JOURNAL

Smoking Gun? Linking Gun Ownership to Crime Victimization
Dr. Donald G. Billings Dr. Donald G. Billings

Smoking Gun? Linking Gun Ownership to Crime Victimization

Gun violence is a recurring tragedy in the United States, and with each high-profile shooting, debates about the role of guns in society are reignited. Despite these events, national gun legislation has seen limited changes, and there has been a surge in gun purchases following shootings and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Understanding the dynamics of gun ownership and its connection to crime is crucial for informing policy decisions. A recent study by Stephen B. Billings explores the relationship between gun ownership, specifically concealed handgun permits (CHPs), and criminal victimization.

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Exploring the Health Implications of Subway Air Quality
Dr. Brenda Rivera - Billings Dr.P.H., MPH, M.Sc. Dr. Brenda Rivera - Billings Dr.P.H., MPH, M.Sc.

Exploring the Health Implications of Subway Air Quality

As urban populations continue to grow, public transportation systems such as subways have become an essential part of daily life for millions of commuters. However, recent research has shed light on the air quality in these underground transit systems, raising concerns about their potential health impacts. In this blog post, we'll examine a recent article from WIRED titled "Subway Air May Be A Health Risk" and discuss the implications of this research for commuters and city planners alike.

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Harnessing the Power Within a Lesson From Marcus Aurelius
Dr. Donald G. Billings Dr. Donald G. Billings

Harnessing the Power Within a Lesson From Marcus Aurelius

Marcus Aurelius, a Roman emperor and philosopher, gifted the world with a wealth of wisdom. Among his many quotes is this powerful reminder: "If you are distressed by anything external, the pain is not due to the thing itself, but to your estimate of it; and this you have the power to revoke at any moment." This profound insight offers a fresh perspective on dealing with adversity and stress, inviting us to reclaim our personal power.

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Preventing the Next Pandemic - Author Peter Hotez Book Review
Dr. Brenda Rivera - Billings Dr.P.H., MPH, M.Sc. Dr. Brenda Rivera - Billings Dr.P.H., MPH, M.Sc.

Preventing the Next Pandemic - Author Peter Hotez Book Review

Peter Hotez provides an excellent analysis of global health security and how it affects not only the United States but the entire world in "Preventing the Next Pandemic." He discusses the rapid international spread of pandemics and the necessity of a coordinated global response. The book also discusses several other pandemic preparedness-related subjects, including the necessity of strong leadership, the significance of funding public health infrastructure, the function of research and technology, and the effects of anti-science groups.

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Hello Dry January - A Sobriety Challenge
Health & Homeostasis Dr. Brenda Rivera - Billings Dr.P.H., MPH, M.Sc. Health & Homeostasis Dr. Brenda Rivera - Billings Dr.P.H., MPH, M.Sc.

Hello Dry January - A Sobriety Challenge

Recent studies have indicated that taking part in a month-long sobriety challenge, like Dry January, may have advantages that last longer than the actual month. Numerous advantages for one's physical and mental well-being, as well as cost savings, can be derived from the challenge.

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A wonderful New Year’s tradition: Dropping Hopes and Dreams in Time Square
Health & Homeostasis Dr. Brenda Rivera - Billings Dr.P.H., MPH, M.Sc. Health & Homeostasis Dr. Brenda Rivera - Billings Dr.P.H., MPH, M.Sc.

A wonderful New Year’s tradition: Dropping Hopes and Dreams in Time Square

A lot of people all over the world look forward to spending New Year's Eve at Times Square. A large crystal ball is dropped from the top of One Times Square at the stroke of midnight every year to mark the beginning of the New Year and the passing of the Old. Along with the dropping of the ball at midnight, the confetti shower that follows has become an indelible part of New Year's Eve celebrations in Times Square.

 

As the confetti falls from the sky, it is easy to wonder what it represents. Does it carry with it the hopes and dreams of the people below? Is it a symbol of the fresh start that the new year brings? Or is it simply a playful and celebratory gesture?

 

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Doctor of Public Health
Dr. Brenda Rivera - Billings Dr.P.H., MPH, M.Sc. Dr. Brenda Rivera - Billings Dr.P.H., MPH, M.Sc.

Doctor of Public Health

 

Dear Colleagues and Friends,

 

I am pleased to announce that I have completed my Doctor of Public Health degree with distinction. My graduation from Walden’s College of Health Sciences and Public Policy signifies the conclusion of an extraordinary journey that began many years ago. Along the journey, each of my mentors, instructors, and peers offered me invaluable support, advice, and motivation, for which I am profoundly thankful.

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