NoRCEL's Engagement in Africa: The AstroScience Exploration Network (ASEN).

Abstract The AstroScience Exploration Network (ASEN) is the latest innovative initiative from the Network of Researchers on the Chemical Emergence of Life (NoRCEL). Materializing on the vibrancy of the African continent, recognizing its people as a key asset, and building on specific strategic advantages, ASEN will funnel the appetite for scientific knowledge through an educational hub that paves the way for the Global South to come to the fore in new global endeavors and will eventually help build a variety of career paths in a diversifying economy.

A wondrous birth.

In this column, the author describes tending to a mother who displayed a quiet confidence throughout her pregnancy and birth experience. This birth story provides powerful support for women's inherent ability to give birth. Women already know what they need to give birth simply and easily.

Continuing education module: finding the path.

In this guest editorial, the challenges and pain of childbirth are presented as essential components of important life transitions. The role of pain in childbirth is explored. Childbirth is discussed as a "flow experience," and recommendations for assisting women to meet the challenges of labor and birth are presented.