The article by Tiina Kaukvere and Marian Männi discusses the severe bottlenecks at the Moldova-Romania border, where Ukrainian and Moldovan truck drivers are stuck for days trying to export grain and sunflower seeds. The situation arose due to Russian bombings that made sea exports risky, leading to an overland export route through Moldova to the Romanian port of Constanta. The Moldovan Ministry of Economy reports drivers wait five to seven days on average. The crisis is impacting Moldovan farmers as well, who are unable to compete with the influx of cheaper Ukrainian grain, leading to a flooded market and potential bankruptcies. The Moldovan government is attempting to alleviate the situation by implementing an electronic queue system. Despite the hardships, drivers feel safer waiting at the border than risking the dangerous roads in Ukraine.

Estonian scientists at Tallinn University of Technology, led by Professor Andres Krumme, are developing a method to produce bioplastic from wood residue using ionic liquids. This process is faster and more environmentally sustainable than traditional methods. The Estonian Research Council's ResTA programme has funded the project, which aligns with the EU's green initiatives. The Estonian environment ministry supports adding value to wood domestically. Viru Keemia Grupp, an Estonian energy company, plans to open a bioproduct factory by 2027 to partner with Krumme's team. The development aims to cater to the growing market for eco-products and compete with Nordic countries in the bioplastic industry.

Vaccine passports are emerging as a solution to reopen economies amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, but they raise human rights concerns. Scientists from the Global Digital Human Rights Network, led by Mart Susi, have analyzed the implications and recommend a temporary system with alternatives for those unable to vaccinate. Disparities in vaccine access within the EU and globally could deepen existing divides. Data privacy and integrity are also issues of concern. The European Court of Human Rights has ruled that immunization cannot be mandatory, but recent decisions may influence future legislation. Governments are urged to prioritize the development of a fair and unified vaccine passport system.

Orthopaedist and researcher Leho Rips, after studying Estonian conscripts, concludes that many health problems such as poor physical performance, depression, susceptibility to viruses, and bone issues are linked to vitamin D deficiency. Despite increased outdoor activities, Estonian men still show critically low levels of vitamin D after winter. Rips advocates for daily movement in fresh air, consumption of fresh food and fish, and taking vitamin D supplements to address this deficiency. His colleague Ahti Varblane supports the integration of vitamin D awareness into military life. A new study with higher vitamin D supplementation is planned.

Tallinn has introduced a new self-driving shuttle bus, Iseauto, which originated from a robotics course at Tallinn University of Technology (Taltech). The project, which began with a modest budget and a team of students and researchers, has now resulted in the bus becoming part of Estonia's public transportation system. Auvetech, a company started by former students, is producing and selling the Iseauto shuttles. Taltech has partnered with Florida Polytechnic University to further research autonomous vehicles. The Iseauto buses have been officially registered and are already driving in real traffic, with the Estonian Road Administration actively supporting the initiative.

A new laboratory in Tartu, Estonia, led by scientist Kaspar Valgepea, is developing gas fermentation technology to convert harmful gases into eco-friendly fuels, materials, and chemicals. Valgepea, who has previously collaborated with LanzaTech and gained experience in Australia and the United States, aims to find practical solutions for sustainable production. The lab was established with the support of the European Research Area and is one of the few of its kind globally. Estonian universities have effectively utilized EU funding to advance research, with Valgepea's work contributing to the fight against climate change.

Emily Zamourka, a classically-trained musician who became homeless in Los Angeles, has captured the world's attention with her singing. Born Liudmila Grekova in Soviet Moldova, she faced religious oppression, an abusive marriage, and a challenging journey to America. Despite her talents, she struggled with homelessness and health issues. However, her viral fame has led to offers of help and a potential new chapter in her life. Friends and family from Moldova have expressed their support and hope for her future.