NewzIntel.com

Category: Education

  • MIL-Evening Report: From the Liver King to ultramarathons, fitness influencers are glorifying extreme masculinity where ‘pain is the point’

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Samuel Cornell, PhD Candidate in Public Health & Community Medicine, School of Population Health, UNSW Sydney

    Netflix/Untold: The Liver King

    A new Netflix documentary about a shirtless supplement salesman who claimed to be “natural” and was exposed as a fraud might seem like a punchline.

    But Untold: The Liver King is more than just a character study of a well-known fitness influencer; it’s a case study of performative masculinity in the world of social media.

    Brian Johnson, better known as the Liver King, built a brand on extreme workouts, eating raw organ meat, and evangelising about masculinity. He preached “ancestral living” and radical self-control, all while secretly using steroids.

    And his rapid rise to popularity reveals how social media rewards the spectacle of hypermasculinity – especially when it leans into extreme behaviours.

    Extreme self-discipline, extreme exercise, extreme eating and extreme “wellness” have all become forms of public performance on social media.

    From influencers pushing steroids or “wellness” lifestyles, to the growing popularity of ultramarathons, a new model of masculinity is going viral: control your body, grit through pain, workout hard, and make sure everyone hears about it.

    The rise of ‘discipline content’

    Social media apps and websites such as TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram, are flooded with content that frames pain and extreme physical effort as markers of masculine worth.

    One analysis of male fitness YouTubers found they established authority and discipline through a mix of visible physical strength and affiliations with commercial fitness brands. In some cases, the influencers explicitly listed their personal records or showcased their physique post-training as proof of their “masculinity” and discipline.



    Read more:
    Why banning gym selfies could do us all a lot of good

    Influencers also often frame extreme leanness and muscularity as indicators of moral virtue and discipline, even when achieving it has taken a negative physical or mental toll on them. The look of discipline has become more valuable than the outcome of it.

    Posts are often wrapped in the language of “resilience”, “discipline” and militaristic rhetoric. Men are told to “go to war” in the gym, to “stay hard”, and to generally treat life like a battlefield.

    What’s being sold isn’t stoicism: it’s pseudo-stoicism – a term researchers have coined to describe emotional suppression masquerading as strength and discipline.

    Pain is the point

    Strava’s 2023 Year in Sport report found Gen Z athletes are 31% less likely to exercise for health reasons compared to older generations. Instead, they are more likely to train with a focus on athletic performance – that is, to push their physical limits, improve metrics such as speed or distance, and outperform others.

    The same report shows a surge in extreme endurance activity. Compared to 2023 data, uploads (activities shared with others) of gravel bike rides grew 55%, trail runs grew 16%, and ultramarathon-style workouts grew by 9%.

    Take Nedd Brockmann, who ran across Australia in 2022, and last year ran 1,600 kilometres in ten days to raise money for charity – all while sharing his self-imposed physical torture.

    Or take the countless fitness content creators pushing themselves through punishing routines for the camera.

    These cases reflect a deeper shift of fitness being turned into spectacle, wherein suffering becomes a sign of legitimacy, and pain is “proof” that you’re serious.

    Such extreme content, which is often visually striking, can also be pushed by social media algorithms. Research shows how social media platforms systematically boost content that is intense, emotionally charged, and morally loaded.



    Read more:
    Get big or die trying: social media is driving men’s use of steroids. Here’s how to mitigate the risks

    In other words, posts that provoke a reaction are more likely to get promoted. And
    content relating to “wellness” extremism is designed to provoke, as it is visceral, performative, and packed with motivational and self-help anecdotes.

    Why this matters

    This is a potential public health issue.

    Social media platforms amplify and monetise these performances, often pushing the most extreme content to the top. And influencers make money, above the money made from directly these platforms, from selling supplements, gear and coaching plans. At the same time, they act in more and more extreme ways to get further amplified by algorithms.

    The risks of this dynamic, for both the viewers and creators, are very real. They range from hormone damage, to mental and physical decline, to injury, and even death.

    But there is also a deeper ideological harm, as young men are fed a narrow and punishing idea of what it means to be a man. They are taught pain equals purpose, and that if you’re not suffering, you’re not trying.

    Where to from here?

    Public health agencies need to reckon with this form of digital hypermasculinity.

    Extreme fitness influencers aren’t just poor role models; they’re the product of a system that profits from insecurity and spectacle. The goal shouldn’t be to ban or censor this content. But we do need to challenge its dominance, and offer alternatives.

    That means engaging young men in offline spaces, such as the Tomorrow Man project, where they have an outlet for community and relationship building.

    It means creating counter-narratives that don’t mock, but model, healthier versions of ambition and masculinity. For instance, the Movember campaign’s podcast Dad in Progress explores the various challenges and experiences faced by new dads.

    It also means holding platforms accountable for the way they amplify extreme content.

    In the absence of healthier narratives, self-flagellation is the only thing young men will have to aspire to.

    Samuel Cornell has received funding from Meta Platforms, Inc. His research is supported by a University of New South Wales Sydney, University Postgraduate Award.

    – ref. From the Liver King to ultramarathons, fitness influencers are glorifying extreme masculinity where ‘pain is the point’ – https://theconversation.com/from-the-liver-king-to-ultramarathons-fitness-influencers-are-glorifying-extreme-masculinity-where-pain-is-the-point-256817

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: NZ Budget 2025: anything less than a 5% increase in health funding amounts to merely standing still

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tim Tenbensel, Professor of Health Policy, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau

    Health Minister Simeon Brown. Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images

    Minister of Health Simeon Brown claimed earlier this year that health funding in New Zealand has never been higher and that suggestions of underfunding are “fake news”.

    On the bare statistics, Brown isn’t wrong. The allocation to Vote Health has indeed increased from NZ$18.2 billion in 2018-19 to $29.6 billion in the 2024-25 budget.

    Yet for many working in the publicly-funded health system things have never seemed so bad, with daily stories of under-staffing and increasing levels of stress.

    So, how much should the government be spending on health? Any answer needs to factor in the broader context of the health system, and where we sit historically and comparatively.

    The health system is subject to significant cost pressures, few of which are unique to New Zealand. People are generally living longer, but more of that longer life span is spent in ill health.

    At the same time, New Zealand’s population profile has changed significantly over the past 40 years. There is a lower proportion of working-age people paying income tax to support those who are older.

    Technological advances, on balance, drive up health expenditure – more is possible, so more is expected. And compared with other parts of the economy, health services are labour-intensive.

    Around two thirds of health expenditure is on staff, and health workforce shortages are a global problem (again, driven by demographic change). All these factors mean health costs rise faster than inflation.

    Taking all of this into account, a recent health economics analysis calculated that to continue to deliver the same level of service in the United Kingdom (which has very similar health system characteristics to New Zealand), public spending on health would need to increase by 2.8% in real terms (above inflation) each year.

    Then we need to factor in population growth, which has recently been between 1.5% and 2% per year in New Zealand. In this context, a 4-5% increase in Vote Health amounts to merely standing still.

    People are living longer, but more of that longer life is spent in ill health.
    Getty Images

    Long-term deterioration

    We also need to put our current situation in historical and international context.

    The most appropriate indicator for international comparison is “publicly mandated health expenditure” (PMHE) as a percentage of GDP, as this excludes private expenditure (private health insurance and “out of pocket” payments).

    Total health spending typically constitutes 10-12% of GDP in high-income countries, and PMHE is typically around 8%. In the 2010s, however, New Zealand’s PMHE dropped from 7.8% (2012) to 7% of GDP (2017). Meanwhile, Australia, Canada and the UK all remained at or above 8% during that time.

    This represents a significant long-term deterioration which heightened the stress on our health system before and after the COVID pandemic.

    Even when our PMHE as a percentage of GDP is comparable to Australia and other countries, our per-capita health expenditure is significantly less because our GDP per-capita is lower.

    The most significant budget boost in recent years was in 2022. But this was largely soaked up by pay rises for health professionals that resulted from underfunding during the 2010s.

    The current government finds itself in a very tight spot. This is partly because of international economic conditions and demographic trends, but also due to self-imposed constraints.

    Even in such a large budget, there’ll be little room for major initiatives in health unless savings are found from existing areas. That is rarely feasible in health. As is true in most years, there could be up to three big-ticket items. If so, what should they be?

    What Budget 2025 should include

    First, the government needs to boost capital expenditure in health. A recent analysis by the UK Institute for Government shows that public service productivity, including in the health sector, fell sharply during and after the COVID pandemic. The New Zealand treasury reported similar productivity declines.

    The UK report concluded these declines were primarily due to physical capacity constraints – clinical staff can’t be more productive when there is not enough physical space and diagnostic equipment.

    Earlier this month, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced a $400 million increase in the annual capital allowance across all of government. Let’s see how much of the total $4 billion capital allowance is channelled into health.

    A second priority should be primary healthcare. Here, the health minister has already announced a range of initiatives, headlined by $285 million of additional performance-based funding over three years. This is a welcome commitment, and the most significant boost in primary care funding since the mid-2000s.

    However, it’s unlikely this will redress erosion over the past 20 years of primary care “capitation” funding (the amount a GP practice receives per enrolled patient).

    This funding formula also needs to be modernised to better reflect where needs are highest and account for rising acuity and complexity of conditions in primary healthcare. This would relieve some pressures on hospital emergency departments and medical wards.

    Third, investment to retain and attract health workers across the whole sector is vital. Given the demographic and epidemiological changes, proactively preparing for a mid-21st-century health workforce will require funding to support emerging models of health services, particularly in primary and community settings, including programmes such as Access and Choice and comprehensive primary and community care teams.

    These priorities, and any government commitment to them in Budget 2025, must be understood against the backdrop of sustained historical underfunding.

    The government is likely to claim health is a big winner in Budget 2025. Unless increases are significantly greater than 5%, such a claim will bring little respite to the health sector.

    In any case, the race that counts is a marathon, not a sprint. New Zealand is well back in the field, struggling not to lose further ground.

    Tim Tenbensel receives funding from the New Zealand Health Research Council.

    – ref. NZ Budget 2025: anything less than a 5% increase in health funding amounts to merely standing still – https://theconversation.com/nz-budget-2025-anything-less-than-a-5-increase-in-health-funding-amounts-to-merely-standing-still-255593

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘No pain, no gain’: why some primary students are following intense study routines

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Christina Ho, Associate professor in Social and Political Sciences, University of Technology Sydney

    MNStudio/ Shutterstock

    Every year, thousands of New South Wales students sit a test to determine places for highly sought-after selective high schools. These are academically selective public schools often associated with high Year 12 scores.

    While there has long been a level of expectation around selective school entrance, the most recent round of testing has shone a fresh light on the pressures some young people are experiencing.

    Media reports have described some students studying for 18 months to prepare for the selective school test, with multiple sessions of tutoring each week.

    Earlier this month, police were called to control crowds at two testing centres as parents and students from one session overlapped with another. This is also the first year the tests have been done online and there were technical difficulties as students tried to complete exams.

    One exam invigilator told The Sydney Morning Herald about the stress they witnessed among students.

    We were dealing with kids who were freaking out and totally traumatised by what was going on. You could not make up a worse nightmare than what we went through that day.

    It’s not surprising children were upset. The pressure to perform well on test day is enormous. As my previous research has found, some families believe entry into a selective school will secure their child’s future.

    As my new research with colleagues suggests, this sees some families place huge pressure on students to study and prepare for academic tests in primary school.

    Not just a NSW thing

    Most (albeit not all) of Australia’s selective schools are in NSW.

    But there is pressure around other tests in the primary years. There are similar levels of competition for lucrative private school scholarships around Australia, which children sit as early as Year 3. Many of these are determined by centralised tests.

    Tutoring companies also offer programs for primary students preparing for NAPLAN tests in Year 3 and Year 5, as well as the “opportunity class” test in NSW (for an academically selective stream for Year 5 and 6).

    Our research

    In ongoing, as yet unpublished research on education cultures among migrant communities in Sydney, colleagues and I are focusing on 38 families with children in upper primary school.

    In 2022 and 2023, we interviewed students, parents and teachers at six schools in high and low income areas of Sydney. All schools included large numbers of Asian migrants, allowing us to compare different groups’ approaches to education.

    While not necessarily representative of all Asian migrant families, or all families with school-aged children in general, we found intensive preparation for the selective test was common in this group, especially among those students already enrolled in an opportunity class.

    The tutoring routine

    Many students preparing for the selective test told us they attended private tutoring three or more days per week, in addition to completing home based study. Some had begun this routine up to 12 months before to the test.

    One mother, whose son attended tutoring every day, at three different centres, on top of two hours of daily homework, told us,

    That’s how we prepare for selective […] You need to be methodical […] no pain, no gain.

    Other parents explained they resorted to private tutoring because schools did not teach what was needed to succeed in the selective tests.

    Not only do children spend afternoons, evenings and weekends in tutoring centres, they are also often giving up most if not all recreational, sporting and other extracurricular activities, narrowing their focus to acing the test.

    Families also postpone holidays, outings and other potential distractions. Many of our student participants aiming for a selective school told us they never socialised with their friends outside of school time.

    Sometimes they even neglected their school work so as to focus on the selective test. One teacher told us many of her students were absent from school in the week prior to the test, to ramp up their preparation.

    How does this impact students?

    This culture of extreme study and competitive schooling raises profound questions about the implications for student wellbeing. Some students spoke about their fatigue. As one student said:

    I work up to late at night. So sometimes I feel drowsy and I yawn a bit and have water in my eyes.

    Their teachers also expressed concern about insufficient sleep and heightened stress caused by the pressure to get into a selective school. They described students’ tears if they were not successful when the results came out.

    One teacher said he had a “blanket rule” of not talking about the tests in the classroom, because his students were so preoccupied with ensuring they were doing enough preparation.

    Other teachers reflected on students’ fear of taking risks because of the culture of perfectionism associated with scoring and ranking through tests.

    Some students stop doing other activites to prepare for the selective schools test.
    Maria Sbytova/ Shutterstock

    What does the research say?

    International research shows an association between high-stakes testing in primary years and issues with children’s mental health and academic confidence. There is also a negative association with students’ achievement in maths and literacy. That is, students who experience pressured exams were more likely to experience anxiety and depression, and not do as well in core subjects as those who did not experience this pressure.

    Some parents in our study expressed concern for their child’s wellbeing. But others saw stress a positive sign of engagement and commitment, and necessary for securing the all important place in a selective school.

    Given many are recent migrants, without established networks in Australia, and fearful of racial discrimination against their children, they believe education to be the most crucial foundation for future success.

    However, we need more research on the impacts of these parental aspirations and anxieties on the next generation. And a broader discussion about the benefits of selecting some students – who may have benefited from extensive and expensive private tutoring – to go to separate, high-performing government schools.

    Megan Watkins, Greg Noble and Alexandra Wong all contributed to the research on migrant families mentioned in this article, as part of a larger Australian Research Council-funded project.

    Christina Ho received funding from the Australian Research Council to conduct this research.

    – ref. ‘No pain, no gain’: why some primary students are following intense study routines – https://theconversation.com/no-pain-no-gain-why-some-primary-students-are-following-intense-study-routines-256815

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Surviving swamps on South Australia’s parched Fleurieu Peninsula are a lifeline to wildlife – and farmers

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Christopher Auricht, Visiting Research Fellow in Natural Resources Management, University of Adelaide

    Yundi Nature Conservancy, CC BY-NC-ND

    South Australia is famously the driest state on the driest inhabited continent.

    But even for South Australia, the current drought is extreme. Rainfall has been the lowest on record across large areas.

    When drought strikes and water sources dry up, life becomes hard for wildlife. In these conditions, perennial water sources become enormously valuable.

    Dotted across the drought-stricken Fleurieu Peninsula south of Adelaide are more than 850 swampy wetlands. When the landscape dries out, these swamps act as refuges. Animals, birds, insects and reptiles come from far and wide, drawn by permanent spring-fed water, good habitat, diverse plant species and cooler, more humid micro-climates. These swamps are vital habitat for the critically endangered Mount Lofty Ranges southern emu-wren.

    Drainage channels were cut through many of these swamps in the early days of settlement, in an effort to turn them into pasture. The Fleurieu swamps are now considered an endangered ecological community. More than 90% of the remaining swamps are located on private property.

    Keeping these swamps intact and restoring dried out wetlands comes with real benefits for farmers. Birds and insects seek refuge in the swamps, but feed on pest species on nearby farmland.

    As drought tightens its grip on South Australia, these swamps will only become more important to wildlife. Restoring these swamps by bringing back the water and restoring plants and pollinators could go some way to help.

    Important for nature – and humans

    The swamps of the Fleurieu are some of the most diverse and productive habitats on Earth. Many species of plants, birds, frogs, fish, insects, mammals and reptiles rely on them to survive.

    Before colonisation, swamps and wetlands covered large areas of the Fleurieu Peninsula. Three First Nations language groups lived in these areas on the central and eastern peninsula. The importance of these wetlands is recorded in the shared story of Tjilbruki, a Kaurna ancestor whose tears at the death of his nephew gave rise to six freshwater springs.

    Over the last 200 years, most of this region has been cleared for pasture, crops and vineyards. Only 4% of the swamps are conserved. They are now listed as a critically endangered ecological community. These swamps are still declining due to threats such as more human settlement, land clearance, water extraction and invasive species such as blackberries.

    Many were drained to make way for agriculture. We don’t fully know how many remain, as many are not well captured in current maps.

    But we know these wetlands are vital, not just for nature but for farmers too. Farmers would miss them if they were gone.

    We can see this most clearly during droughts. As the land gets drier and ephemeral water sources evaporate, ibises, eastern great egrets, white-faced herons and masked lapwings move into these swamps, seeking water. During the days, though, they spread out and feed on pasture pests such as grasshoppers and cockchafer beetle grubs.

    Similarly, these wetlands act as a haven for important insect pollinators and predators. Hoverflies and native bees help farmers by pollinating pasture legumes such as clover, while predators keep down the numbers of pest species.

    As adults, parasitic wasps rely on the nectar from swamp plants such as woolly teatree. But they lay their eggs on common pasture pests such as caterpillars and grubs. When their larvae hatch, they eat these pests. Carnivorous insects such as ladybirds and assassin bugs eat other insects which can trouble farmers.

    Ibises and other bird species base themselves in the swamps during drought, but fan out to eat insects which can trouble farmers.
    Yundi Nature Conservancy, CC BY-NC-ND

    Restoration is possible

    Swamps don’t have a great reputation. Throughout human history, they have been seen as sources of foul air and a haven for insects and disease. A common response was to dig channels to drain them.

    We now know much more about how important swamps and other wetlands for the natural world – and for humans. Wetlands naturally store water and carbon, tame floods and offer refuges during drought. Correcting these historic mistakes will take time.

    Wetlands are home to many species of plants, insects and animals.
    Yundi Nature Conservancy, CC BY-NC-ND

    Peatlands like these store huge volumes of carbon in their waterlogged soils. Our research estimated the carbon storage of a peat swamp at Yundi at more than 2,500 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent per hectare. The depth of carbon-rich organic peat was up to three metres in places. By contrast, a healthy woodland stores around 650 tonnes per hectare.

    This natural carbon sink will remain as long as the peat remains moist and annual increments from plant growth and decay add to the stock.

    When an agricultural drain is cut through a swamp, water gradually leaches out of the peat profile. Over time, enough water leaves to dry out the peat, beginning with the surface layer. This means long-stored carbon and methane can be released back to the atmosphere.

    Conserving remaining peatlands and restoring those already drained is essential if the climate goals of the Paris Agreement are to be achieved, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization.

    On the Fleurieu Peninsula, there’s huge potential to return water to the soils and expand these once-thriving wetlands.

    The good news? Community groups and farmers have already embarked on several restoration projects. Around 50 farmers in the region have formed the Fleurieu Swamp Restoration Network. To date, in cooperation with Yundi Nature Conservancy, 25 swamp restoration plans have been developed and 15 are under way. If successful, these will restore more than 100 hectares of swamp.

    Christopher Auricht is a director of environmental consultancy Auricht Projects Pty Ltd. He receives funding from both state and federal governments for wetland related consulting and research.

    – ref. Surviving swamps on South Australia’s parched Fleurieu Peninsula are a lifeline to wildlife – and farmers – https://theconversation.com/surviving-swamps-on-south-australias-parched-fleurieu-peninsula-are-a-lifeline-to-wildlife-and-farmers-256238

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Fish driving cars and chimps doing maths: what teaching animals ‘irrelevant’ skills reveals about our own minds

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Scarlett Howard, Research Fellow, School of Biological Sciences, Monash University

    VixtorPhoto / Shutterstock

    Did you know goldfish can learn to drive cars? Have you heard bumblebees can learn to pull on a string? Would you believe some primates can perform calculations with Arabic numerals?

    These tasks seem completely irrelevant to these animals in their natural environment, so why are researchers interested in them?

    As someone who studies the intelligence of insects, much of my own research has been labelled as “ecologically irrelevant”.

    However, as I have argued in Trends in Cognitive Sciences, there are plenty of reasons to study this kind of animal intelligence.

    Finding relevance in irrelevance

    The study of animal intelligence often seeks to form a better understanding of the animal’s ecology. However, there are also many studies that aim to push the limits of animal cognition beyond what we would expect in their everyday life.

    This honeybee has been trained to find sugar water where there are an even number of shapes.

    Ecologically irrelevant research can help us understand the limits of animal intelligence and develop bio-inspired technology. It can also help us explore behavioural responses to environmental change, and advance our understanding of the evolution of intelligence.

    Understanding how animals respond to ecologically irrelevant tasks sheds light on how our own intelligence has evolved. We frequently use comparisons between humans and non-human primates to understand whether a cognitive capacity has evolved in modern humans, or if we observe similar abilities in other primates and animals.

    For example, children as young as 24 months old can find a hidden object in a room when its location is pointed out to them in a photograph. This ability is known as representational insight.

    Some chimpanzees can also pass this test. Do these results mean a chimpanzee has the same level of intelligence as a two-year-old child?

    Furthermore, this test may allow us to estimate when representational insight evolved. It may have been before humans and chimpanzees split into different lineages.

    Researchers trained goldfish to steer a tank on wheels.

    Imitating nature, comparing species

    Biologically inspired (bio-inspired) solutions to modern computing problems use technology based on biology. Some bio-inspired technologies can cope well with uncertainty by using brain-like computations to process and solve real-world problems. Many animals are considered models for bio-inspired technologies based on their vision, behaviour and movement.

    For example, the flight mechanics of dragonflies have been studied to build micro aerial vehicles. Since bio-inspired technology will undoubtedly be used in unnatural situations, it is useful to know how animals would respond in these same scenarios to build more accurate technology.

    Comparing the behaviour and intelligence of different species can pose a huge challenge to scientists. To enable accurate comparisons we need to have a task of equal difficulty for both species.

    If we use a task that animals perform regularly in their natural environments, we run the risk that one species may have an advantage from performing the task more frequently. However, if we use a task that neither animal is likely to ever need to perform, we can “level the playing field” for an accurate comparison.

    Animals must often adapt to new and unfamiliar situations. Environmental changes such as urbanisation, climate change, habitat loss and invasive species introductions cause animals to encounter new challenges that may have previously been ecologically irrelevant.

    A puzzle box may be seem irrelevant to many animals. However, cockatoos in Australia have learned how to open rubbish bins to forage. The cockatoos have then adapted to solve new puzzles as humans attempt to make bins harder to open.

    This “innovation arms race” between humans and cockatoos shows how an initially ecologically irrelevant task may become relevant to an animal.

    Does a true test of ecologically irrelevant intelligence exist?

    One major question is whether we have been able to create a truly ecologically irrelevant task for animals to complete.

    For example, bees have been trained to recognise images of human faces. This task may appear ecologically irrelevant to a bee.

    However, to the bee, an image of a human face may actually represent an unfamiliar but rewarding flower, particularly when the correct option is paired with a reward of sugar water, which imitates a flower’s nectar. Is this task relevant or irrelevant to a bee? The answer is: it depends.

    Many experiments provide food rewards. Therefore, animals may interpret these experiments as a foraging task, thus making even the most complex and arbitrary tasks during tests of intelligence still somewhat ecologically relevant to the animal. Other rewards for animals participating in experiments include shelter, social interactions, and play.

    While the task itself may appear ecologically irrelevant, the reward may be highly relevant to animals looking for food, mating opportunities, safety, or fun. This leads us to question if any task we give animals is completely bereft of ecological relevance.

    Scarlett Howard currently has funding from the Australian Research Council and the Hermon Slade Foundation.

    – ref. Fish driving cars and chimps doing maths: what teaching animals ‘irrelevant’ skills reveals about our own minds – https://theconversation.com/fish-driving-cars-and-chimps-doing-maths-what-teaching-animals-irrelevant-skills-reveals-about-our-own-minds-253938

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CISA Welcomes Madhu Gottumukkala as the New Deputy Director

    News In Brief – Source: US Computer Emergency Readiness Team

    WASHINGTON – The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) is proud to announce the appointment of Madhu Gottumukkala as its new Deputy Director. In this role, he will help lead CISA’s mission to understand, manage, and reduce risk to the cyber and physical infrastructure that the American people rely on every day. 

    Prior to his appointment as the CISA Deputy Director, Dr. Gottumukkala served as Commissioner and Chief Information Officer for South Dakota’s Bureau of Information and Technology, overseeing statewide technology and cybersecurity initiatives. He assumed this role after serving as South Dakota’s second-ever chief technology officer, focused on innovation through the adoption of emerging technologies, while increasing efficiency by replacing outdated legacy systems.

    “I am honored to be appointed by Secretary Noem to serve as Deputy Director of CISA. As a former state and local leader, I have seen firsthand the exceptional work CISA does in advancing our nation’s cybersecurity and infrastructure resilience,” said Gottumukkala. “I look forward to building on that foundation by fostering collaboration and strengthening resilience across all levels of government and the private sector. Together, through trusted partnerships, transparency, and shared responsibility, we can better manage systemic risks and safeguard the critical functions that ensure our nation’s safety and prosperity.”

    “CISA is excited to welcome Madhu to the team. As we work around the clock to safeguard our nation’s most critical infrastructure, Madhu brings a unique blend of technical expertise and real-world experience that will enhance our mission,” said CISA Senior Official Performing the duties of the Director Bridget Bean. “His deep understanding of both the complexities and practical realities of infrastructure security will strengthen CISA in its role as the nation’s lead cyber defense agency and the national coordinator for infrastructure resilience today and into the future.”

    With over 24 years of experience in information technology (IT), Dr. Gottumukkala has held leadership roles spanning both the public and private sectors, including work across the wireless and telecom, unified communications, and health technology industries. He currently serves on the Advisory Committee of the College of Business and Information Systems at Dakota State University.

    Dr. Gottumukkala holds a Ph.D. in Information Systems from Dakota State University, an MBA in Engineering and Technology Management from the University of Dallas, an M.S. in Computer Science from the University of Texas at Arlington, and a B.E. in Electronics and Communication Engineering from Andhra University.

    For more information about CISA’s leadership team, please visit the official CISA website at CISA Leadership | CISA

    ###

    About CISA 

    As the nation’s cyber defense agency and national coordinator for critical infrastructure security, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency leads the national effort to understand, manage, and reduce risk to the digital and physical infrastructure Americans rely on every hour of every day.

    Visit CISA.gov for more information and follow us on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: First Partner joins conversation on expanding access to capital for female founders

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 19, 2025

    SACRAMENTO — First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom joined Marcie Frost (CEO, CalPERS) and Cassandra Lichnock (CEO, CalSTRS) at the annual Catalyst event for a candid conversation on the role California’s public institutions can play in opening access to funding for women and diverse entrepreneurs.

    California is now the fourth largest economy in the world and the center of the world’s investment-backed innovation economy, with Bay Area venture capitalists alone raising more than $151 billion in funds over the past five years— more than the rest of the U.S. combined. Yet, women and underrepresented voices are systematically overlooked: 

    • In 2023, women-founded companies raised $3.2 billion from VCs, just 2.8% of all U.S. VC activity. In comparison, all-male-founded companies raised $114 billion. (Pitchbook and Deloitte, Carta)
    • Women of color received just 0.39% of VC funding in 2023 and 0.13% of funding in 2022. (Fearless Fund)
    • Although the percentage of female VC check writers has grown from 9% to 15.5% in the U.S, 64% of venture firms still don’t have any female partners (female investors who are able to write checks). (All Raise)

    “California is the global center of the innovation economy because we embrace new ways of thinking and fresh ideas. But if we’re missing out on more than half of the population’s entrepreneurial breakthroughs, we’re leaving a lot on the table. The current system doesn’t reflect a lack of talent. It reflects a lack of access and that’s something we must change. And it’s something we’re uniquely positioned to do here in California. Because we know that when women and diverse founders lead, they deliver results —not just for investors—but for entire communities.”

    First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom

    At the event, Siebel Newsom, Frost, and Lichnock also discussed how California is making strides to shift the structural conditions that limit economic opportunity for all: 

    • CalPERS has shifted private equity focus away from just large-scale managers to include mid-market, growth, and venture—segments viewed as “undercapitalized.” 33% of CalPERS-backed managers now qualify as “diverse,” compared to an industry average of 21% across eight peer public pension funds. 
    • SB 54, California’s Venture Capital Diversity Disclosure Law, which will require VC firms operating in California to disclose demographic data on funded founders to boost transparency.
    • SB 826, California’s first-in-the-nation “women on boards” law, although later challenged by the courts, this law helped boost the seats women held on California’s public company board to 30% — up from 15.5% in 2018.  
    • AB 2927, requires all high school students to take a personal finance course. It helps to ensure the next generation—especially girls from underserved communities—have the knowledge to build financial independence early.

    Through the First Partner’s work with California for all Women and her nonprofit the California Partners Project, she has championed efforts to help increase representation of women and close the gender wealth gap–including a board playbook series, co-created with Stanford’s VMware Women’s Leadership Innovation Lab and Stanford Graduate School of Business, to help companies boost talent and representation on boards. 

    “Women are the innovators and entrepreneurs that are helping solve societal issues yet remain significantly underrepresented in getting the capital they need to turn ideas into reality,” said Marcie Frost, CEO of CalPERS. Data shows businesses that are majority-owned by women only get 2-percent of venture capital investments in the United States. This gap highlights persistent systemic barriers and biases within the venture capital ecosystem, underscoring the need for more inclusive investment practices and equitable access to funding opportunities that align with our fiduciary duty and requirement to diversify assets.”

    Marcie Frost, CEO of CalPERS

    Research shows that women and diverse leaders deliver outsized results: 

    • Research from Boston Consulting Group indicates that women-owned startups can generate significantly more revenue per dollar invested, potentially leading to greater wealth for investors. 
    • Venture capital firms with more women investing partners outperform their peers—seeing 1.5% higher fund returns and nearly 10% more profitable exits. 

    First Partner, Press releases

    Recent news

    May 19, 2025

    News What you need to know: California’s battery storage capacity now exceeds 15,700 megawatts, an unprecedented milestone that reflects the Newsom administration’s continued leadership in building the grid of the future. SACRAMENTO — California continues to rapidly…

    May 16, 2025

    News What you need to know: The state is investing almost $1.7 billion for improvements to California’s highway system, including $86.5 million for improvements to infrastructure damaged during the Los Angeles firestorms earlier this year. SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin…

    May 16, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom kicked off #WorldTradeMonth with a round of key international interviews with journalists from major broadcast networks in Canada, Japan, Mexico, South Korea, and the United Kingdom. In the interviews, Governor Newsom addressed…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: India: Authorities should immediately terminate ‘unwarranted’ investigation and release Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Responding to the arrest of Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad in Delhi, India, for ‘sedition’ following his social media post, Aakar Patel, chair of board at Amnesty International India, said:

    “The Haryana police must stop treating Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad like a criminal simply for expressing an opinion. The shameful arrest of the Professor for a social media post seeking support for justice for victims of lynching and ‘bulldozer injustice’ in the country is a violation of his rights to freedom of expression and liberty.

    “Accusing Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad of sedition and other charges is not only absurd and completely unwarranted but also shows how authorities have been consistently misusing the law to target anyone who has a critical view in the country. Section 152 of the Indian criminal code, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which the professor has been accused of, is nothing but a new version of the old sedition law which the Supreme Court had stayed in 2022. In its new avatar, the law is once again being used to censor critical voices and create a climate of fear.  

    “The Indian government should urgently repeal this pernicious legislation and comply with their international human rights obligations. The Haryana Police must immediately release Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad and terminate the investigation against him.”

    The Haryana police must stop treating Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad like a criminal simply for expressing an opinion.

    Aakar Patel, chair of board at Amnesty International India

    Background:

    Ali Khan Mahmudabad is an associate professor and the head of political science department at Ashoka University in India. On 8 May, in a social media post he said that he was glad to see right-wing praise for Colonel Sophia Qureishi, who was one of the Indian armed forces spokespersons for media briefings on Operation Sindoor, but they should also speak up for ‘victims of mob lynchings, arbitrary bulldozing’ and the ruling-party ‘BJP’s hate mongering.’

    The Haryana State Women’s Commission, however, accused the professor of attempting to “vilify national military actions”. Based on this along with a BJP Youth Wing leader’s complaint, the Haryana police filed a report against the Professor based on articles 152 (sedition), 353 (statements conducing to public mischief) and 79 (word, gesture or act intended to insult modesty of a woman) of the BNS.

    Professor Ali Mahmudabad was arrested on 18 May from his Delhi residence and currently subject to 2-day police custody. He has defended his comments and said that they had been misunderstood.

    Last year, the Rajasthan High Court had ruled against the misuse of Section 152 to suppress legitimate dissent

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Negotiated Rulemaking Public Hearing Afternoon Session April 28, 2025

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    This public hearing is part of the Department of Education’s negotiated rulemaking for 2025-2026 to make regulatory changes for the programs authorized by Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1gtLavFitMI

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Negotiated Rulemaking Public Hearing Morning Session April 28, 2025

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    This public hearing is part of the Department of Education’s negotiated rulemaking for 2025-2026 to make regulatory changes for the programs authorized by Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z51nJdJbGgk

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Negotiated Rulemaking Public Hearing Morning Session April 30, 2025

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    This public hearing is part of the Department of Education’s negotiated rulemaking for 2025-2026 to make regulatory changes for the programs authorized by Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KXSfd_wbPOE

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Negotiated Rulemaking Public Hearing Afternoon Session April 30, 2025

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    This public hearing is part of the Department of Education’s negotiated rulemaking for 2025-2026 to make regulatory changes for the programs authorized by Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8iqogAfZrpA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 19 May 2025 News release Papua New Guinea eliminates trachoma as a public health problem

    Source: World Health Organisation

    In a landmark public health achievement, Papua New Guinea (PNG) has been validated by the World Health Organization (WHO) for eliminating trachoma as a public health problem. Trachoma, a neglected tropical disease (NTD) and the world’s leading infectious cause of blindness, no longer poses a public health threat in the country.

    “I congratulate the government and people of Papua New Guinea on this incredible achievement, said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus,” WHO Director-General. “This success demonstrates what can be achieved when science and sustained partnerships come together to serve the health and dignity of communities.”

    Official recognition was made during the 78th World Health Assembly held in Geneva, Switzerland, following a comprehensive review of PNG’s elimination dossier.

    Trachoma is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis and spreads through personal contact, flies that have been in contact with eye or nose discharge and contact with infected surfaces. Repeated infections can lead to scarring, in-turning of the eyelids, and ultimately irreversible blindness. Globally, the disease remains endemic in many vulnerable communities where access to clean water and sanitation is limited.

    Papua New Guinea’s success story

    “Papua New Guinea’s achievement is an example of medical science in action,” said Dr Saia Ma’u Piukala, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific. “It reflects a deep understanding of local epidemiology and a commitment to using the right interventions for the right reasons. We commend the National Department of Health, health workers, researchers, and partners for their persistent efforts.”

    In PNG, population-based surveys conducted in 2015 found signs of active trachoma in children but very low levels of Chlamydia trachomatis, as well as negligible levels of trachomatous trichiasis – the advanced stage of the disease that causes blindness. A follow-up ancillary survey in 2020 further confirmed that affected children were not progressing to more severe disease. This epidemiological pattern, shared with other Melanesian countries, provided the foundation for PNG’s successful claim to have eliminated trachoma as a public health problem.

    Unlike many other countries where trachoma elimination has required surgery campaigns, antibiotic mass drug administration and targeted improvements in access to water, sanitation and hygiene, PNG’s success was driven by robust disease surveillance. The country’s National Department of Health, with the support from partners, oversaw a series of rapid assessments, prevalence surveys, and community-level investigations. These efforts confirmed that community-wide interventions for trachoma were not warranted.

    PNG’s trachoma elimination programme received technical and financial support from WHO, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Fred Hollows Foundation, the Brien Holden Vision Institute, Sightsavers, PNG Eye Care, and several other organizations. The programme also benefited from scientific collaborations with the Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, the Global Trachoma Mapping Project, Collaborative Vision, Tropical Data and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, among many others.

    Since 2016, 13 countries in the Western Pacific Region have been validated by WHO for eliminating at least one NTD. Trachoma elimination is part of broader progress on NTDs in PNG and the Western Pacific Region.

    Trachoma is the first neglected tropical disease eliminated in PNG. Following this successful validation, globally, 56 countries have eliminated at least one NTD, including 22 others that have eliminated trachoma as a public health problem. PNG joining these groups enhances our collective momentum toward the targets of the NTD road map 2021–2030.

    WHO continues to support countries in their efforts to eliminate trachoma and other NTDs, ensuring healthier lives for all, particularly the most disadvantaged.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: South Dakota School of Mines and Technology (SDMST)

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Mission

    The South Dakota School of Mines & Technology (South Dakota Mines, SD Mines, or SDSM&T) is a public university in Rapid City, South Dakota.

    It is governed by the South Dakota Board of Regents and was founded in 1885. South Dakota Mines offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Portugal: EIB provides €300 million loan to support the rehabilitation of state-funded schools

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • The €300 million loan will help to modernise state-funded primary and secondary schools across the country.
    • This investment covers projects to improve safety, accessibility and energy efficiency in school buildings.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) has signed a €300 million financing agreement with Portugal to co-finance the School Restoration and Rehabilitation Programme, which aims to modernise hundreds of state-funded schools across the country. The agreement was signed by the Portuguese Treasury and Public Debt Management Agency (IGCP).

    This is one of the most significant operations for public investment in education in recent decades, and will contribute directly to the European priorities of social infrastructure, cohesion, climate action and sustainable development.

    Thanks to these funds, at least 499 schools will be able to apply for assistance to undertake works to upgrade and expand their buildings, or to construct new schools, with a view to providing safer, more modern, more inclusive and more energy-efficient learning environments.

    Modernising schools will help to significantly improve teaching and learning environments, while also helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by improving energy efficiency in school buildings.

    The project contributes to the EIB’s objectives with regards to climate action, environmental sustainability, and economic and social cohesion. This programme will also receive additional support through national and European funding instruments.

    Background information

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, the EIB finances investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, high-impact investments outside the European Union and the capital markets union.

    The EIB Group, which includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed almost €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security.

    All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment.

    Fostering market integration and mobilising investment, the Group supported a record of over €100 billion in new investment for Europe’s energy security in 2024 and mobilised €110 billion in growth capital for startups, scale-ups and European pioneers. Around half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower than the EU average.

    High-quality, up-to-date photos of our headquarters for media use are available here.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Funding university projects on Islam, Sharia and Islamophobia – P-001946/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-001946/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Silvia Sardone (PfE)

    As many newspapers[1][2] have pointed out, the European Research Council has allocated around EUR 17 million to projects relating to Islam, the Qur’an, Sharia and Islamophobia. Among the various studies on Islamophobia, I would mention ‘Nativism, Islamophobia and Islamism in the Age of Populism’ (Istanbul University), ‘Understanding the Past to Address Present-Day Islamophobia’ (La Sapienza University of Rome), and ‘Avenues to the inclusion of Muslims in democracies’ (Bergen University). I would also like to mention the projects ‘Mapping the evolution of Sharia law, from revealed law to legal system’ (CNRS France), ‘Animals in Islamic philosophy’ (University of Munich), ‘Beyond Sharia law: the role of Sufism in the creation of Islam’ (University of Utrecht), ‘Beyond Sharia law: the role of Sufism in the creation of Islam’ (University of Erfurt). There are numerous studies linked to research initiatives that promote Islam in a positive light and, in a questionable manner, fuel the idea that there is an Islamophobia emergency in Europe.

    Can the Commission therefore say:

    • 1.How does it justify the substantial disbursement of public funds for studies, of questionable utility, all focused on Islam?
    • 2.Have the risks of involvement by entities or associations linked to radical Islamist ideologies been assessed?
    • 3.How are these research projects chosen and on what basis is funding approved?

    Submitted: 14.5.2025

    • [1] https://www.ilgiornale.it/news/europa/ue-altri-17milioni-euro-finanziare-progetti-sullislam-2474447.html.
    • [2] https://www.ansa.it/europa/notizie/rubriche/altrenews/2025/05/05/sardone-legaue-spreca-17-milioni-in-progetti-sullislamofobia_905db26f-b5ba-4c2b-b765-acfc47ea8382.html.
    Last updated: 19 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs hosts 26th World Customs Organization Asia/Pacific Regional Heads of Customs Administrations Conference (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong Customs hosts 26th World Customs Organization Asia/Pacific Regional Heads of Customs Administrations Conference       
         The Conference is the highest-level meeting held annually in the A/P region, which has gathered more than 120 heads of Customs organisations and senior officials from the region, along with delegates from the WCO’s regional entities. The Secretary General of the WCO, Mr Ian Saunders, was also in attendance.
          
         The Conference started with a welcoming speech by the Commissioner of Customs and Excise, Mr Chan Tsz-tat, in the capacity of the WCO Vice-Chairperson for the A/P Region. While highlighting that the Conference serves as an important platform for discussing regional policies and formulating the future of the customs community, Mr Chan encouraged participants to share ideas and experiences, propose customs initiatives and stay updated with the latest customs developments. He hoped that the commitment and dedication of the A/P family would foster regional co-operation in addressing evolving global challenges. Other speakers, including Mr Saunders, also shared valuable insights on the future development of the WCO.
          
         The Conference features discussions on various customs initiatives and actions pertinent to the A/P region, enabling participants to share ideas and make decisions to enhance connectivity and trade facilitation amongst regional members, thereby promoting the development of customs affairs in the region. In addition, the Conference was enriched by wonderful performances from the Hong Kong Baptist University Affiliated School Wong Kam Fai Secondary and Primary School Chinese Drum Team at the welcome reception, as well as the Good Hope School Chinese Orchestra prior to the start of the first day Conference, demonstrating the vibrant Chinese culture and showcasing the talent, positive energy and potential of Hong Kong’s young generation.
    Issued at HKT 20:37

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Best Personal Loans for Bad Credit Guaranteed Approval 2025: Top Provider with No Credit Check & Fast Approval – LowCreditFinance

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, NY, May 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Secure Emergency Loans for Bad Credit with Guaranteed Approval – Explore Leading No Credit Check Lenders for Quick and Reliable Funding Solutions in 2025

    When life throws unexpected expenses your way, finding a trustworthy lender—especially with less-than-perfect credit—can feel overwhelming.

    That’s where LowCreditFinance comes in. As one of the leading bad credit loan providers in 2025, LowCreditFinance specializes in connecting borrowers of all credit backgrounds with fast, reliable funding solutions.

    Whether you need cash for an emergency, to consolidate debt, or to cover a major purchase, their user-friendly online platform makes the process simple and stress-free.

    With a vast network of reputable lenders, same-day approval decisions, and flexible repayment terms, LowCreditFinance puts financial control back in your hands.

    Even if you’ve been turned down elsewhere, their inclusive approach ensures you have access to the funds you need—quickly, securely, and with complete transparency.

    Top Personal Loans for Bad Credit Guaranteed Approval Options Today

    LowCreditFinance Review: A Friendly Guide to Fast Loans for All Credit Types

    < CLICK to view top loan providers with no credit check >

    Introduction: Your Financial Partner in Tough Times

    Life is full of surprises—some good, some not so much. Whether it’s an unexpected car repair, medical bill, or an opportunity you can’t pass up, sometimes you need extra cash, and you need it fast. If your credit isn’t perfect, this can feel overwhelming. That’s where LowCreditFinance steps in.

    Low Credit Finance specializes in helping people with all credit backgrounds—including those with poor or no credit—quickly find a loan that fits their needs. With a simple, secure online process and a network of lenders, they’re dedicated to making borrowing less stressful and more accessible for everyone.

    What is LowCreditFinance?

    Low Credit Finance isn’t a direct lender—they don’t issue loans themselves. Instead, they operate as a loan-matching service, connecting borrowers with a large network of lenders and alternative loan providers. Their platform makes it easy to submit a single application and get matched with multiple options, saving customers time and hassle.

    < Click here to see how LowCreditFinance works >

    Key Features:

    • Borrow amounts from $100 up to $50,000
    • All credit types welcome
    • Same-day online decisions
    • Funds can be sent in as little as 60 minutes
    • Flexible repayment terms
    • 100% secure application process

    How the Application Process Works

    Applying for a loan with Low Credit Finance is straightforward and can be done entirely online. Here’s what you can expect:

    Step 1: Choose Your Loan Amount

    You start by selecting how much you need to borrow. Amounts range from $100 for small emergencies to $50,000 for larger expenses like debt consolidation or home repairs.

    Step 2: Fill Out a Simple Online Form

    The application form is user-friendly and only takes about two minutes to complete. You’ll provide basic details such as your contact information, approximate credit score, employment status, income, and bank account details (for direct deposit of funds). They also ask for information like your driver’s license and Social Security number to verify your identity and prevent fraud.

    Step 3: Get Matched with Lenders

    Once you submit your application, Low Credit Finance’s proprietary matching software searches their network for lenders that fit your profile. You’re then presented with one or more loan offers that you can review and choose from.

    Step 4: Receive Your Funds

    If approved by a lender, you could receive your money on the same business day—sometimes within 60 minutes. The funds are deposited directly into your bank account.

    < Need an emergency loan but have bad credit? – CLICK HERE >

    Who Can Apply?

    One of the standout features of Low Credit Finance is their all-credit-welcome approach. Whether you have excellent, fair, poor, or even no credit, you can apply. Here are some basic eligibility points:

    • You must be at least 18 years old.
    • You need a valid checking or savings account for deposits.
    • You must provide proof of income (job, self-employment, benefits, or military income are all accepted).
    • You’ll need to share some personal and financial details for verification.

    < Apply for a personal loans with no credit check – CLICK HERE >

    Loan Types and Flexibility

    Low Credit Finance caters to a wide range of needs and situations. Their lenders offer:

    • Personal Installment Loans: Borrow larger amounts and repay over months or years with fixed monthly payments.
    • Short-Term Loans: Ideal for emergencies and quick cash needs.
    • No Credit Check Loans: Some lenders may offer loans without a traditional credit check, though terms may vary.
    • Flexible Repayment: Choose a repayment plan that matches your pay schedule and budget.

    With such variety, you’re likely to find a loan option that fits your circumstances—even if you’ve been turned down elsewhere.

    Speed and Convenience

    One of the biggest advantages of using Low Credit Finance is how fast everything moves. The online application is simple, and you can receive a lending decision almost instantly. If you’re approved, the funds could be in your bank account in as little as an hour. This makes Low Credit Finance a great choice for anyone facing urgent financial needs and can’t afford to wait days or weeks for traditional approval.

    Security and Privacy

    Applying for a loan online means sharing sensitive information, so security is a big concern. Low Credit Finance uses advanced encryption and privacy measures to ensure your data stays safe. All information submitted is 100% secure, and they’re transparent about how your information is used—primarily to match you with the best lender.

    Fees, Rates, and Transparency

    Low Credit Finance itself does not charge any fees for using their service. Instead, they receive compensation from lenders if you accept a loan offer. This means you can use their platform to shop around for free.

    APR rates from their network of lenders range from 5.99% to 35.99%. The exact rate and terms depend on your creditworthiness, the loan amount, and the lender’s policies. Before you accept any loan, make sure you review the terms carefully, including fees, interest rates, and repayment schedules. Low Credit Finance encourages borrowers to compare options and make informed decisions.

    What Do Customers Say?

    Customer reviews highlight the speed, simplicity, and accessibility of Low Credit Finance’s service. Many users appreciate being able to apply with bad credit and still receive offers, sometimes within minutes. The easy-to-follow application and clear communication from lenders are also frequently praised.

    As with any loan service, experiences can vary based on individual circumstances and the lenders you’re matched with. Always read the fine print and ask questions if anything is unclear.

    Customer Support

    Should you have any questions or concerns, Low Credit Finance offers 24/7 email support at support@lowcreditfinance.com. Their FAQ section also covers common questions about the application process, eligibility, and what to expect.

    Things to Consider

    While Low Credit Finance offers many benefits, it’s important to remember:

    • They are not a direct lender; they connect you with lenders.
    • Loan approval and terms depend on the lender’s requirements.
    • Always review loan offers carefully and compare multiple options.
    • Some lenders may perform a credit check or require additional information.

    Is Low Credit Finance Right for You?

    If you need quick access to funds and worry your credit score will hold you back, Low Credit Finance is worth considering. Their easy application, broad lender network, and commitment to helping people with all credit backgrounds make them a standout option for emergency borrowing or larger financial needs.

    With no upfront fees, a secure process, and the potential to receive funds in just 60 minutes, Low Credit Finance puts fast, flexible loans within reach—even if your credit history isn’t perfect. As always, borrow responsibly, review your options carefully, and choose a loan that fits your budget. For many, Low Credit Finance could be the helping hand you need when life throws you a curveball.

    Introduction to Personal Loans

    Life can be unpredictable, and sometimes, unexpected expenses pop up when you least expect them—whether it’s a medical bill, urgent car repair, or an opportunity you don’t want to miss. For many people, especially those with less-than-perfect credit, finding a way to cover these costs can feel overwhelming. That’s where personal loans come in, offering a lifeline when you need it most.

    What Are Personal Loans and How Do They Work?

    Think of a personal loan as a helping hand for life’s expenses. Unlike a mortgage or a car loan, which are tied to specific purchases, personal loans are what’s called “unsecured”—you don’t have to put your house or car on the line to qualify. Instead, you borrow a lump sum and pay it back in fixed monthly installments over a set period, usually between one and five years.

    What makes personal loans so useful is their flexibility. You can use the funds for just about anything: consolidating high-interest credit card debt, making home improvements, covering emergency medical expenses, or even planning a special event. The freedom to choose how you use the money is a big part of their appeal.

    Options for People with Bad Credit

    If your credit score isn’t perfect, you might feel like your options are limited. But the good news is that there are personal loans designed specifically for people with bad credit. These lenders understand that a credit score doesn’t tell the whole story and are willing to look at your overall financial picture, such as your income and ability to repay.

    Some lenders even offer “guaranteed approval” loans, meaning your chances of getting approved are much higher—even if your credit history has a few bumps. And in many cases, you won’t need to undergo a traditional credit check, which can be a relief if you’re worried about another inquiry hurting your score.

    Fast and Convenient Applications

    Gone are the days of filling out stacks of paperwork and waiting weeks for a decision. Today, applying for a personal loan is usually quick and easy. Most lenders offer online applications that you can complete from the comfort of your home—sometimes in just a few minutes. You simply enter some basic information, and in many cases, you’ll get an answer within hours.

    If you’re approved, the money can often be deposited into your bank account as soon as the same business day. This speed can make all the difference when you’re dealing with an emergency or time-sensitive expense.

    Flexible Repayment That Fits Your Life

    One of the biggest sources of financial stress is not knowing how much you’ll owe from month to month. That’s why the structure of personal loans can be such a relief. With fixed monthly payments, you get predictability—no more guessing or worrying about surprise bills. You know exactly how much to set aside each month, which makes planning your budget a whole lot simpler.

    But the flexibility of personal loans goes beyond just predictable payments. Many lenders understand that life isn’t always smooth sailing, so they offer options that help you stay in control, even when things get bumpy. For example, you might be able to select your own payment date, aligning it with your payday or another time that works best for you. This little detail can make a big difference, helping you avoid late fees and unnecessary stress.

    Some lenders also allow you to make extra payments without any penalties. This means if you ever have a little extra cash—maybe from a bonus at work or a tax refund—you can put it toward your loan and pay it off faster. Not only does this save you money on interest, but it can also give you a real sense of progress and empowerment as you watch your balance shrink.

    Having this kind of flexibility is especially important if you’re working to rebuild your credit. On-time payments are one of the most important factors in your credit score, and being able to stick to a manageable payment schedule makes it much easier to stay on track. As you make those consistent payments, you’re not just chipping away at your debt—you’re also showing future lenders that you’re responsible and creditworthy.

    Ultimately, personal loans with flexible repayment options offer more than just money—they provide peace of mind. They give you breathing room and the tools you need to move forward financially, one manageable step at a time.

    Clear Terms and Peace of Mind

    When it comes to borrowing money—especially if you’ve had credit challenges in the past—there’s nothing more important than feeling confident and secure about your decision. Unfortunately, the world of loans can sometimes feel like a maze of jargon, hidden fees, and terms buried in the fine print. That’s why working with lenders who are clear and upfront about their terms makes such a huge difference.

    A transparent personal loan provider will lay everything out for you: the interest rate, the total amount you’ll repay, the monthly payment, and any fees involved. There shouldn’t be any surprises, and you should feel comfortable asking questions. If something isn’t clear, a trustworthy lender will take the time to explain it in plain language. This openness not only protects you from unexpected costs but also builds trust—something that’s priceless when your finances are on the line.

    This kind of clarity is especially important for people with bad credit, who may have already dealt with overwhelming debt or confusing lending terms in the past. Knowing exactly what you’re signing up for allows you to plan ahead and avoid falling into the traps that can make financial recovery even harder.

    Taking out a personal loan is a big step, and it’s normal to feel nervous. But when you can see all the details up front, it’s easier to move forward with confidence. You can compare offers, weigh the pros and cons, and make a decision that truly fits your situation.

    In the end, clear terms and honest communication aren’t just nice to have—they’re essential. They help turn what could be a stressful experience into a manageable one, giving you the peace of mind you need to focus on your goals and build a brighter financial future.

    Understanding Credit Scores: Why They Matter for Personal Loans

    After finding a loan with clear terms and flexible repayment, you might start to wonder: what role does your credit score really play in all of this? Understanding credit scores—and how they affect your loan options—can empower you to make better financial decisions and ultimately secure the best deal possible.

    What Is a Credit Score and How Is It Calculated?

    A credit score is essentially a three-digit number that represents your creditworthiness. It’s calculated based on your credit history, including how reliably you’ve paid your bills, how much debt you have, and how long you’ve been using credit. The most commonly used scoring model is the FICO score, which ranges from 300 to 850. In general, the higher your score, the more favorably lenders will view you.

    How Credit Scores Affect Loan Approval and Interest Rates

    When you apply for a personal loan, lenders look at your credit score as one of the main factors in their decision-making process. A high credit score usually means you’re more likely to be approved and to receive lower interest rates, which can save you a lot of money over the life of your loan. On the other hand, a low or “bad” credit score can make it harder to qualify and may result in higher interest rates.

    That said, a poor credit score isn’t the end of the road. Some lenders specialize in personal loans for bad credit, offering guaranteed approval or more flexible criteria. These loans can provide a valuable opportunity to access funds when you need them, even if your credit history isn’t perfect.

    Factors Beyond the Credit Score

    It’s important to remember that your credit score isn’t the only thing lenders consider. They’ll also look at your income, employment status, debt-to-income ratio, and overall credit history. This means that even if your score is lower than you’d like, having steady income or a manageable debt load can help improve your chances of approval.

    Building and Maintaining Good Credit

    Maintaining a good credit score is one of the best ways to unlock better loan options and lower interest rates. Simple habits like paying bills on time, keeping credit card balances low, and checking your credit report regularly for errors can make a big difference over time. Even if you’re starting with bad credit, taking small, consistent steps can help you rebuild your financial reputation.

    By understanding how credit scores work and how they impact your loan options, you’ll be better prepared to find a personal loan that fits your needs—now and in the future.

    Credit History and Loan Approval: What Lenders Really Look For

    By now, you’ve seen how your credit score can impact the personal loan process—but it’s only part of the bigger picture. When you apply for a loan, lenders don’t just check your score; they take a close look at your entire credit history. This gives them a fuller sense of how you’ve managed money over time, helping them decide if you’re a trustworthy borrower.

    Your credit history is detailed in your credit report, which lists your past loans, credit card accounts, payment history, and any late or missed payments. If you’ve had some financial bumps, like missed payments or defaults, lenders might see you as a riskier borrower. This can sometimes mean higher interest rates or, in some cases, loan denial.

    However, there’s good news—some lenders are more understanding and offer loans specifically designed for people with less-than-perfect credit. These lenders may focus more on your current income or the steps you’ve taken to get back on track, rather than just your past mistakes. Some even have minimal credit score requirements and put more weight on your ability to repay now, not just what’s happened before.

    If you’re looking to improve your chances for the future, making on-time payments, reducing your debt, and avoiding too many hard credit checks are powerful ways to rebuild your credit history. Remember, lenders also look at your income, employment stability, and debt-to-income ratio. Being able to show steady income and responsible financial habits can go a long way.

    Ultimately, while your credit history matters, it’s not the only thing that defines you as a borrower. There are always options and steps you can take to strengthen your application and move closer to your financial goals.

    Types of Loans for Bad Credit: Exploring Your Options

    If you’ve read this far, you know that getting a personal loan with bad credit isn’t impossible—there are actually several different options out there, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. Understanding the different types of loans available can help you choose the one that best fits your needs and financial situation.

    Installment Loans: Flexibility and Predictability

    Installment loans are one of the most popular choices for borrowers with bad credit. With these loans, you borrow a set amount of money and repay it over time in regular, fixed monthly payments. This structure makes it easier to budget, since you always know what your payment will be. Many people use installment loans for things like debt consolidation or home improvements, since the predictable payments and longer terms can make bigger expenses feel more manageable.

    Payday Loans: Fast Cash, High Costs

    Sometimes emergencies just can’t wait, and that’s where payday loans come in. These loans are designed to provide quick cash—often within a single business day. However, it’s important to be careful: payday loans typically come with very high interest rates and fees. While they can help cover urgent short-term expenses, the costs can add up quickly, making them a risky option if you’re unable to repay on time.

    Unsecured Loans: No Collateral Required

    Unsecured loans are another option for those with bad credit. Unlike secured loans, you don’t need to put up any collateral, like your car or home. This can make them more accessible, but it also means lenders may charge higher interest rates or have stricter repayment terms to offset the risk.

    Tribal Loans: Unique Terms, Use Caution

    Tribal loans are offered by lenders based on Native American tribal land. These loans can be accessible even to those with very poor credit, but borrowers should be cautious. Interest rates and fees for tribal loans can be extremely high, and the legal protections may differ from state-regulated loans.

    Credit Check Loans: Favorable Terms for Good Credit

    Credit check loans are a common type of personal loan where lenders review your credit report as part of the approval process. If you have a strong credit history and a solid score, these loans can offer some of the most attractive terms available. Lower interest rates, smaller fees, and longer repayment periods are all perks that come with proving your creditworthiness.

    People often turn to credit check loans for big-ticket items like home improvements, medical procedures, or consolidating high-interest credit card debt. Because the lender is confident in your ability to repay, you may qualify for higher loan amounts and more flexible terms. This makes it easier to budget for larger expenses over time, without being hit by sky-high monthly payments.

    However, approval criteria for credit check loans are typically stricter. Lenders will want to see not just a good credit score, but also a reliable income and manageable debt levels. If you meet these requirements, you could secure a loan with very competitive rates.

    Before committing, it’s important to read the loan agreement carefully. Even with a strong credit profile, terms can vary between lenders, and it’s always wise to watch for any hidden fees or conditions. Taking the time to understand the fine print will help you make a confident, informed borrowing decision.

    No Credit Check Loans: Fast Funding for Urgent Needs

    For many people, the thought of a credit check can be intimidating—especially if your credit history is less than perfect. No credit check loans offer an alternative. These loans skip the traditional credit inquiry, focusing more on your current income and ability to repay. With more lenient approval criteria, they’re often available to those who have been turned down elsewhere.

    No credit check loans are typically used for emergencies—like covering a surprise medical bill, urgent car repairs, or other expenses that simply can’t wait. The application process is usually quick and straightforward, sometimes providing funds within hours. This speed can be a lifesaver when time is of the essence.

    However, convenience comes at a cost. Because these loans carry more risk for the lender, they often have higher interest rates and fees. Repayment terms are usually shorter and loan amounts smaller, which means you’ll need to pay the money back quickly.

    While some lenders do offer flexible repayment options and try to keep fees transparent, it’s essential to read the terms carefully. High costs can add up fast, making it easy to fall into a cycle of debt if you’re not careful. No credit check loans can be useful in a pinch, but they should be approached with caution and used only for true emergencies.

    Direct Lender Options: Simplicity and Speed

    Navigating the loan marketplace can be overwhelming, especially when third-party brokers get involved. Direct lender options cut out the middleman, allowing you to apply and receive funds directly from the source. This can lead to a smoother process, faster approval, and sometimes lower interest rates, since there are no broker fees to worry about.

    Direct lenders often offer more personalized loan experiences, tailoring terms to your financial situation. They may also have more flexibility in approving borrowers with less-than-perfect credit, making them a good choice if you need money quickly and don’t want to jump through extra hoops.

    Applying directly can also mean a quicker funding timeline—sometimes as fast as the same or next business day. However, it’s still important to carefully review the loan’s terms, as some direct lenders may offset their flexibility with higher interest rates or stricter repayment conditions.

    Doing a bit of research goes a long way. Comparing offers, checking for hidden fees, and reading reviews can help you find a reputable direct lender who’s transparent and trustworthy. Remember, the right lender should make you feel informed and comfortable, not pressured or rushed. By choosing a direct lender wisely, you can enjoy a smoother borrowing experience and greater peace of mind.

    Understanding Annual Percentage Rate (APR): The True Cost of Borrowing

    One of the most important factors to pay attention to when considering a loan is the annual percentage rate, or APR. Unlike a simple interest rate, APR gives you the full picture of what borrowing will actually cost you over time. It includes not just the interest, but also any fees or compounding charges, making it the most reliable way to compare loan offers.

    APR can vary widely depending on the lender, the type of loan, and—most importantly—your credit score. Generally, the higher your credit score, the lower your APR will be, since lenders see you as less of a risk. On the flip side, if your credit isn’t great, you may see higher APRs, meaning you’ll pay more in interest over the life of the loan.

    Before applying for any loan, it’s crucial to look beyond just the monthly payment. Take time to review the APR and add up the total cost of the loan, including all fees. This helps you avoid surprises down the road and ensures the loan truly fits your budget. Factors like the loan amount and the length of the repayment term can also impact your APR, so consider these carefully.

    Comparing APRs from multiple lenders helps you find the most affordable option. Remember, a little extra research at the start can save you a lot of money—and stress—over the life of your loan.

    Borrow Money with Bad Credit: Planning for Success

    If you have bad credit, the idea of borrowing money can feel intimidating. You might worry about being turned down or facing sky-high interest rates. But the good news is that there are still options available, from specialized bad credit loans to no credit check loans designed for urgent needs.

    The key is to approach the process with your eyes wide open. Always review the loan’s terms and conditions carefully. Look closely at the interest rates, fees, and repayment requirements. Some lenders are more transparent and offer flexible terms, while others may hide high costs in the fine print.

    Before applying, take an honest look at your financial situation. Ask yourself how much you truly need to borrow, and if you’ll be able to manage the payments comfortably. Planning ahead can help you avoid the debt traps that often come with high-interest loans.

    Budgeting is especially important when your credit is less than perfect. Make sure you have a plan to repay the loan on time—on-time payments can actually help you rebuild your credit over time. Borrowing with bad credit isn’t impossible, but it does require extra care, thorough research, and a focus on long-term financial health.

    Loan Customer Reviews: Learning from Real Borrowers

    After understanding loan types, APRs, and what to look for in a lender, it’s wise to tap into one of the most valuable resources available—other borrowers’ experiences. Loan customer reviews can offer a firsthand look at what it’s really like to work with a particular lender, beyond what’s promised in advertisements or on the lender’s website.

    When you read through reviews, you’ll gain insight into how a lender handles customer service, whether they’re transparent about fees, and if they deliver on their promises. Did borrowers feel supported during the application process? Were there any hidden fees or unexpected issues with repayment? These are the kinds of real-life details that reviews can reveal.

    It’s always best to consult multiple sources. Look at reviews on the lender’s official site, but also check independent platforms like Trustpilot, Google, or the Better Business Bureau. This gives you a fuller, more balanced picture. Keep in mind that some reviews may be fake or overly biased, especially if they seem too generic or overly enthusiastic. Take the time to read both positive and negative feedback to spot common patterns.

    Some lenders really do stand out for their positive reviews and flexible loan options, but don’t let one glowing report sway you—consider the bigger picture. By researching a range of reviews, you’ll be better equipped to choose a lender that values transparency, fair terms, and good customer support. This extra step can provide peace of mind and help you avoid unpleasant surprises down the road.

    Contacting Lenders: Getting the Clarity You Need

    Once you’ve narrowed down your choices and read through customer reviews, the next smart step is reaching out to lenders directly. Contacting lenders gives you the chance to ask specific questions, clarify any confusing terms, and get a sense for how responsive and helpful their customer support really is.

    Most reputable lenders offer several ways to get in touch: phone, email, or live online chat. If you’re unsure about any aspect of the loan—whether it’s the interest rate, fees, repayment schedule, or approval process—don’t hesitate to ask. Good lenders will be happy to provide clear, straightforward answers without making you feel rushed or pressured.

    Before you make that call or send an email, review the loan terms and conditions carefully so you know exactly what to ask about. Bring up anything you don’t understand, and pay attention to how the lender responds. Are they patient and informative, or do they use high-pressure tactics to get you to sign up quickly? Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it probably is.

    Contacting lenders not only helps you get the answers you need, but also gives you a feel for their customer service style. A helpful, transparent lender is a good sign that you’ll be supported throughout your loan journey. Taking the time to reach out can help ensure you make an informed decision and choose the loan that’s truly right for you.

    Best Bad Credit Loan Providers with Guaranteed Approval Summary

    In 2025, LowCreditFinance stands out as the top bad credit loan provider with guaranteed approval, offering fast, flexible funding solutions for borrowers of all backgrounds.

    With an easy online application, a vast network of reputable lenders, and a commitment to transparency, LowCreditFinance makes it simple to access loans up to $50,000—even if your credit score is less than perfect.

    You’ll benefit from same-day decisions, customizable repayment terms, and no hidden fees, ensuring a stress-free borrowing experience.

    If you need quick cash and want a lender that puts your needs first, LowCreditFinance is the trusted, hassle-free choice for anyone looking to secure emergency funds or manage financial challenges in 2025.

    Legal Notice and Affiliate Transparency

    This article is intended solely for informational and educational use and should not be interpreted as financial, legal, or professional counsel. The content is based on publicly accessible sources and third-party data considered reliable at the time of writing; however, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information provided.

    Loan terms, interest rates, and product availability are determined by external lenders and may change at any time without prior notice. Readers are strongly encouraged to perform their own research and consult a qualified financial advisor or legal expert before making any financial choices.

    The service discussed in this article, MoneyMutual, acts as a loan marketplace, not a direct lender. They do not provide loans or make credit decisions, but rather connect borrowers with independent lending partners. All loan agreements, terms, and conditions are strictly between the borrower and the chosen lender.

    Some links or references in this article may be affiliated. If you click on a link and take action—such as submitting a loan request or accepting an offer—we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. This potential compensation does not affect our editorial content or recommendations.

    By using this article, you acknowledge and accept that:

    • You are responsible for verifying loan offers and lender details independently.
    • The content is not tailored as personal financial advice.
    • The publisher and contributors are not liable for any financial decisions or damages resulting from the information shared here.
    • All trademarks and brand names belong to their respective owners; mention of third-party services does not imply endorsement.

    For the most current loan terms, eligibility criteria, and product information, always review the official website of the respective lender.

    Media Contact: Tony Stevens
    Website: https://www.lowcreditfinance.com
    Email: support@lowcreditfinance.com

    102 W Service Rd, Apt: 820, Champlain, NY 12919

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Air quality work on agenda for City Committee

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    At today’s meeting of the Inverness and Area City Committee members were given an update on the air quality work undertaken by the Council’s Environmental Health Team, including project work carried out in Primary Schools to monitor air quality and raise awareness.

    Under Part IV of the Environment Act 1995, the Council has a duty to review and assess air quality throughout Highland. The Act also requires that if an assessment of air quality indicates that an air quality objective is unlikely to be achieved, the Council must designate these areas as an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) by order.

    A detailed assessment report of air quality in the City Centre in 2014 determined a small area where the air quality objective for nitrogen dioxide was not being achieved. The Inverness City Centre AQMA was designated by order on the 9 September 2014.

    Since then, the Council has formulated an action plan for the AQMA, working with partners and stakeholders to progress actions that would improve air quality in the AQMA. The Council also expanded the air quality monitoring network in the city to track pollutant levels and quantify improvement.

    In the report presented to members, it was noted that because of improved levels of nitrogen dioxide, and following advice from the Scottish Government, the council is in the process of revoking the Inverness AQMA.

    Leader of Inverness and Area Councillor Ian Brown said: “It is a very positive reflection of the work that has been going on that the process to revoke the Inverness AGMA is due to be completed shortly so I’d like to thank everyone involved.

    “I’m particularly pleased that our Environmental Health team have been very proactive in working to carry out air quality monitoring and awareness raising projects at 15 primary schools within our area.

    “Going forward, it is important that the Inverness can continue to have clean air for the health of residents, and its reputation as a tourism destination so I’m pleased the Service will look to develop a strategy with other Council services and stakeholders and will keep our committee updated.”

    The Environmental Health Team will continue to deliver the primary school air quality education project and intend to deliver an anti-idling publicity campaign in the city centre as part of “Clean Air Day” on the 19 June 2025.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Matt Brass to Tour Central Education Center with British Consul General

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA (May 19, 2025)—On Tuesday, May 20, Senate Rules Chairman Matt Brass (R–Newnan) will participate in a tour of the Central Education Center (CEC) with British Consul General Rachel Galloway. The tour will take place at the CEC’s headquarters, where CEO Mark Whitlock will provide an overview of workforce development supporting industries throughout the State of Georgia.

    EVENT DETAILS:                      

    • Date: Tuesday, May 20, 2025
    • Time: 12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.
    • Where: 160 M.L.K. Jr. Drive, Newnan, GA 30263
    • This event is open to members of the media ONLY.

    Biographies for British Consul General Rachel Galloway and CEC CEO Mark Whitlock can be found below.

    MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:

    We kindly request that members of the media confirm their attendance in advance by contacting Jantz Womack at SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

    # # # #

    Sen. Matt Brass serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Rules. Sen. Brass represents the 6th Senate District, which includes Coweta and Heard, as well as parts of Carroll County. He can be reached at (404) 656-0057 or by email at matt.brass@senate.ga.gov.

    For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Are independent vets really better? The real issue isn’t necessarily who owns them

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Rachel Williams, Reader in Human Resource Management, Cardiff University

    maxbelchenko/Shutterstock

    Taking your pet to the vet might feel different these days, and there’s a reason for that. About 60% of UK practices are now owned by just six big companies, raising concerns about cost, care and competition.

    But ownership is only part of the picture. After four years researching life inside vet practices, I’ve found that what really shapes the experience – for vets and pet owners alike – is how each clinic is managed.

    Although it is the head offices of these large companies that determine business strategies, it is local managers who implement the policies. The way they choose to do this can significantly affect the experiences of vets and their clients.

    Until 1999, UK vet practices had to be owned by qualified vets. Most were small, local and privately run.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    But that changed when the Veterinary Surgeons Act was amended to allow wider ownership. This opened the door for venture capitalists, healthcare companies and multinational corporations, like Mars and Nestlé, to expand into the veterinary sector. They quickly bought up small vet practices and soon dominated the market.

    This domination has led to concerns of an excessive focus on profit rather than affordable veterinary care, leading to high costs for owners and stressful performance targets for vets. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has been investigating the veterinary sector since September 2023 because of this.

    Veterinary practices are either owned by individuals, joint ventures between corporations and vets, or wholly owned by large corporations. Those in the first category tend to be known colloquially as “independents” and the rest as “corporates”.

    Much of the narrative in the media has concentrated on the dichotomy between independents and corporates. There’s a suggestion that corporates charge excessive fees and pressurise vets to sell additional services.

    But my research, which included 97 interviews with 25 vets, suggests that the profession is far more nuanced than this. I spoke with a vet who described the most stressful, target-driven environment not in a corporate, but in an independent practice.

    In contrast, several vets working for corporates had remained in the same practice since they graduated. They experienced supportive working environments, high standards of care and no pressure to meet targets.

    Another vet had switched between corporate and independent practices and believed that it was easier to provide affordable care in the independent practices due to lower prices and greater autonomy. But they left one independent practice as they were uncomfortable with the standard of care offered. “Independent good, corporate bad” is not always the case.

    shutterstock.
    Vaillery/Shutterstock

    Management matters

    I found that practice management shapes the experiences of vets and clients far more than ownership. Even within the same corporate, there are significant differences in how managers implement policies and support their teams.

    Whereas in one practice a manager may turn a blind eye when a vet supports a client by missing a minor item from a bill, in another they may be reminded to bill correctly. Vets described staying in practices where they felt valued and supported, where they could provide appropriate care for their patients and where they could keep learning.

    High professional standards and compassionate management cultures were important. But other vets described crying at the end of the day when the relentless workload and lack of support meant they could not care for their patients as they wished. They spoke out and nothing changed until eventually they left.

    Vets may not agree with all elements of the corporate business strategy, but they are more likely to remain with a practice due to the actions of local managers than due to decisions made at the corporate headquarters.



    Read more:
    Rising vet fees leave pet owners facing tough choices – and vets often bear the brunt

    What about pet owners? A survey by the CMA as part of their investigation found that most people choose a vet based on location and quality of care, not cost.

    However, the research also found that many owners were not aware that their vet practices were corporates. Only two of the six corporates use distinct corporate names and branding for their practices, with the others often only mentioning corporate ownership in their small print. This lack of transparency may lead to owners choosing a practice because they incorrectly believe it is independent, a situation that concerns the CMA.

    There are real challenges facing the veterinary profession, from rising costs to staff burnout and workforce shortages. But pitting independents against corporates risks missing the point. The conversation needs to be shifted away from who owns the practice and towards how they’re run on the ground. What matters is whether vets are supported to provide the kind of care they trained for, and whether managers are equipped to lead teams with compassion, fairness and professionalism.

    After all, that’s what benefits everyone, whether it be the vets, the clients or the animals.

    Rachel Williams 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 independent vets really better? The real issue isn’t necessarily who owns them – https://theconversation.com/are-independent-vets-really-better-the-real-issue-isnt-necessarily-who-owns-them-256035

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Batteries that absorb carbon emissions move a step closer to reality – new study

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Daniel Commandeur, Surrey Future Fellow, School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, University of Surrey

    Future power. Sweetie Khatun

    What if there were a battery that could release energy while trapping carbon dioxide? This isn’t science fiction; it’s the promise of lithium-carbon dioxide (Li-CO₂) batteries, which are currently a hot research topic.

    Lithium-carbon dioxide (Li-CO₂) batteries could be a two-in-one solution to the current problems of storing renewable energy and taking carbon emissions out of the air. They absorb carbon dioxide and convert it into a white powder called lithium carbonate while discharging energy.

    These batteries could have profound implications for cutting emissions from vehicles and industry – and might even enable long-duration missions on Mars, where the atmosphere is 95% CO₂.

    To make these batteries commercially viable, researchers have mainly been wrestling with problems related to recharging them. Now, our team at the University of Surrey has come up with a promising way forward. So how close are these “CO₂-breathing” batteries to becoming a practical reality?

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    Like many great scientific breakthroughs, Li-CO₂ batteries were a happy accident. Slightly over a decade ago, a US-French team of researchers were trying to address problems with lithium air batteries, another frontier energy-storage technology. Whereas today’s lithium-ion batteries generate power by moving and storing lithium ions within electrodes, lithium air batteries work by creating a chemical reaction between lithium and oxygen.

    The problem has been the “air” part, since even the tiny (0.04%) volume of CO₂ found in air is enough to disrupt this careful chemistry, producing unwanted lithium carbonate (Li₂CO₃). As many battery scientists will tell you, the presence of Li₂CO₃ can also be a real pain in regular lithium-ion batteries, causing unhelpful side reactions and electrical resistance.

    Nonetheless the scientists noticed something interesting about this CO₂ contamination: it improved the battery’s amount of charge. From this point on, work began on intentionally adding CO₂ gas to batteries to take advantage of this, and the lithium-CO₂ battery was born.

    How it works

    Their great potential relates to the chemical reaction at the positive side of the battery, where small holes are cut in the casing to allow CO₂ gas in. There it dissolves in the liquid electrolyte (which allows the charge to move between the two electrodes) and reacts with lithium that has already been dissolved there. During this reaction, it’s believed that four electrons are exchanged between lithium ions and carbon dioxide.

    This electron transfer determines the theoretical charge that can be stored in the battery. In a normal lithium-ion battery, the positive electrode exchanges just one electron per reaction (in lithium air batteries, it’s two to four electrons). The greater exchange of electrons in the lithium-carbon dioxide battery, combined with the high voltage of the reaction, explains their potential to greatly outperform today’s lithium-ion batteries.

    In terms of the benefits to carbon emissions, by our rough calculations, 1kg of catalyst could absorb around 18.5kg of CO₂. Since a car driving 100 miles emits around 18kg-20kg of CO₂, that means such a battery could potentially offset a day’s drive.

    However, the technology has a few issues. The batteries don’t last very long. Commercial lithium-ion packs routinely survive 1,000–10,000 charging cycles; most LiCO₂ prototypes fade after fewer than 100.

    They’re also difficult to recharge. This requires breaking down the lithium carbonate to release lithium and CO₂, which can be energy intensive. This energy requirement is a little like a hill that must be cycled up before the reaction can coast, and is known as overpotential.

    You can reduce this requirement by printing the right catalyst material on the porous positive electrode. Yet these catalysts are typically expensive and rare noble metals, such as ruthenium and platinum, which is a significant barrier to commercial viability.

    Our team has found an alternative catalyst, caesium phosphomolybdate, which is far cheaper and easy to manufacture at room temperature. This material made the batteries stable for 107 cycles, while also storing 2.5 times as much charge as a lithium-ion. And we significantly reduced the energy cost involved in breaking down lithium carbonate, for an overpotential of 0.67 volts, which is only about double what would be necessary in a commercial product.

    Our research team is now working to further reduce the cost of this technology by developing a catalyst that replaces caesium, since it’s the phosphomolybdate that is key. This could make the system more economically viable and scalable for widespread deployment.

    We also plan to study how the battery charges and discharges in real time. This will provide a clearer understanding of the internal mechanisms at work, helping to optimise performance and durability.

    Lithium-carbon dioxide batteries could help humans to colonise Mars.
    Forelse Stock

    A major focus of upcoming tests will be to evaluate how the battery performs under different CO₂ pressures. So far, the system has only been tested under idealised conditions (1 bar). If it can work at 0.1 bar of pressure, it will be feasible for car exhausts and gas boiler flues, meaning you could capture CO₂ while you drive or heat your home. Demonstrating that this works will be an important confirmation of commercial viability, albeit we would expect the battery’s charge capacity to reduce at this pressure.

    If the batteries work at 0.006 bar, the pressure on the Martian atmosphere, they could power anything from an exploration rover to a colony. At 0.0004 bar, Earth’s ambient air pressure, they could capture CO₂ from our atmosphere and store power anywhere. In all cases, the key question will be how it affects the battery’s charge capacity.

    Meanwhile, to improve the battery’s number of recharge cycles, we need to address the fact that the electrolyte dries out. We’re currently investigating solutions, which probably involve developing casings that only CO₂ can move into. As for reducing the energy required for the catalyst to work, it’s likely to require optimising the battery’s geometry to maximise the reaction rate – and to introduce a flow of CO₂, comparable to how fuel cells work (typically by feeding in hydrogen and oxygen).

    If this continued work can push the battery’s cycle life above 1,000 cycles, cut overpotential below 0.3 V, and replace scarce elements entirely, commercial Li-CO₂ packs could become reality. Our experiments will determine just how versatile and far-reaching the battery’s applications might be, from carbon capture on Earth to powering missions on Mars.

    Daniel Commandeur receives funding from the Royal Society. He is a member of the Royal Society of Chemistry and Christians in Science.

    Siddharth Gadkari receives funding from UKRI.

    Mahsa Masoudi 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. Batteries that absorb carbon emissions move a step closer to reality – new study – https://theconversation.com/batteries-that-absorb-carbon-emissions-move-a-step-closer-to-reality-new-study-256915

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Security: IAEA Database Reveals Scale of Issue with Dietary Self-Reporting

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    A new equation is helping scientists check the reliability of people’s reports about what they eat, supporting better nutrition research.

    A new equation, developed using data from an IAEA nutrition database, is helping researchers assess the accuracy of self-reported dietary information in studies and surveys.

    This equation, developed using machine learning, has revealed that close to a third of records in two widely used nutritional datasets were likely to be misreported, according to a recent scientific article published in Nature Food.

    This revelation underlines the need for better methods to measure what people really eat.

    Nutritional epidemiology, a field that examines the link between diet and human diseases, commonly relies on tools such as questionnaires and food diaries to assess dietary intake. However, these methods are prone to misreporting, as participants may inaccurately estimate portion sizes, misremember what they ate, intentionally misstate their consumption, or even alter their eating habits during the reporting period.

    “Many nutritional epidemiology studies that try to link dietary exposure to disease outcomes are based on unreliable data, which can explain why many findings contradict each other,” said John Speakman, one of the paper’s authors and a professor at the Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology in China and the University of Aberdeen in the United Kingdom.

    While the issue of misreporting and its impact on metabolic research has been recognized since the 1980s, studies continue to use these tools due to their perceived utility and the lack of practical and accessible alternatives for collecting dietary data.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What the strength of your grip can tell you about your overall health

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Lawrence Hayes, Lecturer in Physiology, Lancaster University

    A strong grip can tell you many things about your health. XArtProduction/ Shutterstock

    Predicting your risk of a range of health outcomes – from type 2 diabetes to depression and even your longevity – is as simple as testing how tight your grip is.

    Grip strength refers to the power generated by the muscles of the hand and forearm to perform actions such as grabbing, squeezing an object or even shaking hands. This action involves a complex interplay between the various muscle groups located in the forearm, as well as the muscles within the hand itself.

    Grip strength is a very cheap, easy and non-invasive measure of muscle strength. This test has been used since the mid-1950s as a measure of overall health. Since then, the simple test has been firmly established as a reliable marker of various aspects of health – with some researchers even suggesting grip strength can be used to determine a person’s risk of everything from type 2 diabetes to depression.

    The standard method for measuring grip strength involves using a handheld dynanometer – an instrument which can measure a person’s power. This test is usually done while a person is sitting down. With their forearm bent at a 90-degree angle and wrist held in a neutral position, the person then squeezes the dynamometer as hard as they can – usually three separate times for one minute each.

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    The average of the highest readings from each hand, or sometimes just the dominant hand, is then recorded as the person’s grip strength. This can be measured in both kilograms or pounds. A grip strength value of under 29kg for men and 18kg for women is typically considered low. You can pick up a handgrip dynamometer for under £5 should you wish to test at home.

    Not only is grip strength a trusted indicator of overall health, it’s also strongly correlated with overall muscle strength and lean body mass across a person’s lifespan.

    Moreover, the stronger a person’s grip is, the more independent they will be in their daily life as they get older. This means they’ll be able to perform normal daily activities without assistance, such as rising from a chair and moving around the house.

    A substantial body of evidence also shows low grip strength is not only linked with greater susceptibility of a wide range of chronic diseases – including cancer and cardiovascular disease – but greater risk of early death due to these chronic disease, as well.

    Researchers have also observed links between low grip strength and greater risk of depression, anxiety and diabetes, to name a few.

    There’s also a significant association between grip strength and a person’s lifespan. In this study, people who died before the age of 79 were 2.5 times less likely than those who lived to be 100 to be in the top 33% for grip strength when they were middle aged.

    Grip strength is actually a proxy measure of overall muscle strength.
    Microgen/ Shutterstock

    However, in a 12-year prospective study published in 2022, the authors reported that baseline hand grip strength was the same in participants that died between the beginning and end of the study as in those who survived. But walking speed, speed of standing up from a chair and leg press strength were all worse in the people that died than in t that survived. This tells us is that there are better predictors of longevity than grip strength – such as total body muscle mass and leg strength.

    So why is it that such a simple measure can tell us about the risk of so many diseases, and ultimately death? The answer is that grip strength is a proxy measure of total muscle strength and size. This means that grip strength alone is not a cause of early mortality or disease, but is correlated with a cause of early mortality or disease (such as low muscle mass or muscle strength of the legs).

    Muscle mass is crucial for overall health. It plays an integral role in our metabolism. For example, muscle helps regulate blood sugar by removing glucose from circulation. This may explain why muscle mass protects against developing diabetes.

    Muscle also releases chemicals called myokines, which act upon other tissues and organs in the body – such as fat, our bones, the gut, liver and even our skin and brain. These myokines generally appear to have a protective effect on all of these tissues. This suggests muscle provides more than just the power we need to move our bodies.

    Improving your grip strength

    Unless you’re a rock climber or otherwise need a strong grip, there’s not much point working specifically on improving your grip strength. Although grip strength is linked with longevity and disease, this is because grip strength is an estimate of total body strength.

    As such, if you want to improve your health and strength, you should focus on training your leg strength. Leg strength is particularly important for health and fitness as it permits movement and helps you continue doing tasks independently in your daily life. Research also shows a correlation between leg strength and a person’s risk of chronic disease and their longevity.

    You can also add in other movements such as deadlifts, press-ups and pull-ups to build strength in your core, back and arms.

    Grip strength values serve as a very cheap and easy measure of a person’s overall health. It’s a cost-effective tool for measuring health but there are better ways to improve health with exercise.

    Lawrence Hayes has received funding from the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), the Chief Scientist Office (CSO), the RS Macdonald Charitable Trust, and the Physiological Society.

    – ref. What the strength of your grip can tell you about your overall health – https://theconversation.com/what-the-strength-of-your-grip-can-tell-you-about-your-overall-health-256271

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Disaster authoritarianism: how autocratic regimes deal with earthquakes

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Nimesh Dhungana, Lecturer in Disasters and Global Health, Humanitarian and Conflict Response Institute, University of Manchester

    An earthquake that struck south-east Asia in late March is thought to have killed more than 3,000 people in Myanmar, a country ruled by a military junta that has blocked humanitarian aid and continued waging war on quake-ravaged rebel territory.

    I am interested in how authoritarian regimes handle disasters and whether they disrupt or reinforce the ruling elite’s agenda. My research has led me to Tibet, which has endured Chinese occupation since 1951 and suffered a 7.1-magnitude earthquake in early January 2025.

    Beijing controls the access of independent media and international observers in Tibet. What we know about the disaster’s impact is largely based on initial reporting by the Chinese media, which has claimed the loss of 126 lives and damage to roads and communication networks.

    Tibetan sources have, however, contended that there has been much greater destruction, including to a number of monasteries and nunneries across the region.

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    Following the earthquake, the Chinese president, Xi Jinping, ordered “all-out search and rescue efforts” and pledged a rapid recovery. The constrained political environment has meant that Chinese relief agencies and the Chinese state-run media have controlled the narrative, praising Beijing’s capacity for “speed and compassion” in mobilising rescue efforts while using the disaster to highlight China’s record of “good governance and putting people and their lives first”.

    These accounts not only fail to report on the civic responses to disaster, such as mutual aid networks organised by Tibetans both locally and internationally, but they tend to overlook the immediate concerns of the affected communities.

    Survivors and activists using social media to challenge Chinese media narratives of purported success in rescue and relief efforts have faced censorship and outright hostility from the Chinese authorities. A previous study, looking at the 2008 Sichuan earthquake, found that communities that were considered a challenge to Chinese authority had their demands for relief suppressed.

    Firefighters shift rubble in Shigatse on January 7 2025.
    China News Service, CC BY-SA

    The earthquake has sparked further concerns among Tibetans that Chinese authorities will use the disaster to tighten their grip on the region.

    The situation is reminiscent of the April 2010 earthquake that struck Tibet’s Yushu region, claiming more than 2,600 lives and causing significant disruption to local life. The earthquake enabled China to push its vision of modernity and development in Tibet amid allegations of corruption in relief distribution and forced relocations.

    The aftermath revealed a divergence between the Chinese interpretation of recovery and what many Tibetans saw as essential for preserving and promoting their unique cultural identity.

    In their study of the Zimbabwean state’s response to tropical cyclone Idai in 2019, anthropologist Denboy Kudejira described this phenomenon as “disaster authoritarianism”: when an authoritarian regime exploits a disaster to reassert its power. Akin to China’s model, the Zimbabwean government restricted the involvement of non-state groups in longer-term recovery efforts.

    The relative lack of attention journalists and politicians abroad pay to Tibet makes this problem more acute. For instance, the wildfires in Los Angeles erupted at the same time as the earthquake, but garnered greater and more sustained media attention that mounted scrutiny on responsible agencies. By contrast, the Tibet earthquake quickly faded from the news.

    ‘Confrontational politics emerging’

    For Tibetans, challenging disaster authoritarianism is part of a delicate political struggle. Tibet’s spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, called the disaster “a natural phenomenon and not the result of human activities”, while urging Tibetans not to be “angry with the Chinese”. This appears to reflect his long-held wisdom that antagonising Chinese authorities will invite further hardship for communities enduring political marginalisation.

    Others are more sceptical. Some people inside Tibet have questioned the official number of casualties reported by Beijing and pushed Chinese authorities to clarify the scale of the tragedy.

    There are signs of more confrontational politics emerging. The International Campaign for Tibet, which lobbies for self-determination for Tibetans, has labelled the disaster “the silent earthquake” and accused Chinese authorities of censoring the true nature of suffering.

    Another rights group, the Tibetan Rights Collective, has highlighted China’s interventions in Tibet that have made the region more geologically unstable, including the building of hydropower dams and roads. Recent research shows that China’s push to build infrastructure in the region has increased the risk of disasters, such as floods and landslides, for downstream communities in south Asia.

    Research a colleague and I conducted during the pandemic showed that community groups can compensate for gaps in state-led disaster responses, and alert where help is needed. But this depends on public participation and grassroots organising that, in authoritarian contexts such as Tibet and Myanmar, is heavily restricted.

    The climate crisis is increasing the risk of disasters at the same time as there is widespread fear of increasing authoritarianism globally. We should all worry about how these two trends might interact.

    Nimesh Dhungana 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. Disaster authoritarianism: how autocratic regimes deal with earthquakes – https://theconversation.com/disaster-authoritarianism-how-autocratic-regimes-deal-with-earthquakes-248188

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Do we see colour the same way? What scientists can learn from artists

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Sasha Rakovich, Senior Lecturer in Physics, King’s College London

    TSViPhoto/Shutterstock

    As many people sit at the wheel of their car, they are certain they know what colour is. It’s the red traffic light in front of them, the garish yellow hatchback in the next lane, or the green verge banking to their right.

    Colour, as many people understand it, is the property of a thing. That light is green. The sky is blue. But scientifically, that’s not quite true. No one can experience the exact same colour as you do. Colour is a perceptual experience created by our brains.

    It’s the interaction between a material, light and the mind. The way a material absorbs and scatters light affects what reaches our eyes. And colour needs to be processed by the brain.

    The shape of objects and the context in which you encounter them can also shape the way you perceive colour. If you’ve ever picked a paint colour that looked perfect in the shop but turned into something entirely difference once on your walls, you’ve already encountered this phenomenon.

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    This notion of colour as experience was recently shown in a study by researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, who used lasers to manipulate participants’ eyes into seeing a new colour – a blue-green they call olo.

    To achieve this, the scientists used lasers to activate specific photoreceptor cells in the retina that detect green wavelengths of light, called M cones. We also have S and L cones, types of photoreceptors that detect short blue, and longer red wavelengths of light respectively. Everyone has slight variations in the number and sensitivity of these cones, so we each experience colour a little differently.

    Outside the lab, the reflected light that comes into our eyes illuminates large areas of the retina, which stimulates multiple cone types. The wavelengths perceived by the M and L cones overlap by over 85%. This means that under natural conditions, the two are always activated together, but in varying degrees.

    By targeting just the M cones, the scientists at Berkeley have in essence created a pure colour. Olo doesn’t have context or material conditions. It will look the same to different people.

    But this isn’t the only example which shows the place of the brain in colour perception.

    The most common type of red-green colour blindness, deuteranomaly, occurs when the M and L cones overlap more than they should. This reduces people’s ability to distinguish between colours in that range, without affecting sharpness or brightness.

    Language may play a role in colour perception, influencing how easily or accurately we discriminate between colours, especially when languages differ in how they categorise or label colour distinctions. This highlights the gulf between an objective property and the processing of the brain.

    The difference between the subjective experience of colour and the fixed, physical means of producing it means that most artists’ search for “pure” paint will fail. British artist Stuart Semple recently claimed he’d recreated olo in paint form. He called the paint yolo. But when people look at it, M and L cones will be activated at the same time. A “pure” paint is still impossible.

    Semple’s Black 3.0, along with other ultra-black materials, is marketed as a “pure” black paint. It absorbs nearly all light, using a high concentration of light-absorbing pigments and a matte binder to minimise reflections. But instead of offering a pure colour, it removes colour altogether – delivering a universal experience of “black” by eliminating visual stimulus.

    Colour is never static.
    gkkhjn/Shutterstock

    In truth, artists have known colour is a matter of perception for quite some time. The modernist artist Mark Rothko was notoriously meticulous about how his work was displayed. Rothko insisted that his work be hung low, with as little white wall visible as possible, in dim light.

    He was shaping the experience of colour his work presented to the onlooker by controlling brightness, contrast and the surroundings. Rothko, like the scientists at Berkeley, recognised that colour is an interaction between material, light and observer. It is not just about manipulating what we don’t see, but about engineering what we do.

    I have been running a public engagement programme, Transcending the Invisible, which brings together scientists and artists to explore scientific ideas through art. What I’ve been struck by most is that scientists and artists

    – ref. Do we see colour the same way? What scientists can learn from artists – https://theconversation.com/do-we-see-colour-the-same-way-what-scientists-can-learn-from-artists-256142

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Is it better to shower in the morning or at night? Here’s what a microbiologist says

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Primrose Freestone, Senior Lecturer in Clinical Microbiology, University of Leicester

    Showering is an important part of an good hygiene routine. Valerii_k/ Shutterstock

    It’s a question that’s long been the cause of debate: is it better to shower in the morning or at night?

    Morning shower enthusiasts will say this is the obvious winner, as it helps you wake up and start the day fresh. Night shower loyalists, on the other hand, will argue it’s better to “wash the day away” and relax before bed.

    But what does the research actually say? As a microbiologist, I can tell you there actually is a clear answer to this question.

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    First off, it’s important to stress that showering is an integral part of any good hygiene routine — regardless of when you prefer to have one.

    Showering helps us remove dirt and oil from our skin, which can help prevent skin rashes and infections.

    Showering also removes sweat, which can quell body odour.

    Although many of us think that body odour is caused by sweat, it’s actually produced by bacteria that live on the surface of our skin. Fresh sweat is, in fact, odourless. But skin-dwelling bacteria – specifically staphylococci – use sweat as a direct nutrient source. When they break down the sweat, it releases a sulphur-containing compound called thioalcohols which is behind that pungent BO stench many of us are familiar with.

    Day or night?

    During the day, your body and hair inevitably collect pollutants and allergens (such as dust and pollen) alongside their usual accumulation of sweat and sebaceous oil. While some of these particles will be retained by your clothes, others will inevitably be transferred to your sheets and pillow cases.

    The sweat and oil from you skin will also support the growth of the bacteria that comprise your skin microbiome. These bacteria may then also be transferred from your body onto your sheets.

    Showering at night may remove some of the allergens, sweat and oil picked up during the day so less ends up on your bedsheets.

    However, even if you’ve freshly showered before bed, you will still sweat during the night – whatever the temperature is. Your skin microbes will then eat the nutrients in that sweat. This means that by the morning, you’ll have both deposited microbes onto your bed sheets and you’ll probably also wake up with some BO.

    A night shower can help rinse away the day’s dirt and grime, but you might not smell as fresh the next morning.
    leungchopan/ Shutterstock

    What particularly negates the cleaning benefits of a night shower is if your bedding is not regularly laundered. The odour causing microbes present in your bed sheets may be transferred while you sleep onto your clean body.

    Showering at night also does not stop your skin cells being shed. This means they can potentially become the food source of house dust mites, whose waste can be allergenic. If you don’t regularly wash your sheets, this could lead to a build-up of dead skin cell deposits which will feed more dust mites. The droppings from these dust mites can trigger allergies and exacerbate asthma.



    Read more:
    Your bed probably isn’t as clean as you think – a microbiologist explains

    Morning showers, on the other hand, can help remove dead skin cells as well as any sweat or bacteria you’ve picked up from your bed sheets during the night. This is especially important to do if your sheets weren’t freshly washed when you went to bed.

    A morning shower suggests your body will be cleaner of night-acquired skin microbes when putting on fresh clothes. You’ll also start the day with less sweat for odour-producing bacteria to feed on – which will probably help you smell fresher for longer during the day compared to someone who showered at night. As a microbiologist, I am a day shower advocate.

    Of course, everyone has their own shower preference. Whatever time you choose, remember that the effectiveness of your shower is influenced by many aspects of your personal hygiene regime – such as how frequently you wash your bed sheets.

    So regardless of whether your prefer a morning or evening shower, it’s important to clean your bed linen regularly. You should launder your sheets and pillow cases at least weekly to remove all the sweat, bacteria, dead skin cells and sebaceous oils that have built up on your sheets.

    Washing will also remove any fungal spores that might be growing on the bed linen – alongside the nutrient sources these odour producing microbes use to grow.

    Primrose Freestone 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. Is it better to shower in the morning or at night? Here’s what a microbiologist says – https://theconversation.com/is-it-better-to-shower-in-the-morning-or-at-night-heres-what-a-microbiologist-says-256242

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Britain is already becoming an ‘island of strangers’ – but immigration isn’t the driver

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Michael Skey, Lecturer in Media and Communications, Loughborough University

    Matthew Troke/Shutterstock

    Keir Starmer’s recent speech on immigration has generated a good deal of controversy. In announcing a government white paper to cut legal migration, the prime minister said: “Nations depend on rules – fair rules. Sometimes they’re written down, often they’re not, but either way, they give shape to our values … Without them, we risk becoming an island of strangers, not a nation that walks forward together.”

    As someone who has researched what gives people a sense of national belonging, I would argue there is evidence that Britain has become an “island of strangers” in the sense that people live increasingly isolated lives. But the problem has very little to do with migration.

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    New public opinion research from think tank More in Common has found that 50% of Britons feel disconnected from society around them, while 44% say they sometimes feel like “strangers in their own country.” This feeling of alienation was strongest among Asian Britons.

    Some evidence suggests a relationship between diversity (ethnic and racial diversity) and lack of social cohesion, rather than migration. The More in Common polling found that 53% of those polled say multiculturalism benefits the UK’s national identity, while 47% say it harms it. But the evidence is mixed, and studies find that it is inequality, not diversity, that has the biggest effect.

    Rather than portraying the problem as solely because of immigration, the prime minister might usefully focus on other significant factors that have made people feel like strangers.

    First is the dramatic loss of community spaces and assets in recent decades in the face of local government cuts and rising property prices. Government austerity has led to a decrease in funding for local authorities of around 50% between 2010 and 2020.

    My own research in this area shows the significance of places like community centres in allowing young people from different backgrounds to come together. When they do, they feel a greater sense of belonging in their communities. Some research has also shown a link between austerity cuts to youth services and rising knife crime.

    Over the last three decades, places and spaces where people come together to participate in activities and engage with those from different backgrounds have been decimated.

    Between 2018 and 2023 in London alone, 46 community spaces permanently shut down. The public service union Unison estimates that “funding cuts have led to the closure of more than two-thirds of council-run youth centres in England and Wales since 2010”.

    Almost 800 libraries were closed during the 2010s, and more continue to disappear each year. Leisure centres are also at risk. A 2023 report by the Local Government Association suggests that 40% of council areas will lose some or all of their leisure centre services in the next two years.

    The undermining of publicly-owned community spaces has been matched in the private sector. The pub – a key marker of community identity for many – has been subject to increasing pressure.

    A recent report from industry body the BBPA claimed that “nearly 300 pubs closed across England and Wales in 2024 – an equivalent of six a week”. The group pointed to rising costs and the fact that consumer habits are changing, with younger people drinking far less.

    A lonely island

    The loss of community assets means people have fewer places to engage with others on a regular basis. There is also evidence that the pandemic and online isolation have driven high rates of loneliness affecting all age groups and generations.

    According to the Campaign to End Loneliness, in 2022 nearly 50% of UK adults reported feeling lonely occasionally, sometimes, often or always. And around 7% experience chronic loneliness.

    While levels of isolation and loneliness have gone up for all generations, it is notable that a report for the Centre for Social Justice found the problem is worst for 18- to 24-year-olds, with 29% of this age group saying they “feel a fundamental separateness from other people and the wider world”.

    Britain’s younger generations are struggling with loneliness.
    Jaromir Chalabala/Shutterstock

    When it comes to discussing community and cohesion in contemporary Britain, it is interesting that only certain groups (usually particular kinds of migrants and their offspring) are the focus. We can see this in wider political and media debates, where such groups are blamed for living separate lives or not integrating.

    I’ve written about this idea before, finding that minority groups “broadly replicate the ethnic majority in terms of their attitudes towards British identity and institutions”. More recent survey data supports this. Figures for various ethnic groups are remarkably consistent when it comes to feeling they belong in Britain – Asian (85%), black (86%) and white (84%).

    Class divide

    The idea that people in Britain are increasingly living separate lives – or in what Robert Jenrick, the shadow justice secretary, calls a segregated society – is rarely discussed in terms of inequality or class.

    And yet, the More in Common polling found that financial insecurity is one of the strongest predictors of whether Britons feel disconnected from society.

    Income inequality in Britain is widening. Recent figures show that in 2022 alone, “incomes for the poorest 14 million people fell by 7.5%, while incomes for the richest fifth saw a 7.8% increase”. Moreover, research shows a link between lower economic status and higher rates of loneliness and social isolation.

    It is perhaps these growing divisions that should really be the focus of any government strategy. Focusing on local initiatives designed to protect, or expand, community assets such as libraries and youth and outreach centres appears a much more productive means of ensuring that Britain’s isn’t completely transformed into an island of strangers.

    Michael Skey receives funding from the Arts & Humanities Research Council

    He is a member of Amnesty International

    – ref. Britain is already becoming an ‘island of strangers’ – but immigration isn’t the driver – https://theconversation.com/britain-is-already-becoming-an-island-of-strangers-but-immigration-isnt-the-driver-256724

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 292 Status Reports

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  • MIL-OSI: RegEd Launches RIA Compliance Control Center to Streamline Oversight for Registered Investment Advisers

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Raleigh, NC, May 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — RegEd, the leading provider of compliance and credentialing solutions for the financial services industry, has announced the launch of the RIA Compliance Control CenterSM, a purpose-built solution that enables registered investment advisers (RIAs) to streamline supervision and enhance oversight across the full spectrum of compliance activities. 

    With increasing regulatory complexity and resource constraints, RIAs face mounting pressure to manage compliance obligations more efficiently while maintaining rigorous oversight. RegEd’s RIA Compliance Control Center empowers firms to meet these challenges head-on with a centralized, automated platform that delivers powerful capabilities to support compliance with SEC and state regulations. 

    “Registered investment advisers need tools that not only ensure compliance, but also scale with their business,” said Adam Schaub, VP, Platform Product Management at RegEd. “The RIA Compliance Control Center delivers the automation, integration, and visibility firms need to simplify oversight, reduce risk, and keep pace with a fast-evolving regulatory environment.” 

    The RIA Compliance Control Center is available in modular or bundled formats and includes robust capabilities such as: 

    • Personal Trade Monitoring and Pre-Clearance – Automate trade surveillance, with direct feeds from leading brokerage firms. 
    • Form ADV Part 2B Supplement Management – Ensure always-current, compliant disclosures with automated data population. 
    • Gifts, Gratuities & Contributions – Manage approval workflows and reporting with centralized tracking. 
    • Outside Business Activities – Streamline OBA submissions, attestations, and disclosures. 
    • IAR Continuing Education (IAR CE) – Access RegEd’s industry-leading CE catalog with intuitive dashboards for IARs and compliance teams. 
    • Advertising Review – Leverage AI-powered tools to review marketing materials and accelerate compliance with the SEC Marketing Rule. 
    • Licensing, Registration & Onboarding – Automate key workflows and maintain compliance throughout the IAR lifecycle. 

    The RIA Compliance Control Center also features advanced capabilities such as a unified compliance dashboard, WORM archiving, customizable questionnaires, advanced hierarchy management, and seamless integration with CRM and marketing systems through open APIs. 

    By delivering a holistic view of compliance status, both at the firm and individual level, the RIA Compliance Control Center helps advisers prioritize critical obligations, ensure timely fulfillment, and reduce manual effort. 

    For more information about the RIA Compliance Control Center, visit www.reged.com to request a free consultation or demonstration. 

    About RegEd

    RegEd is the market-leading provider of RegTech enterprise solutions with relationships with more than 200 enterprise clients that represent more than 35 of the top 50 insurance companies.  

    Established in 2000 by former regulators, the company is recognized for continuous regulatory technology innovation with solutions hallmarked by workflow-directed processes, data integration, regulatory intelligence, automated validations, business process automation and compliance dashboards. The aggregate drives the highest levels of operational efficiency and enables our clients to cost-effectively comply with regulations and continuously mitigate risk.  

    Trusted by the nation’s top financial services firms, RegEd’s proven, holistic approach to RegTech meets firms where they are on the compliance and risk management continuum, scaling as their needs evolve and amplifying the value proposition delivered to clients. For more information, please visit www.reged.com. 

    The MIL Network –