3, Apr 2026
Carter Schott Is Rethinking Assistive Technology and Designing Independence
The College of Applied Health Sciences within the University of Illinois has long been known as spearhead of accessibility, thanks to the trailblazing work of Tim Nugent. Nugent, who died in 2015, was the founder of what is now Disability Resources and Educational Services, a pioneer for disability rights and known as the “father of accessibility.” For student entrepreneur Carter Schott, that environment didn’t just shape his education—it reshaped his understanding of what independence could look like.
Schott, a graduate student in the Master of Science in Management program in the Gies College of Business, is the founder of Innovative Independence, a venture dedicated to designing assistive products that center the real, everyday needs of wheelchair users. His work blends engineering, empathy and lived experience into products that aim not just to function, but to empower.
“DRES taught me that accessibility is not just about compliance; it’s about empowering people,” said Schott, who earned his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering in the Grainger College of Engineering. “Working in an environment where accessibility is valued helped me see the value of people’s performance when they don’t have barriers in their way. It’s not just about accommodations; it’s about designing for independence.”
That philosophy is the backbone of his work—and it began taking shape early in his time at Illinois. Schott is affected by a disease called spinal muscular atrophy, a form of muscular dystrophy. He has limited mobility and has used a power wheelchair since he was four.
Living in Beckwith Residential Support Services, Schott found himself surrounded by other students with disabilities, each navigating the world in different ways. The experience proved formative.
“Living in Beckwith and being immersed around other students with disabilities was a big deal for me,” he said. “Seeing how people adapted differently and where existing solutions were lacking encouraged me to think like a designer. This encouraged me to think about real-world usability rather than theory, which is something that impacted Sol.”
Sol, his flagship product, is a wheelchair-mounted visibility light designed to increase safety in crowded or low-light environments. At first glance, it’s a simple idea. But like many impactful innovations, it emerged from a gap hiding in plain sight.
“Sol started with a basic but essential problem statement: visibility,” Schott said. “I realized the difficulty that wheelchair-bound people faced in being seen in crowded or poorly lit spaces, such as our campus environment. There was no solution that was both effective and well-designed, so I set out to create one.”
The emphasis on both effectiveness and design is intentional. Schott noticed early on that many assistive technologies met functional needs but fell short in aesthetics, usability or user experience.
“I also saw a disconnect between existing assistive products and the needs that people actually had in their daily lives,” he said. “There was a lot of old or poorly designed technology out there. I wanted to make products that people would be excited to use, that would enhance their lives without making them feel like they were compromising.”
That mindset reflects a broader critique of the assistive technology industry, one Schott believes is long overdue.
“The biggest gap is in user-centered design,” he said. “There are too many products designed without a deep understanding of the people who will be using them. There is a gap in how to make assistive technology look and feel modern and appealing, not just functional.”
At Illinois, Schott found the rare ecosystem capable of addressing that gap. DRES, he explained, isn’t just a support system, it’s a catalyst.
“Illinois is unique in that DRES is not just integrated; it’s embedded,” he said. “It’s not just accessible; it’s empowering. With housing, academic support, and innovation spaces like the (dis)Ability Design Studio, students are supported and empowered to create solutions, not just provided solutions.”
Inside the (dis)Ability Design Studio—whose leadership team includes Susann Sears, the assistant director of Academic Services at DRES and Deana McDonagh, professor of Industrial Design in the School of Art + Design—ideas are tested against reality. Students don’t just theorize—they build, iterate and refine alongside the very people their designs aim to serve.
“DRES provides the foundation for innovation by bringing real users and real problems together,” Schott said. “Students have access to real-life experiences and real-life resources, which is not very common. This leads to meaningful innovation.”
That process, he added, is anything but linear.
“It’s taught me that no two users are the same. Creating assistive technology is a constant feedback loop. I’ve learned that simplicity and flexibility are key. In theory, something might work perfectly. But in practice … not so much.”
Collaboration has also played a crucial role in shaping his approach. At Illinois, disciplinary boundaries blur—especially when solving complex human-centered problems.
“Working with individuals from different fields, like engineering, design and healthcare, has been very important,” Schott said. “This ensures not only that the solution you are coming up with is technically viable, but also ‘usable’ and ‘meaningful.’ The (dis)Ability Design Studio really challenges you to think outside your own discipline.”
That cross-functional mindset is embedded in Innovative Independence itself. Schott doesn’t see Sol as a standalone product, but as the first step in a much larger vision.
“Yes, definitely. Sol is just the beginning,” he said. “I’d like to continue creating more products that help people be more independent in their daily lives, especially those with limited mobility. There are a lot of needs that are yet to be met, and I see this as a long-term business.”
His ambition reflects both optimism and urgency. While awareness of accessibility has grown in recent years, Schott believes institutions, especially universities, still have untapped potential to drive innovation.
“There are more things universities can do by providing students with opportunities to work directly with users with disabilities,” he said. “Universities can provide access to users, fund prototypes and provide collaboration spaces. When students can test ideas in a real environment, the quality of the ideas improves significantly.”
For Schott, the lesson is clear: meaningful design begins with listening, and meaningful innovation requires proximity—to people, to problems and to lived experience.
At Illinois, he found all three.
And through Innovative Independence, he’s working to ensure that future assistive technology doesn’t just meet standards but raises them.
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- By Neel Achary
3, Apr 2026
Tribal Sports Programs Key to India’s Rise as a Global Sports Power: Mandaviya
Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Friday highlighted the importance of continued support for tribal athletes, echoing the views of President Droupadi Murmu. Both leaders emphasized that initiatives like the Khelo India Tribal Games are crucial for nurturing talent from India’s tribal communities and building a strong foundation for the country’s future in sports.
Speaking on the occasion, Mandaviya stated that sustained investment in tribal sports programs will help identify and train promising athletes, ensuring that India develops a competitive edge on the global stage. “Supporting tribal athletes is not just a matter of representation; it is a strategic step toward making India a global sports superpower,” he remarked.
The Khelo India Tribal Games, launched to promote sports among tribal youth, provide access to training facilities, coaching, and competitive opportunities. By tapping into a diverse pool of talent, the program aims to strengthen India’s presence in national and international sports events.
Officials believe that nurturing athletes from tribal communities will also encourage greater participation in sports at the grassroots level, fostering inclusivity and helping to build a more robust sporting ecosystem across the country.
President Murmu’s endorsement of such initiatives underscores the government’s commitment to promoting equitable access to sports opportunities while elevating India’s global standing in athletics and competitive sports.
3, Apr 2026
PM Modi Hails Jan Vishwas Bill as a Game Changer for Citizens and Businesses
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has welcomed the passage of the Jan Vishwas (Amendment) Bill, describing it as a significant step toward enhancing ease of living and ease of doing business in India. The bill, aimed at simplifying regulatory frameworks and reducing compliance burdens, has been hailed as a major reform in governance.
Speaking on the occasion, PM Modi emphasized that the legislation will help citizens and businesses navigate government processes more efficiently, cutting red tape and promoting transparency. By easing procedural hurdles, the bill is expected to save time and reduce unnecessary legal complications for both individuals and enterprises.
The Jan Vishwas Bill introduces provisions to decriminalize several minor offences and replace punitive penalties with more rational compliance mechanisms. This approach aims to foster a more citizen-friendly and business-friendly environment while ensuring accountability remains intact for serious violations.
Government officials highlighted that the reform will particularly benefit small businesses and startups, which often face disproportionate challenges in adhering to complex regulations. Simplified procedures and reduced penalties are expected to encourage entrepreneurship and stimulate economic growth.
PM Modi described the passage of the bill as a step that “strengthens trust between the government and the people,” reinforcing the vision of a modern, efficient, and transparent governance system. Observers believe that the measure will significantly contribute to improving India’s global ease-of-doing-business ranking and create a more supportive environment for innovation and investment.
3, Apr 2026
Odisha Retains Census Staff to Ensure Smooth 2027 Operations
The Odisha government has directed all departments, district administrations, and urban local bodies not to transfer officials or employees involved in Census 2027. The move aims to ensure uninterrupted preparation and smooth execution of the census.
Authorities emphasized that retaining personnel in their current positions is critical for accurate data collection, training, and field operations. The directive ensures that staff remain focused and adequately supported throughout the extensive administrative exercise.
Census 2027 will provide essential insights into population trends, urbanization, and demographics, and the state’s proactive measures are intended to guarantee a seamless and efficient process.
3, Apr 2026
India Unveils Support Measures to Shield Exporters Amid West Asia Tensions
The Indian government is set to roll out a range of measures to support exporters affected by the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Rising freight costs, higher insurance premiums, and logistical challenges have disrupted trade, prompting authorities to step in to ensure the country’s export sector remains robust.
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal stated that the initiatives aim to reduce the burden on exporters while maintaining India’s competitiveness in global markets. Planned support includes financial assistance to offset rising shipping and logistics costs, along with expanded insurance coverage to help businesses manage risk in uncertain times.
The Gulf region conflict has disrupted shipping routes, making deliveries more expensive and unpredictable. Exporters, particularly those serving Middle Eastern markets, have faced delays and higher operational costs. The government’s measures seek to stabilize the sector and reinforce confidence among businesses navigating this volatile environment.
Officials emphasized that these steps will not only ease immediate challenges but also help sustain export volumes and secure employment in export-oriented industries. By strengthening the export ecosystem, India aims to safeguard its position in global trade and ensure continued growth despite geopolitical uncertainties.
3, Apr 2026
NMDC Achieves Record 53 MT Iron Ore Production, Boosting Economic Growth
NMDC Limited, India’s largest state-run iron ore producer, has achieved a historic milestone by producing a record 53 million tonnes (MT) of iron ore in the 2025-26 fiscal year, becoming the first mining company in the country to surpass the 50 MT mark. This represents a significant increase over the previous year and reflects strong operational efficiency across its mining sites.
Driving Growth in Steel and Infrastructure
Iron ore is a key raw material for steel production, which fuels construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure projects. NMDC’s record output ensures a steady supply for domestic steelmakers, helping to stabilize costs and meet the growing demand for steel across the country. This supports India’s ongoing urban development and infrastructure expansion.
Reliable iron ore supply also enables steel producers to fulfill orders for housing, transportation, and industrial projects, creating jobs and stimulating investment throughout the value chain.
Strengthening Economic Resilience
By increasing domestic production, NMDC reduces reliance on imported minerals, enhancing supply security and contributing to stable commodity markets. The company’s expansion plans aim to further increase output in the coming years, potentially exceeding 100 MT by the end of the decade, which would strengthen both the mining and downstream industrial sectors.
Looking Ahead
NMDC’s record production is not just a company achievement—it is a significant step for India’s economy. By securing raw materials for key industries, supporting infrastructure development, and fostering job creation, this milestone demonstrates how robust resource management can drive national growth and industrial self-reliance.
3, Apr 2026
Odisha Pushes for Transparent Fuel Supply and Accelerates PNG Expansion
The Odisha government has stepped up efforts to streamline fuel distribution and promote the adoption of Piped Natural Gas (PNG) across urban areas. A high-level review meeting on Thursday brought together state officials and representatives from major oil and gas companies to address supply chain efficiency and transparency.
Officials highlighted the importance of transitioning households from LPG cylinders to PNG to ensure smoother fuel delivery and reduce dependency on traditional supply methods. To maintain accountability, gas agencies have been instructed to implement biometric authentication, including fingerprint and iris scans, for all deliveries.
State ministers stressed that once a household receives a PNG connection, any existing LPG connection must be decommissioned to optimise supply. District authorities have been tasked with providing full support to facilitate the swift laying of pipelines, particularly in urban centres and high-demand areas.
Special attention will be given to Puri ahead of the Rath Yatra festival to meet increased demand, while priority sectors such as schools, hospitals, Anganwadis, and community kitchens will continue to receive uninterrupted gas supplies.
Authorities reassured the public that gas availability remains stable, with continuous monitoring through a 24-hour control room and consistent buffer stock maintained by oil companies. The government emphasized that these steps aim to prevent irregularities, improve transparency, and provide reliable fuel access to all consumers.
3, Apr 2026
Regulatory T Cells (Tregs) Altered in Children with Autism
SACRAMENTO, Calif. Apr 03: Two new studies from the UC Davis MIND Institute examined regulatory T cells (Tregs) and their potential role in neuroinflammation and behavioral changes associated with autism.
Tregs act as immune system “brakes,” calming inflammation to prevent overreaction. They are often decreased in autistic individuals.
Previous studies have found higher levels of inflammatory immune cells in the blood, brain and gastrointestinal tissues of people with autism. These increased inflammatory responses are often linked to greater behavioral support needs, while higher levels of Tregs are associated with improved behavioral outcomes. Despite this, Tregs have not been well studied in autistic children, and their potential as a therapeutic target remains largely unexplored.
Altered Tregs in autistic children The first study, published in the Journal of Neuroinflammation, characterized Tregs in children with autism. It determined if gastrointestinal (GI) issues, a common co-occurring condition, altered Tregs in a unique way.
The researchers found autistic children had altered Tregs both in number and in the genes those cells use. This was compared to typically developing children. All participants were enrolled in the CHARGE study (Childhood Autism Risk from Genetics and Environment), an ongoing study that supports autism research.
The researchers compared the number and type of Tregs in 36 children with autism and 18 typically developing children. They also examined gene expression in Tregs to determine if there were differences between the two groups. In addition, they looked at the relationship between Tregs and gastrointestinal symptoms in autistic children.
The researchers found children with autism showed altered Tregs. Compared to typically developing children, children with autism had:
A lower number of Tregs. Tregs were generally reduced in autistic children but decreases in specific Treg populations differed depending on whether a child had GI issues. Children with autism and GI issues had fewer Tregs capable of producing anti-inflammatory proteins. Children without GI issues had fewer Tregs capable of dividing after activation. Differentially expressed genes. Tregs from autistic children had 213 differentially expressed genes, with 171 upregulated (increased output) and 42 downregulated (decreased output). The upregulated genes mainly help cells reorganize and repair DNA and adjust how they manage energy and fat metabolism. The downregulated genes were mostly involved in energy production, such as the conversion of oxygen and nutrients into usable energy.
The researchers note that more research is needed, but that these changes in metabolism and DNA organization suggest the identity of Tregs is unstable. One commonality was that having fewer Tregs was associated with more challenging behaviors in both typically developing children and children with autism.
“These differences in Treg populations may help explain the higher levels of inflammation seen in autism and could be linked to both gastrointestinal problems and certain behavioral traits,” said Rachel Moreno, a postdoctoral fellow at the MIND Institute and first author of the study. “This data further supports the idea that the immune system plays an important role in autism in at least some individuals.”
Exploring Tregs as potential biological therapies There is growing interest in biological therapies for autism that target Tregs.
In a second study, also published in the Journal of Neuroinflammation, the authors assessed whether increasing Tregs could reduce inflammation and behavioral challenges.
They used a mouse model of altered neurodevelopment, maternal immune activation (MIA), in which offspring exhibit autism-like behaviors.
The team transferred Tregs from healthy mice into male and female MIA mice, and evaluated tissues commonly inflamed in autism, including blood, brain and gut.
They found significant sex differences in the MIA mouse offspring that received the Treg transfer, with males showing greater changes than females.
Male mice showed:
Healthier immune balance: Treg treatment increased helpful Treg cells and reduced pro‑inflammatory cells in both the spleen and gut. Lower inflammation: Males produced fewer inflammatory cytokines, such as IL‑17, after treatment, indicating a calmer immune system. Widespread changes in the brain: Hundreds of genes in the cerebellum, frontal cortex and hippocampus changed after Treg treatment, many related to brain development, immune activity and conditions like autism. Improved behavior: After Treg treatment, males showed improvements in behaviors such as self-grooming and socializing. Female mice showed:
Smaller immune effects: Females showed fewer changes in immune cells, and Treg treatment had only a modest impact on gut and spleen cell types. Mixed inflammatory signals: Some inflammatory molecules decreased (like IL‑6), while others increased after treatment, suggesting a more complex response. Minimal changes in the brain: Females showed little to no change in brain gene expression after treatment. Improved social behavior: Treg treatment helped restore normal social behaviors in females, but self-grooming did not improve. “Transferring Tregs reduced inflammation and improved brain and behavioral outcomes in the MIA model, with the most significant benefits seen in male mice,” said Paul Ashwood, senior author of both studies. Ashwood is a professor in the UC Davis Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology and a faculty member with the UC Davis MIND Institute.
“These results suggest that Treg therapy could be a promising approach for reducing inflammation and related impacts in conditions linked to maternal immune activation and neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism,” Ashwood said.
Limitations of both studies The researchers noted several limitations. The first study was limited by its small sample size. In the second study, the Treg transfer occurred at 10 weeks, and transferring into younger mice (when the immune and brain systems are still developing) may be more relevant for inflammation than for behavior modification.
3, Apr 2026
Childhood cancer is a substantial contributor to global childhood mortality and global cancer burden
Seattle, Apr 03: A new study published in The Lancet highlights that childhood cancer remains the eighth-leading cause of death among children globally, with outcomes heavily influenced by access to healthcare resources.
The findings, part of the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2023 study, were led by researchers from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington School of Medicine and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The study estimates that in 2023, there were approximately 377,000 new cases of childhood cancer worldwide, resulting in 144,000 deaths.
While global childhood cancer mortality has declined by 27% since 1990, the burden remains disproportionately high in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). These regions accounted for 85% of new cases, 94% of deaths, and 94% of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) in 2023, underscoring stark global inequities.
“While outcomes for many childhood cancers have improved in high-income countries, these gains have not been equitably shared,” said Lisa Force, lead author from IHME. “Delays in diagnosis, limited access to treatment, and systemic healthcare challenges continue to drive disparities in LMICs.”
Urgent Need for Investment in Cancer Care Systems
The study emphasizes that improving survival rates will require significant investment in cancer control systems, particularly in LMICs. Key priorities include:
- Strengthening referral systems for early diagnosis
- Expanding access to chemotherapy, surgery, and radiotherapy
- Enhancing workforce training
- Improving cancer registries and surveillance systems
Regions such as the WHO African and Western Pacific regions reported the highest number of cases, with the WHO African Region experiencing the greatest mortality rates. Notably, deaths in the African region have increased by nearly 56% since 1990.
Most Common Childhood Cancers
The study identified the most burdensome childhood cancers globally as:
- Leukemia
- Brain and central nervous system cancers
- Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
Nearly half of all childhood cancer deaths in 2023 were linked to six key cancers identified under the World Health Organization’s Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC).
Global Efforts to Improve Survival Rates
World Health Organization (WHO), in partnership with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, continues to advance global initiatives aimed at improving childhood cancer survival rates to at least 60% by 2030.
“These data provide a critical tool to monitor progress and evaluate the global effort to reduce childhood cancer deaths,” said Nickhill Bhakta, senior author and director at St. Jude Global. “Our mission is to ensure equitable access to life-saving care for children worldwide.”
The study underscores the urgent need for coordinated global action to address disparities in childhood cancer outcomes and ensure that advancements in treatment benefit children everywhere, regardless of geography or economic status.
3, Apr 2026
UWF Athletics Announces Move to NCAA Division I Athletics, Joins Atlantic Sun Conference, United Athletic Conference
The University of West Florida announced in a press conference today that it will be transitioning its athletics programs to the NCAA Division I level. Beginning in Fall 2026, UWF will compete in the Atlantic Sun Conference as a full multi-sport member and the United Athletic Conference as a football-playing member.
“Our transition to Division I marks a historic step forward for UWF and reflects the momentum, ambition and excellence that define our community,” said UWF President Manny Diaz Jr. “This milestone is about more than athletics — it represents expanded opportunities for our students, greater national visibility, and a continued commitment to providing an outstanding educational experience. I am proud of the work that has brought us to this moment and excited for the future we are building together.”
The Argonauts Athletics program has a proven record of excellence competing at the NCAA Division II level, leading the Gulf South Conference in all-time championships and all-sports trophies. The University’s 15 varsity programs have earned 11 national and 136 conference championships while competing at the NCAA Division II level. Beyond athletic success, the program fosters leadership and academic achievement, with a cumulative Spring 2025 student-athlete GPA of 3.37.
“This transition represents the next chapter in the evolution of our athletics program and a testament to the dedication of our student-athletes, coaches, staff and supporters,” said Dave Scott, UWF Athletic Director. “As we prepare for Division I competition, we remain focused on building champions for life. We look forward to growing our tradition of success and welcoming our fans and partners to be part of this exciting journey.”
The Atlantic Sun Conference was founded in 1978 and is an NCAA Division I conference composed of eight institutions across the southeastern United States, including universities like Florida Gulf Coast University, University of North Florida and Lipscomb University.
The United Athletic Conference was established in 2023 as a single-sport football conference through a partnership between the ASUN and the Western Athletic Conference, which will expand to a full multi-sport conference and rebrand as the UAC on July 1, 2026.
The ASUN and the WAC (UAC) announced the formation of a strategic consortium beginning July 1, 2026. The alliance will support collaborative scheduling, shared operational efficiencies and expanded competition opportunities while maintaining independent conference structures and automatic qualification to NCAA Championships.
“This addition not only strengthens both conferences, but represents yet another growth milestone for the alliance between these two leagues,” said consortium Chief Executive Officer Jeff Bacon. “Since announcing our plans nearly a year ago, the excitement around what we will unveil on July 1 has been overwhelming, and with UWF on board, we have added significant fuel to the fire. Thank you to President Diaz and Director Scott for their tireless work to bring this moment to fruition. I am honored to welcome them to The Destination!”
During the three-year NCAA reclassification process, UWF athletics teams will compete at the Division I level but will not be eligible for NCAA postseason tournaments. However, they will be eligible to compete for ASUN and UAC conference championships. Full NCAA postseason eligibility will begin once the transition process is complete in 2029.
The transition to Division I aligns with the University’s continued growth in enrollment, research activity and regional engagement. The move will increase the institution’s visibility and expand opportunities for student recruitment while contributing to the overall campus experience.
By fiscal year 2027-2028, with the new Darrell Gooden Stadium fully operational and Division I competition underway, UWF Athletics is expected to see increases in game day attendance and expanded operational needs, including staffing, security, concessions and event management. According to an analysis conducted by the UWF Haas Center, UWF Athletics is projected to generate approximately $42 million in economic impact and support an estimated 280 jobs across the region.
