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  • MIL-OSI Global: How to detect more antimicrobial resistant bacteria in our waterways

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Zina Alfahl, Lecturer in Bacteriology, University of Galway

    Antimicrobial resistant superbugs have been found in rivers, lakes and streams worldwide. Freebird7977/Shutterstock

    Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in waterways presents a critical threat. If commonly used antibiotics are deemed useless, decades of progress in human medicine and agriculture could be undermined.

    By 2050, AMR could cause 10 million deaths annually, according to the UN Environment Programme. But AMR is not just a human health issue. It also contributes to a decline in water quality and is exacerbated by water pollution, particularly from sources such as sewage and agricultural runoff. So, it’s a significant environmental concern with far-reaching implications.

    Addressing AMR in water is challenging because water systems are complex and can carry many different types of resistant bacteria. The lack of efficient, scalable and globally accessible methods to monitor AMR in water makes it difficult to mitigate this growing threat.

    I recently published a review in the Sustainable Microbiology journal that identifies key trends in AMR detection methods and highlights significant gaps.

    Rivers, lakes and wastewater systems around the world act as reservoirs and pathways for resistant superbugs and their genes, allowing AMR to spread across ecosystems, affecting wildlife, agriculture and human populations. River water is the most studied source of water samples, making up 42% of AMR-related research studies. Other water sources, including lakes and wastewater, may also play a key role in spreading resistant genes but, without detailed analysis, will remain misunderstood.

    Most AMR research comes from three countries: the US (17%), China (10%) and Brazil (9%). This shows where the focus is, but many other regions, especially low-income countries, are not well studied. This is concerning because AMR may be even more serious in these areas, yet data is lacking.

    New detection methods are more accurate but more expensive.
    Khomson Satchasataporn/Shutterstock

    To detect AMR, scientists primarily use two advanced molecular methods: polymerase chain reaction (PCR) (used in 57% of studies) and metagenomics (27%), alongside traditional culture-based methods that involve growing bacteria in a lab.

    Culture-based methods are simpler and cheaper than molecular methods but cannot be used onsite. They also can’t detect dead bacteria or hidden resistance genes.

    PCR amplifies specific DNA sequences for detection and can be used to identify specific bacteria. Metagenomics is a technique that analyses all of the genetic material from entire microbial communities within a sample, offering a broader perspective.

    These advanced methods are better at detecting AMR in rivers, lakes and oceans. They can find both known and new types of resistance, making them more useful for thorough monitoring.

    In Brazil, scientists used metagenomics to search for all of the different resistance genes present in waterways in different cities. This technique can detect patterns of resistance that regular tests can’t.

    While these methods are time-consuming and complicated (because they need specialised equipment and trained staff) and can be expensive, costing thousands of euros, they could be used more widely if funding is available. This would help track antibiotic resistance around the world, making it easier to find and fight.

    One Europe-wide study shows that culture methods failed to find all the resistance genes in contaminated river systems in ten countries, while advanced metagenomic techniques were able to identify them. So, molecular tools are crucial for understanding the true extent of AMR.

    My review shows a shift towards molecular techniques as the gold standard for AMR detection. It highlights the inadequacies of traditional culture-based methods and the need for integrated approaches that combine molecular techniques such as PCR (for detecting specific resistance genes) with metagenomics (for broader microbial community analysis).

    For example, wastewater monitoring programs could use PCR to quickly identify key resistance genes in hotspots while employing metagenomics to map the diversity of resistant organisms. This would offer a more balanced approach that optimises cost, efficiency, and accessibility.

    A hybrid approach

    By mapping global research efforts, I identified underrepresented regions such as sub-Saharan Africa and southeast Asia. I also found that certain water sources were underrepresented, particularly rivers in low-income countries. Without more equitable and comprehensive AMR surveillance, those will not be accounted for.

    To make accurate AMR detection more accessible to all, hybrid approaches that combine the comprehensive detection capabilities of molecular methods with the affordability of culture-based methods will be essential.

    Governments around the world must prioritise investments in technologies that are not only scientifically robust but also economically viable, particularly for low- and middle-income countries.

    New methods such as PCR and metagenomics can help us fight the spread of drug resistance. If we can make these methods cheaper and easier to use it could help us manage wastewater better, improve global tracking of drug resistance and make decisions that protect both people and the environment from superbugs.


    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 40,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Zina Alfahl does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. How to detect more antimicrobial resistant bacteria in our waterways – https://theconversation.com/how-to-detect-more-antimicrobial-resistant-bacteria-in-our-waterways-246062

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Climate, migration and conflict mix to create ‘deadly’ intense tropical storms like Chido

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Liz Stephens, Professor of Climate Risks and Resilience, University of Reading

    Cyclone Chido was an “intense tropical cyclone”, equivalent to a category 4 hurricane in the Atlantic. It made landfall in Mayotte, a small island lying to the north-west of Madagascar on December 14, generating wind gusts approaching 155mph (250km/hr). Later on, it hit Mozambique, East Africa with the same ferocity.

    This storm skirted north of Madagascar and affected the Comoros archipelago before making landfall in Mozambique. It is well within the range of what is expected for this part of the Indian Ocean. But this region has experienced an increase in the most intense tropical cyclones in recent years. This, alongside its occurrence so early in the season, can be linked to increases in ocean temperatures as a result of climate change.

    News of the effects of tropical cyclone Chido in Mayotte, Mozambique and Malawi continues to emerge. Current estimates suggest 70% of Mayotte’s population have been affected, with over 50,000 homes in Mozambique partially or completely destroyed.

    Ongoing conflict in Mozambique and undocumented migration to Mayotte will have played a key role in the number of deaths and the infrastructure damage.

    Assessing how these cyclones characteristics are changing across southern Africa is part of the research we are involved in. Our team also studies how to build resilience to cyclones where conflict, displacement and migration magnify their effects.

    A human-made disaster?

    The risk that tropical cyclones pose to human life is exacerbated by socioeconomic issues. Migrants on Mayotte, many of whom made perilous journeys to escape conflict in countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, now make up more than half of the island’s population.

    Precarious housing and the undocumented status of many residents reportedly made the disaster more deadly, as people feared evacuation would lead them to the police. On islands with poor infrastructure such as Mayotte, there is often simply nowhere safe to go. It takes many days for the power network and drinking water supply to be restored.

    The situation is particularly complex in Mozambique. The ongoing conflict and terrorist violence, coupled with cyclones, including Kenneth in 2019, has caused repeated evacuations and worsening living conditions. Cabo Delgado and Nampula in the far north of Mozambique, the provinces most affected by both Chido and the conflict, rank among the poorest and most densely populated in the country due to limited education, scarce livelihood options and an influx of people displaced by violence.

    As of June 2024, more than half a million people remained without permanent homes in the region, many living in displacement camps. That number is likely to rise significantly after Chido.

    Compounding the crisis, Chido’s landfall so early in the cyclone season meant that the usual technical and financial preparations were not yet fully ramped up, with low stock levels delaying the timely delivery of aid. Unrest following elections in November hampered preparations further, cutting the flow of resources and personnel needed for anticipatory action and early response.

    Tropical cyclones in a warmer world

    Warmer sea surface temperatures not only provide more fuel for stronger storms, but may also expand the regions at risk of tropical cyclones.

    The Indian Ocean is warming faster than the global average, and is experiencing a staggering increase in the proportion of storms reaching the intensity of Chido.

    Climate simulations predict that storms will continue getting stronger as we further warm our world, and could even lead to an unprecedented landfall as far south as the Mozambican capital, Maputo.

    Scientists carry out attribution studies to determine how climate change contributed to specific events. Scientists undertaking rapid attribution studies of Chido have found that the ocean surface temperatures along the path of the storm were 1.1°C warmer than they would have been without climate change. So, temperatures this warm were made more than 50 times more likely by climate change. Another study focusing on Chido itself concluded that the cyclone’s winds were 5% faster due to global heating caused by burning fossil fuels, enough to bump it from a category 3 to a category 4 storm.

    Intense winds are not the only hazard. Scientists are confident that tropical cyclones will dump more rain as a result of climate change. A trend towards slower-moving storms has been observed, causing more of that rain to accumulate in a single location, resulting in floods.

    Cyclone Freddy delivered a year’s worth of rain to southern Malawi in just four days in March 2023. Storm surges, exacerbated by sea level rise, also raise the scale of flooding, as in the devastating Cyclone Idai in March 2019. An increase in the number of storms that rapidly intensify, as Chido did before landfall in Mayotte has also been linked to climate change, which makes it harder to provide early warnings.

    To improve resilience to future cyclones, conflict, migration and social dynamics must be considered alongside climate change, without this, displaced and migrant communities will continue to be the most affected by the risks that climate change poses.


    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 40,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Liz Stephens also works for the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre, where she works as the Science Lead. She receives funding from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and the International Development Research Centre in Canada, as part of the CLARE (CLimate Adaptation and REsilience) research programme. Liz holds advisory positions within the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement, for the European Commission’s Global Flood Awareness System, the Anticipation Hub and the African Risk Capacity

    I work for a university which has interest on publications around disasters and climate change. I am part of a research consortium (REPRESA) funded by IDRC to research cyclones in Southern Africa region

    Dan Green does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Climate, migration and conflict mix to create ‘deadly’ intense tropical storms like Chido – https://theconversation.com/climate-migration-and-conflict-mix-to-create-deadly-intense-tropical-storms-like-chido-246219

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What the colour of your snot says about your immune health

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Samuel J. White, Associate Professor & Head of Projects, York St John University

    Clear snot is usually the baseline. Dmitrii Pridannikov/ Shutterstock

    Ever wondered why the colour of your snot is different when you’re sick? You’re probably not the first person to ask this question.

    There are actually many reasons why your snot’s changes colour when you’re unwell. And the colour and consistency of nasal mucus can reveal intriguing details about your immune system, and how your body responds to illnesses.

    Mucus is produced by the tissues lining our nasal passages. Often perceived as a mere nuisance, mucus serves a very important role. It acts as a protective barrier, trapping dust, bacteria, viruses and other irritants – preventing them from reaching the respiratory system’s deeper parts.

    Enzymes such as lysozyme and lactoferrin that inhabit our nasal mucus also have antimicrobial properties. They break down bacterial cell walls and help to limit bacterial growth. This protective role makes mucus a critical line of defence – even when we’re not unwell.

    The continuous process of mucus production by the tissues lining our nasal passages exemplifies the body’s natural defence mechanisms in action. When we get sick, mucus changes – becoming thicker, more abundant and sometimes colourful. These changes highlight your immune system’s response.

    Here’s what the many colours of your snot says about your health:

    Clear

    This is the baseline for a healthy nose. It’s mostly water, combined with proteins, salts and cells that keep the nasal passages moist and trap particles.

    Allergies and the very early stages of a viral infection can cause an overproduction of clear mucus. This can also happen when your body reacts to irritants or pathogens.

    White

    White mucus is often a sign of congestion.

    Inflammation in the nasal tissues slows mucus flow, causing it to thicken. This typically signals the beginning of an infection, such as a cold, as your immune system starts mobilising against invaders.

    Yellow

    Yellow mucus indicates your immune system is actively fighting off an infection.

    Don’t be surprised by yellow snot when you’re battling an illness.
    Soloviova Liudmyla/ Shutterstock

    White blood cells sent to attack the infection die and release enzymes that give mucus its yellowish colour. This is a hallmark of the body’s response to many viral infections – including the common cold, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

    Green

    Green mucus results from an intensified immune response. The green tint comes from an enzyme called myeloperoxidase, which is produced by neutrophils (a type of white blood cell). This enzyme generates a specific molecule that destroys pathogens.

    While green mucus often indicates a bacterial infection, it can also occur when your body mounts a robust immune response to aggressive viral pathogens.

    Red or pink

    A pink or reddish tint in mucus means there’s blood present. This often happens when the nasal tissues are irritated, dry or damaged – such as after excessive nose blowing or exposure to dry air. Small amounts of blood are usually not a cause for concern.

    Brown or orange

    Brown or orange mucus may result from dried blood mixing with mucus, or from inhaling environmental debris – such as smoke or dust. While typically harmless, it may suggest irritation or prolonged inflammation.

    Black

    Black mucus is rare and may indicate serious issues – such as a fungal infection (particularly in immunocompromised people) or heavy exposure to pollutants such as soot or cigarette smoke. This warrants medical attention.

    The immune system in action

    Mucus is an indispensable part of your immune system, actively protecting your body by trapping and neutralising harmful pathogens. Changes in its colour and consistency provide a glimpse into your health – helping differentiate between viral bacterial infections. It also provides insight into the complex processes occurring as your body works to keep you healthy.

    Next time you reach for a tissue, remember that mucus isn’t merely a symptom of illness — it’s your immune system in action. Its colours and textures tell a story of resilience, reflecting the intricate defences that keep your body healthy and safe.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. What the colour of your snot says about your immune health – https://theconversation.com/what-the-colour-of-your-snot-says-about-your-immune-health-245876

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What next for Syria? The danger of violence in post-war transitions

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Chelsea Johnson, Lecturer in International Relations, University of Liverpool

    Images emerging from Syria over the past week have shown jubilation on the streets, as millions celebrate the end of 24 years of repression under Bashar al-Assad.

    It is rare for rebels to manage to tip the scales in their favour and win a war outright after such a long and protracted stalemate. But the obvious next question is: what comes next? Looking to the handful of similar examples, history suggests that new forms of violence could continue to threaten Syria’s political future.

    In Libya, an umbrella coalition of rebel forces known as the National Transition Council defeated Muammar Gaddafi’s government in 2011. Meanwhile, in South Sudan, victory against Omar al-Bashir came in the form of a successful referendum on independence that same year.

    Looking further back, in Idi Amin’s Uganda, an alliance was brokered by neighbouring Tanzania between two rival rebellions in 1979. Their joint military campaign ended in Amin’s defeat soon after.

    The immediate aftermath of rebel victory in each of these cases points to one common lesson. Where a fragmented coalition of armed groups finds itself in a political vacuum, more violence – not less – is probably on the horizon.

    Fragile and shifting coalitions

    The injustices of repressive regimes often motivate rebellion. They can also provide a common enemy that, especially when sensing a window of opportunity, makes it possible for rival armed groups to put aside their differences and work together towards a common cause.

    Subsequently, however, transition periods generate uncertainty over political futures. This can make it difficult for former allies to remain united.

    Many Libyan militias allied behind the National Transition Council during its uprising against Muammar Gaddafi. But they soon became violent rivals in competition over political influence in the transitional government being formed in Tripoli.

    In a vacuum of authority, these new forms of violence may look like local turf wars. But they are often attempts by faction leaders to position themselves advantageously as political spoils are up for grabs at the national level.

    Meanwhile, where dominant factions vie for national power in the presence of many smaller and more localised militias, these weaker factions may be prone to changing allegiances so as to end up on the winning side.

    Fighting in Libya throughout 2017 exhibited this kind of opportunistic flip-flopping. Local militias such as the Kiniyat Brigade changed their allegiances between the faction of former prime minister, Khalifa al-Ghawil, and a rival faction based in Tripoli claiming to represent the legitimate government of Libya.

    The conflict in South Sudan has long been described as ethnic in nature. The main rival leaders, Salva Kiir and Riek Machar, belonged to the country’s two largest ethnic groups, Dinka and Nuer. But this obscures a more complex and strategic constellation of alliances. Many of the groups that have fought against Kiir have also been ethnic Dinkas and vice versa, with loyalties shifting over time as either leader gains an advantage. Some of the most recent violence has been between forces loyal to Machar and a co-ethnic splinter faction known as Kitgwang, which opposes his leadership.

    Numerous reports from international observers and mediators have attested to the difficulty of brokering and maintaining a stable agreement on the terms of transition in these countries due to fluid and shifting coalitions.

    Armed groups in Syria have already shown such tendencies. The Military Operations Command, the coalition of Syrian opposition groups that brought down Assad’s regime, exists in name only. The dominant group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), is itself an amalgam of at least four separate militias, while previous coalitions backed by Turkey and the US have coalesced and fragmented over time.

    HTS leader Ahmed al-Sharaa has pledged that all rebel factions will “be disbanded and the fighters trained to join the ranks of the defence ministry”. But history suggests that a rival is likely to emerge from one of these blocs to challenge the legitimacy of HTS’s claim to lead the transition. This will introduce a new element of uncertainty for the smaller factions forced to choose a side.

    Looking ahead to elections

    Even where a stable transitional coalition can be upheld, peace may eventually be threatened by the outcome of a winner-takes-all election.

    Violence was avoided in post-Amin Uganda for as long as the two faction leaders who overthrew him held top positions in a transitional power-sharing government. But when elections produced a clear win for Milton Obote in 1980, his rival, Yoweri Museveni, relaunched his rebellion. Uganda’s so-called bush war would continue until 1986, when Museveni’s forces took the capital, Kampala, by force.

    Ethiopia’s post-war transition fared slightly better after victory for an allied rebel assault on the authoritarian Derg regime in 1991. Most of Ethiopia’s rebel factions had clear and distinct ethno-territorial bases and, as a result, the new constitution emerging from an inclusive national conference devolved power to ethnic regions in a federal system.

    This attempt to create a political stake for former rebels not wholly dependent on national election results may have succeeded had local or regional elections been held first. Ultimately, however, at least two rebellions returned to low-level violence throughout the 1990s, accusing the new government of marginalisation and attempts to undermine their electoral competitiveness.

    In any case, devolution appears unlikely in Syria. Aside from Kurdish separatists in the north-east, the country’s many militias have less clear linkages to specific demographic groups and often overlap in their areas of influence. And with HTS now calling for a unified state with no federal regions, the national-level political game will remain high stakes and prone to violent forms of contention.

    Chelsea Johnson receives funding from the British Academy.

    – ref. What next for Syria? The danger of violence in post-war transitions – https://theconversation.com/what-next-for-syria-the-danger-of-violence-in-post-war-transitions-246073

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Who chooses to work, and who is forced to, after retirement?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Takao Maruyama, Assistant Professor in Business Analytics, University of Bradford

    fizkes/Shutterstock

    The state pension age in the UK is currently 66. Yet 9.5% of people aged 66 and older (1.12 million people) were still working, according to the most recent data from the UK’s Annual Population Survey (July 2023 to June 2024). This figure has been rising over the past decade, increasing from 8.70% (880,000 people) in July 2013 to June 2014.

    We think of retirement as a time to pursue hobbies, relax and enjoy the fruits of our labour. So why then, are so many people still working beyond retirement age, and who are they? This is what we sought to find out in a recent study.

    We investigated who is more likely to “choose to work” and who is “forced to work”, using data from the UK’s annual population survey.

    Older workers are not a homogeneous population. They differ in terms of age, ethnicity, socioeconomic class, financial situation, health conditions and more. Likewise, the reasons for working beyond retirement age vary widely. Some may work because they want to, while others may have no option and feel they have to work in order to make ends meet.

    The below chart shows the breakdown of these retirement-age workers by key demographic and socioeconomic characteristics from the most recent data.

    Three in five retirement-age workers were men, and almost all (94.4%) older workers were white. Just over half (51.5%) of older workers continued to work despite having long-term illnesses.

    Characteristics of workers aged 66 and older:

    Workers aged 66 years and older by demographic and socioeconomic characteristics.
    Author provided, data from Annual Population Survey July 2023 to June 2024, CC BY

    The majority (71.2%) of older workers were married, in a civil partnership or cohabiting. Nearly 40% of older workers were employed in higher managerial, administrative and professional occupations, followed by intermediate occupations such as sales or some service roles (32.1%), and routine manual occupations (25.6%).

    More than 85% of retirement-age workers lived in the south (52.8%) and the north (33.1%) of England, and 70% are homeowners.

    Who is ‘forced’ to work?

    In our study, we calculated the likelihood of pension-age workers (66 years and older) with varying demographic and socioeconomic characteristics being forced to work.

    The Annual Population Survey identifies six main reasons why older workers continue working beyond retirement age. These are:

    A. To pay for desirable items (such as holidays),
    B. Not ready to stop work,
    C. Employer needs your experience or you are needed in the family business,
    D. Due to opportunities to work more flexible hours,
    E. To pay for essential items (such as bills), and
    F. To boost pension pot.

    In our study, we classed reasons (A) to (D) as “choose to work”, and (E) and (F) as “forced to work”. Our analysis, based on the most recent dataset (April 2022 to March 2023) at the time of the study, revealed that women are 25% more likely to be forced to work compared to men, and Asian workers are 120% more likely to be forced to work than white workers (with 34% and 17% more likely for older workers from black and other ethnic backgrounds, respectively).

    Workers without long-term illness are 33% less likely to be forced to work than those with long-term illness, and non-married or single workers are 56% more likely to be forced to work compared to seniors who are married, in a civil partnership or cohabiting.

    Workers in intermediate and routine manual occupations are 37% and 67% more likely to be forced to work, respectively, compared to those in higher managerial occupations. Older workers from the south of England are more likely to be be forced to work compared to seniors from any other parts of the UK, and retirement-age workers with mortgages or renting were 117% more likely to be forced to work compared to those who owned their properties.

    Who is more likely to be ‘forced to work’?:

    % comparison of likelihood of being ‘forced to work’.
    Author provided, data from Annual Population Survey April 2022 to March 2023., CC BY

    Ageing populations

    This matters because of the changing nature of work, the rising cost of living and the UK’s ageing population. Retirement-age workers will be increasingly pressured to work longer due to the rising state pension age (due to increase to 67 in 2026-27).

    Understanding who works by choice and who by necessity into retirement age is important, because these groups will need different kinds of support and resources.

    For example, the higher likelihood of being forced to work among older female workers can be partly attributed to career breaks they took to serve as primary caregivers for their children, which often prevented them from accumulating sufficient pensions.

    As the state pension age is expected to continue rising, it is crucial for policymakers and employers to design support systems for diverse demographic and socioeconomic groups of older workers, addressing their unique needs. This starts with understanding why people are working into old age.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Who chooses to work, and who is forced to, after retirement? – https://theconversation.com/who-chooses-to-work-and-who-is-forced-to-after-retirement-246214

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: A short history of palm reading in the UK – and a guide to how it’s supposed to work

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Martha McGill, Historian of Supernatural Beliefs, University of Warwick

    Wikimedia , CC BY

    In August 1676, a court in Hertford heard a case of fraud against Joseph Haynes, James Domingo and Domingo’s “pretended wife” Sarah. The three had been travelling between local towns telling fortunes.

    Apparently, Domingo had promised one woman that she would marry a “pretty tall merry-speaking” farmer’s son with a mole on his chin and a respectable £80 to his name. Haynes, meanwhile, boasted that his divinatory efforts had won him £5, three maidenheads and a broken shin.

    The court’s decision is not recorded, but the case encapsulates the divided opinion of divination in the 17th century. Although commonly condemned by the authorities, fortune-telling was a popular and potentially profitable art.

    We do not know how exactly the three miscreants practised, but most travelling fortune-tellers studied facial features (physiognomy) or read palms (palmistry or chiromancy). The idea that there was occult meaning etched in the body’s marks, lines, features and moles stretches back to antiquity.

    The body’s outer form supposedly reflected the state of the soul. Also, it was believed that the body was intimately entwined with the wider cosmos.

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    In a popular work from the early 16th century, the German physician Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa explained that the body’s appearance and behaviour invited particular “celestial gifts”. Palmistry was the art of interpreting this “harmonical correspondency”.

    However, Christian authorities were largely unimpressed. Theologians dismissed palmistry as superstitious, or argued that it was presumptuous to pry into God’s plan. The Catholic church officially condemned divinatory arts in a papal bull of 1586. The English Protestant minister William Perkins (1558–1602) wrote that palmistry was an “abomination” that was “detested of God, and ought also to be detestable in the eyes of Gods [sic] people”.

    Official mistrust of palmistry was spurred by its association with “Egyptian” fortune-tellers (often shortened to “gypsies”). This label was used for travellers of diverse origins, but especially the Romani diaspora from India.

    Romani travellers first reached central and western Europe in the 15th century and many claimed to have come from Egypt. Ancient Egyptians were famed for their occult wisdom and the association probably helped Romani groups to win credit as fortune-tellers. Nevertheless, they met with widespread persecution.

    A fortune teller reading the palm of a soldier.
    Wellcome Collection, CC BY-NC

    In England, a 1530 parliamentary act officially banished the “outlandish” people “calling themselves Egyptians” who allegedly travelled about the country, swindling people by pretending divinatory prowess.

    All the same, magical practitioners at various social levels continued to offer palm-reading services. And from the 17th century, pamphlets offered guides to interpreting your own hands.

    An anonymous work published in London in 1700 claimed to fully resolve all questions about human life through “the Rules of Art used by the Ancient and Famous Egyptian Magi, or Wise Men and Philosophers”.

    Here I offer some guidance on how you’re supposed to read your palm based on that work. It may contradict itself hopelessly. It may promise you a grisly death. But if the stars are kind, you too could rise by your good deeds and find a spouse lauded for their virtue – or, at least, a merry man with £80 and a nice mole.

    How to read a palm

    Always consult the left hand.

    1: Life line

    Look for the semi-curved line that starts between the thumb and index finger and runs down toward the wrist.

    If this line is long and clear, not broken with little cross-lines, you will be healthy and live to an old age. However, if the uppermost part of the line is forked or jagged, you will often be sick.

    If there are three stars intersecting with the line, you may suffer “great losses and calamities”. If the line intertwines with the table line, you will gain “honour and riches”.

    2: Table line

    Look for a horizontal line on your upper palm that starts near the index or middle finger and runs to beneath the little finger.

    If this line is broad and vivid in colour, you will be healthy and contented. However, if the line is forked at the end, you will gain riches by trickery and soon lose them again. If it branches towards the index or middle finger, you will rise to a prestigious position.

    3: Middle line

    Look for a horizontal line across the middle part of the palm.

    If there are lots of small lines in between this and the table line, you will be sick when you are young but make a recovery. If there is a halfmoon in this line, you will suffer from “cold and watery diseases”, but a sun or a star promises prosperity.

    4: Line of Venus

    Look for an arching line that runs near the base of your middle, ring and little fingers.

    If this line forks near the index finger, you may be ruined by keeping bad company. If there are crosses on this line near the index and little fingers, you are “inclined to a virtuous and modest course of life”. The author claims that wise men employ this method to choose suitable wives.

    5: Liver line

    Look for a vertical line that starts beneath the ring or little finger and runs to the base of the palm.

    If this line is straight, you are of sound judgement. If it is crooked you are deceitful. If this line and the middle line begin near one other, it means foolishness in men and foretells injury by overwork for women.

    6: Plain of Mars

    Plains are flat areas of the palm that can be associated with difference parts of life. The plain of Mars is the centre of your palm.

    If the lines in this plain are crooked, you will fall by your enemies. If you have lines beginning at the middle of your wrist and reaching into the plain of Mars, you will get into lots of fights. If there are large crosses in the plain, you will, if a man, rise by good deeds or, if a woman, have many husbands and children.

    Martha McGill does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. A short history of palm reading in the UK – and a guide to how it’s supposed to work – https://theconversation.com/a-short-history-of-palm-reading-in-the-uk-and-a-guide-to-how-its-supposed-to-work-246276

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Fed Cuts Rates in Third-Consecutive Meeting While Existing Sales Rise

    Source: Fannie Mae

    (The Fannie Mae Economic & Housing Weekly Note will not be published for the next two weeks.)

    Key Takeaways:

    • The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) cut the federal funds rate by 25 basis points to a target range of 4.25-4.5 percent at its December 17-18 meeting. There was one dissenting vote. The updated Summary of Economic Projections (SEP) now shows the median participant expects 50 basis points worth of rate cuts in 2025, as opposed to 100 basis points worth of cuts in the September SEP. The committee has also revised upward their expectations for core inflation over the next two years.
    • Gross domestic product (GDP), adjusted for inflation, grew at a 3.1 percent annualized rate in Q3 2024, an upgrade of three-tenths compared to the prior estimate, according to the third and final estimate from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA). The upgrade was primarily due to stronger consumption (3.7 percent annualized vs. 3.5 percent previously) and exports. Gross domestic income (GDI), a theoretically equivalent measure to GDP that can differ due to measurement error, posted a somewhat softer 2.1 percent annualized gain in the third quarter.
    • Personal income, adjusted for inflation, increased 0.2 percent in November, according to the BEA. Real disposable personal income was also up 0.2 percent. Real personal consumption expenditures increased 0.3 percent over the month due to a strong 0.7 percent gain in spending on goods. The personal consumption expenditures (PCE) price index increased 0.1 percent over the month and was up 2.4 percent compared to a year prior. Excluding food and energy, core PCE prices also increased 0.1 percent over the month and rose 2.8 percent compared to a year prior.
    • Retail sales and food services increased 0.7 percent in November, according to the Census Bureau. Part of the gain was due to a 2.6 percent jump in motor vehicle and parts dealer sales and a 1.8 percent increase in nonstore retailers, which primarily represents online sales. Control group retail sales (excluding food service, auto, building supplies, and gas station sales) increased 0.4 percent, more than reversing the 0.1 percent decline the month prior.
    • Existing home sales rose 4.8 percent to a seasonally adjusted annualized rate (SAAR) of 4.15 million, the strongest sales pace since March, according to the National Association of Realtors. The number of homes available for sale declined 2.9 percent to 1.33 million. Combined with the stronger sales pace, the supply of homes declined four-tenths to 3.8 months, the lowest level since April.
    • Housing starts declined 1.8 percent to a SAAR of 1.29 million in November, according to the Census Bureau. Single-family starts rose 6.4 percent to a SAAR of 1.01 million, reversing most of last month’s decline that was due primarily to hurricane-related disruptions. Single-family permits were essentially flat at 972,000. The volatile multifamily starts series dropped 23.2 percent to a SAAR of 278,000, while multifamily permits rose 19.0 percent to a SAAR of 533,000.
    • The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index was unchanged at 46 in December. The index for single-family sales in the present was unchanged at 48, while the index for sales in the next six months rose 3 points to 66, a more than 2.5-year high. The index for the traffic of prospective buyers declined 1 point to 31.
    Forecast Impact:

    The Fed’s rate cut was in line with market and our own expectations. The updated SEP, which shows fewer rate cuts over the next two years compared to the September SEP, could potentially move mortgage rates higher given the recent upward movement in the 10-year Treasury note rate. While core PCE inflation came in cooler in November, smoothing through some of the recent volatility, the three-month annualized rate of core inflation remains elevated at 2.5 percent, supporting our expectation for a pause in rate cuts early in 2025.

    The upgraded consumption growth in the third quarter presents a bit of upside risk to our fourth-quarter forecast in the same category, though we had already penciled in a robust 3.0 percent annualized growth rate. The gain in control group retail sales, which feed directly into the BEA’s estimates for consumption, lend support to our forecast for ongoing strong consumption growth in Q4, as does the gain in real monthly consumption in the monthly PCE report.

    The rise in existing home sales likely reflects, in part, lower mortgage rates toward the end of September on properties that took longer to close, especially in Florida and nearby states where hurricanes could have slowed the closing process. Still, some of the higher sales pace (albeit, still very suppressed by historical standards) could be sustained into December and next year even amid higher rates given recent improvements in mortgage application data. On the new construction side, the gain in single-family starts recovered most of the decline in October that was due to hurricane disruptions. The fourth quarter is currently tracking in line with our forecast. Single-family permits have been essentially flat since August, but still suggest a strong pace of building into 2025, especially when combined with a more than 2.5-year high in builder sentiment for sales over the next six months.

    Nathaniel Drake
    Economic and Strategic Research Group
    December 20, 2024

    Opinions, analyses, estimates, forecasts, beliefs, and other views of Fannie Mae’s Economic & Strategic Research (ESR) Group included in these materials should not be construed as indicating Fannie Mae’s business prospects or expected results, are based on a number of assumptions, and are subject to change without notice. How this information affects Fannie Mae will depend on many factors. Although the ESR Group bases its opinions, analyses, estimates, forecasts, beliefs, and other views on information it considers reliable, it does not guarantee that the information provided in these materials is accurate, current, or suitable for any particular purpose. Changes in the assumptions or the information underlying these views could produce materially different results. The analyses, opinions, estimates, forecasts, beliefs, and other views published by the ESR Group represent the views of that group as of the date indicated and do not necessarily represent the views of Fannie Mae or its management.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Awards $1 Billion in Public Assistance Funds Following Hurricane Milton

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency 2

    FEMA Awards $1 Billion in Public Assistance Funds Following Hurricane Milton

    TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – FEMA has obligated over $1 billion in Public Assistance funds to aid Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Milton. Reaching this milestone, in just over two months after the hurricane’s major disaster declaration on Oct. 11, has never been done before in Florida. This rapid response highlights the partnership with the State of Florida to aid local governments’ efforts to help communities recover.These funds include costs that the state and local jurisdictions spent on debris removal and emergency protective measures. As of Dec. 20, the state of Florida has removed 37.4 million cubic yards of debris, which equals to more than 228,000 tractor trailers loads.FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides reimbursement to state and local government agencies for the costs of emergency response, debris removal and restoration of disaster-damaged public facilities and infrastructure. Houses of worship and certain private nonprofit organizations may also be eligible for FEMA Public Assistance. The deadline to apply for Public Assistance funds is Dec. 20, 2024.For the latest information about Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. For Hurricane Helene, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. For Hurricane Debby, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 and on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.###FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, nationality, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Office of Civil Rights if they feel that they have a complaint of discrimination. FEMA’s Office of Civil Rights can be contacted at FEMA-OCR@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448.
    sixto.valentin…
    Fri, 12/20/2024 – 14:53

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Centers in South Carolina Temporarily Closed for Holidays

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency 2

    Disaster Recovery Centers in South Carolina Temporarily Closed for Holidays

    COLUMBIA, S.C. — Disaster Recovery Centers in South Carolina will temporarily close in observance of the Christmas and New Year holidays. Aiken County, Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 17519 Atomic Road, Aiken, SC 29803Open Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. through Jan. 7, 2025Holiday Closure: Dec. 22-29, 2024, Jan. 1, 2025.Anderson County, Anderson County Library, 300 N. McDuffie St., Anderson, SC 29621Open Dec. 20-21, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.Chester County, Gateway Conference Center, 3200 Commerce Drive, Richburg, SC 29729Open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., through Jan. 31, 2025.Holiday Closure: Dec. 22-29, 2024, Jan. 1, 2025. Greenville County, Freetown Community Center, 200 Alice Ave., Greenville, SC 29611Open Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m., through Jan. 7, 2025.Holiday Closure: Dec. 24-25, 2024, Jan. 1, 2025.Greenwood County, United Way of Lakelands, 929 Phoenix St., Greenwood, SC 29646Open Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m., through Jan. 31, 2025.Holiday Closure:  Dec. 22-29, 2024, Jan. 1, 2025.Spartanburg County, Woodson Community Center, 210 Bomar Ave., Spartanburg, SC 29306Open Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m., through Jan. 7, 2025.Holiday closure: Dec. 22-29, 2024, Jan. 1, 2025.To find all the center locations, including those in other states, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. Homeowners and renters in Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Cherokee, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Hampton, Jasper, Kershaw, Laurens, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Orangeburg, Pickens, Richland, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union and York counties and the Catawba Indian Nation can apply for federal assistance.The quickest way to apply is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or by calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in many languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For a video with American Sign Language, voiceover and open captions about how to apply for FEMA assistance, select this link.FEMA programs are accessible to survivors with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. 
    martyce.allenjr
    Fri, 12/20/2024 – 17:21

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sending You Happy Holiday Wishes from IAM Air Transport Territory

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    Dear IAM Air Transport Family,

    As we approach the holidays, I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to each and every member of the IAM Air Transport family in this season of gratitude and unity.

    The holidays are one of the busiest times of the year for travel, and many of you will be working long hours to ensure that families can reunite and that their holiday travel experience is as smooth as possible. 

    Your dedication and hard work are crucial and appreciated, especially during this busy time. We are deeply thankful for the essential role you play in making holiday magic.

    For those of you who will be working while others are reuniting with loved ones, please stay safe and know that you and your giving spirit do not go unnoticed. We are truly proud to have you in our union.

    On behalf of the IAM Air Transport Territory, we wish you and your loved ones a joyful and restful holiday season. Thank you for everything you do to make our union and our industry stronger.

    In solidarity,
     Richie Johnsen
     IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President

    Share and Follow:

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: CENTCOM Forces Kill ISIS Leader During Precision Strike in Syria

    Source: United States Central Command (CENTCOM)

    Dec. 20, 2024
    Release Number 20241220-01
    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    On Dec. 19, U.S. Central Command Forces conducted a precision airstrike targeting ISIS leader Abu Yusif aka Mahmud in the Dayr az Zawr Province, Syria resulting in two ISIS operatives killed, including Abu Yusif.

    This airstrike is part of CENTCOM’s ongoing commitment, along with partners in the region, to disrupt and degrade efforts by terrorists to plan, organize, and conduct attacks against civilians and military personnel from the U.S., our allies, and our partners throughout the region and beyond.

    This strike was conducted in an area formerly controlled by the Syrian regime and Russians.

    “As stated before, the United States — working with allies and partners in the region — will not allow ISIS to take advantage of the current situation in Syria and reconstitute. ISIS has the intent to break out of detention the over 8,000 ISIS operatives currently being held in facilities in Syria. We will aggressively target these leaders and operatives, including those trying to conduct operations external to Syria,” said Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, CENTCOM commander.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: USINDOPACOM Commander Travels to Cambodia

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    PHNOM PENH, Cambodia  –   PHNOM PENH, Cambodia — Adm. Samuel J. Paparo, commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, traveled to Cambodia, Dec. 18, to strengthen and expand the U.S-Cambodia partnership as the two nations enter the 75th anniversary of bilateral relations.

    He met with senior government and military officials including Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, Secretary of State for the Ministry of Defense Rath Dararoth, and Commander in Chief of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces Gen. Vong Pisen.

    Paparo, joined by U.S. Chargé d’Affaires to Cambodia Bridgette L. Walker, discussed the recent visit of U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin, where Austin highlighted confidence-building measures to strengthen U.S.-Cambodia relations and rebuild bilateral defense and security cooperation. They focused on relations being based on the principles of sovereignty, mutual respect and upholding the international rules-based order. Paparo also underscored U.S. commitment to ASEAN-centrality and expressed support for cooperation in the areas of international military education and training; peacekeeping operations; demining and unexploded ordnance removal; and medical medicine.

    Throughout his trip, Paparo expressed appreciation for the U.S.-Cambodian efforts, through the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, to achieve the fullest possible accounting of all missing U.S. personnel in Cambodia and Southeast Asia.

    Paparo also visited the Independence-class littoral combat ship USS Savannah (LCS 28) at Sihanoukville Autonomous Port, where he engaged with Governor of Preah Sihanouk province Mang Sineth and the commander of Ream Naval Base Rear Adm. Mey Dina during a press event and ship tour. USS Savannah’s presence in Sihanoukville marks the first time in approximately eight years that a U.S. Navy ship has visited Cambodia, symbolizing the catalyst for expanding defense exchanges.

    USINDOPACOM is committed to enhancing stability in the Indo-Pacific region by promoting security cooperation, encouraging peaceful development, responding to contingencies, deterring aggression and, when necessary, fighting to win.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: OVW Fiscal Year 2025 Justice for Families Pre-Application Information Session

    Source: United States Attorneys General 8

    OVW conducted a live web-based pre-application information session for its Fiscal Year 2025 Justice for Families funding opportunity. During the presentation, OVW staff reviewed this program’s requirements, discussed the opportunity, and allowed for a brief question-and-answer period.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: BC Hydro expands clean-energy supply with new solar project

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    BC Hydro has added a new solar-energy project to the clean-energy projects selected to advance from its call for power.

    On Dec. 9, 2024, the Province announced that BC Hydro has selected nine wind-energy projects through its 2024 call for power that will supply renewable, affordable electricity to growing communities throughout B.C.

    While BC Hydro was preparing the public disclosure of the successful projects, one of the projects voluntarily withdrew and was not included in the announcement. BC Hydro has offered a 30-year electricity-purchase agreement to the next-highest evaluated project in order to maximize the power generation available through this call for power. 

    The newly added project is the ShTSaQU Solar Project in the southern Interior near Logan Lake, which will provide 104 megawatts of capacity. The Independent Power Producer partner is BluEarth Renewables Inc. and the First Nation partner is Oregon Jack Creek.

    Collectively, these 10 clean and renewable projects will generate approximately 5,000 gigawatt hours of electricity annually, enough to power half a million new homes, and will increase BC Hydro’s current supply by 8%. These projects are spread across nearly every region in the province. Their development and construction are expected to generate between $5 billion and $6 billion in private capital investment.

    BC Hydro engaged extensively with First Nations on the design of the call for power, and included a requirement that projects must have a minimum 25% equity ownership held by First Nations. Eight of the 10 successful energy projects will have 51% equity ownership. This represents $2.5 billion to $3 billion of ownership by First Nations in new renewable energy projects in the province.

    The Province and BC Hydro are committed to holding regular competitive calls for power based on electricity demand to ensure that B.C. has the clean electricity it needs as the economy and population grow, while keeping rates affordable.

    In addition to the call for power, BC Hydro is implementing several actions to meet the increasing demand from population growth, housing construction, business and industrial development, and transportation. These actions will power more than one million new homes in the coming years. This includes:

    • adding the Site C hydroelectric dam, which will power 500,000 homes;
    • investments in energy efficiency, which are expected to save 2,000 gigawatt hours of electricity annually (enough to power 200,000 homes);
    • renewing existing electricity-purchase agreements; and
    • exploring the use of utility-scale batteries.

    Solar projects with a capacity equal to or more than 50 megawatts require an environmental assessment by the BC Environmental Assessment Office.

    Learn More:

    For details about the Dec. 9, 2024, call for power announcement and the successful projects, visit:
    https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2024ECS0048-001643

    For more information about the call for power, visit:
    https://www.bchydro.com/2024CallforPower

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Updating Alberta’s approach to homelessness

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    [embedded content]

    Over the past decade, new challenges with rural homelessness, the drug crisis and more meant that Alberta’s approach to addressing homelessness became outdated. To better respond to those needs, in 2022 the province committed to testing and implementing a new, coordinated approach to combatting homelessness through Alberta’s Action Plan on Homelessness.

    To continue this progress and finish implementing Alberta’s Action Plan on Homelessness, Alberta’s government will be streamlining grant administration for housing with supports and providing provincial funding directly to front-line service providers, including Indigenous-led organizations. By designating the coordination of supports to Alberta’s government, the government will be in a better position to address homelessness-related issues in communities across the province. Additionally, directly funding front-line service providers will help those providers strengthen their wraparound supports for Albertans experiencing homelessness. This funding, which will remain stable, helps people experiencing homelessness move into and maintain stable housing with access to the wraparound supports they need.

    “Our government has invested an unprecedented amount of funding and effort into addressing homelessness in Alberta. As shown by the success of our navigation centres and other innovative approaches, our government’s efforts to better coordinate supports are making a positive difference for vulnerable Albertans. I look forward to expanding our valuable partnerships with front-line service agencies across the province as we continue to follow through on our commitments.”

    Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services

    To improve the coordination of these wraparound supports and achieve better outcomes for those seeking help, Alberta’s government is also working to improve the accuracy of data collection on a provincial scale. Alberta’s government will continue to work closely with front-line service providers, municipalities and community partners to ensure minimal disruption in services as this improved delivery model is implemented.

    These new efforts build on the success of earlier initiatives by the government, including the introduction of new supports like Indigenous-led shelters, women-only shelter spaces, and expanded recovery services. Building on this work, Navigation and Support Centres in Edmonton and Calgary have been essential to providing thousands of Albertans with wraparound supports, including government ID, addiction treatment, mental health services, employment skills training and housing.

    All of this work is possible because Alberta’s government has made unprecedented investments to fund these new supports, with Budget 2024 investing almost $210 million in emergency shelters and housing with supports.

    “When funding for emergency shelters and housing is meant to support Indigenous peoples, it should be delivered by Indigenous-operated organizations. While community-based organizations have served some of our people in times of need, they have not historically delivered in ways that reflect our knowledge and cultural practices. Providing these funds directly through the Alberta Government will allow our Indigenous-operated organizations an opportunity to receive grants and deliver services that are not only effective, but also rooted in the cultural understanding and traditions of our communities.”

    Chief Cody Thomas, Enoch Cree Nation

    As Alberta looks to the future, an expert panel is being established to help shape the province’s long-term approach to combatting homelessness. While the province has made progress on better supporting the most vulnerable, Alberta’s homelessness-related issues have evolved in recent years. The panel is tasked with ensuring Alberta’s long-term approach continues to meet the needs of Albertans experiencing homelessness, with an increased focus on Indigenous communities, rural needs, complex addictions and mental health. Co-chaired by Justin Wright, the MLA for Cypress-Medicine Hat, and Robin James, the chief administrative officer of the Lethbridge Housing Authority, the panel will advise the province on how to continue to reduce homelessness across Alberta. Additional members of the panel will be announced at a later date.

    “I am honoured to be appointed as co-chair of the panel, and I look forward to undertaking this important work. It is critical that rural communities have the supports they need to appropriately address homelessness to achieve better outcomes for those seeking help.”

    Justin Wright, MLA for Cypress – Medicine Hat

    “Lethbridge Housing Authority welcomes this announcement as an opportunity to strengthen our partnerships with front-line service providers. We have seen great success in Lethbridge and southern Alberta as a result of our work alongside Alberta’s government, and we look forward to continuing this important work.”

    Robin James, CAO, Lethbridge Housing Authority

    “The Calgary Drop-In Centre supports thousands of vulnerable Calgarians each year, and we look forward to continuing this work in partnership with Alberta’s government. These changes will make a difference and ensure we can continue to support vulnerable Calgarians, creating hope and stability into the future.”

    Sandra Clarkson, CEO, Calgary Drop-In Centre

    Quick facts

    • In 2023-24, more than 8,000 Albertans were provided with housing and supports, including 1,800 people newly admitted to housing programs.
    • In 2024-25, the province is investing almost $210 million overall into homelessness initiatives in Alberta, including:
      • $116 million in 2024-25 to support the operation of homeless shelter spaces.
      • $101.5 million to support local programs designed to move people out of homelessness and into stable housing linked with appropriate supports. This funding will now be directly distributed to service providers by the Alberta Government.

    Related information

    • Action Plan on Homelessness
    • Coordinated Community Response to Homelessness Task Force Report

    Related news

    • Alberta shelters are ready for winter (Nov. 21, 2024)

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bonavista — Bonavista RCMP investigates break, enter and theft at DFO, seeks public’s assistance

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Bonavista RCMP is investigating a break, enter and theft of an enclosed trailer and two snowmobiles at a Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) compound on Route 230, near English Harbour.

    On December 17, 2024, police received the report of the crime which occurred shortly before midnight on December 16. Surveillance footage confirmed that two individuals, both wearing reflective coats, arrived at the scene at approximately 11:50 p.m. in a pickup truck. Suspects forced entry inside the gated area, connected the enclosed trailer to the truck and departed with the trailer, which contained two snowmobiles, in tow. One snowmobile is a 2009 yellow and grey Tundra LT Ski-Doo with licence plate SFH 710. The other is a 2018 black and grey Polaris Indy LXT with licence plate SCE 890.

    Bonavista RCMP is requesting the public’s assistance in identifying the suspects. The suspect vehicle is described as being a white 4-door Chevrolet Silverado that appeared to be in good condition. Images of the suspects and the truck used in the crime, as well as the stolen trailer and snowmobiles, are attached.

    The investigation is continuing.

    Anyone with any information about this crime, the identity of the suspects, or the location of the stolen property is asked to contact Bonavista RCMP at 709-468-7341. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app. #SayItHere

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Kilo Fentanyl Distributor Sentenced to 40 Years

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RALEIGH, N.C. – A New Bern man was sentenced to 40 years in prison for trafficking and distributing methamphetamine and fentanyl for a large-scale drug trafficking operation in Craven County.  On August 8, 2024, a Raleigh jury found Lucio Camargo Garcia guilty of the charges.

    “Garcia took advantage of Craven County’s most hopeless souls, extracting profit from their pain and addiction,” said U.S. Attorney Michael F. Easley, Jr. “Too many of our friends, families, and neighbors are battling addiction.  The Craven County Sheriff’s Office and New Bern Police won’t stand by and let armed drug traffickers push kilos of fentanyl and meth in our community unchecked, and neither will we.  Eastern North Carolina traffickers take note – our partnership is for the long haul, and we won’t let off.”

    “This sentencing sends a clear message that our community will not tolerate the trafficking of dangerous drugs like methamphetamines and fentanyl,” said HSI Charlotte Special Agent in Charge Cardell T. Morant, HSI Charlotte covers North and South Carolina. “These substances devastate lives and destroy communities.  HSI and its partners are committed to holding those who profit from this destruction accountable. This is a warning to those who engage in this illegal activity – we will pursue justice relentlessly.”

    “This investigation identified Garcia as a major importer and distributor of methamphetamine and fentanyl in Craven County,” said Craven County Sheriff Chip Hughes. “His prosecution, along with his co-conspirators has resulted in a significant reduction in the availability of these dangerous drugs in our communities.”

    According to court records and evidence presented at trial, in 2021, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Craven County Sheriff’s Office, the New Bern Police Department, the State Bureau of Investigation, and other state and local agencies launched an investigation into a large-scale drug trafficking organization responsible for acquiring kilogram quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl from the southwest border of the United States and distributing the drugs in and around Craven County. Through the use of confidential sources, surveillance, enforcement actions, and controlled purchases, Garcia was identified as the primary distributor of methamphetamine and fentanyl who re-sold the product to both drug users and other area dealers.

    From January to October 2022, law enforcement conducted multiple controlled purchases of methamphetamine and fentanyl from Garcia. On October 31, 2022, search warrants were executed at residences associated with the drug trafficking organization, including Garcia’s residence. Law enforcement seized approximately one kilogram of methamphetamine, approximately nine hundred grams of fentanyl (powder and pill form), and a loaded firearm from Garcia’s residence. Most of the drugs were located in a secret compartment in the ceiling of Garcia’s bedroom closet.

    This investigation was an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launders, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    Michael F. Easley, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The DEA, HSI, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, North Carolina State Bureau of Investigations, Craven County Sheriff’s Office, New Bern Police Department, and Pamlico County Sheriff’s Office  investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Katherine Englander and Caroline Webb prosecuted the case.

    Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:22-CR-75-D-RJ-2.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Gainesville Man Sentenced To Federal Prison For Stealing Social Security Disability Benefits

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Steven D. Merryday today sentenced Keith Allen Courtney (53, Gainesville) to 13 months in federal prison for conspiracy. As part of his sentence, the court also entered an order of forfeiture in the amount of $71,208, the proceeds of conspiracy. Courtney pled guilty on April 12, 2024.

    According to court documents, Courtney conspired to defraud the Social Security Administration (SSA) by concealing his work activity while applying for and receiving SSA Disability Insurance Benefits (DIB). Based on the false and incomplete information provided by Courtney, SSA approved his application for DIB and issued monthly benefit payments on his behalf. In total, Courtney received $71,208 in DIB to which he was not entitled between February 2016 and May 2020. 

    This case was investigated by Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Huyler.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Clay County Convicted Felon Sentenced To Federal Prison On Firearm Charge

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Wendy W. Berger has sentenced Anthony Rodriguez, Jr. (32, Orange Park) to 21 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Rodriguez was arrested on July 9, 2024, and ordered detained.   

    According to court records, on May 11, 2024, Rodriguez shoplifted merchandise from a Wal-Mart in Clay County. Wal-Mart personnel stopped Rodriguez and the Clay County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) subsequently responded. As the CCSO searched Rodriguez during his arrest, a loaded Glock 43 9mm pistol fell to the ground from Rodriguez’s clothing. At the time of the incident, Rodriguez had seven previous felony convictions, including two convictions involving a firearm and ammunition. As a previously convicted felon, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.

    This case was investigated by the Clay County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives – Jacksonville Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mississippi Man Pleads Guilty To Transporting Child Sexual Abuse Material

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Jonathan Patrick Maston (59, Pass Christian, MS) has pleaded guilty to transportation of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Maston faces a minimum penalty of 5 years, up to 20 years, in federal prison. A sentencing hearing is set for March 6, 2025.

    According to the plea agreement, in April 2022, Maston arrived in Port Canaveral, returning from an international cruise. As he was disembarking the ship, Maston was referred for a secondary inspection. A search of his cellphone revealed CSAM images and videos. During an interview with law enforcement agents, Maston admitted to viewing CSAM over the last 15 years. A search warrant was also executed on Maston’s iCloud account, which revealed additional CSAM. In total, the contents of Maston’s cellphone and iCloud account contained more than 1,000 CSAM images and videos.

    This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Megan Testerman.

    This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lake County Woman Pleads Guilty To Multi-Kilogram Drug Offense

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Tonya Lynn Romero (37, Okahumpka) has pleaded guilty to possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute it. Romero faces a minimum penalty of 5 years, up to 40 years, in federal prison. A sentencing hearing is set for April 10, 2025.

    According to the plea agreement, law enforcement conducted a narcotics interdiction operation at the Orlando International Airport, which resulted in a canine alerting to the presence of drugs in a suitcase that had been checked in Romero’s name. After Romero took possession of the luggage, law enforcement approached, and she provided consent to search the suitcase. Inside, law enforcement located over 13 kilograms of methamphetamine.

    This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Orlando Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Megan Testerman.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Brevard County Man Sentenced To More Than 16 Years For Distributing Multiple Kilograms Of Methamphetamine

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Paul G. Byron has sentenced Joseph Michael Schneider (58, Cocoa) to 16 years and 8 months in federal prison for possessing controlled substances with intent to distribute them. Schneider pleaded guilty on August 14, 2024. 

    According to the plea agreement, law enforcement used a confidential source and undercover agent to conduct three controlled purchases of approximately 900 grams of methamphetamine each from Schneider, which took place at his residence. Law enforcement executed a search warrant at that residence, which resulted in the recovery of multiple kilograms of methamphetamine, over 100 grams of cocaine, and a small quantity of a fentanyl analog. In total, Schneider was responsible for distributing and possessing with intent to distribute over 7 kilograms of methamphetamine.

    This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Brevard County Sherriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Megan Testerman.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Exeter Man on Federal Supervised Release Detained on Multiple Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PROVIDENCE, RI – An Exeter man, currently serving a term of federal supervised release related to his previous convictions for possession of stolen mail and bank fraud, has been ordered detained on federal charges brough this week after he was allegedly discovered to be in possession of stolen checks, various items used for fishing mail out of mail receptacles, supplies to alter or deface checks, and unlawful possession of ammunition, announced United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha.

    Edmilson Rodrigues, 26, is charged by way of a federal criminal complaint with conspiracy to commit bank fraud, bank fraud, possession of stolen mail, and being a felon in possession of ammunition.

    It is alleged in charging documents that on December 17, 2024, during a court-authorized search of Rodrigues’ home, law enforcement seized approximately fifty stolen business and personal checks valued at approximately $36,000; hundreds of sheets of blank check paper; a check washing basin and cleaning materials used to deface and alter checks; a laptop and printer; and various items used to fish mail from U.S. Postal Service receptacles, such as mousetraps, glue, and string; and ammunition.

    According to court records, Rodrigues was convicted in U.S. District Court in 2019 for conspiracy to commit bank fraud and bank fraud involving a counterfeit check scheme; and in 2023 for possession of stolen mail that involved possession of nearly 100 stolen and fraudulent checks worth nearly $100,000.

    The most recent charges filed against Rodrigues are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S Attorney Ly T. Chin. A federal criminal complaint is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    The matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, with the assistance of the Newport Police Department, Providence Police Department, and Pawtucket Police Department.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Marine Sentenced to 12 Years for Child Sexual Abuse Material

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RALEIGH, N.C. – A former marine was sentenced to 144 months imprisonment followed by 5 years of supervised release, and $273,000 in restitution to 29 victims, for receipt of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). 

    According to court documents and other information presented in court, Paul Anthony Reyes, 23, was investigated by the investigated by the Naval Criminal Investigative Services after Instagram reported to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that one of its users had uploaded contraband to its platform.  The IP address used to upload the illegal content was linked to Reyes who was an active duty Marine stationed at U.S. Marine Corps Air Station in Cherry Point.

    NCIS agents executed a search warrant on the Instagram account which revealed Reyes was willing to trade and distribute child pornography material to other Instagram users.  Subsequently, NCIS executed a search warrant on Reyes’ person and barracks.  Multiple digital devices were seized and forensically analyzed pursuant to the search warrant.

    On those devices, law enforcement found thousands of images and videos of child pornography.  Many of them depicted sadistic and masochistic conduct.  Reyes possessed multiple images and videos depicting the rape and abuse of infants and toddlers.

    Michael F. Easley, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after the sentencing was concluded.  U.S. District Judge Terrence W. Boyle presided over the sentencing.  The Naval Criminal Investigative Services investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Charity Wilson prosecuted the case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.

    Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:24-CR-1-BO.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: NORAD Tracks Santa adds AI-powered Radar the Elf to the team

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: NORAD Tracks Santa adds AI-powered Radar the Elf to the team

    This holiday season, the Official NORAD Tracks Santa site is back and better than ever, thanks to Radar the Elf. Radar is an AI-powered question and answer elf designed to enhance your Santa tracking experience by answering questions about Santa and NORAD in 133 supported languages.

    Look for the little Radar image at the bottom left of the NoradSanta.org site
    This image was image was generated with Bing’s free AI Image Generator – Image Creator in Bing

    One of the standout features of Radar is its ability to translate text on the fly, allowing for seamless multilingual interactions. Whether you’re asking about Santa’s current location or the history of NORAD’s Santa tracking, Radar can provide answers in your preferred language.

    Samples of Radar’s responses in multiple languages

    Radar also uses both indicated and stored language preferences, automatically translating messages based on these preferences across sessions. This means that once you’ve set your preferred language, and choose to “allow cookies”, Radar will remember it for future interactions, making your experience even more personalized. Even without cookies, Radar will use the first language chosen as the preferred language with each new session.

    Additionally, users can change their language while chatting with Radar at any time. Ask the same question in multiple languages and Radar will adjust accordingly, ensuring that you can switch languages to one of your preferences without any hassle.

    With Radar the Elf, the NORAD Santa Tracker is more accessible and user-friendly than ever before. So, get ready to track Santa in your preferred language and enjoy a magical holiday season with NORAD and Microsoft Bing Maps. We have a few sample questions for Radar to get you started…

    When will Santa be at my house?

    It seems Santa typically arrives between 9 p.m. and midnight on Christmas Eve, but only when children are asleep!

    How does Santa get all the way around the world in just one night?

    NORAD intelligence reports indicate that Santa does not experience time the way we do. It seems that Santa has this way of transcending time. We’ve estimated that he travels at the speed of starlight!

    So head over to the Official NORAD Tracks Santa site and meet Radar for yourself and try some questions like

    • Where is Santa now?
    • Does Santa ever get cold?
    • Do reindeer eat cookies?

    And be sure to return on December 24th to see where NORAD is tracking Santa on the big night!

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ACP Statement on Disappointing Record of Decision for Western Solar PEIS

    Source: American Clean Power Association (ACP)

    Headline: ACP Statement on Disappointing Record of Decision for Western Solar PEIS

    WASHINGTON, December 20, 2024 — The American Clean Power Association (ACP) released the following statement today from Chief Policy Officer Frank Macchiarola after the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Land Management (BLM) announced its Record of Decision on the Western Solar Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (PEIS), which defines areas available for and excluded from solar development on public lands in 11 Western states:    
    “It’s disappointing BLM did not finalize a more balanced approach to development and conservation. The solar industry has consistently raised concerns during this process about the impact of land exclusions and project design features that are not even remotely addressed by this decision. Solar resources are part of the equation in addressing challenges to the sustainability of our public lands, while also helping provide Americans with affordable and reliable power.” 
    “This final decision represents a missed opportunity to deliver benefits to the U.S. economy and our energy security and reliability by helping pending and future projects get approved on an appropriate timeline. Reducing unnecessary regulatory hurdles that hamper development of clean energy resources on public lands is critical. ACP remains committed to working with all stakeholders to mitigate such barriers.”  

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Response to the announcement from the Deputy Prime Minister that regional Mayors will be handed powers to crackdown on e-bikes and e-scooters being dumped on pavements

    Source: Mayor of London

    In response to the announcement from Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, that regional Mayors will be handed new powers to crackdown on e-bikes and e-scooters being dumped on pavements, Labour’s London Assembly Transport Spokesperson, Elly Baker AM, said:

    “Dockless e-bikes have grown in popularity across London, with around 40,000 now in operation across 22 boroughs.  However, we have seen in recent years that lack of regulation for careless parking has resulted in blocked pavements, street clutter, and other accessibility issues particularly impacting people with mobility or visual impairments and parents with young children.

    “Last month, the London Assembly backed my call for the government to grant regulatory powers to Transport for London (TfL) and London boroughs to deal with this issue. Earlier this month, TfL set out plans to tackle poorly parked e-bikes causing safety or access issues.

    “I welcome that the government has listened to my call to empower local transport authorities like TfL to regulate e-bikes and e-scooters.

    “This is an important step in making sure our city is accessible for everyone.” as further consultation and discussion on the devolution white paper gets underway, I will be reiterating my call to grant strategic transport authorities, like TfL, powers to place a cap on the number of bikes available to rent and regulate data sharing in partnership with local authorities.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Times journalists deemed ‘legitimate military targets’ – how Russia muzzles criticism at home and abroad

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Precious Chatterje-Doody, Senior Lecturer in Politics and International Studies, The Open University

    Russia’s former president and current deputy head of its security council, Dmitry Medvedev, has declared that the editors of the Times newspaper in the UK are now “legitimate military targets”.

    Medvedev, who is one of Vladimir Putin’s closest allies, was responding to the newspaper’s coverage of the recent assassination of Russia’s chemical weapons chief, Igor Kirillov, in Moscow on December 17. The paper’s leading article referred to his killing by an explosive device hidden in a scooter as a “legitimate act of defence by a threatened nation”.

    Medvedev took to Telegram to denounce the article, writing: “Those who carry out crimes against Russia … always have accomplices. They too are now legitimate military targets. This category could also include the miserable jackals from the Times who cowardly hid behind their editorial. That means the entire leadership of the publication.”

    The assassination of Kirillov, who was in charge of Russia’s chemical, biological and nuclear defence forces, came a day after he had been charged by Ukraine in absentia with war crimes over Russia’s use of chemical weapons in the ongoing war.

    Once seen as a liberal reformer when he temporarily took over Russia’s presidency between 2008 and 2012, Medvedev has since reinvented himself as a pro-war hawk who regularly makes outlandish or extreme statements on social media.

    In May 2023, following a drone attack on the Kremlin, Medvedev posted a message on Telegram saying there were “no options left other than the physical elimination of [the Ukrainian president] Zelenskyy and his clique”. The post prompted Ukraine’s foreign minister, Dmytro Kuleba, to respond in an interview that “Medvedev should drink less vodka before going on Telegram”.

    In his most recent outburst, Medvedev mirrored the rhetoric used in the Times editorial, claiming that by the same logic, all of Kyiv’s “accomplices” – whether decision-makers in Nato or journalists justifying Ukraine’s actions – are active participants in a war against Russia. This makes them “legitimate military targets” who need to “be careful” even in London, where “anything goes”.

    Part of a pattern

    Medvedev’s comments, while extreme, fall within a broader pattern of Russian officials using humour or courting controversy to justify their positions or ensure international press coverage. But they are also part of an escalation in Russian attacks on freedom of expression and the press.

    Prior to the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Russia’s media environment was restricted. Opposition viewpoints could, however, still be accessed relatively easily from a range of sources, including the regional press, online outlets and the political blogosphere. But the Kremlin has gradually chipped away at these possibilities by increasing restrictions on independent media and social media users alike.

    These restrictions were ramped up even further following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Criticism of the armed forces and spreading what the Kremlin deems “false information” about the so-called “special military operation” were criminalised.

    Anti-war activists now routinely face conviction for justifying terrorism, and well-respected news outlets such as Ekho Moskvy have been forced to close. Journalists from Russia and abroad have been tried, convicted and incarcerated for allegedly violating these laws. They are often held in harsh conditions, in isolation and without access to adequate medical care.

    But it is not just journalists and activists within Russia who have come under threat from this increasingly authoritarian regime. As well as its military incursions into Georgia in 2008 and eastern Ukraine since 2014, Russian intelligence organisations have been blamed for a number of targeted provocations abroad in recent years. In the case of the 2018 Salisbury poisonings, these resulted in fatalities on British soil.

    Russian involvement is, of course, always denied. Kremlin propaganda uses a range of disinformation tactics to hide Russia’s culpability. With the Salisbury poisonings, this included an outlandish television interview on Russia’s RT network, where the main suspects claimed to be visiting health supplements salesmen. My research at the time showed that online audiences universally rejected their story, but incredulity over the interview overtook public anger.

    Contrasting values

    As my research has shown, extreme statements and conspiracy theories circulate rapidly and widely in today’s international media environment. With this in mind, it is common for the Kremlin and its proxies to mirror accusations back towards other parties and accuse them of hypocrisy.

    Taking questions from a US journalist in his end-of-year press conference and phone-in on December 19, Putin was asked about the “failure” of the special military operation in Ukraine. The reporter went on to describe Putin’s position as “weaker” than that of the incoming US president, Donald Trump.

    Putin insinuated that the very fact this US journalist was included in the event showed a better treatment by Russia of “esteemed” international journalists than Russian journalists receive from the US.

    This is patently untrue. Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich was imprisoned in Russia for 16 months on trumped-up espionage charges, after being detained in March 2023 while covering the effect of western sanctions on the Russian economy.

    Russia’s crackdown on freedom of speech and freedom of the press is precisely because authoritarian regimes recognise they are incredibly vulnerable to the free and open-ended enquiry that my co-authors and I have argued is so crucial to defend.

    As a spokesperson for the UK prime minister, Keir Starmer, noted in response to Medvedev’s latest comments: “A free press is a cornerstone of our democracy.”

    Precious Chatterje-Doody does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Times journalists deemed ‘legitimate military targets’ – how Russia muzzles criticism at home and abroad – https://theconversation.com/times-journalists-deemed-legitimate-military-targets-how-russia-muzzles-criticism-at-home-and-abroad-246361

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Whales can live way longer than scientists had thought, with potential lifespans as much as double previous estimates

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Greg Breed, Associate Professor of Quantitative Ecology, University of Alaska Fairbanks

    Animals with long lifespans tend to reproduce extremely slowly. Els Vermeulen

    Southern right whales have lifespans that reach well past 100 years, and 10% may live past 130 years, according to our new research published in the journal Science Advances. Some of these whales may live to 150. This lifespan is almost double the 70-80 years they are conventionally believed to live.

    North Atlantic right whales were also thought to have a maximum lifespan of about 70 years. We found, however, that this critically endangered species’ current average lifespan is only 22 years, and they rarely live past 50.

    These two species are very closely related – only 25 years ago they were considered to be one species – so we’d expect them to have similarly long lifespans. We attribute the stark difference in longevity in North Atlantic right whales to human-caused mortality, mostly from entanglements in fishing gear and ship strikes.

    Survivorship curves show female right whales can live to very old ages, but humans are causing North Atlantic right whales to die well short of their potential. Plotted for comparison is the U.S. survivorship curve for women as estimated by the Social Security Adminstration.
    Greg Breed

    We made these new age estimates using photo identification of individual female whales over several decades. Individual whales can be recognized year after year from photographs. When they die, they stop being photographically “resighted” and disappear. Using these photos, we developed what scientists call “survivorship curves” by estimating the probability whales would disappear from the photographic record as they aged. From these survivorship curves, we could estimate maximum potential lifespans.

    Twenty-five years ago, scientists working with Indigenous whale hunters in the Arctic showed that bowhead whales could live up to and even over 200 years. Their evidence included finding stone harpoon points that hadn’t been used since the mid-1800s embedded in the blubber of whales recently killed by traditional whalers. Analysis of proteins from the eyes of hunted whales provided further evidence of their long lifespan. Like right whales, before that analysis, researchers thought bowhead whales lived to about 80 years, and that humans were the mammals that lived the longest.

    In the years following that report, scientists tried to figure out what was unique about bowhead whales that allowed them to live so long. But our new analysis of the longevity of two close relatives of bowheads shows that other whale species also have potentially extremely long lives.

    Why it matters

    Understanding how long wild animals live has major implications for how to best protect them. Animals that have very long lifespans usually reproduce extremely slowly and can go many years between births. Baleen whales’ life history – particularly the age when females start breeding and the interval between calves – is strongly influenced by their potential lifespan. Conservation and management strategies that do not plan accordingly will have a higher chance of failure. This is especially important given the expected impacts of climate disruption.

    What still isn’t known

    There are many other large whales, including blue, fin, sei, humpback, gray and sperm whales. Like bowhead and right whales, these were also almost wiped out by whaling. Scientists currently assume they live about 80 or 90 years, but that’s what we believed about bowhead and right whales until data proved they can live much longer.

    How long can these other whale species live? Industrial whaling, which ended only in the 1960s, removed old whales from the world’s whale populations. Though many whale populations are recovering in number, there hasn’t been enough time for whales born after the end of industrial whaling to become old.

    It’s possible, even likely, that many other whale species will also prove to have long lifespans.

    Sixty years after the end of industrial whaling, today’s whale populations may still be missing their elders.
    Maxi Jonas/picture alliance via Getty Images

    What other research is being done

    Other research finds the loss of older individuals from populations is a phenomenon occurring across most large animal species. It diminishes the reproductive potential of many species. Researchers also argue this represents a real loss of culture and wisdom in animals that degrades their potential for survival in the face of changing conditions.

    What’s next

    We want to better understand how whaling affected the number of old individuals in current whale populations and predict when the number of old individuals will recover to prewhaling levels. Preliminary results suggest it may be another 100 years before whale populations truly recover, even for species whose populations now number as many as there were before whaling.

    For North Atlantic right whales, our research shows that even when the population was increasing, the management actions taken were insufficient to prevent these whales from dying far too young.

    The Research Brief is a short take on interesting academic work.

    Greg Breed received funding from The Royal Society

    Peter Corkeron headed the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s large whale research program for the northeastern US from 2011 to 2019, then led the New England Aquarium’s right whale research program through 2022.

    – ref. Whales can live way longer than scientists had thought, with potential lifespans as much as double previous estimates – https://theconversation.com/whales-can-live-way-longer-than-scientists-had-thought-with-potential-lifespans-as-much-as-double-previous-estimates-245826

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 23rd meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Armenia

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The meeting was held under the joint chairmanship of Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Alexey Overchuk and Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia Mher Grigoryan.

    23rd meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Armenia

    December 20, 2024

    23rd meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Armenia. Alexey Overchuk and Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia Mher Grigoryan

    December 20, 2024

    Previous news Next news

    23rd meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Armenia

    The 23rd regular meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Armenia was held in Moscow under the joint chairmanship of Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Alexey Overchuk and Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia Mher Grigoryan.

    The parties summed up the results of bilateral cooperation in trade and economic spheres, energy, industry, transport, agriculture, finance, healthcare, culture, science, interregional cooperation, education and tourism.

    “Our trade and economic relations continue to be on the rise. Mutual trade between Russia and Armenia, according to data for 10 months of 2024, amounted to 10.2 billion dollars. This is more than twice as much as the same indicator last year,” noted Alexey Overchuk, emphasizing that in order to implement trade and economic relations, the countries have almost completely switched to settlements in national currencies – the share of the Russian ruble in mutual settlements has reached 96.3%.

    The Russian Federation is one of the main investors in the Armenian economy. Investments in industrial projects in the Republic of Armenia have reached $3.4 billion. More than 40 large Russian companies operate in Armenia, some of them are the largest taxpayers in the state budget.

    “In addition to direct investments, Eurasian development institutions are also actively working,” said the Deputy Prime Minister. “Active work is underway here, including in support of the “Crossroads of the World” initiative, which was put forward by the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia Nikol Vovaevich Pashinyan.”

    The Chairman of the Russian part of the commission also noted that in July 2024, with the assistance of Russian Railways, the railway between Armenia and Georgia, damaged by flooding, was restored in the shortest possible time – the only railway connecting Armenia with the outside world, which is an important channel for delivering vital goods to Armenia.

    “All these investments and projects are being implemented with the aim of strengthening connectivity in the Eurasian region and the South Caucasus, in particular, integrating Armenia into the new value chains emerging in Eurasia and realizing the transport and logistics potential that the Republic of Armenia has, with unwavering respect for its sovereignty and jurisdiction,” Alexey Overchuk said in his speech.

    In the context of the work of Eurasian development institutions, the Deputy Prime Minister also noted the implementation of the irrigation systems modernization project: mechanical irrigation has been replaced by gravity irrigation, which provides annual energy savings. 5 main and 22 inter-farm canals have been restored. Work on the restoration and construction of intra-farm irrigation systems in 105 settlements of the Republic of Armenia has been completed.

    “Two weeks ago, our specialists agreed to assess the technical condition of eight bridges damaged by the floods in Lori and Tavush. All work will be completed as soon as possible, and we expect that by the end of the year, their results will be submitted to the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure of the Republic of Armenia,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

    During the meeting, the active development of cooperation in the humanitarian sphere was emphasized.

    “Today we are signing an intergovernmental Agreement on the conditions of operation of the Russian-Armenian University in the Republic of Armenia. This is one of the leading universities in Armenia, where more than 5 thousand students study, mastering 123 educational programs, 80 of which are taught according to Russian educational standards,” the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized.

    The university’s research and teaching staff includes 82 doctors and 332 candidates of science. The university’s structure includes 9 institutes, 31 departments and 12 laboratories.

    The University cooperates with the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, the Institute for System Programming of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the St. Petersburg Polytechnic University and other Russian scientific centers. Research projects are implemented in such areas as bioinformatics, genomic research, quantum nanophotonics, biochemistry and biotechnology.

    Work continues to provide opportunities to receive education according to Russian standards in the educational and sports complex, which includes a school for 700 students, built in Yerevan as part of the Gazprom for Children social program.

    The countries pay great attention to cooperation in the field of culture. Since 2023, a program to support Russian theaters abroad has been implemented, within the framework of which the Yerevan State Russian Drama Theater named after Stanislavsky was provided with financial assistance for the acquisition of stage equipment and the creation of new productions based on works of Russian classics. The Moscow Parajanov Theater, with the support of the Ministry of Culture of Russia and the Cultural Center of the Armenian Embassy in Russia, held a large-scale festival “Parajanov Fest”.

    Bilateral cooperation in the field of creative education is developing. Within the framework of the International Student Festival of VGIK, 38 films participating in the festival were screened at the Russian-Armenian University.

    In pursuance of the agreements reached at the meeting of the intergovernmental commission, the second Russian-Armenian Forum of Education in the Sphere of Culture was held in Moscow in December 2024.

    Cooperation in the healthcare sector is being strengthened, including within the framework of annual Russian-Armenian forums on healthcare. The ninth Russian-Armenian forum on healthcare, dedicated to issues of maternal and child health, was held on December 16, 2024 in Yerevan. During the forum, the system of extended perinatal screening developed and successfully applied in Russia was presented.

    Russia and Armenia are developing mutual tourism. In January-September 2024, the number of trips of Russian tourists to Armenia amounted to 715.8 thousand, and Armenian tourists to Russia – 266 thousand.

    Speaking about cooperation in multilateral formats, primarily through the Eurasian Economic Union, the Deputy Prime Minister noted that the union has become a real guarantor of Armenia’s energy and food security, as well as its technological development.

    “The Union countries are the key sales market and the key supplier to the Armenian market. The EAEU accounts for 56% of Armenia’s food exports, 80% of machinery and equipment exports, 67% of chemical exports, and 56% of textile exports. The EAEU also provides 72% of energy imports, 49% of precious metal imports, 38% of food imports, and 34% of timber imports. During its membership in the Union, the export of industrial goods from Armenia has grown 15-fold, and food exports from Armenia have grown 4-fold. Since joining the EAEU in 2015, Armenia’s per capita GDP has grown almost 2.4-fold. This was made possible by the benefits of a common goods market, low prices for agricultural raw materials and energy, a convenient migration regime, and a common services market,” said Alexey Overchuk.

    Following the meeting, the protocol of the 23rd meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Armenia was signed.

    The parties also signed an Agreement between the Government of the Russian Federation and the Government of the Republic of Armenia on the conditions for the operation of the Russian-Armenian University in the Republic of Armenia, a State Purchase Agreement for a polyvalent, cultured, sorbed, inactivated foot-and-mouth disease vaccine, an Agreement between the Government of the Russian Federation and the Government of the Republic of Armenia on the conditions for the operation of the Educational and Sports Complex of Gazprom Armenia CJSC in Yerevan, and a work plan for the Russian-Armenian Business Council for 2025.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –