, light, rapid eye movement sleep, awake time, total sleep). Flux was calculated as the raw or absolute difference in the average value for that day or night and the day or night beforehand. Linear mixed-effect model analysis accounting for cardiorespiratory fitness assessed the association between overuse MSKI occurrence and device metrics (α = 0.05). Results: Sixty-nine participants (23 females) were included. Twenty-one participants (eight females) sustained overuse MSKI. Overuse MSKI occurrence in male participants was positively associated with daytime HR (β = 5.316, P = 0.008), sleeping HR (β = 2.708, P = 0.032), relative EE (β = 8.968, P = 0.001), absolute flux in relative EE (β = 2.994, P = 0.002), absolute EE (β = 626.830, P = 0.001), and absolute flux in absolute EE (β = 204.062, P = 0.004). Overuse MSKI occurrence in female participants was positively associated with relative EE (β = 5.955, P = 0.026), deep sleep time (β = 0.664, P < 0.001), and percent deep sleep (β = 12.564, P < 0.001) and negatively associated with absolute flux in sleeping HR (β = -0.660, P = 0.009). Conclusions: Overuse MSKI occurrences were associated with physiological characteristics of allostatic load, including chronically elevated HR and EE and greater time in restorative sleep stages, which may serve as biological signatures for overuse MSKI risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Prolonged training in combat boots can place significant stress on the medial longitudinal arch, potentially leading to lower-extremity muscle stiffness and an increased risk of injury. This study assessed the impact of toe-strengthening exercises on improving the lower-extremity function and functional movement in cadets undergoing training. Methods: Forty junior cadets (mean age: 22.6 years) participated in this study. The measurements included the medial longitudinal arch height, lower-extremity muscle stiffness, functional movement, and leg length. Results: Cadets who performed the toe exercises demonstrated improved lower-extremity muscle stiffness and functional movement performance (hurdle step, p = 0.010; rotary stability, p = 0.001). A significant correlation was observed between the exercise group and time (tibialis right, p = 0.008; tibialis left, p = 0.028). Conclusions: This study highlighted the potential of toe-strengthening exercises to enhance the lower-extremity function and reduce the risk of injury among cadets. However, challenges in identifying the medical history, past injuries, and specific areas of pain for each cadet were noted. These findings support the implementation of targeted toe exercises in military training programs to prevent injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous researchers have studied how organizational values guide both day-to-day decision-making and long-term strategic planning in various industrial sectors. Little previous research has documented the impact of organizational values within military environments nor the effect of training on organizational values in developing leadership attributes. In this study, Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFROTC) trainees participated in a study of the impact of values training on perceptions of leadership. This research sought to determine whether a focus on organizational values during initial military officer training would impact self-assessments of various elements of leadership (leadership attributes and competencies). Analyses revealed that comprehension of organizational values had few significant relationships with perceptions of leadership competencies. However, application of organizational values was found to be positively correlated with multiple leadership attributes. The length of time exposed to organizational values was not found to be related to the leadership attributes included in this study, except for the leadership attribute delegation. Taken together, the results of this research suggest that higher individual cadet ratings of organizational value comprehension and the application of organizational values are connected with more positive perceptions of multiple leadership attributes. Organizational leaders, both military and civilian, can use these findings, along with the survey instruments created for the research, to support efforts to enhance and evaluate training programs focused on the development of leadership competencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the interplay between capability and complexity within the context of military forces. The findings here describe how these two concepts intersect and highlight the capability definitions, themes, challenges, opportunities, and applications. By running a thorough review of 314 articles, 10 key research themes have been identified, including: 1) Capability Development and Assessment, 2) Regional Defence Studies, 3) Technological Advancements in Military, 4) Strategic Analysis, 5) Operational Tactics, 6) Defence Industry Dynamics, 7) Organisational and Management Aspects, 8) Cybersecurity and Network Capabilities, 9) Military Training and Exercises, and 10) Policy and Political Implications. Among these themes, the literature highlights the importance of a subtle understanding of capability and complexity for well-informed decision-making in military and defence domains. Moreover, this study identifies gaps in existing research and emphasises the need for a coherent theoretical framework to guide decision-makers for military capability acquisitions. The findings have implications for enhancing national security, defence capability planning and resource allocation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Method Results Conclusions Suicide rates in the military are a significant public health concern. The suicide prevention safety planning intervention is a brief and effective intervention in which a provider and patient work collaboratively to recognize warning signs of a suicidal crisis and create a defined list of coping strategies and supports for use during future crises (Stanley & Brown, 2012). Implementation of safety planning has been supported by the Department of Defense (DoD), yet readily available training and continuing education for healthcare providers in this intervention is limited and passive in nature. Existing safety planning training experiences and needs of DoD behavioral health providers are unknown. The present study is an exploratory qualitative assessment of current safety planning in DoD to inform the design and development of an interactive virtual standardized training patient.Ten military behavioral health providers completed semi‐structured interviews.Thematic content analysis was conducted, and three themes are described in this paper: variety of training received, barriers to receiving suicide safety planning training, and desires for future training. Lack of protected time for training and a lack of access to training resources were identified as key barriers.Rich data obtained can help inform the key design features and relevance of new safety planning intervention training approaches [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ongoing conflict in Sudan has severely disrupted the health professions education, notably in dentistry. This study aims to explore the impact of the armed conflict on dental education and training. A mixed-method cross-sectional study encompassed 29 dental schools in Khartoum, Darfur, Kordofan States, and Merowe City. Five key informants from the Sudanese Medical Specialization Board, the Human Resource Development Administration, and a university offering clinical dental master's programs were interviewed. Quantitative data on attacks against dental schools were collected through a structured Google form, and qualitative data on postgraduate training were obtained through semi-structured key informant interviews. Findings reveal that 79.3% of dental schools faced military assaults, with 73.9% experiencing looting and 60.9% repurposed as military bases. Notably, 44.8% of schools shifted to online education,3.4% collaborated with other universities, and 27.6% adopted a combined approach. Key informants' interviews unveiled disruptions in specialty training and housemanship, limiting access to crucial training facilities. The primary proposed solution was overseas training. Recurrently emphasized strategies to enhance the resilience of the training system included establishing dental centers in all states, collaborating with external training bodies, and anticipating and preparing for potential disasters. The adverse effects of the conflict on both undergraduate and postgraduate dental education are discernible, manifested through resource limitations, a shortage of dental materials and supplies within training facilities, and direct disruptions to clinical training due to attacks on healthcare institutions. The imperative need for urgent interventions is underscored to alleviate these consequences and safeguard the continuity of educational and training efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this endeavor, the authors start from the premise that the characteristics and trends of the current security environment compel higher military education to place great emphasis on training the military leader of the future. Attention is given to future military commanders and planners. The authors suggest that commanders' and military planners' most important skills are those associated with leadership. The approach focuses on the dual aspects of professional training and personal development, whose complementarity can contribute to strengthening the profile of the military commander as an effective leader. The purpose of this initiative is to outline general competencies within a military leadership discipline, in accordance with learning outcomes based on competencies associated with complete leadership. The authors propose to redesign the higher military education curricula for training military leaders. The design of the endeavor is based on the results of a specialized study, which aimed to identify the predominant leadership profile among graduates of higher military education. These competencies will be adapted to the characteristics of education focused on measurable learning outcomes. The proposed objectives include analyzing leadership styles, leveraging the characteristics of the predominant type of leadership among command and staff faculty master graduates, and identifying ways to develop competencies based on an educational program model that enhances military leadership skills. The research hypothesis to be validated is that emotional intelligence predicts complete leadership styles, and the research results could be translated into a new educational program model for developing an effective leader. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ahmed Bey implemented various reforms in Tunisia from 1837 to 1855, including military reforms. He constructed barracks, towers, and fortresses, and renovated many of them. He also doubled the army's size, purchased weapons, and established factories for weapon manufacturing. However, he faced a lack of frameworks and thus founded the Bardo Military School, employing European teachers, particularly the French. However, research and study reveal that this school utilized Ottoman books, whether for military terminology, laws, or teaching materials--all were translated from Ottoman Turkish. This is corroborated by archival documents. The translations from Ottoman Turkish to Arabic were necessitated by the fact that many Tunisians were proficient in Ottoman Turkish but not in French during the 1840s. This was because the Ottoman state had pioneered military reforms and the establishment of a regular army, even though it also utilized French laws. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Military training areas can host important biodiversity, due to the preservation of diverse, nutrient‐poor historical cultural landscapes and an insect‐friendly disturbance regime. In Europe, many training areas were abandoned after the end of the cold war in 1991 and the withdrawal of the Allied and Soviet forces. Many of these are now protected areas, and current management strategies vary from rewilding to active habitat management such as grazing or mowing. In a capture–release–recapture approach, marking 2418 individuals, we assessed the population size and movement patterns of the dry ecotype of the Marsh Fritillary Euphydryas aurinia Rottemburg 1775 on three former military training areas in Germany that varied in size and management (natural succession, mowing, and sheep‐/goat grazing). Euphydryas aurinia is a rare and declining butterfly species listed in Annex II of the European Union Habitats Directive. Jolly–Seber models revealed a large population of ca. 19,000 individuals on the largest study site and a smaller population at a second site, whereas recapture rates were too low to predict the population size reliably at a third site. Population densities were 190–194 butterflies ha−1 at the unmanaged, large site and 56–71 butterflies ha−1 at a smaller site grazed with sheep. Thirty‐nine percent of the recapture events occurred within the same 1‐ha‐study plot. The average minimum flight distance between the study plots was 313 m for males and 328 m for females. The maximum lifetime flight distance was 1237 m within 3 days. No dispersal was detected between study sites. Thirty years after cessation of the military use, the large former training site still held what likely is one of the largest populations of the species dry ecotype in Central Europe, including in areas where management ceased already in 1991. This suggests remarkable persistence of the species in areas without regular management, contrary to current opinion. However, regular flight distances seem not to be sufficient to connect the isolated habitat patches. It remains unknown how long the large population at the abandoned military area will persist without active habitat management. Careful, but active habitat management and restoration of habitat connectivity should thus be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extended reality (XR) applications for education are usually associated with motivation, engagement, knowledge and experiences that are difficult to achieve in the real world. One example of such knowledge in military education is the threat-based approach to protection of civilians in armed conflicts. The Norwegian Defence University College (NDUC) educates officers on the threat-based approach. This approach challenges conventional military practice, introducing new ways of thinking about what military forces can and cannot do to protect civilians from violence. Today, militaries are expected to protect civilians from perpetrators that target them as part of their warfare, expanding their responsibilities under International Humanitarian Law. This expansion of tasks represents "troublesome knowledge" for many military officers and demands a deeper understanding of the rationales and strategies driving perpetrators' targeting of civilians. To overcome this pedagogical challenge, we developed an XR-supported educational program combining immersive experiences and pedagogical approaches, including combined 360°-videos and embodiment, dialogue with virtual humans and collaborative VR-landscapes to encourage immersive peer-to-peer learning. The results are encouraging, suggesting high levels of acceptance by learners of the threat-based concept, an effect on stimulating critical discussion and a positive reaction to XR-supported learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides new perspectives on the transitions of children from military families. It examines the experiences and agency of a group of UK primary‐school Service children who were undergoing far‐reaching transitions while participating in an arts‐based research project. Transitions are conceived here not as events, such as school moves, but as processes of changing, the dialogical interplay between ever‐changing socio‐cultural and physical environments and the psychological work individuals undertake in response to change. This reconceptualisation of transitions shifts attention away from children's resilience, or lack thereof, and towards unique, nuanced understandings of their subjective experiences and priorities. Presenting multimodal pieces created by three children as they explored the question, ‘What's it like to be a Service child in this school?’, I describe their diverse and agentic responses to their changing circumstances, as they sought to mitigate anticipated and past losses and perceived disadvantage and to use their transitions as positive opportunities for self‐development. Although punctuated by observable moments of change, this transition work happened over an indefinite timescale, highlighting a need for long‐term support informed by understandings of children's agency and priorities. Such support and insight may be achieved through developing spaces for multimodal dialogue with Service children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern societies are characterized by unprecedently broad and fast diffusion of various forms of false and harmful information. Military personnel's motivation to defend their country may be harmed by their exposure to disinformation. Therefore, specific education and training programs should be devised for the military to systematically improve (social) media literacy and build resilience against information influence activities. In this article, we put forward a useful methodological approach to designing such programs based on a case study: the process of developing a media literacy learning platform tailored to the needs of the Estonian defense forces in 2021. The approach is grounded in data on (a) the current needs and skills of the learners, (b) the kinds of influence activities that the learners may encounter, and (c) the learning design principles that would enhance their learning experience, such as learning through play and dialogue through feedback. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article "Schedule Slippages, Merge Milestones & Probability Theory: Rationale and Remedies" by Dr. Kenneth F. Smith discusses the importance of considering probabilities in project scheduling to avoid significant schedule slippages. Dr. Smith highlights the impact of neglecting probabilities in critical path activity time computations, especially for merge milestones, and provides templates to rectify this issue. The article emphasizes the need to calculate realistic times based on probabilities and introduces the concept of Landau's Lacuna to address the complexities of merge milestones on the critical path. By incorporating probability analysis and time buffers, project managers can improve the likelihood of completing projects on schedule. [Extracted from the article]

With the rapid advancement of metaverse technology, the military field has gradually begun to pay attention to the potential applications of metaverse technology. The military metaverse is a new and comprehensive military ecosystem that integrates the virtual world and the real world, unlocking new possibilities in areas such as military training, education, exercises, combat support, and equipment research and development. This paper analyzes the concept and connotation of the military metaverse and presents its main features and key technologies, as well as the role it plays in the military field. Furthermore, it proposes the primary application scenarios of the military metaverse and provides an application architecture. Finally, the paper offers a forward-looking perspective on the future development of military metaverse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strategy, tactic, management, and leadership together with war planning and direction, organization, psychological warfare, and war diplomacy encompass the art of war. Sun Tzu, a Chinese thinker of the 6th century BC, was the first person to discuss the Art of War. This research aimed to analyze his opinions on this topic and evaluate the military performance of the Messenger of God (SAW) based on his theory. Additionally, the present research tried to elucidate the strategic military of the Prophet (SAW) as a successful commander, stating that his proficiency was not acquired through formal military training or the teachings of renowned thinkers. The research question concerns identifying the extent to which the Prophet's performance in the war fields was consistent with Sun Tzu's thoughts on the art of war. This research, conducted using a historical and analytical approach and relying on data from ancient historical sources and an analysis of Sun Tzu's book entitled The Art of War, reveals that successful military strategies of the Prophet (SAW) can be attributed to the practical application of the principles and fundamentals of the art of war. There are numerous parallels between his strategy and the ideas of this renowned strategist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How does anti-American terrorism in recipient countries respond to US military aid? Does aid protect United States interests abroad or does it have unintended consequences for US security? To answer these questions, we estimate the effect of US military aid on anti-American terrorism in recipient countries for a sample of 174 countries between 1968 and 2018. We find that higher levels of aid especially for military financing and education are associated with a higher likelihood of anti-American terrorism in aid-receiving countries. Examining potential transmission channels, we show that more US military aid correlates with lower military capacity and increases in corruption and exclusionary policies in recipient countries. Our findings are consistent with the argument that military aid aggravates local grievances, creating anti-American resentment and leading to anti-American terrorism. Indeed, we also provide tentative evidence that US military aid is associated with lower public opinion about the United States in recipient countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of how Rakovski National Defence College has adapted its distance learning systems to meet the demands of NATO's evolving security environment, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing war in Ukraine. The study examines the integration of advanced distributed learning (ADL) systems, emphasizing the academy's proactive measures in enhancing cybersecurity and maintaining educational continuity. Through a detailed exploration of security incidents and the implementation of user training programs, the article offers valuable insights for military educators and policymakers on the challenges and strategies associated with digital transformation in military education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the obstacles faced by Saudi cadets in developing their speaking skills and to identify the difficulties that may hinder their ability to speak fluently. Data for this study were collected through field observations of students' classes and semi-structured survey interviews with English instructors. The participants in this study were Saudi cadets enrolled at King Abdulaziz Military Academy during the academic year (2023-2024). The results of the study revealed several challenges faced by cadets, including limited opportunities to practice speaking, a lack of motivation, insufficient self-confidence, and a fear of criticism. Furthermore, some cadets exhibited weaknesses in vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. Additionally, the teaching of speaking skills was predominantly instructor-centered, the allocated time for practicing speaking skills was inadequate, and the assessment of speaking skills in English for Specific Purposes (ESP) course was not tested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of how Rakovski National Defence College has adapted its distance learning systems to meet the demands of NATO's evolving security environment, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing war in Ukraine. The study examines the integration of advanced distributed learning (ADL) systems, emphasizing the academy's proactive measures in enhancing cybersecurity and maintaining educational continuity. Through a detailed exploration of security incidents and the implementation of user training programs, the article offers valuable insights for military educators and policymakers on the challenges and strategies associated with digital transformation in military education.

In this article we aimed to highlight the immense contribution of ruler Alexandru Ioan Cuza to the modernization of the national defense system of the young Romanian state resulting from the Union of January 1859. The ruler unified the Armies of Moldova and Wallachia and then undertook a set of measures that led to the quantitative and qualitative increase of the Army and the other components of the defense system. Numerous normative acts of European inspiration were adopted, exchanges of experience were made in the line of training, equipment and the foundations of a modern military education were laid. In 1866, Romania had a modern, well trained and equipped Army.

Context: Early identification of incoming military personnel at elevated odds for bone stress injury (BSI) is important for the health and readiness of the US military. Design: Prospective cohort study. Methods: Knee kinematic data of the incoming US Military Academy cadets were collected while performing a jump-landing task (The Landing Error Scoring System) using a markerless motion capture system and depth camera. Data on incidence of lower-extremity injury, including BSI, were collected throughout the study period. Results: A total of 1905 participants (452 females, 23.7%) were examined for knee valgus and BSI status. A total of 50 BSI occurred during the study period (incidence proportion = 2.6%). The unadjusted odds ratio for BSI at initial contact was 1.03 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.94–1.14; P =.49). Adjusted for sex, the odds ratio for BSI at initial contact was 0.97 (95% CI, 0.87–1.06; P =.47). At the instant of maximum knee-flexion angle, the unadjusted odds ratio was 1.06 (95% CI, 1.02–1.10; P =.01), and the odds ratio was 1.02 (95% CI, 0.98–1.07; P =.29) after adjusting for sex. This suggests that there was not a significant enough association for an increase in the odds of BSI based on either degree of knee valgus. Conclusions: Our results did not demonstrate an association between knee valgus angle data during a jump-landing task and future increased odds of BSI in a military training population. Further analysis is warranted, but the results suggests the association between kinematics and BSI cannot be effectively screened by knee valgus angle data in isolation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]