Poetry from Pat Doyne

HUMANITARIAN LAPSE

On 2/28/26, US forces bombed the girls’ school

Shajarah Tayyebeh in Minab, Iran. 

Remodeled building, painted pink and blue.

An aerial view shows playground, fields for sports. 

A fence prevents kids roaming down the road

where they would find a naval base in use.

One morning, with no warning, skies light up.

A tomahawk demolishes the school.

When people rush to help—a second strike.

Called “double tap,” it maximizes death. 

Amid the mess—crushed desks, backpacks, and blood—

disheveled shapes, rooms full of little girls.

A few moan softly. Most lie very still.

By-products of the goal: lethality. *

Death toll rises to 175—

mostly kids. Another 100 wounded.

Children are off-limits, cries UNESCO.

Outcries come from countries round the world. 

“Whoops!” the US Army says, “Bad intel.

No one verified outdated tips.

Assumed that this was still a naval base.

Rush job—the boss demands results. He’s new.”

So all you grieving families, take heart. 

Your daughter’s death was just an accident.

Clerical error. though they’re just as dead.

And USA, once trusted—now Archvillain! 

* Pete Hegseth vowed that US forces would engage in

“maximum lethality, not tepid legality.”  — CNN 3/2026

Copyright 3/2026                Patricia Doyne

Poetry from Slava Božičevic

POETS, WRITE

ABOUT LOVE

The Poets of our

Planet Earth,

of the planet that is

our only home…

You, who have

the gift from God’s altar, the gift for

promoting light of

the Universe…

Poets, switch on

the lights in

every soul.

Let the lights shine

to dispel this dark cloud towering over our only planet…

Poets you have the keys to opening up

every soul.

Write verses about Love, celebrate Love, may Love

bloom in every heart….

Poets, you are

 the torchbearers

of light and love,

you are the leaders

to a spiritual and

better world.

Poets, write about

Love and spreard Love around,

may Love rule 

the world…..

Poem by

Slava Božičevic, Croatia

Essay from Juraeva Aziza Rakhmatovna

Action 

Happiness may not be what you are searching for. Perhaps your happiness is somewhere else — in another place or even in another time. A person should never fall into despair. One must always keep moving forward. This is the law of life: the higher you want to rise, the more challenges you will face. In some you will win, in others you will lose, but if you do not stop moving, one day you will certainly reach the goal you have set.

You should learn to see only the good in life. Life educates a person; it gives opportunities and offers choices, and to test you, it gives trials. The one who can properly overcome the ups and downs of life will be met with a bright future.

Juraeva Aziza Rakhmatovna was born on March 26, 2000, in Uzbekistan. She graduated from Kokand University in 2023 with a degree in Primary Education. In 2022, she was included in the almanac “100 Leading Students of Uzbekistan.” In the same year, she became a recipient of the iBook.uz scholarship. Her articles and poems have been published in Turkey and South Korea.

Essay from Durdona Shafqatullayeva Olimqizi 

Talented Student/ Biology and Chemistry / International Certificate Holder 

Date birth: October 2 

Place of birth: Uzbekistan 

Education: Student at Shakhrisabz School number 38 

Fields of activity: Advanced Biology learning, international projects, personal growth 

Early Achievements and Educational path 

Durdona Shafqatullayeva is a high-achieving and intellectually capable student with strong academic performance an active volunteer and a participant in international conferences. 

The Human Skeletal System: General Overview of Bones Student of 38-School 

Shafqatullayeva Durdona 

Abstract. 

The human skeletal system provides the fundamental structural framework of the body and plays a vital role in movement, protection of internal organs, mineral homeostasis, and hematopoiesis. Bone is a dynamic, living tissue that continuously adapts to mechanical, hormonal, and metabolic influences. This article presents a comprehensive overview of the human skeletal system, emphasizing bone classification, structure, biological functions, growth, remodeling processes, and clinical relevance. Understanding skeletal biology is essential for medical and health sciences, as skeletal disorders significantly impact human mobility and overall quality of life. 

Keywords 

Human skeleton, bones, skeletal system, bone structure, bone remodeling 

Introduction 

The skeletal system is a cornerstone of human anatomy and physiology. It not only defines the shape of the body but also enables movement and protects vital organs. Unlike the common perception of bones as rigid and inert, skeletal tissue is metabolically active and responsive to both internal and external factors. Throughout life, bones undergo constant remodeling to maintain strength and mineral balance. A detailed understanding of the skeletal system is therefore fundamental for medical education, clinical practice, and preventive healthcare. 

Organization of the Human Skeletal System 

In adults, the human skeleton consists of 206 bones, systematically arranged into two major divisions: 

Axial skeleton (80 bones), comprising the skull, vertebral column, ribs, and sternum, which primarily protect the central nervous system and thoracic organs. 

Appendicular skeleton (126bones), including the upper and lower limbs and their girdles, which facilitates locomotion and interaction with the environment. 

This structural organization reflects a balance between protection, support, and mobility. 

Classification of Bones 

Bones are classified according to their shape and functional characteristics: 

Long bones, such as the femur and humerus, act as levers for movement and support body weight. 

Short bones, including carpals and tarsals, provide stability with limited motion.

Flat bones, such as the cranial bones and sternum, protect internal organs and offer broad surfaces for muscle attachment. 

Irregular bones, including vertebrae, serve specialized structural and protective roles. 

Sesamoid bones, exemplified by the patella, improve mechanical efficiency by reducing friction at joints. 

This classification demonstrates how bone morphology is closely linked to biomechanical function. 

Bone Structure and Composition 

Bone tissue consists of an organic matrix and an inorganic mineral component. The organic portion, primarily collagen fibers, provides flexibility and tensile strength, while the inorganic component, mainly calcium phosphate in the form of hydroxyapatite, confers rigidity and resistance to compression. 

Structurally, bones contain: 

Compact (cortical) bone, forming the dense outer layer 

Spongy (trabecular) bone, which is lighter and distributes mechanical stress efficiently 

Within certain bones, bone marrow is present and plays a critical role in blood cell formation.

Physiological Functions of Bones 

The skeletal system performs several essential physiological functions: 

Structural support and posture maintenance 

Protection of vital organs, including the brain, heart, and lungs 

Facilitation of movement through muscle attachment 

Regulation of mineral storage, particularly calcium and phosphorus 

Hematopoiesis within red bone marrow 

These functions highlight the skeletal system’s importance in maintaining systemic homeostasis. 

Bone Growth and Remodeling 

Bone development and maintenance depend on a tightly regulated remodeling process involving osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and osteocytes. During childhood and adolescence, bone formation exceeds resorption, leading to growth and increased bone mass. In adulthood, remodeling preserves skeletal integrity and adapts bone architecture to mechanical stress.

Nutritional factors, physical activity, hormones, and aging significantly influence this process. 

Clinical and Medical Relevance 

Skeletal disorders such as osteoporosis, fractures, scoliosis, and degenerative joint diseases pose major public health challenges worldwide. Understanding bone biology is essential for prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment. Advances in imaging techniques and orthopedic medicine have improved outcomes yet maintaining skeletal health through proper nutrition and physical activity remains a cornerstone of prevention. 

Conclusion 

The human skeletal system is a dynamic and multifunctional framework essential for survival and movement. Bones are living tissues that continuously adapt to physiological demands, underscoring their role beyond mechanical support. A comprehensive understanding of skeletal structure and function is fundamental for medical research, clinical practice, and the promotion of lifelong musculoskeletal health. 

References 

Tortora, G.J., & Derrickson, B.H. (2021). Principles of Anatomy and Physiology (16thed.). Wiley.

Standring, S. (2021). Gray’s Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice (42nd ed.) Elsevier. 

Ross, M.H., &Pawlina, W. (2020). Histology: A Text and Atlas (8thed.). Wolters Kluwer. 

Clarke, B. (2008). Normal bone anatomy and physiology. Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, 3(Suppl3), S131 S139. 

Compston, J.E., McClung, M.R., & Leslie, W.D. (2019). Osteoporosis. The Lancet, 393 (10169), 364 376. Raggatt, L.J., &Partridge, N.C. (2010). Cellular and molecular mechanisms of bone remodeling. Journal of Biological Chemistry, 285 (33), 25103 25108.

Essay from Mamatkulova Muklisa

By Mamatkulova Mukhlisa
Tg:@mamatkulova_mukhlisa
Uzbekistan, Samarkand.

The Double-Edged Sword: Microfinance and Its Global Economic Impact

Smart Money for Small Business: Navigating the Microfinance Frontier.


For decades, the global financial system operated as a closed club, excluding nearly 1.7 billion unbanked adults who lived on less than $2 a day. Microfinance emerged as a revolutionary tool to fix this market failure, aiming to unleash the productive capacities of the poor through modest loans, savings, and insurance. In 2026, this sector has evolved from a narrow focus on “entrepreneurial finance” to a broader “household finance” model, providing vital liquidity for
small shops and medical expenses. Currently, the market is on a high-growth trajectory, valued at $266.13 Billion in 2026 and projected to reach $406.39 Billion by 2030.”

The Economic Benefits: Catalyzing Growth from the Bottom Up
Microfinance acts as a powerful growth accelerator at the local level by targeting those traditionally excluded due to a lack of collateral.


1) Poverty Alleviation & Income Growth: Studies indicate that households with access to microfinance see an average income gain of 15–25% compared to those without. In countries like Bangladesh, microfinance has contributed to 8.9% to 11.9% of national GDP in recent years. The global microfinance market is projected to grow to $266.13 billion by the end of 2026. This represents a CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of 11.2%, which is significantly higher than the global average GDP growth of 3.3% reported by the IMF for 2026.


2)Empowering Women: Approximately 80% of microfinance clients are women. Empowering women yields undeniable returns; evidence shows that children of female borrowers are less likely to experience illness or illiteracy, as mothers prioritize education and healthcare spending. Reliable 2025/2026 data shows that women maintain an average repayment rate of 96%, compared to 91% for men, making them the most ‘bankable’ demographic in the microfinance frontier


3)Building Resilience: Beyond loans, micro-savings and micro-insurance act as “safety mechanisms,” preventing families from slipping back into poverty when hit by unexpected shocks like
droughts or illnesses. As of 2026, these micro-insurance mechanisms cover over 344 million people globally, representing a 70% increase in just three years. This is critical because, without
insurance, a single climate shock like a drought can slash a small farmer’s annual income by 15% to 18% instantly, creating a debt trap that lasts for generations.

The Structural Weaknesses: When “Smart Money” Fails


Despite its successes, the microfinance model faces significant criticisms and operational hurdles.

1)The Burden of High Interest Rates: Microfinance loans often carry high interest rates—weighted averages for some products in late 2025 reached 24.13%, with maximums near 30%. These high
rates are driven by the massive operational costs of delivering small loans to remote areas, but they can be perceived as exploitative. Specifically, these high rates are a byproduct of Operating Expense
Ratios (OER) that average 15.8% to 19.2% for rural MFIs. In finance terms, the administrative cost of processing a $100 loan is nearly the same as a $10,000 loan, creating an inherent diseconomy of
scale for micro-lenders

2)The Trap of Over-Indebtedness: Critics argue that without proper regulation, borrowers can accumulate interest over long periods, leading to a “strangle-hold of debt”. This phenomenon, known
as ‘Loan Cycling,’ is a systemic risk; 2026 market data indicates that in saturated regions, up to 14% of borrowers now hold three or more active loans simultaneously. This pushes the Portfolio at Risk (PAR 30)—the industry standard for measuring defaults—above the critical 5.5% threshold, signaling a credit bubble. In some cases, poverty itself drives individuals to take loans they cannot repay, potentially escalating poverty levels in the long run.

3)Regulatory & Political Risk: Governments often intervene with interest rates ceilings to protect the poor, which can inadvertently cause markets to contract as lenders retreat from high-risk rural areas. Recent legislation, like the Bihar MFI Bill 2026 in India, has introduced tighter oversight and caps, causing immediate market volatility for major lenders.

Historical Precedent: As shown in this data from the Asian Development Bank, when strict interest rate caps
are introduced (black line), borrower outreach often plateaus as the diseconomy of scale makes small-ticket lending unsustainable for MFIs.

Poetry from Dr. Jitender Singh

THIRTY-ONE LIGHTS: THE VIRTUOUS WOMAN OF STRENGTH AND GRACE 

Author: H.E. Prof. Amb. Rev. Dr. Jitender Singh, India

She walks in dignity, her character shining bright,

More precious than jewels, a treasure of living light.

Trust rests upon her wherever she may stand,

Truth and sincerity gently guide her hand.

With skillful hands she labors, faithful in every way,

Through patience and wisdom she brightens each day.

She guards her duties with thoughtful care,

Planting seeds of goodness everywhere.

Strength and health uphold the path she takes,

Joy in her labor a brighter future makes.

Alert in spirit, with insight deep and clear,

Her wisdom removes confusion and fear.

Her kindness reaches the helpless and poor,

Compassion becomes an ever-open door.

Brave in her spirit with vision that sees afar,

Grace in simplicity shines like a star.

Her values and culture bring honor and respect,

A life of virtue the world reflects.

Through diligence and honesty her works arise,

Integrity shining before many eyes.

Hope fills her spirit through darkness and light,

Discernment guiding the path that is right.

Gentle in speech yet steadfast in stand,

Understanding life with a compassionate hand.

Energetic in service, devoted and wise,

A faithful mother whose love never dies.

Her household rises with gratitude and praise,

For love and wisdom crown her days.

She reveres the Creator with humble delight,

Walking by faith and living in light.

Success follows virtue wherever she goes,

Her deeds speak louder than anyone knows.

And when history remembers the pillars of grace,

Her courage and kindness will hold their place.

For the world moves forward on quiet unseen art—

The strength of a woman, the light of her heart.

Let nations remember, let generations see:

Where women rise with honor, humanity walks free.

© 2026 H.E. Prof. Amb. Rev. Dr. Jitender Singh, India

All Rights Reserved

Written on the Occasion of International Women’s Day – March 8

Poetry from Noah Berlatsky

Too Much Love

All day I have tried to get the cat to sit on me.

And finally just as I am about to finish a movie

and stand up, she does, and so does the dog.

She is beautiful and fluffy and purrs

her warmth into my hand.

It is a lot of warmth. The dog is also warm.

My temperature spikes. I have to pee.

My nose is running and I have no Kleenex.

We all believe we want love and endless love

but it is too much, my body cannot bear it,

the weight of floof and love.