NewzIntel.com

Blog

  • MIL-OSI Security: Appeal following sexual assault and robbery in Finchley

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives are appealing for help to identify a man after a woman was sexually assaulted and had her possessions stolen in north London.

    Police were called at 04:35hrs on Friday, 13 September to reports of a robbery on Regents Park Road in Finchley.

    The victim, aged in her 70s, was getting off a bus when she was followed by an unknown man who pushed her into a doorway and sexually assaulted her. He then ran off having stolen her bank cards and roughly £20,000 worth of jewellery.

    The victim suffered several broken ribs and a broken leg as a result of the incident and remains in hospital.

    PC Harry Morrice, from the North West area’s local investigations team, said: “This was an extremely distressing incident which has left an elderly woman in hospital, having suffered serious injuries.

    “We are committed to finding the perpetrator and continue to carry out a number of enquiries in order to hold those responsible to account.

    “We are now releasing an image of a man we would like to identify and are asking for assistance from the public. We are also keen to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time and may have seen the robbery, or a man running off.

    “Any information you provide will be treated in the strictest confidence. Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously.”

    Anyone who knows this man or has information can call police on 101 or message @MetCC on X quoting CAD 838/13Sep.

    Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Criminal damage – Yarrawonga

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Northern Territory Police are investigating an attempted ram-raid incident in Yarrawonga this morning.

    Around 4:00am, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received a report of an abandoned Toyota Troop Carrier next to a damaged business on the Stuart Highway, Yarrawonga.

    Investigations confirmed the vehicle was stolen from a business address in Berrimah earlier in the night.

    Forensics has been completed on the vehicle and investigations are continuing.

    Strike Force Trident are investigating and are urging anyone with information on the matter to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference NTP2400096392 .

    You can also report anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or through https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Japan: Acquittal of man who spent 45 years on death row pivotal moment for justice – Amnesty International

    Source: Amnesty International

    Responding to the acquittal of Japanese man Iwao Hakamada, who spent nearly five decades on death row, Amnesty International’s East Asia Researcher Boram Jang said:

    “We are overjoyed by the court’s decision to exonerate Iwao Hakamada. After enduring almost half a century of wrongful imprisonment and a further 10 years waiting for his retrial, this verdict is an important recognition of the profound injustice he endured for most of his life. It ends an inspiring fight to clear his name by his sister Hideko and all those who supported him.

    “As we celebrate this long overdue day of justice for Hakamada, we are reminded of the irreversible harm caused by the death penalty. We strongly urge Japan to abolish the death penalty to prevent this from happening again.

    “Japanese authorities must also review all existing death sentences, particularly when there are concerns of mental and intellectual disabilities. Only complete abolition of capital punishment will ensure that such grave errors are never repeated, and people not irreversibly and arbitrarily deprived of their lives. Amnesty International will continue to push for the abolition of the death penalty and for reforms that ensure fairness and justice for all.”

    Background

    On 26 September 2024, a long-awaited ruling was delivered by Shizuoka District Court to acquit Hakamada Iwao, described as the world’s longest-serving death row prisoner.

    During his first trial, Hakamada was convicted of the murder of his employer and his employer’s family, largely based on a forced “confession”. He “confessed” to the crime after 20 days of interrogation by police. Hakamada proceeded to retract the “confession” during the trial, alleging that police had threatened and beaten him. Hakamada was sentenced to death by Shizuoka District Court in 1968 and spent over 45 years held on death row.

    In March 2014, Hakamada was granted a retrial by Shizuoka District Court and was released from prison after DNA evidence surfaced which questioned the reliability of his conviction.

    The decision to open a retrial was based on more than 600 pieces of evidence disclosed by the prosecutor. This evidence undermined the legitimacy of earlier evidence.

    In June 2018, the Tokyo High Court overturned the decision of the lower court denying Hakamada’s retrial after an appeal from prosecutors. Hakamada’s lawyers appealed this ruling, which led to Japan’s Supreme Court reversing the High Court decision in December 2020 and asking it to re-examine the appeal. Eventually, the Tokyo High Court also ruled in support of the Supreme Court decision for retrial in March 2023.

    Hakamada’s retrial officially commenced in October 2023. The forced “confession” was excluded from the evidence. Prosecutors have since continued to voice their support for upholding the conviction and for Hakamada to be sentenced to death.

    Japan has continued to carry out executions − including of people who had judicial appeals pending, which is in violation of international safeguards guaranteeing protection of the rights of those facing the death penalty. The last execution in Japan was carried out on 26 July 2022. As of 31 December 2023, 107 out of the 115 people on death row had their death sentences finalized and were at risk of execution. Those on death row continued to be held in solitary confinement; and in the absence of effective safeguards or transparent regular psychiatric evaluations, persons with mental (psycho-social) and intellectual disabilities continued to be subjected to the death penalty, in violation of international law and standards.

    Amnesty International opposes the death penalty in all cases without exception regardless of the nature or circumstances of the crime; guilt, innocence or other characteristics of the individual; or the method used by the state to carry out the execution.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: In a new manifesto, OpenAI’s Sam Altman envisions an AI utopia – and reveals glaring blind spots

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hallam Stevens, Professor of Interdisciplinary Studies, James Cook University

    Ryan Carter Images / Shutterstock

    By now, many of us are probably familiar with artificial intelligence hype. AI will make artists redundant! AI can do lab experiments! AI will end grief!

    Even by these standards, the latest proclamation from OpenAI chief executive Sam Altman, published on his personal website this week, seems remarkably hyperbolic. We are on the verge of “The Intelligence Age”, he declares, powered by a “superintelligence” that may just be a “few thousand days” away. The new era will bring “astounding triumphs”, including “fixing the climate, establishing a space colony, and the discovery of all of physics”.

    Altman and his company – which is trying to raise billions from investors and pitching unprecedently huge datacentres to the US government, while shedding key staff and ditching its nonprofit roots to give Altman a share of ownership – have much to gain from hype.

    However, even setting aside these motivations, it’s worth taking a look at some of the assumptions behind Altman’s predictions. On closer inspection, they reveal a lot about the worldview of AI’s biggest cheerleaders – and the blind spots in their thinking.

    Steam engines for thought?

    Altman grounds his marvellous predictions in a two-paragraph history of humanity:

    People have become dramatically more capable over time; we can already accomplish things now that our predecessors would have believed impossible.

    This is a story of unmitigated progress heading in a single direction, driven by human intelligence. The cumulative discoveries and inventions of science and technology – Altman reveals – have led us to the computer chip and, inexorably, to artificial intelligence which will take us the rest of the way to the future. This view owes much to the futuristic visions of the singularitarian movement.

    Such a story is seductively simple. If human intelligence has driven us to ever-greater heights, it is hard not to conclude that better, faster, artificial intelligence will drive progress even farther and higher.

    This is an old dream. In the 1820s, when Charles Babbage saw steam engines revolutionising human physical labour in England’s industrial revolution, he began to imagine constructing similar machines for automating mental labour. Babbage’s “analytical engine” was never built, but the notion that humanity’s ultimate achievement would entail mechanising thought itself has persisted.

    According to Altman, we’re now (almost) at that mountaintop.

    Deep learning worked – but for what?

    The reason we are so close to the glorious future is simple, Altman says: “deep learning worked”.

    Deep learning is a particular kind of machine learning that involves artificial neural networks, loosely inspired by biological nervous systems. It has certainly been surprisingly successful in a few domains: deep learning is behind models that have proven adept at stringing words together in more or less coherent ways, at generating pretty pictures and videos, and even contributing to the solutions of some scientific problems.

    So the contributions of deep learning are not trivial. They are likely to have significant social and economic impacts (both positive and negative).

    But deep learning “works” only for a limited set of problems. Altman knows this:

    humanity discovered an algorithm that could really, truly learn any distribution of data (or really the underlying “rules” that produce any distribution of data).

    That’s what deep learning does – that’s how it “works”. That’s important, and it’s a technique that can be applied to various domains, but it’s far from the only problem that exists.

    Not every problem is reducible to pattern matching. Nor do all problems provide the massive amounts of data that deep learning requires to do its work. Nor is this how human intelligence works.

    A big hammer looking for nails

    What is interesting here is the fact that Altman thinks “rules from data” will go so far towards solving all humanity’s problems.

    There is an adage that a person holding a hammer is likely to see everything as a nail. Altman is now holding a big and very expensive hammer.

    Deep learning may be “working” but only because Altman and others are starting to reimagine (and build) a world composed of distributions of data. There’s a danger here that AI is starting to limit, rather than expand, the kinds of problem-solving we are doing.

    What is barely visible in Altman’s celebration of AI are the expanding resources needed also for deep learning to “work”. We can acknowledge the great gains and remarkable achievements of modern medicine, transportation and communication (to name a few) without pretending these have not come at a significant cost.

    They have come at a cost both to some humans – for whom the gains of global north have meant diminishing returns – and to animals, plants and ecosystems, ruthlessly exploited and destroyed by the extractive might of capitalism plus technology.

    Although Altman and his booster friends might dismiss such views as nitpicking, the question of costs goes right to the heart of predictions and concerns about the future of AI.

    Altman is certainly aware that AI is facing limits, noting “there are still a lot of details we have to figure out”. One of these is the rapidly expanding energy costs of training AI models.

    Microsoft recently announced a US$30 billion fund to build AI data centres and generators to power them. The veteran tech giant, which has invested more than US$10 billion in OpenAI, has also signed a deal with owners of the Three Mile Island nuclear power plant (infamous for its 1979 meltdown) to supply power for AI. The frantic spending suggests there may be a hint of desperation in the air.

    Magic or just magical thinking?

    Given the magnitude of such challenges, even if we accept Altman’s rosy view of human progress up to now, we might have to acknowledge that the past may not be a reliable guide to the future. Resources are finite. Limits are reached. Exponential growth can end.

    What’s most revealing about Altman’s post is not his rash predictions. Rather, what emerges is his sense of untrammelled optimism in science and progress.

    This makes it hard to imagine that Altman or OpenAI takes seriously the “downsides” of technology. With so much to gain, why worry about a few niggling problems? When AI seems so close to triumph, why pause to think?

    What is emerging around AI is less an “age of intelligence” and more an “age of inflation” – inflating resource consumption, inflating company valuations and, most of all, inflating the promises of AI.

    It’s certainly true that some of us do things now that would have seemed magic a century and a half ago. That doesn’t mean all the changes between then and now have been for the better.

    AI has remarkable potential in many domains, but imagining it holds the key to solving all of humanity’s problems – that’s magical thinking too.

    Hallam Stevens has previously received funding from the Ministry of Education (Singapore), the National Heritage Board (Singapore), the National Science Foundation (USA) and the Wenner-Gren Foundation.

    – ref. In a new manifesto, OpenAI’s Sam Altman envisions an AI utopia – and reveals glaring blind spots – https://theconversation.com/in-a-new-manifesto-openais-sam-altman-envisions-an-ai-utopia-and-reveals-glaring-blind-spots-239841

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Are private hospitals really in trouble? And is more public funding the answer?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Anthony Scott, Professor of Health Economics and Director, Centre for Health Economics, Monash Business School, Monash University

    Monkey Business Images/Shutterstock

    A battle between private hospitals and private health insurers is playing out in public.

    At its heart is how much health insurers pay hospitals for their services, and whether that’s enough for private hospitals to remain viable.

    Concerns over the viability of the private health system have caught the attention of the federal government, which has launched a review into private hospitals that has yet to be made public.

    But are private hospitals really in trouble? And if so, is more public funding the answer?

    Private hospitals vs private health insurers

    Many private hospital operators have reported significant pressures since the start of the COVID pandemic, including staff shortages.

    Inflationary pressures have increased the costs of supplies and equipment, pushing up the costs of providing hospital care.

    Now, private hospitals have publicised their difficult contract negotiations with private health insurers in an attempt to gain support and help their case.

    Healthscope, which runs 38 for-profit private hospitals in Australia, has been threatening to end agreements with private health insurers.

    St Vincent’s, which operates ten not-for-profit private hospitals, announced it would end its contract with nib (one of Australia’s largest for-profit health insurers) but then reached an agreement.

    UnitingCare Queensland, which operates four private hospitals, announced it would end its contract with the Australian Health Service Alliance, which represents more than 20 small and medium non-profit private health insurers. Since then, the two parties have also kissed and made up.

    Why should we care?

    There are three reasons why viability of the private health sector affects us all, regardless of whether we have private health insurance or use private hospitals.

    1. Taxpayers subsidise the private health system

    Australian taxpayers subsidised private health insurance premiums by A$6.3 billion
    (in premium rebates) in 2021–22. Much of this makes its way to private hospitals. Medicare also subsidised fees for medical services delivered for private patients in private and public hospitals to the tune of $3.81 billion in 2023–24.

    But when the going gets tough, the private health sector (both hospitals and health insurers) turns to the government for more handouts.

    So we should be concerned about the value we currently get from our public investment into the private health system, and if more public investment is warranted.

    2. Public hospitals may be affected if private hospitals close

    Calls for greater government support for private health have long argued that a larger private hospital sector would help reduce pressures on the public system.

    Indeed, this was the justification for a series of incentives introduced from the late 1990s to support private health insurance in Australia.

    However, the extent of this is hotly debated. Recent evidence shows higher private health insurance coverage leads to only very small falls in waiting times in public hospitals.

    While it is possible the closure of a few private hospitals might lead some patients to seek care in public hospitals, this shift might not be that large and will not increase waiting times too much.

    3. Fewer private beds, but is that a bad thing?

    If unviable private hospitals close or merge, we’d expect to see fewer
    private hospital beds overall.

    Fewer private hospital beds is not necessarily bad news. Mergers of small private day hospitals, in particular, might make them more efficient and lead to lower costs, which in turn lowers health insurance premiums.

    We might also need fewer private beds. This is due to policies that try to shift health care out of hospitals into the community or the use of
    hospital-in-the-home schemes (where patients receive hospital-type care at home with the support of visiting health staff and/or telehealth). The private health insurers are supporting both.

    If a few small private hospitals close, this reflects the market adjusting to less demand for hospital care. Some of the closures have been for maternity wards but with falling birth rates, this also seems like an appropriate market adjustment.

    Falling birth rates mean less demand for maternity wards.
    christinarosepix/Shutterstock

    What do we know?

    Any objective data about what is happening in the private hospital sector is scarce. This is mainly because the Australian Bureau of Statistics has stopped a compulsory survey of all private hospitals. The latest data we have is from 2016–17.

    Health insurers are the largest payer of private hospitals and hence wield a considerable amount of negotiating power. In 2016–17, almost 80% of private hospitals’ income came from private health insurers. Health insurers have also increasingly become “active” purchasers of health care – not just passively paying insurance claims, but wanting to strike a good deal with private hospitals for their members to keep premiums (and costs) down, and profits high.

    Reports of hospitals closing ignore hospitals that are opening at the same time. But since 2016–17 there are no publicly reported data on the total number of private hospitals in Australia or changes over time.

    The latest figures we have show about half of all hospitals in Australia are private, and of these 62% are for-profit with the rest run by not-for-profit organisations (such as St Vincent’s).

    The main for-profit providers are Ramsay Health Care and Healthscope. Both have operations overseas and were in trouble before the COVID pandemic.

    Fast-forward to 2024 and the recent issues with contract negotiations suggests the financial situation of for-profit private hospitals might not have improved. So this could reflect a long-term issue with the sustainability of the private hospital sector.

    What are the options?

    The private health system already receives large public subsidies. So the crux of the current debate is whether the government should intervene again to prop up the private sector. Here are some options:

    • do nothing and let this stoush play out Closure and mergers of private hospitals might be good if smaller hospitals and wards are no longer needed and patients have other alternatives

    • introduce more regulation Negotiations between small groups of private hospitals and very large dominant private health insurers may not be efficient. If the insurers have significant market power they can force small groups of private hospitals into submission. Some private hospital groups may be negotiating with many different health insurers at the same time, which can be costly. Regulation of exactly how these negotiations happen could make the process more efficient and create a more level playing field

    • change how private hospitals are paid Public hospitals are essentially paid the same national price for each procedure they provide. This provides incentives for efficiency as the price is fixed and so if their costs are below the price, they can make a surplus. Private hospitals could also be funded this way, which could remove much of the costs of contract negotiations with private hospitals. Instead, private hospitals would be free to focus on other issues such as the number and quality of procedures, and providing high-value health care.

    How do we help private hospitals become more efficient? Regulating prices and contract negotiations are a start.
    Kitreel/Shutterstock

    What next?

    Revisiting the regulation of prices and contract negotiations between private hospitals and private health insurers could potentially help the private hospital sector to be more efficient.

    Private health insurers are rightly trying to encourage such efficiencies but the tools they have to do this through contract negotiations are quite blunt.

    As we wait for the results of the review into the private hospital sector, value for money for taxpayers is paramount. We are all subsidising the private hospital sector.

    Anthony Scott has previously received funding from the Medibank Better Health Foundation.

    Terence C. Cheng 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. Are private hospitals really in trouble? And is more public funding the answer? – https://theconversation.com/are-private-hospitals-really-in-trouble-and-is-more-public-funding-the-answer-238891

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Want to make a difference? Go to school

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Students should be in school and learning instead of protesting during school hours, Associate Education Minister David Seymour says in response to the school climate strike planned for Friday 27th September.

    “If students feel strongly about sending a message, they could have waited until Monday, when the end of term holidays begin and there is no school for two weeks. It has become far too common to sacrifice valuable learning time for other causes,” says Mr Seymour.     

    “The previous government said that protesting instead of attending school could be justified. This in my view is unacceptable. My expectation is that schools will treat students protesting today as explained but unjustified absences. 

    “I appreciate that some students have passionate views and are anxious about their futures. To that effect I want to be clear, if they want to make real change in the world, they need to turn up to school and get a good education now. 

    “New Zealand attendance rates are low by national and international standards. In 2023, 80.6% of students in England and 61.6% of students in Australia were attending using a measure similar to the Term 2 New Zealand regular attendance rate, which was only 47.1%.   

    “Today I announced the introduction of the Stepped Attendance Response (STAR) system. The STAR system will help the government to reach its goal of 80% of students attending class 90% of the time by 2030.  

    “The idea of the STAR system is that no child will be left behind. To achieve this, any student who reaches a clearly defined threshold of days absent will trigger an appropriate and proportionate response from their school and the Ministry, targeted at returning them to the classroom.  

    “I encourage students, parents, and educators to prioritise education. That is what this Government is doing, and it is what is required for New Zealand to have a better future.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Export Sector – 2024 ExportNZ DHL Barometer reveals challenges and opportunities in the Business Central region

    Source: Business Central

    2024 ExportNZ DHL Barometer reveals challenges and opportunities in the Business Central region
    The 2024 ExportNZ DHL Barometer, released this week, reveals challenges and opportunities for exporters in the Business Central region, alongside suggestions to boost export growth.
    This year’s survey shows signs of optimism, despite challenging conditions at home and abroad.
    Business Central CEO Simon Arcus says: “These results prove what we know already – exporters in our region are exceptionally resilient, managing to grow export earnings despite the challenges of a sluggish economy and the damage of Cyclone Gabrielle.”
    “I acknowledge the really difficult time that Hawke’s Bay and Gisborne faced in the recent past. It’s a credit to the hard work of businesses in our region that more than half expect their orders to grow,” says Arcus.
    Business Central represents exporters across the lower North Island and Nelson-Tasman through our network partner, ExportNZ. Businesses in the region contribute significantly to New Zealand’s export earnings, primarily through manufacturing and agriculture.
    39% of exporters in the region saw orders increase in the last 12 months. 28% saw a decrease, while 28% saw them stay the same.
    Encouragingly, 54% of businesses expect export orders to increase in the next 12 months.
    But the survey reveals significant cost pressures are restraining export earnings. 78% of respondents saw costs increase in the past 12 months, with the cost of transport and logistics and the price of doing business in New Zealand cited as the biggest barriers to growth.
    There are a number of opportunities to boost exporters through enhanced government support. 43% of respondents in the Business Central region highlighted support for attending trade shows as an opportunity to export more, while 33% cited better access to market research. 29% called for new free trade agreements and better access to R&D.
    Business Central also welcomes the announcement of a new free trade agreement between New Zealand and the United Arab Emirates, which was signed today. 24% of firms in the Business Central region export to the Middle East.
    Joshua Tan, ExportNZ Executive Director, praised the industry’s response to the volatile economic and exporting environment.
    “The current operating environment is difficult to navigate, with persistent challenges connected with the rising cost of doing business. Despite the many challenges, exporters have expressed optimism and confidence in future growth through the survey, which is very encouraging.
    “Given the Government’s goal to double export value within ten years, there are areas where Government support would be valued by exporters – support to help them grow their businesses here in New Zealand and leverage market opportunities overseas,” says Tan.
    Business Central delivers and supports ExportNZ in the Hawke’s Bay and wider Central New Zealand region. It represents 3,500 employers and exporters across the lower North Island, providing advice, training, support, and advocates for policies that reflect the interests of the business community.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: TPM issues warning to Govt: Back down or prepare for the wrath of the million Māori

    Source: Te Pati Maori

    Today the government announced a $30m cut to Te Ahu o Te Reo Māori- a programme that develops te reo Māori among our kaiako.

    “This announcement is just the latest in an onslaught of attacks on te iwi Māori,” said Te Pāti Māori Co-Leader Rawiri Waititi.

    “This is what the new wave of colonisation looks like:

    • Demolishing Te Aka Whai Ora.
    • Throwing out Smokefree Targets- sentencing more Māori to premature death.
    • Sidestepping Te Tiriti with the fast-track bill.
    • Repealing section 7aa of the Oranga Tamariki Act – stealing our mokopuna.
    • Confiscating our coastlines with their Marine and Coastal Area Amendments.
    • Extracting oil and gas from our Moana.
    • Cutting $300 million of targeted Māori funding.
    • Cutting Matariki funding.
    • Rejecting the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People.
    • Defunding section 27 reports.
    • Restoring Three Strikes.
    • Building Mega-Prisons.
    • Resurrecting youth bootcamps.
    • Removing Te Mana o Te Wai obligations.
    • Ignoring the Waitangi Tribunal Recommendations and High Court Rulings.
    Setting in motion a wave of anti-Māori sentiment by giving life to the Treaty Principles Bill.

    “The government are playing with fire, and they must back down. Our people are too invested in our mokopuna and our whenua to let this ethnocide occur right in front of our eyes,” said Waititi.

    “Te iwi Māori, tangata Tiriti, and tangata Moana are all preparing to activate because we all believe in a Tiriti-centric Aotearoa that values the protection of our mokopuna, our whenua, and our taiao,” said Te Pāti Māori Co-Leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer.

    We will back the will of our people. We will support their intentions and their activations in all the ways we can.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU to begin classes as part of a practical course for postgraduate students “Fundamentals of Scientific Research”

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    Classes within the postgraduate course “Fundamentals of Scientific Research” will begin at Novosibirsk State University on September 26. This course is an integral part of the educational component of the new model of postgraduate study at NSU along with another discipline – “Academic English”. They are mandatory for first-year postgraduate students of all faculties of the university.

    The course program was developed by the head of the laboratory of functional diagnostics of low-dimensional structures for nanoelectronics Physics Department of NSU Pavel Geidt in 2022. The course is designed for one semester. Some postgraduate students study it in the first half of the academic year, the rest in the second. Over 360 young scientists have completed it in two years.

    — This course does not involve mastering the deep theoretical aspects of philosophy, entrepreneurship, communication psychology, natural sciences and other classical disciplines. It is rather a synthesis of several sections of these disciplines that have the greatest practical significance for graduate students at this stage. Its goal is to help young scientists from various sciences undergo postgraduate studies and further engage in independent research activities. The idea of ​​the course comes from a common problem: often university teachers do not tell graduate students in a structured way about a lot of practical information related to scientific activity, about its organizational and reporting aspects, about performance in projects, about the features of preparing grant applications, about etiquette in the scientific community and team , about information retrieval tools, about computer tools for working with data arrays and much more. As a result, graduate students face many difficulties: how to formulate a hypothesis for their research, how to prepare a publication for a scientific publication, how to successfully defend their dissertation and other uncertainties. The knowledge that they will receive as part of the course will help young scientists at the very beginning of their scientific career to build relationships with scientific supervisors, heads of departments and faculties, heads of scientific projects, employees of their laboratory, foundations, monitoring agencies and other structures that they will encounter ,” explained Pavel Geidt.

    The course consists of 8 lectures, including “The Main Aspects of Conducting Research”, “The Role of Management in Scientific Research”, “Financing Scientific Activity”, “Writing Scientific Publications”, “Participation in Scientific Events” and “Methods of Defending Dissertations through the Higher Attestation Commission and the NSU Dissertation Council”. These lectures will be given by Pavel Geidt, as well as Ilya Beterov, Associate Professor of the Quantum Electronics Department of the NSU Physics Faculty, Anna Komarova, Associate Professor of the Political Economy Department of the EF, Leading Researcher of the Laboratory of Empirical Analysis of Industry Markets of the EF, and Natalia Aksenova, Head of the Department of Support and Analysis of Scientific Research at NSU.

    The course includes two practical classes. Unlike lectures, which are a summary of existing knowledge and organized information from various sources, practical classes are original authorial material. The first class, “Michael Faraday’s Principle: Work, Finish, Publish,” was developed by Pavel Geidt.

    — Publication of research results in scientific journals is mandatory for every scientist, but for those who are taking their first steps in big science, this causes many difficulties. Which journal should I send my work to? How to write and format a manuscript correctly? How to respond to reviewers’ comments? Who decides whether to publish an article? What should I do if my manuscript is not accepted for publication? How can I make sure that it is published anyway? And these are far from all the questions that young researchers have at the first stage of their independent, thoughtful scientific work. We tried to recreate the process of preparing an article for publication in a classroom setting so that it would be understandable and “transparent.” The students are divided into 4 groups: a group of authors, the university administration, the editorial board of a foreign scientific journal, and the editorial board of a domestic publication. Each participant in the practical lesson receives their own role: scientist, scientific supervisor, editor-in-chief of a scientific journal, reviewer, and others. In this way, all stages of the process of creating and publishing an article are reproduced, and the roles of the participants in this process acquire meaning, as if they come to life, said Pavel Geidt.

    The second practical lesson “Critical Thinking in Science. TRIZ: Relevance for Technical and Humanitarian Sciences and Further Prospects for the Application of TRIZ for Dissertations” was developed and is being conducted by the Director Center for Technology Transfer and Commercialization of NSU Alexander Kvashnin. Teamwork is also important here. Mixed groups of young scientists from different faculties and institutes work together to resolve complex contradictions in science and technology that require a creative approach. Here, graduate students are also given homework: find a way to solve a technical problem within the framework of their dissertation research and describe it in 200 words.

    At this stage, it is expected that graduate students will develop the skills to formulate research problems and systematically design ways to solve these problems in the types of activities that interest them, encourage young scientists to methodologically reflect on their research project, instill a desire for clarity, structure and internal coherence of arguments and reasoning in their written works and oral presentations, and maintain interest in further in-depth mastery of disciplines related to the courses within and beyond the framework of their dissertations.

    — A budding scientist must be prepared for practical scientific work in graduate school and be able to conduct independent scientific research. This requires a clear knowledge of current scientific problems, the ability to analyze the state of the topic of interest and the related field of activity. Graduate students need skills in preparing grant applications, planning the execution of work and completing a project on time. Submitting reports with the publication of the results of intellectual activity, speaking at international conferences and, of course, successfully defending a dissertation are also important. We will teach graduate students to do science independently, as well as to speak about it in an understandable language, — Pavel Geidt summarized.

    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.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.nsu.ru/n/media/nevs/science/classes-will-begin-in-the-practical-course-for-graduate-students-fundamentals-of-scientific-research/

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 09.25.2024 Sen. Cruz Releases Statement on Passage of Continuing Resolution

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz
    Published: 09.25.2024
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) released the following statement after voting in favor of a short-term continuing resolution.
    Sen. Cruz said, “Today’s continuing resolution included several much-needed provisions to help ensure our presidential candidates are safe and to help states like Texas recover when disaster strikes. I have called for President Trump to receive greater security from the Secret Service, and this continuing resolution provides additional funding to help address serious problems in the Secret Service. Additionally, this CR replenishes our disaster relief fund to help Texas and other states recover from severe weather.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Electronics Showcases Galaxy’s PC-Level Gaming With #PlayGalaxy Cup at TwitchCon San Diego 2024

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung Electronics hosted the second #PlayGalaxy Cup at TwitchCon San Diego 2024 on September 21, offering participants a firsthand look at the powerful gaming capabilities of the Galaxy S24 Ultra.
     
    Partnering with global game streaming platform Twitch and game publisher Tencent’s popular battle royale game PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG) Mobile, Samsung staged a high-stakes showdown for streamers and gamers — proving that a PC isn’t necessary for immersive, thrilling gameplay.
     
    Sixteen of the world’s most popular streamers and professional e-sport gamers were divided into two teams that used PCs and Galaxy S24 Ultra devices for the competition.
     
    Equipped with keyboards and mice, the PC team featured star streamers Ludwig, Cinna and HutchMF as well as e-sport gamer TeeP.
     
    PUBG Mobile pro gamer Xifan and gaming content creators Bella Fox and Wynnsanity were armed with the Galaxy S24 Ultra devices on the mobile team. Thanks to the Qualcomm Snapdragon® 8 Gen 3 chipset, larger vapor chamber for improved heat management and industry-leading Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, the Galaxy S24 Ultra devices offered a new, lag-free gaming experience.
     

     

     
    While 300 fans witnessed the #PlayGalaxy Cup in person, the action was livestreamed globally via Twitch by streamer and former pro gamer NiceWigg — amassing 1.9 million views and more than 42,000 active viewers tuning in at one time. Twitch star Summit1G, one of PUBG Mobile’s partner streamers, also got in on the fun by broadcasting the tournament on his respective channel and captivating audiences around the world.
     
    “I never thought I’d experience such smooth gameplay on a mobile device,” said Farooq Amad of the winning team. “It’s incredible to see the level of gaming that can be achieved on mobile, and the Galaxy S24 Ultra has certainly raised the bar.”
     
    “This competition was designed to show that a PC-level gaming experience is possible on mobile,” said Saejin Kim, Vice President and Head of Marketing Strategy Group, Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. “We hope that both PC and mobile gamers enjoy their favorite titles on the Galaxy S24 Ultra.”
     
    With the #PlayGalaxy Cup, Samsung continues to break the boundaries of traditional mobile gaming through thrilling, PC-like performance that brings gamers to the edge of their seats.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Sampo plc’s share buybacks 25 September 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Sampo plc, stock exchange release, 26 September 2024 at 8:30 am EEST

    Sampo plc’s share buybacks 25 September 2024

    On 25 September 2024, Sampo plc (business code 0142213-3, LEI 743700UF3RL386WIDA22) has acquired its own A shares (ISIN code FI4000552500) as follows:                

    Sampo plc’s share buybacks Aggregated daily volume (in number of shares) Daily weighted average price of the purchased shares* Market (MIC Code)
      4,141 41.77 AQEU        
      40,636 41.74 CEUX
      1,326 41.78 TQEX
      45,119 41.73 XHEL
    TOTAL 91,222 41.73  

    *rounded to two decimals                

    On 17 June 2024, Sampo announced a share buyback programme of up to a maximum of EUR 400 million in compliance with the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) 596/2014 (MAR) and the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052. On 16 September 2024, the Board of Directors of Sampo plc resolved to increase the share buyback programme to EUR 475 million. The programme, which started on 18 June 2024, is based on the authorisation granted by Sampo’s Annual General Meeting on 25 April 2024.

    After the disclosed transactions, the company owns in total 7,403,567 Sampo A shares representing 1.35 per cent of the total number of shares in Sampo plc, taking the issuance of shares on 16 September 2024 into account.

    Details of each transaction are included as an appendix of this announcement.

    On behalf of Sampo plc,
    Morgan Stanley

    For further information, please contact:

    Sami Taipalus
    Head of Investor Relations
    tel. +358 10 516 0030

    Distribution:
    Nasdaq Helsinki
    Nasdaq Stockholm
    Nasdaq Copenhagen
    London Stock Exchange
    The principal media
    FIN-FSA
    DEN-FSA
    http://www.sampo.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Global Policy Advisors Releases Roadmap for Establishing a U.S. Sovereign Wealth Fund

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WILMINGTON, Del., Sept. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Global Policy Advisors LLC, a specialized sovereign wealth fund advisory, has published a detailed briefing outlining the potential for the United States to establish a Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF). The report, titled A Roadmap for Establishing a U.S. Sovereign Wealth Fund: Strategic Considerations and Governance, provides an in-depth examination of the key factors involved in developing a U.S. SWF, addressing the implications for policymakers, financial market participants, and other stakeholders.

    The briefing covers essential areas of consideration, including the potential types of SWFs suited for the United States, governance structures, the role of external investment managers, asset class allocations, and the political dynamics that would shape the fund’s creation and management. It also explores how financial institutions like Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan, Citadel, Lazard, and specific hedge fund and private equity firms may serve as derivative beneficiaries of the SWF’s investment activities.

    “This report serves as a comprehensive guide for those evaluating the complex decision-making processes surrounding the potential establishment of a U.S. sovereign wealth fund,” said Salar Ghahramani, the executive director of Global Policy Advisors. “It offers a structured framework for navigating the multi-faceted implications and provides insights for both public policymakers and market participants.”

    Highlights of the briefing include:

    • A review of SWF types, including stabilization, development, and pension reserve funds.
    • Analysis of governance models and institutional reporting structures, focusing on oversight mechanisms and transparency.
    • Examination of the potential role of external investment managers, including U.S.-based firms like BlackRock, Vanguard, Apollo Global Management, and Citadel.
    • Discussion of the political considerations that may exclude non-U.S. investment managers and firms from participation.
    • A look at the derivative beneficiaries of SWF activities, including major U.S. financial institutions.
    • A projection that the U.S. may eventually establish multiple SWFs to address various economic needs.

    The report presents an objective framework for assessing the feasibility and potential impact of a U.S. SWF, without advocating for or against its creation. A summary of the report and the instructions for accessing the full report are available on GPA’s website.

    About Global Policy Advisors

    Global Policy Advisors® LLC is a boutique sovereign wealth fund advisory and consultancy to corporations, boards of directors, and institutional investors — including hedge funds, public pension funds, and SWFs. GPA provides research and advisory services in the intersection of law, policy, and finance, with a focus on governance, international and regulatory affairs, and public policy insights. ​

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by SITI at event of “Unleashing Tomorrow, Today at InnoPark” (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Speech by SITI at event of “Unleashing Tomorrow, Today at InnoPark” (English only)
    Speech by SITI at event of “Unleashing Tomorrow, Today at InnoPark” (English only)
    ******************************************************************************************

         Following is the speech by the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, at the event of “Unleashing Tomorrow, Today at InnoPark” today (September 26):Sunny (Chairman of Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTPC), Dr Sunny Chai), Albert (Chief Executive Officer of HKSTPC, Mr Albert Wong), honourable LegCo Members, Ivan (Commissioner for Innovation and Technology, Mr Ivan Lee), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,     Good morning. I am delighted to join you all today at the event of “Unleashing Tomorrow, Today at InnoPark”. It is my pleasure to witness the launching of the two notable initiatives in InnoPark, namely the High-Performance Computing Service in Tseung Kwan O and the Microelectronics Centre (MEC) in Yuen Long.      A complete innovation and technology (I&T) industry chain has to be backed by industries. We strive to attract and nurture more technology industries of strategic importance conducive to the real and digital economy and promote the development of “new industrialisation” in Hong Kong. Developing AI (artificial intelligence) and microelectronics industries are both our focus.     The Government has been adopting all-round strategy to develop the AI ecosystem. The new High-Performance Computing Service is expected to support the growth of around 300 companies working on AI and data technology in Science Park’s ecosystem and provides them with new insights and discovery in various fields. Together with the new AI Supercomputing Centre in Cyberport, with the first phase facility to start operating this year, the support to the strong local demand for computing power will be further strengthened.     Earlier this year, we obtained the LegCo’s approval for the establishment of the Hong Kong Microelectronics Research and Development Institute (MRDI). As the anchor tenant, the MRDI will make good use of microelectronics-specific infrastructure to be provided by the MEC, including the lightweight workshops and co-working spaces to be commissioned later this year. I also look forward to the timely commissioning of the remaining critical parts, before end of next year to bolster the full support for the microelectronics industry, from design to pilot run and beyond.      Taking this opportunity, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Hong Kong Science Park for launching these two meaningful initiatives. I look forward to the synergy to be created with other stakeholders to promote the development of emerging industries, including AI and microelectronics, in Hong Kong, and to build a vibrant I&T ecosystem, so as to contribute to the development of “new quality productive force” and high-quality development for our country and Hong Kong. Thank you very much.

     
    Ends/Thursday, September 26, 2024Issued at HKT 13:26

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sergei Sobyanin: 262 socially oriented NGOs received city support

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    More than 20 years ago, a grant competition for socially oriented non-profit organizations (NPOs) was established in Moscow. Every year, the best initiatives are selected in the capital and up to five million rubles are allocated for their implementation. Over the entire period, more than 3.4 thousand projects have received city support.

    “In 2024, the competition broke the record for the number of approved applications. This time, proposals were received from about 900 NGOs, 262 of which received support,” Sergei Sobyanin said in

    on your blog.

    The grant amounts range from 500 thousand to five million rubles. They are provided for projects in the following nominations: “Charity”, “Safe Moscow”, “Ecology of the Megapolis”, “Civic Initiatives”, “Creative Moscow”, “Volunteering and Volunteering”, “Media Moscow”, “Family Moscow” and “Urban Innovations”. The most popular nominations in terms of the number of laureate initiatives were “Youth of Moscow” (62 projects), “Our Heritage” (55 projects), “Healthy Lifestyle and Sports” (37 initiatives).

    The full list of award winners has been published on the website.

    An independent assessment was conducted by an expert council. It included representatives of the Moscow Public Chamber, scientific, research and educational communities, and NGOs. Each project was assessed by three experts, and they did not have the opportunity to see the marks of their colleagues.

    The projects were assessed based on their significance for the city and its residents, relevance and feasibility. The experts also took into account the effectiveness of the proposed solution, its efficiency and uniqueness.

    Career guidance for schoolchildren and assistance to SVO participants

    Among the winners is the Artificial Intelligence project of the scientific and educational center of the Moscow State Technical University named after N.E. Bauman. The center itself is engaged in career guidance for schoolchildren: young research staff help students develop engineering thinking and the skills they need when entering technical universities.

    This year, the center’s team intends to develop two additional education programs of 16 academic hours each, which any high school student will be able to study.

    The Association of Veterans of the Special Military Operation (SVO) helps combat veterans adapt to civilian life faster and involves them in educating the younger generation. The grant is intended to launch the project “Museums of the Special Military Operation in Moscow Schools”. Five schools will be involved in it – museum exhibits will open in the institutions, courage lessons will be held, and meetings with SVO heroes will be held. The project will be implemented in 2025.

    Another project in support of the special military operation is the center for legal assistance to SVO participants and their families of the regional public organization “Lotus”. The center’s specialists will deal with various issues – from registration of status, benefits and payments for housing and communal services to entering into inheritance rights.

    The project “Equal to equal. Adaptation club” is implemented by the Foundation for the Promotion of the Russian Language and Education in Russian. Its goal is to help young people with disabilities adapt to universities. In several capital institutions of higher professional education, students will be taught the basics of inclusive volunteering. Specialists will talk about the problems and difficulties of children with disabilities during their studies and ways to help them. A special online portal will post methodological materials, video courses and lectures that will help children with disabilities quickly get used to the new environment and not feel lonely in a group.

    The charitable foundation for helping children born at an early stage, “Give me some sunshine”, will launch a program for the social, physical and creative development of children with disabilities. The participants of the project “We, playing, study, speak and understand” will be children aged six to 12 years. They will work with an adaptive physical education trainer and a speech development specialist. Speech therapy equipment will be purchased for correctional classes. The training will take place in the family center opened by the foundation.

    Winners of last year’s grant competitions

    The international charitable public organization “Fair Aid of Doctor Lisa” helps citizens who find themselves in difficult life situations – lonely pensioners, people left homeless, seriously ill patients. With the funds of the grant of the Mayor of Moscow, the organization launched the project “Let’s Extend a Helping Hand”, within the framework of which medical and social assistance was received by participants of the FAO. They were provided with medicines, hygiene products and medical supplies.

    The Global Impact Alliance, a charitable foundation for scientific research and development, is implementing the project Inclusive Routes: Virtual Reality Solutions for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. The scenario of the Public Transport project will soon be available for children with this diagnosis. The team has worked out all the elements of the bus in detail: validators, screens, and light indicators — everything to ensure that children’s adaptation to the virtual space is as close as possible to real conditions. As a result, the skill will be better consolidated, and during a trip on a real bus, the child will quickly get their bearings and remember what to do.

    The autonomous non-profit organization “Dynamic Guys” created a musical performance “You Can’t Fly, You Can’t Stay”. The plot is based on the story of people blocked in the capital’s airport due to weather conditions. The premiere took place at the beginning of the summer at the Moscow State Academic Theater “Russian Song”, more than 750 people saw it. And the video version of the performance has already collected over one million views.

    The Virta Charity Foundation held two exhibitions in support of homeless animals. The events were attended by over three thousand Muscovites. The foundation’s volunteers brought 270 dogs and cats from shelters to the exhibitions, 57 of which found a new home.

    The professional skills competition “Best in the Profession. Nanny of the Year” was held with the help of a grant. Participants were interviewed by psychologists, underwent reliability checks and completed competition tasks, as well as demonstrated medical knowledge and skills necessary for working with children. More than a thousand applications were received from nannies, educators, governesses and governesses of Moscow. Only 20 contenders for the title of the best reached the final. The competition was held by the ANO for assistance in employment and leisure of the adult population “Vozrasu. net” (the “Grandma for an hour” service).

    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.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://vvv.mos.ru/major/themes/11823050/

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Name Release, Arrowsmith Range Avalanche

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police are now able to release the name of the man who died after being recovered from an avalanche on the Arrowsmith Range on Wednesday 25 September.

    He was 38-year-old Brett Evans, of Staveley, Ashburton District. Police’s thoughts remain with his loved ones.

    Police inquiries are continuing into the death on behalf of the Coroner.

    WorkSafe has also been notified.

    ENDS

    Note to media: Family have requested privacy from the media at this difficult time. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Japan: Acquittal of man who spent 45 years on death row pivotal moment for justice

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Responding to the acquittal of Japanese man Iwao Hakamada, who spent nearly five decades on death row, Amnesty International’s East Asia Researcher Boram Jang said:

    “We are overjoyed by the court’s decision to exonerate Iwao Hakamada. After enduring almost half a century of wrongful imprisonment and a further 10 years waiting for his retrial, this verdict is an important recognition of the profound injustice he endured for most of his life. It ends an inspiring fight to clear his name by his sister Hideko and all those who supported him.

    “As we celebrate this long overdue day of justice for Hakamada, we are reminded of the irreversible harm caused by the death penalty. We strongly urge Japan to abolish the death penalty to prevent this from happening again.

    “Japanese authorities must also review all existing death sentences, particularly when there are concerns of mental and intellectual disabilities. Only complete abolition of capital punishment will ensure that such grave errors are never repeated, and people not irreversibly and arbitrarily deprived of their lives. Amnesty International will continue to push for the abolition of the death penalty and for reforms that ensure fairness and justice for all.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI: Coinweb Set to Launch Mainnet with over 40 Projects Building on the Interoperable Platform

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HONG KONG, Sept. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Coinweb (https://coinweb.io), a unique interoperable layer 2 platform, connecting Bitcoin, Ethereum and another 7 blockchains, will launch its Mainnet on 30th September. The Web3 industry is siloed with hundreds of blockchain ecosystems reliant on expensive and insecure bridges to exchange assets. Coinweb’s platform allows simple, secure and cost efficient transfers that can truly connect chains and massively improve the user experience across Web3 apps and services.

    Coinweb previously set out its criteria on April 24, which included: 1. Implementation of Refereed delegation of computation (‘RDoC’) into the first dApp going live on the platform, 2. The deployment of further nodes and 3. Resource optimisation upgrades. These features and upgrades enable streamlined deployment of dApps and application layer CWEB utility.

    Mainnet launch is a crucial step toward achieving Coinweb’s vision of unifying blockchains while enabling seamless interoperability across a wide range of networks. The rapid adoption of this approach is evident, with more than 40 projects building native dApps on Coinweb or integrating the platform into existing applications to enhance their performance. The final phase of development prior to launching our Mainnet has been focused on streamlining dApp deployments and improving support for CWEB in the application layer.

    Coinweb is unique in its ability to provide advanced Layer-2 functionality and cross-chain interoperability without introducing an additional consensus layer. By leveraging the consensus systems of underlying blockchains, developers can deploy decentralised applications that are scalable, cost-efficient, and capable of cross-chain interactions. This design ensures high performance, security, and a simplified experience for developers through WASM, without the complexities of managing an additional consensus layer.

    “Web3 has huge untapped potential but the sheer number of chains and complexity of moving assets across them makes onboarding new users and developing a thriving ecosystem a huge challenge. Coinweb’s interoperable network will simplify this hugely by allowing assets to move more freely than ever before,” said Toby Gilbert, Coinweb CEO and co-founder.

    Coinweb has partnered with top Web3 firms including KuCoin to assist teams building on its platform. The 40-plus active projects span DeFi, NFTs, RWA and more including CWAP SWAP, EstateX, Libertum, Morpheus Labs, Voy Finance and many more.

    The already announced builders include: Libertum, CWAP SWAP, Anarchy Games, Flush, Morpheus Labs, TiFi, Orbler, OrangeDX, THX NET, FoundersHub DAO, Academic Labs, SnegBet, Bounty Temple, DerpDex, Cyrator, EstateX, Starbreeders, xPad.Fund, DEGA, Alvara Protocol, Bonsai3, Renovi, Taurus AI, and Voy Finance.

    For more information, visit Coinweb’s website.

    About Coinweb

    The Coinweb Protocol is a groundbreaking Layer 2 cross-chain computation platform that uniquely combines Scalability with Interoperability, setting new standards in the blockchain industry. It enables the seamless operation of decentralised applications across multiple blockchains, effectively merging them into a unified ecosystem.

    About Coinweb Labs

    Coinweb Labs is the main contributor to the Coinweb protocol as well as a design and build consultancy specialising in creating custom-built solutions for decentralised applications. With a focus on innovation and collaboration, Coinweb Labs is dedicated to accelerating the development of projects within the Coinweb ecosystem.

    Social Links

    Discord: https://discord.com/invite/cWSQD3wJqY

    Telegram: https://t.me/coinweb

    X: https://x.com/CoinwebOfficial

    Media contact

    Brand: Coinweb

    Contact: Media team

    Email: support@coinweb.io

    Website: https://coinweb.io

    SOURCE: Coinweb

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Capital Markets Day – Solutions30 outlines its 2026 roadmap

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    A European leader in rapid-response, multi-technology fields services, positioned on attractive markets where key players are investing several billions per year

    A >€1 bn Group entering a new phase of its development, prioritizing margins and cash generation and applying strict selectivity and discipline to its operations, particularly on its most mature markets

    Germany emerging as Group’s top performer in terms of growth and profitability and future 3rdpillar alongside France and Benelux, with revenue to triple and reach €150m to €200m by 2026 as a first milestone

    Clear action plan to accelerate diversification in energy transition-related services, expected to triple in size in France by 2026 and to rise sharply in other countries

    Strong focus on margin: adjusted EBITDA margin expected above 10% in all three major geographies by 2026

    Disciplined capital allocation: selective and accretive bolt-on M&A while maintaining a conservative financial policy, based on non-dilutive financing

    Solutions30 is holding today a Capital Markets Day in Paris, where it will present its roadmap for 2026. The presentation is available live through a webcast (see connection details at the end of this press release).

    Gianbeppi Fortis, Chief Executive Officer said: “Over the past 20 years, Solutions30 has consistently demonstrated its ability to grow and replicate its unique business model across technologies and sectors where it makes a difference for its customers. Now, having surpassed €1bn in revenue across nine countries, Solutions30 is entering a new phase of development with clear priorities: to establish Germany as the Group’s third pillar and top-performing region, accelerate diversification into the energy transition-related services, prioritize margins over volumes through strict discipline and contract selectivity particularly in its mature markets, and improve cash generation while maintaining a conservative financial policy. Although our ambition extends far beyond, we are setting an initial milestone for 2026, with concrete action plans and realistic targets, tailored to each of our markets. We are confident that our strategy will drive sustainable, long-term profitable growth.”

    A European leader in rapid-response, multi-technology field services positioned on attractive markets driven by the digital transformation and the energy transition

    Since its inception 20 years ago, Solutions30 has demonstrated its agility to deploy its business model wherever it makes a difference. Originated as a technology company, it has followed technological evolution and captured market opportunities from IT support to telecommunications, then energy.

    Today, Solutions30 operates in 9 countries with 16,000 technicians and revenue over €1bn across 3 verticals: Connectivity (76% of Group revenue), Energy (14%) and Technology (10%). Key European customers on these markets, typically large technology and energy B2B and B2C groups, have announced several billion euros of investment budget per year, with a cumulative c.€50 billion p.a. in the coming years, driven by two strong secular trends that are shaping today’s world: the digital transformation and the energy transition.

    Entering a new phase of development with a clear 2026 roadmap

    Having surpassed the €1 billion revenue mark in 2023, and active in a broad range of markets with different stages of maturity, Solutions30 is entering a new phase of its development. Although its ambition extends far beyond, the Group is setting today an initial milestone for 2026, with concrete, bottom-up action plans and targets defined at regional level, and an over-arching priority given to selectivity and profitability.

    In Benelux, Solutions30 is currently navigating a temporary situation where ongoing negotiations between Belgian telecom service providers aimed at streamlining fiber deployments across the country are causing delays in the Group’s activities and therefore impacting its performance in 2024. However, faced with strong opportunities offered by the early stage of fiber roll-out in Belgium, as well as the massive investments in power grid upgrade across the region, the Group is confident it can capitalize on its strong market positioning and resume its profitable growth trajectory as soon as 2025 (regardless of the outcome of the aforementioned negotiations) and expects adjusted EBITDA margin above 10% by 2026.

    In France, vast opportunities lie ahead in the Energy sector, where the Group has successfully replicated his business model and has emerged as a key partner to its customers. Energy revenue is expected to triple compared to 2023 and reach c. €150 million in 2026. In Connectivity, the Group is working towards stabilization, applying strict contract selectivity and prioritizing margins over volumes, while positioning itself to seize future opportunities like copper decommissioning, which could represent a market size of up to €1 billion per year. Adjusted EBITDA margin, benefitting from the comprehensive transformation plan launched in 2022, is expected to be above 10% by 2026.

    Germany is delivering on its promises, establishing itself as the Group’s top performer in terms of revenue growth, margins and cash flow performance. While the region is on a trajectory to become Solutions30’s third pillar alongside France and Benelux, benefitting from unique market dynamics in both Connectivity and Energy, a first milestone is set in 2026, when Germany’s revenue is expected between €150 million and €200 million, with adjusted EBITDA margin well above 10%. The country should then continue to grow faster than the rest of the Group.

    Across the rest of Europe, Solutions30 has adopted a portfolio management approach, aiming at sustaining Poland’s profitable growth, further improving performance in the UK, and either restoring margin in Italy and Spain by 2026 or initiating a strategic review in these two countries.

    Targeted and selective bolt-on acquisitions as a key growth driver. Since 2009, the Group has leveraged this strategy, successfully completing over 30 acquisitions with a combined annual revenue of approximately €350 million, all financed without any capital increase. Bolt-on M&A will continue to be a central pillar of the Group’s growth strategy and a primary focus for capital allocation, as part of a conservative financial policy that has historically resulted in a very limited leverage ratio, consistently below 2x net debt to adjusted EBITDA, and excludes any dilutive financing instruments.

    Lastly, the Group confirms its 2024 full-year outlook, as detailed in its press release dated September 18th, 2024.

    Beyond 2026, longer-term ambitions

    Building on its strong positioning, the attractiveness of its markets, and the fragmented nature of its competition, Solutions30 believes that, in the long term, it can double in size, with a service portfolio increasingly focused on Energy, and achieve a double-digit adjusted EBITDA margin at the Group level. Upon completion of its 2026 roadmap, Solutions30 will host another Capital Markets Day to set objectives for the next milestone.

    Sustainability at the heart of Solutions30’s business

    A significant portion of Solutions30’s activities act as enablers of the energy transition. 8% of the Group’s revenue is aligned with the EU Taxonomy for sustainable activities, including installation and maintenance of Smart meters, photovoltaic panels, EV chargers and grid services, as well as reutilization and refurbishment of IT equipment. Internally, the Group has defined a comprehensive ESG strategy, translated into concrete objectives for 2024, which will be complemented by 2030 carbon emissions reduction targets for Scope 1, 2 & 3 through the SBTi process (validation expected by the end of 2024).

    Webcast for investors and analysts

    Date: Wednesday, September 26, 2024
    8:30 PM (CET) – 7:30 PM (GMT)

    Speakers:
    Thomas Kremer, Member of the Supervisory Board
    Gianbeppi Fortis, Chief Executive Officer
    Amaury Boilot, Group General Secretary
    Luc Brusselaers, Chief Revenue Officer
    Wojcieh Pomykala, Chief Operations Officer
    Katarzyna Kuszewska, Group Head of Legal
    Denis Coleu, Groupe HR Director
    Jonathan Crauwels, Chief Financial Officer
    Nathalie Duchesne, Group Head of ESG, Risk & Compliance

    Connection details:

    Webcast in English: https://solutions30.capital-markets-day.eu/

    Upcoming events

    Q3 2024 Revenue Report November 4, 2024 (after market close)

    About Solutions30 SE

    Solutions30 provides consumers and businesses with access to the key technological advancements that are shaping our everyday lives, especially those driving the digital transformation and energy transition. With its network of more than 16 000 technicians, Solutions30 has completed over 65 million call-outs since its inception and led over 500 renewable energy projects with a combined maximum output surpassing 1600 MWp. Every day, Solutions30 is doing its part to build a more connected and sustainable world. Solutions30 has become an industry leader in Europe with operations in 10 countries: France, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Spain, Portugal, the United Kingdom, and Poland.
    The capital of Solutions30 SE consists of 107,127,984 shares, equal to the number of theoretical votes that can be exercised. Solutions30 SE is listed on the Euronext Paris exchange (ISIN FR0013379484- code S30). Stock indexes: CAC Mid & Small | CAC Small | CAC Technology | Euro Stoxx Total Market Technology | Euronext Tech Croissance.
    Visit our website for more information: http://www.solutions30.com

    Contact

    Individual Shareholders:
    shareholders@solutions30.com – Tel: +33 (0)1 86 86 00 63

    Analysts/investors:
    investor.relations@solutions30.com

    Press – Image 7:
    Charlotte Le Barbier – Tel: +33 6 78 37 27 60 – clebarbier@image7.fr

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: SEALCOIN AG Announces Final SEALCOIN Timeline, Whitepaper Release, and Tokenomics Details

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SEALCOIN AG Announces Final SEALCOIN Timeline, Whitepaper Release, and Tokenomics Details

    Geneva, Switzerland – September 26, 2024: WISeKey International Holding Ltd. (“WISeKey” or the “Company”) (SIX: WIHN, NASDAQ: WKEY), a leading global cybersecurity and IoT company operating as a holding company, today announced that its subsidiary Sealcoin AG, which focuses on decentralized physical internet with DePIN technology and house the development of the SEALCOIN platform, is announcing the final timeline for the SEALCOIN project, including the highly anticipated release of its whitepaper in October 2024. The whitepaper will unveil the strategic vision, technical roadmap, and comprehensive tokenomics of SEALCOIN, marking a major milestone in the platform’s development.

    Key Milestones and Timeline:

    1. Proof of Concept (PoC): Successfully executed on July 25, 2024, demonstrating the platform’s ability to facilitate secure, autonomous IoT transactions.
    2. Pre-Seed Investment: Raised $2 million in mid-2024, positioning SEALCOIN for accelerated growth and development.
    3. FINMA Application: SEALCOIN AG is about to submit its application to the Swiss financial regulator FINMA, ensuring full regulatory compliance as the project advances.
    4. Platform Development: Officially launched in Q3 2024, the SEALCOIN platform’s development is underway, leveraging Hedera Hashgraph technology for enhanced scalability and security.
    5. Platform Production Release and Token Issuance: The SEALCOIN platform will go live, and the token will be officially issued, expected in mid-2025.
    6. Token Listing: SEALCOIN is targeting a digital exchange listing by Q3 2025, to provide liquidity and accessibility for token holders worldwide.

    Whitepaper Release in October 2024

    The SEALCOIN whitepaper, set to be released in October 2024, will provide an in-depth look at the platform’s technical architecture, governance model, and tokenomics. The document will outline SEALCOIN’s approach to enabling secure, decentralized, and autonomous transactions between IoT devices, powered by Hedera Hashgraph. Detailed tokenomics will include the allocation and distribution structure, vesting schedules, and SEALCOIN’s role as both a utility and payment token within the platform.

    The SEALCOIN Platform and Token Beta Version will be released as an MVP (Minimum Viable Product) on Hedera’s TestNet in Q1 2025. This milestone will allow users and developers to test SEALCOIN’s core functionalities in a controlled environment, showcasing the platform’s decentralized transaction capabilities between IoT devices and ensuring the smooth operation of the SEALCOIN token within the ecosystem before the full production release, set in Summer 2025.

    Carlos Moreira, CEO of SEALCOIN AG, commented, “With our PoC successfully completed and development in full swing, we are excited to share our roadmap and vision for the future of IoT transactions. The upcoming whitepaper will provide the community with full transparency on our tokenomics and the strategic steps we’re taking to achieve full decentralization.”

    About SEALCOIN

    SEALCOIN is a decentralized platform designed to facilitate secure, autonomous transactions between IoT devices. Built on Hedera Hashgraph, SEALCOIN allows devices to engage in seamless service-for-payment exchanges without the need for intermediaries. With a focus on privacy, scalability, and decentralized governance, SEALCOIN is poised to revolutionize the Internet of Things (IoT) landscape. 

    About WISeKey 

    WISeKey International Holding Ltd (“WISeKey”, SIX: WIHN; Nasdaq: WKEY) is a Swiss-based computer infrastructure company specializing in cybersecurity, digital identity, blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, and post-quantum semiconductors. As a computer infrastructure company, WISeKey provides secure platforms for data and device management across industries like finance, healthcare, and government. It leverages its Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) to ensure encrypted communications and authentication, while also focusing on next-generation security through post-quantum cryptography.

    WISeKey’s work with post-quantum semiconductors is aimed at future-proofing its security solutions against the threats posed by quantum computing. These advanced semiconductors support encryption that can withstand the computational power of quantum computers, ensuring the long-term security of connected devices and critical infrastructure. Combined with its expertise in blockchain and IoT, WISeKey’s post-quantum technologies provide a robust foundation for secure digital ecosystems at the hardware, software, and network levels.

    WISeKey operates as a holding company through several operational subsidiaries, each dedicated to specific aspects of its technology portfolio. The subsidiaries include (i) SEALSQ Corp (Nasdaq: LAES), which focuses on semiconductors, PKI, and post-quantum technology products, (ii) WISeKey SA which specializes in RoT and PKI solutions for secure authentication and identification in IoT, Blockchain, and AI, (iii) WISeSat AG which focuses on space technology for secure satellite communication, specifically for IoT applications, (iv) WISe.ART Corp which focuses on trusted blockchain NFTs and operates the WISe.ART marketplace for secure NFT transactions, and (v) SEALCOIN AG which focuses on decentralized physical internet with DePIN technology and house the development of the SEALCOIN platform.

    Disclaimer
    This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements concerning WISeKey International Holding Ltd and its business. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of WISeKey International Holding Ltd to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. WISeKey International Holding Ltd is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities, and it does not constitute an offering prospectus within the meaning of the Swiss Financial Services Act (“FinSA”), the FinSa’s predecessor legislation or advertising within the meaning of the FinSA. Investors must rely on their own evaluation of WISeKey and its securities, including the merits and risks involved. Nothing contained herein is, or shall be relied on as, a promise or representation as to the future performance of WISeKey.

    Press and Investor Contacts

    WISeKey International Holding Ltd 
    Company Contact:  Carlos Moreira
    Chairman & CEO
    Tel: +41 22 594 3000
    info@wisekey.com    		 WISeKey Investor Relations (US) 
    The Equity Group Inc.
    Lena Cati
    Tel: +1 212 836-9611 / lcati@equityny.com
    Katie Murphy
    Tel: +1 212 836-9612 / kmurphy@equityny.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Learmonth Airport benefits from better mobile coverage for regional Western Australians

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    The Albanese and Cook Governments have today welcomed a boost to mobile coverage and digital connectivity for travellers through Learmonth airport in Western Australia’s Gascoyne region, following the completion of a new mobile base station.

    The site was built by Telstra under the Commonwealth’s Regional Connectivity Program, with co-funding from the WA Government.

    Learmonth airport, located on a Royal Australian Air Force base, is the primary airport for the Exmouth region, including the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Marine Park.

    With the 3G network switching off on 28 October, the new 4G and 5G coverage will significantly improve mobile reception for the airport, local residents, tourists and fly-in, fly-out workers.

    The 25-metre-tall tower will cover an area of about 208 square kilometres.

    The State Government has contributed $35.7 million towards 89 projects across Western Australia so far under three rounds of the Regional Connectivity Program, which is delivering better mobile, internet and digital services to regional areas.

    Comments attributable to the Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP: 

    “It doesn’t matter where you live, access to reliable mobile coverage and connectivity is essential.

    “I’m extremely pleased that funding from the Government’s Regional Connectivity Program (RCP) has supported the Cook Government to deliver this vital connectivity boost for locals, tourists and workers at Learmonth airport. 

    “The Albanese Government is committed to narrowing the digital divide in rural and regional Australia, which is why we’re investing $1.1 billion through our Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia to deliver additional rounds of the RCP.” 

    Comments attributed to Western Australian Minister for Regional Development, the Hon Don Punch MLA: 

    “This new infrastructure at Learmonth airport will deliver better mobile connectivity for tourists visiting this stunning area, local residents, and fly-in fly-out workers.

    “These vital improvements will also help ensure the airport and ancillary services can embrace emerging technologies.

    “The Regional Connectivity Program is a great example of Commonwealth-State collaboration to improve digital connectivity and boost business capacity in regional and remote communities.

    “Since 2017, the WA Labor Government has committed $154 million to complement Commonwealth and industry investments in our State’s telecommunications infrastructure and will continue to work with the Commonwealth to bridge the ‘digital divide’ in our regions.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Readout of the Secretary-General’s meeting with H.E. Mr. Hamza Abdi Barre, Prime Minister of the Federal Republic of Somalia

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    The Secretary-General met with H.E. Mr. Hamza Abdi Barre, Prime Minister of the Federal Republic of Somalia. The Secretary-General congratulated the Prime Minister for Somalia’s election as a member of the Security Council.

    The Secretary-General and Prime Minister Barre discussed the progress made by Somalia. They discussed the Federal Government’s proposals for the transition of the UN mission in Somalia (UNSOM) and the security transition to a new AU-led mission.

    The Secretary-General reiterated the United Nations continued commitment to supporting Somalia in the period ahead including on governance and the electoral process.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Neguse, Lankford, Curtis Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill to Automatically Waive Fees for Replacing Critical Documents after a Natural Disaster

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Hickenlooper – Colorado
    Survivors of natural disasters like the Marshall Fire often have to pay thousands of dollars to replace documents necessary for rebuilding their lives
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper, James Lankford, along with Representatives Joe Neguse and John Curtis introduced the bipartisan, bicameral Replacing Essential Passports and Licenses After Certain Emergencies (REPLACE) Act, a bill to automatically waive replacement fees when survivors lose critical documents like passports, citizenship documents, and visas in natural disasters.
    “Wildfire and flood survivors have enough to worry about without also spending thousands to replace essential documents,” said Hickenlooper. “Let’s waive replacement fees so Coloradans can focus on recovery.”
    “Natural disasters are nothing new for Oklahomans. While families focus on rebuilding and helping their neighbors recover, they shouldn’t have to worry about extra replacement fees for documents like passports. This bill will automatically waive those charges for families when disaster strikes,” said Lankford.
    “In the aftermath of the Marshall Fire, our office assisted hundreds of Coloradans in recovering critical documents destroyed by the disaster. Whether a passport or a birth certificate, the fees for replacing all that was lost can quickly become overwhelming – which is why I am once again proud to join Senator Hickenlooper in championing the REPLACE Act, a bill to automatically make certain document replacement after disasters free of charge. Step by step, brick by brick, we’ll continue to work together on the road to recovery,” said Neguse.
    “I’m pleased to reintroduce the REPLACE Act and address the urgent needs of disaster-impacted Americans by ensuring fee waivers for essential documents are automatically granted. When a wildfire destroys a home, the last thing that a family should worry about is paying fees to replace their documents like passports and birth certificates,” said Curtis. “This legislation is particularly crucial for rural Utahns, who will benefit from streamlined access to document replacements in times of need.”
    Victims of major disasters can easily spend tens of thousands of dollars to replace critical documents lost during natural disasters including passports, employment authorizations, green cards, and more.
    Under current law, federal agencies may waive the fees for the replacement of passports, visas, proof of citizenship, and other documents. However, the waiver process is not automatic – survivors may not know to wait for a fee waiver, and often need documentation immediately. Additionally, waivers are not guaranteed and are not always issued.
    The REPLACE Act would amend the Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 to require certain critical document fees be automatically waived for individuals and households that are affected by major disasters.
    The REPLACE Act would automatically waive the cost of replacing:
    Passports
    Visa Forms
    Permanent Residence Cards
    Declaration of Intent forms
    Naturalization/Citizenship Documents
    Employment Authorizations
    Biometric service fees                                                                    
    Full text of the bill is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Introduces Protect Your Points Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    09.26.24
    The new bill would amp up consumer protections by requiring greater transparency from airlines’ frequent flyer programs
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) introduced the Protect Your Points Act, legislation that would strengthen consumer protections by requiring greater transparency from airlines’ frequent flyer, points, and loyalty programs.  The Protect Your Points Act will give the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) explicit authority to ensure that airlines do not bait and switch consumers by offering them an enticing rewards program, only to downgrade points or miles value without notice.
    As it stands, airlines have little oversight in how they conduct their frequent flyer programs.  Thousands of frustrated consumers have registered complaints about the airlines on the Better Business Bureau’s website, including instances of their points being devalued, being unable to purchase tickets using their earned points because of airline loopholes, or the airlines delaying or flat-out denying their promised rewards.
    “I understand the practicality of airline rewards programs—I’m a participant myself.  But without adequate oversight, airlines are taking advantage of their customers by offering grandiose rewards, only to change the terms and conditions without consumers’ knowledge,” Durbin said.  “My new legislation, the Protect Your Points Act, would require one thing from the airlines – transparency. To be clear, my bill would not eliminate your airline rewards programs or regulate the value of your points or miles.  My bill only requires the airlines to play fair.  If these programs are as valuable to consumers as the airlines claim they are, the airlines should have no trouble taking these simple steps to make them more transparent.”
    Specifically, the Protect Your Points Act would give DOT and CFPB the authority to:
    Prohibit airlines from including provisions within their frequent flyer programs’ and airline co-branded credit cards’ terms of service that reserve their right to make changes at any time without notice to consumers, and instead require them to provide at least one year’s notice to consumers of any changes to these terms of service, or any actions that would devalue or jeopardize accrued points;
    Require airlines, within 90 days of enactment, to prominently display on every page of their website a disclosure of the financial value of one point/mile, updated in real time, so that consumers may more easily compare the value of points across different airlines;
    Require airlines, within one year of enactment, to display airfare and add-on pricing concurrently in dollar value and points/miles value, without consumers needing to alternate between the two, so consumers can easily compare the worth of their points.  Further, it would allow consumers to pay for airfare and add-on services in any combination of points or dollars; 
    Ban junk fees related to points/miles by ensuring that consumers are allowed to transfer points to family members or other participants in the same program, and prohibit airlines from charging fees to do so;
    Prohibit airlines from limiting the number of points/miles that can be transferred to another traveler’s account and ensure that any points/miles remain of equal value once transferred; and
    Prohibit accrued points/miles from expiring.
    Durbin has repeatedly called out the airline industry for its unfair and deceptive practices in their frequent flyer and loyalty programs.  In May, Durbin urged U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg to implement oversight on the airlines.  Last October, Durbin wrote to DOT and CFPB, requesting information from the agencies about actions they are taking to protect consumers from airlines’ deceptive and unfair practices. 
    Text of the bill is available here.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Access to a GP can make all the difference in surviving lung cancer – and that is a problem for Māori

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ross Lawrenson, Professor of Population Health, University of Waikato

    Surviving lung cancer in Aotearoa New Zealand could depend on whether you can access a GP – raising questions about equity in the country’s health system.

    Our new research examines the outcomes for patients who are diagnosed with lung cancer through their GP versus those who are diagnosed at the emergency department (ED).

    Examining 2,400 lung cancer diagnoses in Waikato between 2011 and 2021, we found those who are diagnosed with lung cancer after ED visits tended to have later-stage disease and poorer outcomes compared to those diagnosed after a GP referral.

    We also found diagnosis after ED attendance was 27% higher for Māori than non-Māori and 22% higher for men than women.

    These results raise important questions about health inequity in New Zealand and highlight the need to ensure everyone is able to access an early cancer diagnosis.

    Limited access to everyday health care

    Currently half of all general practices have closed their books to new patients, leaving 290,000 patients unenrolled and reliant on emergency departments for their health care.

    Some 80% of practices have closed their books to new patients at some point since 2019.

    For those who are enrolled in a practice, the wait times for appointments are often such that the only option is to go to the ED for help.

    This is especially true in rural areas where the hospital can become the default route to diagnosis.

    Lung cancer is New Zealand’s single biggest cause of cancer deaths, with over 1,800 per year. Some 80% of those who are diagnosed with lung cancer present with advanced disease and very poor prospects of survival.

    It’s also the cancer with the largest equity gap. The mortality rate for Māori with lung cancer is three to four times that of people of European descent.

    While much of this disparity is due to differences in the rates of smoking among ethnic groups, there is also evidence delays in diagnosis and poorer access to surgery are also major influences on survival rates.

    Identifying lung cancer

    Lung cancer usually starts in the tissue lining the airways and symptoms can initially be relatively minor – some shortness of breath during exercise, a niggly cough or sharp pains while breathing.

    Patients with these sorts of symptoms usually go to a GP to check whether this is something that needs further investigation.

    But if someone cannot get an appointment, or does not recognise the symptoms as serious, then they are likely to delay taking action.

    Advanced symptoms of lung cancer include coughing up blood or having lumps in the neck due to lymphatic spread of the cancer. People with these alarming symptoms tend to go to the hospital for treatment.

    Our study confirms earlier findings that those diagnosed through the emergency department are:

    • more likely to have advanced disease
    • more likely to have a more aggressive type of cancer (called small cell cancer), and
    • have substantially poorer likelihoods of survival.

    The median survival for those who never went to the ED was 13.6 months, while the median survival for those with one ED visit was just three months.

    That said, attending an emergency department has some advantages. These include being seen by a doctor within a few hours, immediate access to x-rays and, in our major hospitals, access to the definitive diagnostic tool for a lung cancer – a computed tomography (CT) machine.

    Our study found 25% of cases went to the ED two or more times in the two weeks before their diagnosis. This was especially true for those going to one of the Waikato rural hospitals, where a second or third visit was more likely before being diagnosed.

    Barriers to care

    It is clear New Zealand still has several barriers to primary care. This has lead to an over-reliance on emergency departments for diagnosing cancer, despite the long-running faster cancer treatment targets.

    The situation is unlikely to improve. Access to GPs is getting worse, in part due to increasing fees.

    Māori and Pacific patients with lung cancer were less likely than other ethnic groups to have been enrolled with a primary health organisation when they were diagnosed. They were also less likely to have visited a GP in the three months prior to diagnosis.

    Making it easier to see a GP

    Making general practice care more accessible is the most effective way of addressing the inequities in our lung cancer statistics.

    Currently, New Zealand has only 74 GPs per 100,000 people, compared to 110 in Australia.

    It is clear we need to substantially increase the number of GPs. This is a long-term project but needs to be a strategic goal for the health sector.

    In the meantime, we need to make primary care more accessible by increasing patient subsidies and reducing the direct patient costs to see a doctor. At the same time, we need to better equip GPs with access to diagnostic facilities, including in our rural hospitals.

    Ross Lawrenson receives funding from NZ Health Research Council. He is an Honorary Fellow of the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners.

    Chunhuan Lao receives funding from NZ Health Research Council.

    – ref. Access to a GP can make all the difference in surviving lung cancer – and that is a problem for Māori – https://theconversation.com/access-to-a-gp-can-make-all-the-difference-in-surviving-lung-cancer-and-that-is-a-problem-for-maori-239808

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: 21Shares AG Announcement: 2024 Interim Financial Statements

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    26 September 2024

    Announcement: 2024 Interim Financial Statements

    21Shares AG, the issuer of ETPs listed on various trading venues, has published its interim financial statements for the six months ending 30 June 2024. The financial statements are available at: https://21shares.com/ir/financials

    Contact:

    Email: press@21.co

    Phone: +41 44 260 86 60

    About 21Shares AG:

    21Shares AG, Pelikanstrasse 37, 8001 Zurich, is a Swiss corporation registered in the commercial register of Zurich under the number CHE-347.562.100. It was incorporated on 27 July 2018 and its purpose is the issuance of Exchange Traded Products (ETPs) in Switzerland and worldwide.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Raider Reach exercise tests Ellsworth’s combat readiness

    Source: United States Strategic Command

    ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D.  –  

    As the sun rose up into the sky ushering in a new day, exercise Raider Reach, a two-week, two-phase exercise involving the entire 28th Bomb Wing, encompassing five groups, 17 squadrons and supporting agencies, and over 4K military and civilian personnel came to a close Sept. 20, 2024.

    The exercise evaluated Ellsworth’s capabilities and resources required to generate and execute long-range strike missions around the globe through a variety of realistic combat and emergency scenarios.

    With 33 exercise planners and 109 Wing Inspection Team members, Raider Reach became the first full-scale readiness exercise that has been conduction on the installation in over a decade.

    “The [initial] goal was to stress unit capabilities and identify strengths and weaknesses in order to maximize combat effectiveness,” said Master Sgt. Eric Tindall, 28th BW Inspector General inspector. “The end goal is to provide our combatant commanders and Air Force leadership at all levels with the wing’s overall combat readiness.”

    During phase one of the exercise, personnel were processed through a deployment function line while cargo was prepared by the 28th Logistics Readiness Squadron to be sent down range. This phase tested the wing’s ability to deploy on short notice while being in a degraded and contested environment.

    During the evaluation period, WIT members documented and graded the wing on duty specific criteria, providing critical areas of improvement to leadership teams and players involved.

    “We can only improve from here,” said Chet Weymouth, 28th LRS installation deployment officer. “I’m glad there were issues. That forces us to re-evaluate our processes to make sure we are mission ready for real-world deployments.”

    As a means to challenge the wing, various scenarios including a simulated drone crash, suspicious vehicle activity near the base, and several instances of declaring Force Protection Conditions Charlie and Delta were enacted to test how base agencies would respond.

    Phase two evaluated Ellsworth’s ability to fight from home, initiating daily B-1B Lancer flying missions from both the 34th and 37th Bomb Squadrons, 24-hour maintenance operations, and the uploading of inert munitions for the simulated combat scenarios.

    “Exercises like this make real-world situations feel less abnormal,” said Senior Airman TreQuawn Tomlin, 34th Bomber Generation Squadron crew chief. “We’re so used to doing the work that if something real-world comes up, we already know what to do; we feel prepared for it.”

    Wings are required to conduct Combat Readiness Exercises annually with the intent to ensure the highest levels of readiness across the force. Executing Raider Reach allowed Ellsworth to meet this requirement for the year while also providing data that will result in mission enhancements for many Air force Specialty Codes.

    “In line with the SECAF initiative for Great Power Competition, exercises are key to Airmen development,” said Tindall. “Exercises of this magnitude provide Airmen with the tools and experience to be able to execute a real-world mission while using the lessons learned to win today and dominate tomorrow!”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: HARRISBURG – Shapiro Administration to Encourage Pennsylvanians to Get Updated Vaccines as Respiratory Virus Season Begins

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    September 27, 2024 – Harrisburg, PA

    ADVISORY – HARRISBURG – Shapiro Administration to Encourage Pennsylvanians to Get Updated Vaccines as Respiratory Virus Season Begins

    Pennsylvania Department of Health Secretary Dr. Debra Bogen and Pennsylvania Insurance Department Commissioner Michael Humphreys will join area pharmacists at the See-Right Pharmacy in Harrisburg to stress the importance of getting their annual vaccinations against COVID-19, flu and RSV to safeguard their health as respiratory virus season begins.

    The vaccinations are updated to protect against severe illness from new virus variants circulating in Pennsylvania, and the United States. Health care providers recommend flu and COVID-19 vaccinations for people six months of age and older; older adults and pregnant women are encouraged to get RSV vaccinations.

    Vaccinations are especially important for high-risk groups including people 65 and older, people with certain medical conditions, and people at a higher risk of developing complications from respiratory illness.

    WHO:
    Department of Health Secretary Dr. Debra Bogen
    Pennsylvania Insurance Department Commissioner Michael Humphreys
    Victoria Elliott, RPh, MBA, CAE, CEO of PA Pharmacists Association
    Paul Bowers, PharmD, Pharmacy Manager at See-Right Pharmacy

    WHEN:
    September 27, 2024; 1:00 PM

    WHERE:
    See-Right Pharmacy
    2647 North 6th Street
    Harrisburg, PA 17110

    VISUALS:
    Secretary Bogen and Commissioner Humphreys will receive the updated COVID-19 vaccine as part of the event.

    MEDIA RSVP: Media interested in attending must RSVP with the name of the reporter and photojournalist to ra-dhpressoffice@pa.gov.

    MEDIA CONTACT:
    Mark O’Neill, ra-dhpressoffice@pa.gov
    Diego Sandino, Insurance, ra-in-press@pa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shapiro-Davis Administration Spotlights Major Investments in Workforce Development, Expanded Job Training, and Vo-Tech Initiatives at Beaver County Career & Technology Center

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    September 26, 2024 – Monaca, PA

    Shapiro-Davis Administration Spotlights Major Investments in Workforce Development, Expanded Job Training, and Vo-Tech Initiatives at Beaver County Career & Technology Center

    Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis joined Representative Robert Matzie and Congressman Chris Deluzio at Beaver County Career & Technology Center (BCCTC) to meet with students and staff, tour the center, and talk about how the Shapiro-Davis Administration’s investments in workforce development – including career and technical education (CTE), apprenticeship programs, and job training – are giving Pennsylvanians the freedom to chart their own course.

    The 2024-25 budget provides a $30 million increase for career and technical education (CTE) and equipment, along with an additional $2 million for the first time ever for nursing apprenticeships. The Shapiro-Davis Administration is focused on investing in all paths to success for students – from college and continuing education to vo-tech and apprenticeship programs – opening the doors of economic opportunity and building on critical investments made last year. Governor Shapiro and Lieutenant Governor Davis have worked with a bipartisan group of legislators to increase funding for workforce development by $61 million in their first two years in office – a more than 50 percent increase.

    “Since day one, I have been committed to delivering results for the people of Pennsylvania by addressing our most pressing challenges and bringing together Democrats and Republicans to get stuff done,” said Governor Shapiro. “I’m proud of the historic investments we’ve made in job training, apprenticeship programs, and career and technical education, as these initiatives pave the way to economic opportunity and empower Pennsylvanians to shape their own futures. My Administration values skills and experience, recognizing that everyone’s path is different, and ensuring that every Pennsylvanian has the opportunity to succeed.”

    List of Speakers:
    Laura Delvecchio, Administrative Director at BCCTC
    David Liptak, Carpentry Instructor at BCCTC
    Rep. Robert Matzie
    Sen. Elder Vogel
    Congressman Chris Deluzio
    Karleigh Matscherz, Student BCCTC
    Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Shapiro Hosts Ceremonial Bill Signing in Berks County to Highlight New Tax Cuts Supporting Pennsylvania Families and Small Businesses

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    September 25, 2024 – Reading, PA

    Governor Shapiro Hosts Ceremonial Bill Signing in Berks County to Highlight New Tax Cuts Supporting Pennsylvania Families and Small Businesses

    Governor Josh Shapiro visited the Second Street Learning Center, where he met with children, staff, and business and legislative leaders to host a ceremonial bill signing for the recent tax cuts included in the 2024-25 bipartisan budget, aimed at lowering costs for Pennsylvania families and small businesses. The Center, which cares for children ranging from 6 weeks to 13 years old, is a vital resource in the Reading community, offering essential childcare services to low-income families.

    With annual childcare expenses ranging from $9,000 to $13,000 – over 15 percent of a median household’s income – many families are feeling the financial strain. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the lack of affordable, reliable childcare costs Pennsylvania’s economy $3.47 billion each year in lost earnings, productivity, and tax revenue.

    Since taking office, Governor Shapiro has brought Republicans and Democrats together to save Pennsylvanians money by cutting taxes at least four times. In the 2024-25 budget, Governor Shapiro secured a new Employer Child Care Contribution Tax Credit, which is designed to help businesses grow while reducing childcare costs for working families.

    Speaker list:
    Modesto Fiume, President, Opportunity House
    Lucine Sihelnik, President, Greater Reading Chamber Alliance
    Representative Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz
    Senator Judy Schwank
    Jennifer Stepp, Lead Teacher, Second Street Learning Center
    Governor Josh Shapiro

    MIL OSI USA News –