NewzIntel.com

Category: Education

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tribunal review an attack on Te Tiriti o Waitangi

    Source: It’s time to fix the secondary teacher shortage

    The Government’s plans to limit the powers and scope of the Waitangi Tribunal is a disgrace. 

    “This attack on the tribunal is nothing more than an attempt to limit the accountability the Government has to Te Tiriti o Waitangi,” says the Green Party’s spokesperson for Māori Development, Hūhana Lyndon. 

    “The Waitangi Tribunal plays a pivotal role in holding Aotearoa true to its founding agreement. Te Tiriti o Waitangi is something that binds us together in building a future for all of us, it is not something that should be used to drive us apart. 

    “Across this term, we have seen the actions of this Government trigger a record amount of urgent claims with the Waitangi Tribunal. 

    “Let’s be clear, this is not about improving the Waitangi Tribunal like the Minister says, it is about making it easier to trample all over Te Tiriti and punch down on tangata whenua. 

    “From the Treaty Principles Bill and undermining marine customary title, to the removal of 7AA from the Oranga Tamariki Act and now this, the assaults and insults to our founding agreement and our people have been relentless from this Government. 

    “Te Tiriti o Waitangi provides a place for us all in Aotearoa. It provides a layer of protection for our people and our lands. This does not suit the Government’s agenda to make the rich richer by allowing big corporations to exploit our people and abuse our environment for profit.

    “We know our communities will not stand for this. We saw thousands flood the streets and submit in droves against the Treaty Principles Bill, calling for a country that acknowledges its past and strives for a better future,” says Hūhana Lyndon.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: May 8th, 2025 Heinrich Reacts to Trump’s Firing of Librarian of Congress

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on the Legislative Branch, released the following statement reacting to President Trump firing Dr. Carla Hayden from her position as the Librarian of Congress:
    “President Trump fired our nation’s Librarian, Dr. Carla Hayden, by email at 6:56pm tonight, taking his assault on America’s libraries to a new level.
    “Over the course of her tenure, Dr. Hayden brought the Library of Congress to the people, with initiatives that reached into rural communities and made the Library accessible to all Americans, in person and online.
    “While President Trump wants to ban books and tell Americans what to read – or not to read at all, Dr. Hayden has devoted her career to making reading and the pursuit of knowledge available to everyone.
    “Be like Dr. Hayden.”

    Email from the Trump Administration terminating Dr. Carla Hayden from her position as the Librarian of Congress, May 8th, 2025.
    BACKGROUND:
    Dr. Carla Hayden was sworn in as the 14th Librarian of Congress on September 14, 2016. Dr. Hayden was nominated to the position by President Barack Obama on February 24, 2016, and her nomination was confirmed by the U.S. Senate later that year on July 13.
    The first woman and first African American to lead the national library, Dr. Hayden’s work to connect all Americans to the Library of Congress led to a redefinition and modernization of the Library’s mission: to engage, inspire and inform Congress and the American people with a universal and enduring source of knowledge and creativity.
    During her tenure, Dr. Hayden has prioritized efforts to make the Library and its unparalleled collections more accessible to the public. Through her social media presence, events and activities, she has introduced new audiences to many of the Library’s treasures – from Frederick Douglass’ papers, to the contents of President Abraham Lincoln’s pockets on the night of his assassination, to James Madison’s crystal flute made famous by Lizzo.
    By investing in information technology infrastructure and digitization efforts, she has enabled the American people to explore, discover and engage with more with this treasure trove of America’s stories maintained by the Library of Congress. With the support of a grant from Mellon Foundation, in 2021, Dr. Hayden launched the Of the People initiative, which is creating new opportunities for more Americans to engage with the Library and add their perspectives to the Library’s collections. The initiative has three programs that invest in community-based documentarians; fund paid internships and fellowships to engage the next generation of librarians, archivists and knowledge workers; and invite underserved communities and institutions to create digital engagements with Library collections.
    Prior to her current role, Dr. Hayden was the CEO of the Enoch Pratt Free Library in Baltimore, Maryland, since 1993. She was the deputy commissioner and chief librarian of the Chicago Public Library from 1991 to 1993, an assistant professor of library and information science at the University of Pittsburgh from 1987 to 1991 and library services coordinator for the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago from 1982 to 1987. She began her career with the Chicago Public Library as the young adult services coordinator from 1979 to 1982 and as a library associate and children’s librarian from 1973 to 1979.
    Dr. Hayden was president of the American Library Association from 2003 to 2004. In 1995, she was the first African American to receive Library Journal’s Librarian of the Year Award in recognition of her outreach services at the Pratt Library, which included an after-school center for Baltimore teens offering homework assistance and college and career counseling. Hayden received a B.A. from Roosevelt University and an M.A. and Ph.D. from the Graduate Library School of the University of Chicago.
    Among her numerous civic and professional memberships and awards, Dr. Hayden is an elected member of the American Philosophical Society and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Pope Leo XIV: Why the College of Cardinals chose the Chicago native and Augustinian to lead the church after Francis

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Joanne M. Pierce, Professor Emerita of Religious Studies, College of the Holy Cross

    Newly elected Pope Leo XIV appears on the central loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican shortly after his election as pontiff, on May 8, 2025. AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis

    When the 69-year-old Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost on May 8, 2025, appeared on the main balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica for the first time as Pope Leo XIV, he was cheered loudly by the huge crowd of pilgrims, tourists, local Catholics and other onlookers, who had waited hours for the first sign of white smoke and the official announcement.

    As a specialist in Catholic history and ritual, I know how important this moment was for Catholics and others all over the world. A new pope brings with him a sense of excitement often mixed with uncertainty.

    But the choice of the College of Cardinals came as a surprise to some. Prevost is the first pope from the United States, and, traditionally, the European-dominated College of Cardinals has had reservations about choosing a cardinal from the U.S. for fear of too much American influence in the church.

    So, who is Prevost and what might have influenced the cardinals’ vote?

    Early experiences

    Born in Chicago, Illinois, Prevost joined a Catholic religious order at the age of 20: the Order of St. Augustine, called Augustinians, founded in the 13th century. Instead of withdrawing from the world in isolated monasteries, members of this order traveled as mendicants to aid the poor as well as serve as missionaries and teachers.

    Prevost studied theology both in the U.S. and in Rome and, as a newly ordained priest, spent a year in Peru. After a short return to the U.S. as an official of the Augustinian order in Illinois, he returned to Peru as a seminary professor to teach canon law, the legal structure of the Catholic Church. He would stay in Peru for the next 10 years.

    In 1999, he became the prior – that is, the head – of the local Augustinian province in Chicago, and was later elected prior of the worldwide Augustinian order. This gave him a truly global experience, since the Augustinians had some 50 communities spread across every continent.

    In 2015, Pope Francis appointed him bishop for the diocese of Chiclayo in Peru. In 2019, Francis appointed him a member of several important Vatican dicasteries, or departments, where he became very familiar with the central church administration. Most importantly, he served as prefect – or chairman – on the Dicastery for Bishops.

    Catholics hold a photo of newly elected Pope Leo XIV, in front of the Cathedral of Chiclayo, Peru, on May 8, 2025, where he served as bishop for several years.
    AP Photo/Manuel Medina

    In fact, because of his lengthy pastoral experience in Peru and service at the Vatican, some commentators had noted before Prevost was chosen that, if the cardinals were to elect an American pope, it would be him. His service on the Dicastery for Bishops was considered especially important, since members play a key role in selecting new bishops.

    Global church

    During the 20th century, especially after the Second Vatican Council – a series of meetings of the world’s bishops to modernize the church, ending in 1965 – the popes began to name cardinals from other parts of the world that were previously considered to be on the periphery of the Catholic Church.

    And this led to popes being chosen from outside of Italy for the first time in centuries. Pope St. John Paul II was Polish and the first non-Italian pope since the 16th century. Pope Benedict XVI was another non-Italian, born in Germany, who had served as a Vatican official. Pope Francis was born in South America to parents who were Italian-born immigrants to Argentina.

    The College of Cardinals, which had few representatives from other continents until recently, is now much more international. Some 80% of the cardinal-electors were named by Francis, many from countries that had never before had a cardinal.

    In reviewing his record, the cardinal-electors might have taken a number of factors into account. Prevost would be an effective administrator as head of the church, and was an expert in church canon law. He had decades of experience doing pastoral work in South America, as well as in North America. And as prior general of the entire Augustinian Order, he would likely have traveled widely to visit many of the communities he supervised.

    Papacy under Leo

    The moment when the new pope emerged on the Vatican balcony.

    The new pope appeared on the Vatican balcony wearing the traditional papal garments: white cassock, short red cape, decorated red and gold stole, and golden cross hanging around his neck. Francis, on the other hand, had appeared dressed in the plain white cassock of a pope.

    Certainly, he had not chosen the simplicity of Francis. Was this a sign that he would be more of a traditionalist?

    His choice of a papal name, I believe, could indicate a different point of view. Pope Leo XIII wrote a groundbreaking encyclical in 1891, “Rerum Novarum,” subtitled “On Dignity and Labor.” In this he stressed the rights of workers to unionize and criticized the conditions in which they worked and lived. He also championed other rights the ordinary worker deserved from their bosses and from their government.

    Pope Leo XIII.
    Francesco De Federicis via Wikimedia Commons

    In his first remarks from the balcony, offering a glimpse into the direction of his papacy, Leo XIV stressed the role of Catholics and the church as peacemakers and bridge-builders, in dialogue with other religious traditions and cultures. His first words were “Peace be with you all,” describing this peace as “a disarmed peace, a disarming peace.” He further urged Catholics to act together “without fear … united with one another … to build bridges” through dialogue and outreach – to bring peace to the world.

    He may not follow exactly in Francis’ footsteps, but he will likely continue walking in the same direction.

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

    – ref. Pope Leo XIV: Why the College of Cardinals chose the Chicago native and Augustinian to lead the church after Francis – https://theconversation.com/pope-leo-xiv-why-the-college-of-cardinals-chose-the-chicago-native-and-augustinian-to-lead-the-church-after-francis-256305

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI China: China trade hub hospital launches bilingual medical report service for foreign patients

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    China trade hub hospital launches bilingual medical report service for foreign patients

    A hospital in Yiwu, a bustling trade hub in east China’s Zhejiang Province, has launched an AI-powered bilingual medical examination report service as part of its latest efforts to break language barriers for foreign patients.

    The new service offered by the Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, allows foreign patients to apply for free English versions of their medical examination reports.

    Dubbed “the world’s supermarket,” the city of Yiwu is an international hub for the production and trade of small commodities. The hospital’s bilingual initiative is part of efforts to improve healthcare services for the city’s large community of foreign traders and residents.

    Earlier this year, the hospital deployed the popular AI model DeepSeek into its outpatient and inpatient systems, which has assisted doctors in keeping medical records. In April, it added the AI-powered medical examination report translation service, streamlining the process that has been traditionally reliant on time-consuming human translation.

    The service leverages AI to instantly generate English translations of medical reports, which are then checked and reviewed by doctors and medical experts to ensure accuracy.

    “Just one click and the draft translation is done immediately,” said Zhang Yunyun from the hospital’s ultrasound department. “Doctors then check the content, followed by expert review to finalize the report.”

    The bilingual service is currently available across multiple departments, including radiology, pathology, ultrasound, and electrocardiography.

    A patient from Lebanon, who was identified as Nesir, recently received English versions of five medical reports at the hospital. He said the service finally enabled him to understand the medical examination reports on his own when seeing doctors in China.

    A foreign doctor working at the hospital introduced the service to Nesir. With the English versions, Nesir’s doctors back in Lebanon can also participate in treatment discussions.

    In addition to English-version reports, the hospital also offers international commercial insurance direct billing and medical escort services. It has signed agreements with 22 global insurance companies to expand the one-stop direct billing service.

    Last year, the hospital offered medical services for 19,950 foreign patients, the highest number among hospitals in Zhejiang Province. The hospital also has an international outpatient department with English-speaking doctors, an English version hospital appointment registration system, as well as medical escorts and volunteers.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China increases lifelong learning options via new university-led courses

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    China increases lifelong learning options via new university-led courses

    Xinhua | May 9, 2025

    Four hundred colleges and universities in China have launched lifelong learning projects as part of a national effort to develop a society that cherishes learning, according to an event that opened Thursday in Nanchang, capital of east China’s Jiangxi Province.

    Around 700 projects, offered both online and offline, have been introduced, spanning areas such as digital technology development, AI application and rural revitalization. These courses are tailored to serve a wide range of learners, including migrant workers, rural teachers and senior citizens.

    At this event aimed at promoting lifelong learning, Wang Ming, vice president of Beijing Normal University, highlighted that lifelong learning is essential for building an educational powerhouse. “Universities, as key hubs for talent cultivation, scientific research, social services, cultural innovation and international exchange, play a vital role in building a learning society,” he said.

    The push for a lifelong learning culture in China echoes the goals set at the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, which called for the building of a society and country of learning in which lifelong learning is pursued by all.

    In late December 2024, an online education platform dedicated to promoting lifelong learning accessibility was officially launched and made available to the public. This platform debuted with an initial offering of 1,000 courses, which were divided into six categories — scientific literacy, workplace skills, cultural literacy, hobbies and interests, continuing education and silver-age education.

    According to Wu Yan, deputy minister of the Ministry of Education, China will build a lifelong learning service system that operates around the clock and reaches all regions, thus ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to keep learning. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What will the Antichrist look like? According to Western thought, an authoritarian king – or the pope

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Philip C. Almond, Emeritus Professor in the History of Religious Thought, The University of Queensland

    Composite image by The Conversation. Images courtesy of TruthSocial/@realDonaldTrump and Wikimedia Commons

    The US presidency and the papacy came together on May 3 when Donald Trump posted an AI-generated photograph of himself dressed as the pope to Truth Social. The image was then shared by the White House’s accounts.

    Seated in an ornate (Mar-a-Lago-style) golden chair, he was wearing a white cassock and a bishop’s hat, with his right forefinger raised.

    Trump has since told reporters he “had nothing to do with it […] somebody did it in fun”.

    This image of “Pope Donald I” is of historical significance, for reasons of which, no doubt, the White House and Trump were blissfully unaware. It is the first ever image to combine the two most important understandings of the figure of the Antichrist in Western thought: on the one hand, that of the pope, and on the other, that of the authoritarian, despotic world emperor.

    On April 22, the day after Pope Francis’ death, Trump declared “I’d like to be pope. That would be my number one choice”. On April 28, Trump told The Atlantic “I run the country and the world”.

    So, both pope and world emperor.

    The Imperial Antichrist

    In the New Testament, the First Letter of John says, before Christ came again, the Antichrist will appear: the most conspicuous sign the end of the world was near. nb small tweak to wording here

    The Antichrist would be the archetypal evil human being who would persecute the Christian faithful. He would be finally defeated by the forces of good. As Sir Isaac Newton suggested, “searching the Prophecies which [God] hath given us to know Antichrist by” is a Christian obligation.

    The first life of the Antichrist was written by a Benedictine monk, Adso of Montier-en-der, around 1,100 years ago. According to Adso, the Antichrist would be a tyrannical evil king who would corrupt all those around him with gold and silver. He would be brought up in all forms of wickedness. Evil spirits would be his instructors and his constant companions.

    The Antichrist, left, is depicted as a king, in this image from a 12th century manuscript.
    Wikimedia Commons

    Seeking his own glory, as Adso put it, this king “will call himself Almighty God”.

    The Antichrist was opposite to everything Christ-like. According to the Christian tradition, Christ was fully human yet absolutely “sin free”. The Antichrist too was fully human, but completely “sin full”. The Antichrist was not so much a supernatural being who became flesh, as a human being who became fully demonised.

    Influenced by Christian stories of the Antichrist, Islam and Judaism constructed their own Antichrists – al-Dajjal, the Antichrist of the Muslims, and Armilus, the Antichrist of the Jews. Both al-Dajjal and Armilus are king-like messiahs.

    Over the centuries, many world leaders have been labelled “the Antichrist” – the Roman emperors Nero and Domitian were Antichrist figures, and the French emperor Napoleon was named the Antichrist in his own time.

    There have been more recent leaders who have been likened to the Antichrist, among them former president of Iraq Saddam Hussein, King Charles III, former Russian leader Mikhail Gorbachev, al-Qaeda founder Osama bin Laden, and Trump.

    The Papal Antichrist

    In the year 1190, King Richard I of England, on his way to the Holy Land, was informed by the Italian theologian Joachim of Fiore (c.1135–1202) the next pope would be the Antichrist.

    In the history of the Antichrist, this was a momentous occasion. From this time on, the tyrannical Antichrist outside of the Church would be juxtaposed with the papal deceiver within it.

    That the Catholic pope was the Antichrist was the common reading of the pope in the 16th-century Protestant Reformation.

    Martin Luther (1483–1546), the founder of the Protestant revolution, declared the pope “is the true […] Antichrist who has raised himself over and set himself against Christ”.

    Just as all Christians would not worship the Devil as God, he went on to say, “so we cannot allow his apostle the pope or Antichrist, to govern as our head or lord”.

    This 1877 painting depicts Martin Luther summoned by the Catholic Church in 1521, to renounce or reaffirm his views criticising Pope Leo X.
    Wikimedia Commons

    As he was about to be burned by the Catholic Queen Mary for his Protestant beliefs, the Anglican bishop Thomas Cranmer (1489–1556) declared, “as for the pope, I refuse him, as Christ’s enemy and antichrist with all his false doctrine”.

    Even in 1988, as Pope John Paul II addressed the European Parliament, the Northern Ireland hardline Protestant leader Ian Paisley roared, “Antichrist! I renounce you and all your cults and creeds” – to which, we are told, the pope gave a slight bemused smile.

    Except among the most extreme of Protestant conservatives, the idea of the papal Antichrist no longer has any purchase. The papal Antichrist has vacated the Western stage for the imperial Antichrist.

    The Antichrist and the end of the world

    In the history of Christianity, the idea of the Antichrist was a key part of Christian expectations about the return of Christ and the end of the world.

    In the final battle between the forces of good and evil, the Antichrist would be defeated by the forces of Christ. In short, the rise of the world emperor who was the Antichrist was a sign that the end of the world was at hand.

    In the light of the Western history of “the Antichrist”, the image of the imperial and papal US president is a powerful sign that the global order – at least as we have known it for the last 80 years – may be at an end.



    Read more:
    Five things to know about the Antichrist

    Philip C. Almond 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. What will the Antichrist look like? According to Western thought, an authoritarian king – or the pope – https://theconversation.com/what-will-the-antichrist-look-like-according-to-western-thought-an-authoritarian-king-or-the-pope-256205

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What’s the difference between probiotics and prebiotics? A dietitian explains

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Evangeline Mantzioris, Program Director of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Accredited Practising Dietitian, University of South Australia

    Simply Amazing/Shutterstock

    If you walk through your local pharmacy or supermarket you’re bound to come across probiotics and prebiotics.

    They’re added to certain foods. They come as supplements you can drink or take as a pill. They also occur naturally in everyday foods.

    You might have a vague idea that probiotics and prebiotics are healthy. Or perhaps you’ve heard they’re good for your “microbiome”.

    But what actually is your microbiome? And what’s the difference between probiotics and prebiotics anyway?

    First, some definitions

    The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization, and the World Health Organization, define probiotics as “live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit”. These microorganisms are the bacteria and yeasts in food such as yoghurt, sauerkraut and kombucha, and in supplements.

    But prebiotics refer to the “food” probiotics need to survive and replicate.

    Prebiotics are better known as dietary fibre. They include specific types of fibres called inulin-type fructans, galacto-oligosaccahrides, resistant starch and pectin. Prebiotics occur naturally in plant foods, are added to foods (such as bread and breakfast cereals) and come as supplements.

    Dietary fibre remains undigested in your stomach and small intestine until it reaches the large intestine. There, microorganisms (probiotics) break down (or ferment) the fibre (prebiotics), converting it into metabolites or nutrients linked to better health.

    How are they related to your microbiome?

    Both probiotics and prebiotics are said to encourage a healthy microbiome. That’s a healthy community of different microorganisms that live in or on your body. This includes those in the mouth, gut, skin, respiratory system and the urogenital tract (which handles urine, and has reproductive functions).

    Everyone’s microbiome is different and varies throughout your life. For instance, changing your diet, physical activity, hygiene, taking antibiotics or having an infection all affect your microbiome.

    These factors can change the diversity of your microbiome, that is how many different types of microorganisms you have. These factors can also alter the ratio of healthy microorganisms to unhealthy ones.

    Everyone’s microbiome is different and this community of microorganisms varies throughout your life.
    Elif Bayraktar/Shutterstock

    When your microbiome is less diverse or when the number of unhealthy microorganisms outgrow the number of healthy ones, this is known as dysbiosis. This can lead to problems including diarrhoea or constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, bleeding gums, atopic dermatitis (eczema) or acne.

    Probiotics and prebiotics are marketed as ways to support a healthy, diverse microbiome, and help to reduce the chance of dysbiosis.

    As taking antibiotics can alter your microbiome, they’re also marketed as a way of improving its microbial diversity when taking antibiotics or afterwards.

    Do probiotics work?

    The microbiome plays a crucial role in our health. For instance, a healthy microbiome has been linked to reduced risk of cancers, cardiovascular (heart) diseases, allergy diseases and inflammatory bowel disease.

    But how about taking probiotic supplements to boost your microbiome?

    A review of clinical trials looked at probiotic supplements in healthy people. It found no increase in the diversity of their microbiome.

    Another review of clinical trials looked at the impact of probiotic supplements while people were taking antibiotics. The diversity of their microbiome did not improve.

    Another study not included in these two reviews found probiotics could make microbial diversity worse in the short term. It found probiotic supplements delayed restoring the microbiome after taking antibiotics.

    Trying probiotics around the time you take antibiotics doesn’t seem to help your microbiome.
    one photo/Shutterstock

    What about prebiotics?

    There have been few studies on the impact of healthy people just taking prebiotic supplements. However, there are studies of people taking prebiotics with probiotics on particular aspects of health.

    For instance, one large review looked at various neuropsychiatric outcomes, including dementia, Parkinson’s disease and mild cognitive impairment, when people took prebiotics and probiotics (together or separately). Another review looked at the effect of prebiotics, probiotics or synbiotics (supplements that contain both prebiotics and probiotics) on people with diabetes.

    But their findings are not conclusive. So we need more research to routinely recommend these supplements. They are also no replacement for standard medication and a healthy, balanced diet.

    So how do I keep my microbiome healthy?

    You’re better off getting your probiotics from everyday fermented foods, such as sauerkraut and kimchi.
    Tatjana Baibakova/Shutterstock

    Naturally occurring probiotics and prebiotics are in everyday foods.

    Probiotics are found in fermented foods such as cheese, sauerkraut, yoghurt, miso, tempeh and kimchi.

    Prebiotics are in the foods that contain fibre – all plant foods. It is important to have a variety of plant foods in your diet. This will ensure you get all the different types of fibre needed to keep your healthy bacteria alive, and to increase the diversity of your microbiome.

    Eating foods rather than consuming supplements also means you get the extra nutrients in the food.

    The Australian Guide to Healthy Eating recommends a diet rich in plant foods, and promotes eating fermented foods (in the form of cheese and yoghurt). This combination is ideal for maintaining a healthy microbiome.

    Evangeline Mantzioris is affiliated with Alliance for Research in Nutrition, Exercise and Activity (ARENA) at the University of South Australia. Evangeline Mantzioris has received funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council, and has been appointed to the National Health and Medical Research Council Dietary Guideline Expert Committee.

    – ref. What’s the difference between probiotics and prebiotics? A dietitian explains – https://theconversation.com/whats-the-difference-between-probiotics-and-prebiotics-a-dietitian-explains-248653

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: View from The Hill: two ministers and the Nationals discover the limits of loyalty in politics

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    Labor’s extraordinary election result has triggered a power play that has exposed the uglier entrails of Labor factionalism.

    Even before the new caucus met in Canberra on Friday, the Labor right had dumped two of its cabinet ministers: Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus and Industry Minister Ed Husic. Dreyfus is from the Victorian right, Husic from the New South Wales right.

    In Labor, factionalism can trump merit. Not always, of course, but undoubtedly more often than is desirable, and certainly in this case.

    These dramatic demotions to the backbench have been driven by two factors.

    The left has more numbers in the caucus after the election, meaning that to preserve factional balances, one minister from the right had to go.

    And then Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles used his heft as chief of the Victorian right to protect the numbers of that group in the ministry, at the expense of the NSW right, and to secure a key promotion.

    In sacrificing Dreyfus who, while from the right, isn’t a serious factional player, Marles has seen the elevation into the outer ministry of his numbers man Sam Rae (as well as another Victorian right-winger, Daniel Mulino).

    Rae, little known publicly, has only been in parliament since 2022. He’s a former Victorian Labor state secretary and was a partner at PwC. Mulino, with a substantial background in economic policy, has served in both the Victorian and federal parliaments.

    Some see the Marles move as, in part, looking to shore up his numbers for any future leadership race. While this might sound far-fetched, given Anthony Albanese’s huge win and declaration he’ll serve a full term, aspirants always have an eye on the future. The manoeuvre won’t be missed by another leadership aspirant, Treasurer Jim Chalmers, a Queenslander who is also from the right.

    Given his enhanced authority, Albanese could have intervened to protect the two ministers – there was an attempt from within the NSW right to get him to do so for Husic – but has chosen to let the factional power play take its course. He said on Thursday, “we have a process and we’ll work it through”, adding that “no individual is greater than the collective, and that includes myself”.

    In the fallout, with the loss of Dreyfus there will be no Jewish minister, which is unfortunate in light of the government’s strained relations with the Jewish community. Husic’s demotion takes the only Muslim out of cabinet, although the speculation is another Muslim, Anne Aly, will be elevated to cabinet.

    Former prime minister Paul Keating was scathing of the demotions, denouncing the “appalling denial of Husic’s diligence and application in bringing the core and emerging technologies of the digital age to the centre of Australian public policy”.

    Keating said Albanese’s non-intervention in relation to Husic “is, in effect, an endorsement of a representative of another state group – in this case, the Victorian right faction led by Richard Marles – a faction demonstrably devoid of creativity and capacity”.

    Keating described the treatment of the two ministers as “a showing of poor judgement, unfairness and diminished respect for the contribution of others”.

    It will take a while to see what ripples the factional power play brings. Husic, certainly, is feisty. He could become a strong voice on a Labor backbench that has been basically quiescent. He is already booked to appear on the ABC’s Insiders program on Sunday and its Q&A panel on Monday.

    Now that the factions have had their say, the prime minister allocates jobs, with particular interest on what Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek receives.

    On the other side of politics, it is not surprising there is widespread anger, ill feeling and recriminations, given the magnitude of the Liberals’ defeat. The contest for leadership between the party’s Deputy Leader Sussan Ley and Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor had already become willing before the bombshell defection of Senator Jacinta Price from the Nationals to the Liberals increased the angst exponentially.

    The Nationals feel betrayed that their star performer has walked out on them. Her defection will complicate negotiations between the Liberals and the Nationals over their inter-party agreement.

    The move, part of the attempt by Taylor, from the right, to boost his support, is further dividing the Liberal party. It is not yet clear whether Price will join a ticket with Taylor to run for deputy. In interviews on Thursday night and Friday morning she kept her options open, presumably to determine what numbers she would draw.

    While having the Liberal deputy in the Senate would be inconvenient, it has precedent. Fred Chaney, then a senator, became deputy in Andrew Peacock’s coup against John Howard in 1989. It didn’t end well.

    If Price did run, that might help Taylor with some Liberals currently uncertain of which leadership contender to support, because they would know she would be popular in their branches.

    But for the moderates in the party, who want the Liberals to find a path back in traditional urban areas, the arrival of Price, with her hardline right views, sends all the wrong signals. The leafy city suburbs are populated with small-l voters and professional women, who would not see themselves in tune with Price’s views.

    It there was a Taylor-Price leadership team that would be an unmistakable message – that the Liberals were tracking very significantly away from the mainstream in which most voters swim.

    Price was the leading figure who helped sink the Voice referendum, but she has not yet proved herself on the broader range of issues. In the campaign, her reference to “make Australia great again” was used against the Coalition to claim it was “Trumpian”.

    Explaining her move, Price says that she had actually always wanted to sit in the Liberal party room. She comes from the Northern Territory Country Liberal party, whose representatives sit with either the Liberals or the Nationals, according to a formula.

    On her timing, Price said, “right now, amongst many of the conversations I have had with those leading up to making this decision, is that extraordinary times call for extraordinary measures”.

    Within the Liberals, Price, given her profile and her status as a poster-woman of the rightwing media, will potentially be hard to handle.

    While Labor savours the taste of triumph, and the Coalition drinks the the bitter brew of defeat, a week on Dreyfus, Husic and the Nationals discover the limits of loyalty.

    Michelle Grattan 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. View from The Hill: two ministers and the Nationals discover the limits of loyalty in politics – https://theconversation.com/view-from-the-hill-two-ministers-and-the-nationals-discover-the-limits-of-loyalty-in-politics-255959

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Labor has promised to tackle homelessness. Here’s what homeless people say they need

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Robyn Martin, Associate Dean, Social Work and Human Services, RMIT University

    Pressmaster/Shutterstock

    The 2025 election is over and now it’s time for Labor to deliver on campaign promises to address homelessness.

    Action on homelessness is long overdue. Affordable housing options remain scarce and public and community housing waitlists keep growing.

    The crisis springs from decades of government policy failures in many areas. Homelessness is linked to poverty, stigma, violence and poor health.

    Labor has promised to:

    • build more affordable housing
    • reduce social housing waitlists
    • prioritise groups vulnerable to homelessness
    • invest A$1.2 billion in homelessness accommodation.

    This is welcome, but it’s crucial people who have experienced homelessness are involved in the design of policy and services. They are the experts.

    Our recent research involved speaking with 47 people with current or past experiences of homelessness in Victoria and South Australia. The study was co-designed and co-led by people who had experienced homelessness.

    See us, hear us

    Participants told us their perspectives aren’t valued. One said:

    Homeless people [are] looked down upon. The individual is not considered. They fall on hard times for many reasons. They will judge you and they’ll categorise you.

    Another said:

    Do we have a voice? No, we don’t, because they don’t care […] they don’t listen.

    Many wanted to influence policy and service design. One said:

    I think it’s really important that people like us […] have a say in the way we move forward, and it’s not coming from people in really nice suits […] that don’t really have any experience.

    Respect our expertise

    People who’ve experienced homelessness can “identify things that someone without that lived experience may simply not have thought of in the first place”, one person told us.

    They should be involved as staff and leaders in service design and provision. One person said:

    I think if there were people that were around with lived experience that could somehow get in contact with people like me at that time and say, “Look, mate, you don’t have to go down this path, you don’t have to live this kind of life, there’s another way”.

    One participant who’d experienced domestic violence said navigating all the different non-government agencies was complicated. Decisions were made without her input.

    A failure to find this woman housing eventually led to her children being removed.

    Respect needs to be at the centre of service provision. One participant described overhearing workers complaining about the smell of homeless people. Another said they’d value practical advice from people who’d experienced homelessness:

    Having someone who’s actually been through that and can actually then describe what navigating systems means to someone coming in could be a really useful way to employ someone in homelessness services.

    Valuing and paying for the expertise of people who have experienced homelessness is vital. One participant said:

    I was on a panel with CEOs of homelessness organisations [and] was asked one hour before: “Would you like to be the lived experience voice?” So, was I paid the same? No. Was I given the same respect as everyone else? No. Was I given enough time to prepare? No. But did I deliver? Yes, I delivered. I showed up and I still was able to deliver. So, I think my expertise […] is just as valid as anybody else’s.

    Another said:

    You need to get as wide a lived experience as possible, otherwise it’s a bit pointless if they’re all 30-year-old white guys.

    From prison to homelessness

    Around half of those leaving prison exit into homelessness.

    Many women in these circumstances must choose between homelessness and returning to violent situations.

    Community organisations work hard to keep women housed, but this requires adequate and ongoing funding.

    One formerly incarcerated woman told us:

    Incarceration creates homelessness […] they’re released into a void […] If that was me, I would definitely rather be in prison than be on the street.

    Another said:

    Most women who are in prison suffered from childhood sexual abuse, they’ve suffered domestic violence and suffered a lot of trauma […] but for some reason, that’s all forgotten for us when we’re released.

    People with experience of homelessness are best placed to guide the design and delivery of services, and offer pragmatic solutions.

    One participant told us:

    When I came out [of hospital], one of the community service people said, “Oh, we can put you in a hotel for four nights.” And I said, “Actually, the best thing I need is four new tyres on my van.” And they said, “No, we can’t do that.” The tyres would be cheaper than the hotel. But they said, “No, we can’t.” I’ve always said solutions don’t have to be pretty, but they have to work.

    People told us a one-size-fits-all, box-ticking approach won’t work because:

    not everybody fits into those categories. Everybody [is] in different circumstances.

    Another said:

    You go to a service, they don’t care about your purpose. They don’t care about your goal. They care about: “Have I provided my service that I’m obligated to give?”

    Many services aren’t working for homeless people. One participant said:

    One of the reasons I stayed homeless is because I either had to kill my dog or give my dog up and I couldn’t do either because he was my saviour. So, I lived
    in that car. At that time, I was freezing and gave whatever blankets I could to my dog. He got so sick […] I contacted another place [and] asked for a sleeping bag and a tent to be sent to me and it was sent to the service provider that never gave it to me.

    Many people have no choice but to sleep in their car.
    Alexander Knyazhinsky/Shutterstock

    What now?

    Our research participants called for policy addressing poverty and for the perspectives of people who’d experienced homelessness to be:

    • embedded in housing and homelessness policy, service design and practice
    • recognised, valued and properly remunerated
    • involved in leading research.

    The authors thank the people with experience with homelessness who led our research.

    Robyn Martin’s research was funded by the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute, and was a collaboration between RMIT, UniSA, the Council for Homeless Persons and Seeds of Affinity.

    Carole Zufferey’s research was funded by the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute, and was a collaboration between RMIT, UniSA, the Council for Homeless Persons and Seeds of Affinity.

    Michele Jarldorn’s research was funded by the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute, and was a collaboration between RMIT, UniSA, the Council for Homeless Persons and Seeds of Affinity. Michele is a volunteer with Seeds of Affinity and is currently chair of their board. Seeds of Affinity does not receive any ongoing funding.

    – ref. Labor has promised to tackle homelessness. Here’s what homeless people say they need – https://theconversation.com/labor-has-promised-to-tackle-homelessness-heres-what-homeless-people-say-they-need-255945

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Blasts Trump’s Attack on Resources to Close Digital Divide: “Republicans Will Have to Explain Why Middle Schoolers in Rural Districts Shouldn’t Get Laptops”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    Murray first authored and introduced the Digital Equity Act in 2019 and got it passed into law as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law
    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and author of the Digital Equity Act responded to a statement from President Trump on Truth Social where he falsely attacks Murray’s law as unconstitutional and loudly announces that he intends to break the law by blocking Digital Equity Act funds.
    “As usual the President has no idea what he’s talking about. I wrote the Digital Equity Act to help close the digital divide in America—it’s about making sure seniors can get online and equipping every student in every classroom with the tools they need to succeed, whether that’s a hotspot to take home or a laptop. My law provides maximal flexibility to cities, states, and Tribes so every local community can decide for themselves how they invest Digital Equity dollars—that’s why it passed with overwhelming bipartisan support.  Let’s be clear, every time President Trump refuses to spend funding appropriated by Congress, he’s stealing from the American people.  
    “It is absolutely insane that resources meant to help red and blue communities—everyone from local school districts and libraries to workforce training programs and Tribes—close the digital divide will be illegally blocked because the President doesn’t like the word equity. Americans are sick and tired of extremist right-wing culture wars being forced down our throats. Republicans will have to explain to their constituents why this Republican administration doesn’t believe their local library should get funding to help seniors navigate telehealth options or why middle schoolers in rural districts shouldn’t get laptops.”
    Senator Murray first introduced the Digital Equity Act in 2019 and worked hard to build a robust coalition of 100+ organizations to secure strong bipartisan consensus and support for her legislation, ultimately passing it into law as a part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Senator Murray’s Digital Equity Act provided $2.75 billion to establish three federal grant programs, administered by the NTIA, to promote digital equity nationwide by:
    Building Capacity within States through Formula Grants: Creates a five-year $300 million per year formula grant program for all 50 States, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico to fund the creation and implementation of comprehensive digital equity plans in each State.
    Spurring Targeted Action through Competitive Grants: Creates a five-year $250 million per year competitive grant program to support digital inclusion projects undertaken by individual groups, coalitions, and/or communities of interest.
    Supporting Research and Evidence-Based Policymaking: Tasks NTIA with evaluating digital equity projects and providing policymakers at the local, state, and federal levels with detailed information about which projects are most effective.
    Digital equity funds can be used in all kinds of ways to support Washington state families and our economy:
    Workforce: supporting the work of local workforce boards, community and technical colleges, and community-based organizations by increasing access to devices across underserved populations, increasing the digital skills of Washington’s current and future workforce, and by increasing the accessibility of state and local resources to workers.
    Education: supporting Washington’s public schools, community and technical colleges, and community-based organizations as they work to integrate technology literacy and fluency in their curriculum, reducing barriers and advancing access to technology, including digital devices, internet connection, and digital skills training.
    Health Care: supporting the Washington Department of Health and the Washington State Health Care Authority in expanding opportunities for Washingtonians to access telehealth services, reducing the need to travel long distances in rural areas for preventative and specialist care. Additionally, the digital equity funds could be used to work with partner organizations to expand the availability and awareness of culturally sensitive and linguistically accessible online healthcare resources and services.
    And much more.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Questions Nominee for Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Services During HELP Committee Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) questioned Dr. James O’Neill, the nominee for the Deputy Secretary for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) during the most recent Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) hearing.

    Click HERE or on the image above to watch Senator Marshall’s full exchange with Dr. O’Neill.
    Highlights from the hearing include: 
    On how Dr. O’Neill will innovate at HHS:
    Senator Marshall: “You mentioned in your testimony that you’re anxious to reform our food system, to prioritize health.  Just kind of tell me what that vision looks like, and how can you work with Dr. Means and the other folks there at HHS.”
    Dr. O’Neill: “I know that you mentioned the word mitochondria. I’ve noticed that three years ago, people didn’t know anything about that. They remember from high school biology, oh yes, mitochondria the powerhouse of the cell. But in the past few years, thanks to a lot of smart people talking about metabolism, much more than the past, people are starting to be interested.
    “You know, infectious disease is still a very serious challenge to a lot of people, but metabolism, metabolic disorders, chronic diseases, are getting more attention. I think that’s wonderful. I hope they continue to get attention from researchers, from physicians, from patients.
    “Regarding the food system, the unfortunate situation today is that a lot of families really try hard to be healthier and have healthier habits, and it’s not easy. They go to the grocery store, and junk food is much cheaper than healthy food. They’re not even sure which food is healthy. Nutrition labels can be confusing. Official government nutrition advice, the dietary guidelines that two departments issue every five years often seem to lag by decades.
    “Actual nutrition science, real nutrition science, is so hard to do because there’s so many stakeholders with an interest in particular outcomes. I think it’s essential that we have good nutrition research that is free from outside influence.”
    On the mental health problems caused by excessive technology usage:
    Senator Marshall: “You also mentioned prioritize health for our children and children, and I want to just focus for a second on mental health. I’m not sure if you had the option to read the book ‘The Anxious Generation,’ but if you haven’t, surely would recommend that you do that. What role do you think social media apps have played in this, in the mental health of our children and young adults?”
    Dr. O’Neill: “Thank you, Senator, that’s a great concern. So, companies that develop apps have an interest in maximizing the amount of time that users spend on the apps, the amount of engagement try to hook them into it. That’s expected, given that they’re, you know, trying to grow their business. But that’s not necessarily what’s best for users, especially young users.
    “And so, there’s more and more awareness that social media can be an addiction and that it’s it especially could have a profound, lasting influence on young, developing brains. Brains seem to keep developing until age 25 so people that don’t even think of themselves as children could still be well. Adults could also suffer negatively. So yes, that is a concern that HHS should have a role in researching and communicating best practices.”
    On the need for unbiased, repeatable testing:
    Senator Marshall: “I just want to emphasize the importance of replicating previous studies. Again, you mentioned that in your testimony over 20 years ago. An NIH study on Alzheimer’s took us down the wrong direction, and that study was never replicated. So, what does that look like? I mean, you don’t want your best buddy to do the replication of that surgery. It needs to be another nonbiased person. So how do you implement that plan?”
    Dr. O’Neill: “Absolutely. So, there’s two ways a study could lead us on the wrong road. One is outright fraud, which has happened in Alzheimer’s research. And the other is, you know, it’s kind of bad luck.
    “You do one study, there was no intention of fraud, but the results, you know, were an unusual combination. The stars were in a certain alignment, and it’s also not going to replicate. So, you know, there’s a lot of talk about the replication crisis in all of science about 10 years ago, and it’s still an unsolved problem. I think NIH should devote and the problem is no one has a financial interest in replicating studies, so NIH should do that.
    “And I think that would be something that NIH can do best, whether that should be conducted operationally. As one whole division of NIH focused on replication, or where there should be a replication branch in each institute, I’m open to arguments both ways.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Reverend Warnock, Ossoff Press for Meeting with HHS Secretary Kennedy to Remedy Wrongful CDC Firings

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    Senators Reverend Warnock, Ossoff Press for Meeting with HHS Secretary Kennedy to Remedy Wrongful CDC Firings

    Senator Reverend Warnock has repeatedly stood up in defense of CDC workers, including joining them at a rally, delivering a floor speech opposing Secretary Kennedy’s nomination, demanding answers from Admin nominees at Congressional hearings, and more
    Senators Reverend Warnock, Ossoff: “The CDC has been a pillar of public health prevention and surveillance for more than 80 years. However, under your leadership, the agency has been eviscerated by the unjust firings of thousands of our constituents who have spent years, and in many cases decades, of their careers in public health”
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Jon Ossoff (D-GA) led an effort requesting a meeting with Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to discuss the recent firing of Georgia-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) employees.
    “The CDC has been a pillar of public health prevention and surveillance for more than 80 years. However, under your leadership, the agency has been eviscerated by the unjust firings of thousands of our constituents who have spent years, and in many cases decades, of their careers in public health. These unjust firings purge years of public health research and expertise, make America less healthy, and make America less safe,” wrote the Senators.
    The letter requests that the meeting take place on Wednesday, May 14, when Secretary Kennedy will be on the Hill to testify before the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. 
    “As Secretary of Health and Human Services, you have a responsibility to be transparent about the destruction of a critical public health agency that has received years of bipartisan support throughout administrations from both parties and through Congressional appropriations and authorization of public health programs,” the Senators continued.
    Several of Senator Warnock’s letters to Secretary Kennedy have gone unanswered, an issue the Senator raised to Jim O’Neill, the nominee to be Secretary Kennedy’s second in command during a hearing this week. The Senators are also requesting that Secretary Kennedy follow up to the letter they sent on March 14 urging the Trump Administration to reconsider its plans to fire CDC employees due to national health and security concerns.
    “We sent you a letter on March 14, 2025, requesting specific information on the initial rounds of firings of probationary employees. We have still not received a response. The letter came before the Reduction in Force (RIF) notices on April 1, and we are outraged that you have not been “radically transparent” with us, nor have you been sufficiently responsive to the elected representatives of the thousands of fired employees at CDC,” the Senators added.
    During Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy’s nomination hearing in committee, Senator Warnock spoke at length defending the importance of the CDC, which employs over 10,000 hardworking Georgians. Shortly after, the Senator spoke for nearly an hour on the Senate floor, in large part in defense of the CDC’s critical work to defend public health and national security. The Senator has continued to pressure HHS Secretary Kennedy to reverse the CDC firings. Most recently, Senator Warnock questioned Jim O’Neill, the nominee to be Secretary Kennedy’s second in command at the Department of Health and Human Services, about the unjust firings of thousands of CDC employees.
    Since CDC employees became a target of this administration, Senator Warnock has led several efforts defending their employment and the crucial role they play in keeping the nation safe. Earlier this year, Senator Warnock sent a letter to the Acting Director of the CDC about the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS), asking for updates on operations. He also sent two additional letters to President Trump and Secretary Kennedy, respectively, urging the administration to reconsider any plans to eliminate the Division of HIV Prevention at the CDC and requesting additional information about the termination of 20,000 full-time staff and organizational restructuring at HHS. Senator Warnock also spoke at a rally organized by current and former CDC employees to support Georgians who have been callously fired from the public health institution. And his staff hosted a round table with fired CDC employees to brainstorm ways to push back on the administration. 
    Senator Ossoff has fought back against the Trump Administration’s “foolish” attacks on Georgia’s CDC, warning they put Georgians’ health at risk. In February, Senator Ossoff joined former CDC leaders and health experts to sound the alarm on the dire threat to public health in Georgia, across the country, and around the world by the Trump Administration’s unprecedented partisan political attacks on the CDC. Senator Ossoff spoke on the Senate floor against RFK Jr.’s nomination, highlighting his attacks on the CDC and shared the story of a CDC employee who was targeted on a “DEI watchlist” website. In March, Senator Ossoff joined Senator Reverend Warnock in fighting back against CDC firings and joined Senator Reverend Warnock and colleagues in demanding answers about the shutdown of a critical Maternal Health data system within the CDC.
    The senators’ letter can be found HERE and the text is below.
    Dear Secretary Kennedy,
    We understand that on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, you have agreed to testify before the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. As Georgia’s senators who are proud to represent the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), we write to request a meeting with you while you are in the Senate to address our urgent concerns regarding your management and policies with regard to the CDC, including the unjust firing of thousands of CDC workers in Georgia.
    The CDC has been a pillar of public health prevention and surveillance for more than 80 years. However, under your leadership, the agency has been eviscerated by the unjust firings of thousands of our constituents who have spent years, and in many cases decades, of their careers in public health. These unjust firings purge years of public health research and expertise, make America less healthy, and make America less safe.
    We sent you a letter on March 14, 2025, requesting specific information on the initial rounds of firings of probationary employees. We have still not received a response. The letter came before the Reduction in Force (RIF) notices on April 1, and we are outraged that you have not been “radically transparent” with us, nor have you been sufficiently responsive to the elected representatives of the thousands of fired employees at CDC.
    As Secretary of Health and Human Services, you have a responsibility to be transparent about the destruction of a critical public health agency that has received years of bipartisan support throughout administrations from both parties and through Congressional appropriations and authorization of public health programs.
    Please respond to our offices to schedule an appropriate time to meet on May 14, 2025. We look forward to meeting you in person.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for May 9, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on May 9, 2025.

    What is grounding and could it improve my sleep? Here’s the science behind this TikTok trend
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dean J. Miller, Senior Lecturer, Appleton Institute, HealthWise Research Group, CQUniversity Australia Alexey Demidov/Pexels Have you ever felt an unexpected sense of calm while walking barefoot on grass? Or noticed your stress begin to fade as you stood ankle deep in the ocean? If so, you may

    Google is rolling out its Gemini AI chatbot to kids under 13. It’s a risky move
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lisa M. Given, Professor of Information Sciences & Director, Social Change Enabling Impact Platform, RMIT University Studio Nut/Shutterstock Google has announced it will roll out its Gemini artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot to children under the age of 13. While the launch starts within the next week in

    PNG’s Gorethy Kenneth: 23 years of fearless journalism and unwavering truth
    PROFILE: By Alu J Kalinoe At Papua New Guinea’s Post-Courier, our senior journalists often operate in the shadows, yet their courageous efforts are often overlooked — continuously pushing boundaries to bring us important stories that shape our lives and venturing outside their comfort zones to deliver top-notch content. This is the tale of one of

    ‘Peace be with all of you’: how Pope Leo XIV embodies a living dialogue between tradition and modernity
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Darius von Guttner Sporzynski, Historian, Australian Catholic University When Robert Francis Prevost appeared on the loggia of St Peter’s Basilica as Pope Leo XIV, he set three precedents. He is the first pope from North America, the first Augustinian to occupy the throne of Peter, and the

    Experts split on Australia’s Papua New Guinea military recruitment plan
    By Caleb Fotheringham, RNZ Pacific journalist Australia’s plan to recruit from Papua New Guinea for its Defence Force raises “major ethical concerns”, according to the Australia Defence Association, while another expert thinks it is broadly a good idea. The two nations are set to begin negotiating a new defence treaty that is expected to see

    Hidden connections of more than 100 migratory marine species revealed in interactive map
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lily Bentley, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, School of the Environment, The University of Queensland Wirestock Creators/Shutterstock From the enormous blue whale to the delicate monarch butterfly, animals of all shapes and sizes migrate across the globe. These migrations connect distant habitats, from the tropics to the poles. They

    As Filipinos prepare to vote, ex-strongman Rodrigo Duterte’s arrest is dividing families – all the way to the president
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Noel Morada, Visiting Professor, Nelson Mandela Centre, Chulalongkorn University; and Research Fellow, Asia Pacific Centre for the Responsibility to Protect, Chulalongkorn University It’s been two months since former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested and handed over to the International Criminal Court (ICC) to face potential prosecution

    How the word ‘incel’ got away from us
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Farid Zaid, Senior Lecturer, Psychology, Monash University Javier Bermudez Zayas/Shutterstock Imagine a young man whose voice has been worn down by years of feeling invisible. Plain, numb and bitter, the “incel” tries to explain the kind of hopelessness most of us would rather not confront: I believed

    Kiwi kids once led the world in reading – this 1950s primary school syllabus still has lessons for today
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ruth Boyask, Director of LitPlus, AUT School of Education, Auckland University of Technology Getty Images There is a well-known whakatauki (Māori proverb) that goes: “Ka mua, ka muri” – “walking backwards into the future”. It applies to many areas of life, but in education the idea of

    Some Reddit users just love to disagree, new AI-powered troll-spotting algorithm finds
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Marian-Andrei Rizoiu, Associate Professor in Behavioral Data Science, University of Technology Sydney ginger_polina_bublik/Shutterstock In today’s fractured online landscape, it is harder than ever to identify harmful actors such as trolls and misinformation spreaders. Often, efforts to spot malicious accounts focus on analysing what they say. However, our

    To split Moscow from Beijing, Trump is reviving Nixon’s ‘madman diplomacy’. It could backfire badly
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ian Langford, Executive Director, Security & Defence PLuS and Professor, UNSW Sydney When United States President William McKinley advocated high‑tariff protectionism in 1896, he argued squeezing foreign competitors behind a 50% wall of duties would make America richer and safer. That logic framed US trade debates for

    A community-led health program in remote Arnhem land is showing promising results for First Nations locals
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hasthi Dissanayake, Research Fellow in Indigenous Health, The University of Melbourne The Doherty Institute Indigenous Australians are more than twice as likely as non-Indigenous Australians to suffer from disease, particularly chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and kidney disease. The health disparities are worse in remote

    Why it’s important to read aloud to your kids – even after they can read themselves
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Robyn Cox, Professor of Literacy Education, University of Tasmania Mart Production/Pexels , CC BY Is reading to your kids a bedtime ritual in your home? For many of us, it will be a visceral memory of our own childhoods. Or of the time raising now grown-up children.

    Old drains and railways are full of life. Here’s how to make the most of these overlooked green spaces
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hugh Stanford, Researcher Associate, Centre for Urban Research, RMIT University Much of the old circular railway line in Paris, La Petite Ceinture, or Little Belt, has been turned into a public park. ldgfr photos, Shutterstock Across Australian cities, leftover and overlooked green spaces are everywhere. Just think

    Ever wanted to ditch the 9-to-5 and teach snowsports? We followed people who did it for 10 years
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Marian Makkar, Senior Lecturer in Marketing, RMIT University Konstantin Shishkin/Shutterstock Workplace burnout – a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion – and the COVID pandemic have sparked a rethink of the traditional 9-to-5 job. It’s been estimated 30% of the Australian workforce is experiencing some degree

    Stepmums, alien mums, robot mums, vengeful mums: 7 films to watch this Mother’s Day
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jessica Gildersleeve, Professor of English Literature, University of Southern Queensland With Mother’s Day around the corner, you may be wondering what gift you’ll give mum – or any of the mums in your life. This year, why not skip the fancy dinner and offer one of the

    Pope Leo XIV faces limits on changing the Catholic Church − but Francis made reforms that set the stage for larger changes
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dennis Doyle, Professor Emeritus of Religious Studies, University of Dayton Newly elected Pope Leo XIV appears at the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican on Thursday, May 8, 2025. AP Photo/Andrew Medichini Cardinal Robert Prevost of the United States has been picked to be the

    Grattan on Friday: Bitter struggle in Liberals for likely poisoned chalice, as Jacinta Price defects from Nationals
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra By late last week it was clear Labor would win the election, but it came as more of a surprise when Peter Dutton lost the Queensland seat of Dickson he’d held since 2001. Nor did many anticipate Greens leader Adam

    Fiji media’s Stan Simpson blasts ‘hypocrites’ in social media clash over press freedom
    Pacific Media Watch Barely hours after being guest speaker at the University of the South Pacific‘s annual World Press Freedom Day event this week, Fiji media industry stalwart Stanley Simpson was forced to fend off local trolls whom he described as “hypocrites”. “Attacked by both the Fiji Labour Party and ex-FijiFirst MPs in just one

    Politics with Michelle Grattan: David Pocock wants us to aim for up to 90% reduction in emissions by 2035
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra In the new parliament the government is expected to need only the Greens to pass the legislation opposed by the Coalition. Counting is not finished but on present indications it won’t require any other Senate crossbenchers. Given Labor’s enhanced position

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Happy Great Victory Day!

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University – Dear students, teachers and staff of the university! We sincerely congratulate you on Victory Day!

    This holiday reminds us of the great feat of our compatriots who fought for the freedom and independence of the Motherland.

    Many outstanding scientists who stood at the origins of Siberian science, directly participated in military actions and made their tangible contribution to the victory of the people of the Soviet Union over fascist Germany thanks to their scientific works. Many university teachers were at the front, survived all the hardships of the war, later returned to study, teaching, science and dedicated their lives to raising new generations of scientists, engineers, researchers.

    We are proud that our university is implementing many projects dedicated to this important date. They help preserve the memory of those who gave their lives for our freedom and pass this memory on to future generations.

    We wish you good health, prosperity and a peaceful sky above your head! Let this holiday be a reason for pride and unity for all of us.

    Happy holiday, dear friends!

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: US ‘film tariffs’ would deal ‘devastating blow’ to film and TV industries

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    The Hollywood Reporter reported on May 4 that US President Trump had announced the same day that he would impose a “100% tariff” on any films produced outside the United States that enter the country. He also authorized the Commerce Department and the US Trade Representative to implement the tariff policy.

    “The American film industry is rapidly dying!” Trump wrote on social media on May 4. It said that other countries were using various incentives to “entice American film producers and studios to leave the United States.” Trump also said that Hollywood had been “severely damaged” as a result, posing a “national security threat” to the United States. He authorized the Commerce Department and the U.S. Trade Representative to immediately begin procedures to impose 100% tariffs on all films imported into the United States and produced in foreign countries, expressing his hope to “have American-made films again.”

    In recent years, Hollywood has taken advantage of tax incentives to move film production to countries such as the UK, Australia, Ireland and Spain.

    According to the Guardian and Reuters, the Australian and New Zealand governments have already made their positions known on May 5, declaring that they will vigorously defend the interests of their film and television industries. William Reinsch, a senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies and a former senior official at the U.S. Department of Commerce, believes that imposing tariffs on foreign-made films “would cause far more problems than they are worth,” and that it is difficult to convince people that foreign-made films are a “national security threat.” One U.S. entertainment industry official believes that Trump’s move will not only affect film, but will also “deal a crushing blow to the television industry.”

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s private sector moves to new level of legal protection

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    On April 30, the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress voted to pass China’s first basic law regulating the development of the private sector, the Law on Promoting the Development of the Private Sector. The law will go into effect on May 20, marking a shift from state support for private businesses to legal protection.

    The law covers the entire life cycle of private enterprises – from creation and development to termination of activities, and also takes into account the key interests of various stakeholders in matters of fair competition, investment and financing, protection of rights and interests, and scientific and technological innovation.

    An important task of the law is to boost the innovation capacity of private enterprises in the context of the new national strategy, said Feng Guo, vice president of the Economic Law Research Association of the China Law Society and a professor at the Wuhan University School of Law.

    Currently, private enterprises play a leading role in technological innovation in China, accounting for more than 70% of the country’s technological achievements, and accounting for more than 80% of specialized and innovative small and medium enterprises (“little giants”) and more than 90% of national high-tech enterprises. This year, private companies have made significant breakthroughs in areas such as generative artificial intelligence, intelligent robotics, civil aviation, and quantum technology.

    Tian Xuan, director of the National Institute of Financial Research at Tsinghua University, noted that the law contains a separate section on technological innovation. This is aimed at supporting private enterprises and stimulating investment in science and technology, which will contribute to the development of productive forces of new quality. It also demonstrates the state’s recognition of the important role of private entrepreneurs and the private sector in technological innovation.

    The private sector of the economy plays a huge role in advanced technologies. The law particularly emphasizes the need to encourage the participation of private enterprises in innovation and the development of major projects and key industries, as well as to give them the opportunity to lead these processes.

    The law provides support for the participation of private organizations in research and development of common digital and intelligent technologies, the creation of a data market, the legal and rational use of data, and the development and use of open public data.

    Tian Xuan also noted that an important part of the Law is dedicated to protecting the rights and interests of private enterprises. This will allow entrepreneurs to focus on running their business, long-term investment and technological innovation, without being distracted by other issues.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Pillen, NDVA Host World War II Veteran Recognition Ceremony in Capitol Rotunda

    Source: US State of Nebraska

    LINCOLN, NE – Surrounded by friends, family, state senators and fellow veterans, a group of World War II veterans were recognized for their service at a ceremony in the Nebraska State Capitol Rotunda today. Governor Jim Pillen, Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs (NDVA) Director John Hilgert, and Nebraska National Guard Adjutant General Major General Craig Strong presented recognition medals to 13 of Nebraska’s World War II veterans and recognized a group of veterans who had received medals in previous ceremonies. Today’s event, held on the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, was part of the state’s WWII veteran recognition program that launched earlier in the year.

    “Today, we are proud to honor our veterans as we mark 80 years since the end of World War II,” said Gov. Pillen. “These heroes fought for freedom, and Nebraska stepped up in significant ways — from building bombers at Fort Crook to feeding soldiers at the North Platte Canteen and training pilots at our airfields. Awarding medals to our living veterans and signing this proclamation is our way of saying thank you for their sacrifice and keeping their legacy alive.”

    As of today’s ceremony, 117 of Nebraska’s living WWII veterans have been presented with medals through this initiative, with several smaller, local presentations already scheduled throughout May. In total, over 40 medal presentation events have been held across Nebraska, hosted by the Governor, NDVA, mayors, city councils, veteran service organizations, county veteran service officers, and others. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Nebraska is currently home to around 250 WWII veterans, putting the program at about the halfway point to recognizing all of them.

    “This initiative has taken us around the state to meet and honor an incredible group of veterans,” said NDVA Director Hilgert. “The heroes of World War II fought not just to defend our country but to save the world. Having the opportunity to recognize them and share their stories is an incredible honor, and the ceremony at the Capitol is a true celebration of 80 years of victory and a special milestone on our road to honoring all of Nebraska’s living World War II veterans.”

    During the presentation, the name of each veteran was read and they were given a specially designed medal by Gov. Pillen. The medal was designed by NDVA. On the front is the slogan of the initiative: Celebrating 80 Years of Victory. It includes Nebraska’s famous Sower in front of the state, which is surrounded by a laurel wreath, a symbol of triumph. The backside of the medal features the words “On Behalf of a Grateful State, Thank You for Your Service” emblazoned above the personification of Victory standing in front of the 48-star flag of 1946. The ribbon design pays homage to the U.S. Military’s World War II Victory Medal, which is itself a doubling of the pattern on the World War I Victory Medal. 

    Image of the front side of the medal, ribbon bar, and box.

     

    Veterans who received their medals today included:

    • Kenneth Arenas, Lincoln

    • Ray Arnold, Trumbull

    • Douglas Baker, Maywood

    • William Brown, Omaha

    • Jack Caldwell, Lincoln

    • Gerald Lobeda, Ong

    • Robert Manthey, Lincoln

    • Theodore Mills, Lincoln

    • Roger Peters, Valley

    • Marvin Schulz, Lincoln

    • Wayne Steele, Bellevue

    • Ralph Wagner, Fremont

    • Alfred Zieg, Bennet

    In addition to these veterans, the following men were also acknowledged. They received their medals at previous ceremonies:

    • Julius Clemmer, Lincoln

    • Edwin Krepel, Norfolk

    • Wilbur Rupke, Lexington

    • Lee Sanks, Kearney

    • Carl Schrat, Omaha

    Kathleen Robison Tiede was presented with her father James Robison’s medal as the Lincoln veteran was unable to attend the ceremony.

    The event began with the presentation of colors by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln ROTC Color Guard and music by the Ravnan String Quartet. A group of children – the great-grandchildren of WWII medal recipients — laid a memorial wreath in front of the podium. The tribute recognized those veterans who have passed away and symbolized the need for future generations to remember their sacrifice and the war’s role in our nation’s history. Following his remarks, Gov. Pillen signed a proclamation declaring May 8 “Victory in Europe Day” in Nebraska.

    Major General Strong joined the Governor in shaking hands with all the veterans who received medals. He shared, “Our World War II veterans set the standards for service, for excellence, for duty above self, that we, today’s current military generation, continuously strive to emulate. On behalf of the men and women in uniform today, thank you for your service. Thank you for your sacrifice. Thank you for setting the standards. You are the greatest generation.”

    Gov. Pillen and NDVA will continue recognizing Nebraska’s living World War II veterans, with no deadline or end date to the program. At the ceremony, Dir. Hilgert said if anyone knew of a veteran who should be recognized, to reach out and inform his agency. Details about the initiative can be found at: veterans.nebraska.gov/ww2.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Shanghai’s World Bank survey success reflects China’s reform resolve

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Shanghai’s dynamic business hub is radiating confidence and vitality. In a new World Bank survey of 2,189 Chinese firms, Shanghai stood out with 22 business environment indicators ranking among the world’s top performers, more than any other city measured.

    The latest World Bank Enterprise Survey, conducted from January 2024 to February 2025, found that Shanghai leads the world in categories from power reliability to electronic payments. This haul even outshines Singapore, which had 10 top-tier indicators in an earlier assessment.

    The World Bank introduced the Business Ready (B-READY) Report in May 2023, which is a new approach that draws on a data collection process that includes specially tailored expert questionnaires and firm-level surveys.

    According to the survey, China’s overall enterprise survey scores were quite strong, exceeding the median of 103 economies in six out of eight topic areas, including commercial dispute resolution, taxation, financial services and international trade.

    Notably, among the 59 indicators used in B-READY, China achieved global top-tier performance in 12 indicators, including e-payments, electricity access and workforce training. Additionally, the country reached global advanced standards in areas such as construction permits, water supply, internet connectivity, and innovation.

    According to Elaine Chen, a partner at PwC China, which conducted the survey, Chinese firms demonstrated exceptional time efficiency, with VAT refunds processed in just one week and trade clearance time (3 days for exports, 10 for imports, on average) outperforming regional peers.

    “China’s strong results will be a reference to the World Bank’s final evaluation in September,” Chen noted.

    As an outstanding performer, Shanghai’s 22 world-best indicators span a broad array of business concerns. Regarding the reliability of electricity supply, the city’s enterprises reported zero power outages in the past year. Regarding access to financial services, Shanghai achieved zero transaction costs for electronic payments.

    Shanghai also reported perfect scores in commercial mediation (100), customs satisfaction (99.13), and internet provider flexibility (96.2). Beyond these, the metropolis scored at or near global best practice on measures such as tax processing speed, loan approvals, and internet stability, reflecting its advanced regulatory framework and commitment to efficiency.

    What lies behind these numbers is a vigorous push to modernize the city’s business environment. Many of Shanghai’s reforms in recent years have directly targeted the pain points that the World Bank survey measures. For example, the city enacted in 2016 a regulation on power supply and utilization that requires utility companies to fix outages within an hour.

    The findings underscore Shanghai’s success in aligning with international standards, streamlining regulations, and enhancing public services — a testament to China’s broader strides in cultivating a business-friendly environment, said Luo Peixin, vice president of East China University of Political Science and Law.

    Luo highlighted Shanghai’s institutional reforms as key drivers of progress. “Shanghai’s model offers a blueprint for nationwide improvements.”

    After years of steadfast reform, Shanghai has made the business environment a top priority since 2018, when Shanghai launched its first annual action plan of business climate reforms.

    Every year since then, the Shanghai municipal government convened a high-profile conference on optimizing the business environment to announce new measures. These action plans have so far introduced over 1,100 specific reform tasks and measures.

    Luo noted that by driving institutional reforms and optimizing working methods, Shanghai can further enhance corporate satisfaction and sense of gain.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Redress announcement leaves little justice for survivors

    Source: It’s time to fix the secondary teacher shortage

    The Green Party is appalled by the Government’s decision to severely underfund financial compensation for survivors of abuse in state care.

    “This falls severely short of real redress, our survivors deserve so much better,” says Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson. 

    “In November, the Prime Minister stood in front of survivors to recognise that the abuse they suffered should never have happened. 

    “An apology is empty air without action. The Government has failed survivors by repeating the mistakes of old that resulted in the abuse and trauma detailed by the Royal Commission. 

    “To add insult to injury, the Government has now offered survivors well below what they deserve in this redress announcement. 

    “The Government is not only failing to heal the wounds of our past but is risking opening up new ones without real redress and a repeat of old mistakes.

    “The Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care provided us with harrowing testimony from survivors as well as invaluable insight into both how we failed as a society and how we must change. This was an opportunity to learn and do better as a country, an opportunity this Government has completely missed. 

    “The Green Party remains committed to working towards a future where every child grows up safe, secure, and free from violence,” says Marama Davidson.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What is grounding and could it improve my sleep? Here’s the science behind this TikTok trend

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dean J. Miller, Senior Lecturer, Appleton Institute, HealthWise Research Group, CQUniversity Australia

    Alexey Demidov/Pexels

    Have you ever felt an unexpected sense of calm while walking barefoot on grass? Or noticed your stress begin to fade as you stood ankle deep in the ocean? If so, you may have unknowingly “grounded” yourself to the earth.

    Grounding, also known as earthing, is the practice of making direct physical contact with the Earth’s surface. Our ancestors embraced this trend without knowing it. But with the invention of indoor homes, footpaths, roads, and even shoes, we have become less physically connected with the earth.

    Grounding has been suggested to have a number of benefits, such as improving mood, and reducing stress and pain. But overall, there’s limited conclusive evidence on the benefits of grounding.

    Somewhat ironically, the concept of grounding in 2025 is heavily influenced by technology, rather than getting out into nature. Consumers are being hit with social media reels promoting a range of technologies that ground us, and improve our health.

    Among the most common are promises of improved sleep with the use of a grounding sheet or mat. But is this just another TikTok trend, or could these products really help us get a better night’s sleep?

    Bringing the outdoors in

    The human body is conductive, which means it can exchange electricity with Earth and artificial sources, such as electronic devices or objects. (Sometimes, this exchange can result in an electric or static shock.)

    Proponents of grounding claim the practice reconnects “the conductive human body to the Earth’s natural and subtle surface electric charge”.

    They credit this process with physiological and psychological benefits (but again, the evidence is limited).



    Read more:
    Why do I get static shocks from everyday objects? Is it my shoes?

    Grounding technologies can vary in type (for example, under-desk foot mats, mattress toppers and bed sheets) but all are designed to provide a path for electric charges to flow between your body and the earth.

    The bottom prong you see in your three-prong wall socket is a “ground” or “earth” terminal. It provides a direct connection to earth via your building’s wiring, diverting excess or unsafe voltage into the ground. This protects you and your devices from potential electrical faults.

    Grounding technology uses this terminal as a pathway for the proposed electrical exchange between you and earth, while in the comfort of your home.

    Could grounding improve your sleep?

    The research in this area is still emerging.

    A 2025 study from Korea recruited 60 participants, gave half of them a grounding mat, and gave the other half a visually identical mat that didn’t have grounding technology. The researchers used a “double-blind” protocol, meaning neither the participants nor the researchers knew which participants were given grounding mats.

    All participants wore sleep trackers and were asked to use their mat (that is, sit or lie on it) for six hours per day. The researchers found that after 31 days, participants in the grounding mat group slept longer on average (as measured by their sleep trackers) than those in the control group.

    The researchers also used questionnaires to collect measures of insomnia, sleep quality, daytime sleepiness, and stress. After 31 days, participants in both groups improved on all measures.

    There were no differences between the grounded and ungrounded groups for sleep quality, daytime sleepiness, and stress. And while grounded participants showed significantly lower insomnia severity after the intervention, this difference was also present at the start of the study. So it’s unclear if grounding had a tangible impact on sleep.

    Could grounding technologies really help you sleep better?
    Andrea Piacquadio/Pexels

    In another double-blind study, published in 2022, researchers in Taiwan examined the effectiveness of using grounding mats to improve sleep among patients with Alzheimer’s disease. The findings indicated that spending 30 minutes on a grounding mat five times per week resulted in improved sleep quality.

    While previous research has suggested using grounding technologies may lead to improvements in mood, no differences were seen in measures of anxiety and depression in this study.

    Grounding for gains?

    Grounding technology has also been touted as having other benefits, such as reducing pain and inflammation.

    A 2019 study found participants who slept on a grounding mat after intense exercise felt less sore and showed lower levels of inflammation in their blood compared to those who were ungrounded.

    Grounding after a workout may help you feel better and recover faster, but it’s still unclear whether and how grounding affects long-term training results or fitness gains.

    There’s some evidence grounding could help with exercise recovery.
    Monster Ztudio/Shutterstock

    Add to cart?

    So should you cash in on your favourite influencer’s discount code and grab a grounding mat? At the risk of spouting a common cliche of cautious scientists, our answer is that we don’t know yet.

    What we do know is the existing research, albeit emerging, has shown no evidence grounding technology can negatively affect your sleep or recovery after exercise. So if you love your grounding mat or grounding sheet, or want to see if grounding works for you, feel free to give it a go.

    Keep in mind, grounding products can retail for anywhere from around A$30 to $300 or more.

    On the other hand, grounding on the grass in the great outdoors is free. While there’s limited evidence that grounding outdoors can improve sleep, spending time in outdoor light may itself benefit sleep, regulate circadian rhythms, and improve mood.

    Finally, while grounding could be an interesting strategy to try, if you’re experiencing ongoing problems with your sleep, or suspect you may have a sleep disorder, the first step should be reaching out to a medical professional, such as your GP.

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

    – ref. What is grounding and could it improve my sleep? Here’s the science behind this TikTok trend – https://theconversation.com/what-is-grounding-and-could-it-improve-my-sleep-heres-the-science-behind-this-tiktok-trend-253347

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pallone Announces Coding and App Building Competition for NJ Students

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Frank Pallone (6th District of New Jersey)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-6) announced that his office will be participating in the Congressional App Challenge (CAC), an app competition for students interested in computer science, app development, and coding. The Challenge submission period will run from May 1, 2025, through October 30, 2025. The competition is open to all middle and high school students from New Jersey’s Sixth Congressional District who meet the eligibility requirements, regardless of coding experience.

    Interested students can register to participate by visiting the Congressional App Challenge website where the rules, prizes, and past winners can also be found.

    “The Congressional App Challenge is a wonderful opportunity for students to demonstrate their technical and creative skills,” said Pallone. “As the top Democrat on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, I have seen how innovative technology is creating new industries and opportunities for countless Americans.  We must continue to make investments in STEM education in New Jersey to ensure the next generation has the skills and tools needed to keep the United States as the world’s top innovator for years to come.”

    Winners will be selected by panels of expert judges from local communities and will be honored by Congressman Pallone. Their apps will be featured on a display in the U.S. Capitol building and on the Congressional App Challenge website. The CAC was created because Congress recognized that STEM and computer-based skills are essential for economic growth and innovation, and that the U.S. has been falling behind on these fronts.

    Ekya Dogra, Sahil Ghosh, and Adithiya Venkatakrishnan of Edison Academy Magnet School won last year’s competition for “RADR,” an app designed to enhance amber alerts and assist in child abduction cases.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI New York Announces Arrests as Part of National Crimes Against Children Operation: Restore Justice

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI Crime News (b)

    The FBI New York Field Office participated in the arrests of seven subjects as part of the nationwide Operation Restore Justice. This coordinated enforcement operation by all 55 FBI field offices was a sweeping five-day FBI initiative to identify, track, and arrest child sex predators across the country.

    “The FBI is relentless in our commitment to combatting child exploitation and abuse,” stated Assistant Director in Charge Christopher G. Raia. “The FBI New York Field Office will never cease in its mission to apprehend anyone who preys on these vulnerable members of society.” 

    The cases were investigated by the FBI/NYPD Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, as well as the FBI Hudson Valley Safe Streets Task Force, in partnership with the United States Attorneys’ Offices for the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York. Significant investigative assistance was also provided by the FBI Boston Field Office, the FBI Detroit Field Office, Homeland Security Investigations, New York City Department of Probation, the Pennsylvania State Police, Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office, the Town of Newburgh Police Department, Town of Wallkill Police Department, and the Warren County Sheriff’s Office. “These arrests would not have been possible without the assistance from our local and federal law enforcement partners,” said ADIC Raia.

    Last week alone, the FBI arrested 205 subjects and rescued 115 children across the country during the surge of resources deployed for Operation Restore Justice. The subjects arrested in this operation included those in positions of public trust—law enforcement, members of the military, and teachers. Others are your neighbors, proving criminal activity can be found even in the most familiar places. They’re accused of various crimes, including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking.

    But our work didn’t just happen last week. Throughout the entire month of April, the FBI, along with our state and local law enforcement partners, additionally arrested more than 190 perpetrators on charges related to crimes against children. With nearly 400 arrests in one month, these actions are the direct result of the FBI’s continued efforts to track down and stop sexual predators before they can harm more victims. 

    This operation was the result of a dedicated and targeted effort, reflecting countless hours of work by hundreds of special agents, intel analysts, and other FBI personnel. It further emphasizes the FBI’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and raising awareness about the dangers they face. While the Bureau works relentlessly to investigate these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of prevention, community education, and the FBI’s never-ending pursuit of criminals who exploit our children. 

    The FBI proactively identifies individuals involved in child sexual exploitation and the production of child sexual abuse material through our far-reaching, nationwide network of personnel and law enforcement partners. The Violent Crimes Against Children (VCAC) program provides a rapid, proactive, and comprehensive capacity to counter all threats of abuse against children. This capacity leverages partnerships within the FBI’s 89 Child Exploitation Human Trafficking Task Forces (CEHTTFs) across the country. 

    Additionally, the FBI has intelligence analysts assigned to address the VCAC threat, both at Headquarters and the field. The FBI also leads a Violent Crimes Against Children International Task Force, which includes nearly 100 international task force officers representing over 60 countries to expand our ability to address the threat worldwide. 

    The FBI also partners with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org. In further partnership and collaboration with NCMEC, the FBI launched the Endangered Child Alert Program (ECAP) in 2004 to identify individuals involved in the sexual abuse of children and the production of child sexual abuse material. To date, ECAP has identified 36 individuals. 

    For more information about the crimes investigated by the FBI as well as the variety of resources we provide to protect and keep children safe, please visit: 

    As always, the FBI urges the public to remain vigilant and report any suspect crime against a child to 911 and local law enforcement immediately, as well as the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), online at tips.fbi.gov, or by contacting your local FBI field office.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: From the moment he steps onto the balcony, each pope signals his style of leadership – here’s how Pope Leo XIV’s appearance compares with Pope Francis’ first

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Daniel Speed Thompson, Associate Professor of Religious Studies, University of Dayton

    Newly elected Pope Leo XIV waves to pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square shortly after his election on May 8, 2025. Vatican Media via AP

    As crowds celebrated in St. Peter’s Square, a man in white and red stepped onto the balcony of the basilica, prompting cheers from the plaza.

    It was American Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost: Pope Leo XIV, as he will now be known. On May 8, 2025 – the second day of the conclave following Pope Francis’ death – the College of Cardinals selected him to lead the Catholic Church.

    In the days to come, people may pore over videos of those first few minutes of Leo’s papacy, analyzing everything from his vestments and multilingual speech to his choice of papal name. Appearing on the balcony of St. Peter’s is a pope’s first appearance – a tradition full of symbolism.

    I am a scholar who studies Roman Catholic theology and history. I am particularly interested in how popes exercise authority and leadership today, including their use of symbols.

    When Francis first appeared on that balcony in 2013, he used four aspects of the ritual to convey a message about his intentions for his papacy. Leo, too, adapted symbols of the ritual – and time will tell how much of his own intentions he showed.

    Pilgrims at the Vatican react after the announcement of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV.
    AP Photo/Francisco Seco

    What’s in a name?

    Since the sixth century C.E., new bishops of Rome have often taken a new name. Jorge Mario Bergoglio opted for “Francis,” the first pope to do so.

    It refers to Francis of Assisi, an Italian saint who lived at the turn of the 13th century who was renowned for his simplicity, poverty, concern for the Earth and desire to imitate Jesus. Over the next 12 years, these traits proved central to his papacy.

    Prevost chose “Leo,” making him the 14th pope to bear that name.

    Which Leo is the new pope referring to as his model? Probably more than one. One of the most significant Pope Leos, however, was the most recent. Leo XIII was pope from 1878-1903, and is particularly remembered for his writings on social justice, economics, politics and labor, which have grounded Catholic social teaching for more than 100 years.

    Leo XIII is also credited for promoting Thomas Aquinas, the important medieval theologian and saint, as the model for Catholic theology and its response to the modern world.

    Not a king

    On the balcony, Francis wore simple white papal garments instead of the more elaborate adornments worn by some of his predecessors. He wore his old, simple cross across his chest, rather than a new, more luxurious one.

    Francis waves during his first appearance as pope on March 13, 2013.
    AP Photo/Dmitry Lovetsky

    Popes have worn white garments as a symbol of their office for centuries. But many of them also used symbols of monarchy, such as the triple papal tiara or crown. Pope Paul VI, whose papacy was from 1963-1978, was the last to wear the tiara and to have a coronation ceremony. The following year, he sold the crown and donated the proceeds to emphasize the church’s commitment to the poor.

    Later popes have followed Paul’s example of avoiding royal symbolism, such as by no longer using a “sedia gestatoria,” the portable throne that traditionally carried the pope in formal processions. Francis took this trend even further and made simplicity of dress and lifestyle a hallmark of his time in office.

    When he appeared on the balcony, Leo returned to the tradition of popes before Francis by wearing the “mozzetta,” a short cape, and the gold cross offered to a pope when he accepts the office – showing somewhat more continuity with his predecessors.

    Bishop of Rome

    When Francis first addressed the crowd in St. Peter’s, he described himself as the new bishop of Rome.

    In Catholicism, the pope holds many titles representing the scope and duties of his office. For starters, he is not only the spiritual leader of the Roman Catholic Church but “sovereign of the State of Vatican City.”

    In terms of religious titles, some accentuate the pope’s authority. “Vicar of Christ,” for example, means he is Jesus’ representative on Earth. Others, such as “servus servorum Dei” – “servant of the servants of God” – emphasize his role as a support to other bishops and ministers of the church.

    Francis certainly did not deny the traditional authority of the pope’s office. However, he chose to identify himself first as the local bishop of the diocese of Rome, emphasizing how even the pope was first part of a local community. In the official Vatican yearbook for 2020, Francis listed his only title as “Bishop of Rome” and listed the rest as “historic.”

    Catholics from the parish of St. Joan Antida in Rome arrive to attend Pope Francis’ inaugural Mass at the Vatican on March 19, 2013.
    AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis

    When the new Pope Leo addressed the crowd, he described himself as the “successor of Peter,” the first pope. Like Francis before him, he also referred to the pope’s role as “bishop of Rome,” quoting the early church theologian St. Augustine: “For you I am a bishop, with you I am a Christian.” This identifies him first as a fellow Christian – and in that sense, not just a leader above his flock.

    ‘Pray for me’

    Francis asked the assembled crowd to pray for him before he offered his first papal blessing.

    Traditionally, popes making their first appearance would offer a blessing to the people gathered in St. Peter’s Square. Francis took this ritual and reversed it. In harmony with his views on simplicity and his role as the bishop of Rome, he emphasized the mutual connection between him and the people. He downplayed the view of the pope as a hierarchical ruler above the people.

    Leo concluded his address to the crowd with the traditional blessing in Latin, addressed “to the city and to the world.” He did not ask, as Francis did, that the crowd bless him first.

    In some ways, it seems like Leo’s symbolic message was “I am not Francis,” emphasizing his continuity with previous popes. Yet in his address, he clearly praised and thanked Francis, and invoked his predecessor’s emphasis on “synodality”: a church where all Catholics walk together. He repeated Francis’s message that the Christian message should call to and include everyone.

    Perhaps it is better to say that Leo’s first appearance on the balcony meant: “I am not Francis, but Francis’ vision will continue.”

    This is an updated version of an article originally published on May 6, 2025. It was updated on May 8, 2025 to reflect Pope Leo XIV’s election.

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

    – ref. From the moment he steps onto the balcony, each pope signals his style of leadership – here’s how Pope Leo XIV’s appearance compares with Pope Francis’ first – https://theconversation.com/from-the-moment-he-steps-onto-the-balcony-each-pope-signals-his-style-of-leadership-heres-how-pope-leo-xivs-appearance-compares-with-pope-francis-first-255585

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: CashUSA Under Review: Best No Credit Check Lending Option for Personal Loans in 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Las Vegas, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    In This Article, You’ll Discover:

    • Why millions of Americans are turning to no credit check personal loans in 2025
    • What makes CashUSA one of the most trusted online loan marketplaces for borrowers with poor or no credit
    • A step-by-step walkthrough of the CashUSA loan application process
    • How CashUSA compares to payday loans, traditional bank loans, and other online lenders
    • A detailed breakdown of loan amounts, interest rates, repayment terms, and fees
    • Real user reviews and testimonials from CashUSA borrowers in 2025
    • What to expect in terms of approval speed, funding timelines, and credit impact
    • Common FAQs and full disclosures that help readers make informed borrowing decisions

    TL;DR — CashUSA Under Review: The Best No Credit Check Personal Loan Option in 2025

    In 2025, many borrowers are finding themselves shut out of traditional lending due to rigid credit score requirements, slow approval timelines, and inflexible employment standards. This detailed CashUSA review explores why the platform has become a leading solution for individuals seeking fast, reliable, and no credit check personal loans. Unlike banks or payday lenders, CashUSA connects borrowers with a wide network of trusted third-party lenders, many of whom evaluate applications using alternative credit data.

    This article breaks down everything potential borrowers need to know — from eligibility requirements and application steps to funding times, lender comparisons, and real user experiences. With loan amounts ranging from $500 to $10,000, flexible repayment terms, and no hard credit pull during the initial inquiry, CashUSA is positioned as one of the best online lending platforms in 2025 for people who need fast access to cash without compromising their financial future.

    Readers are reminded that CashUSA is not a lender but a referral platform. All loan terms and approvals are provided by independent third-party lenders. Rates, terms, and funding availability may vary and are subject to change. Always consult the official website for current information before applying.

    Introduction — Understanding the Financial Struggles of 2025 Borrowers

    Why Millions of Americans Are Turning to Alternative Lending Options in 2025

    As the economic landscape continues to shift in 2025, more consumers than ever are facing challenges that traditional financial institutions aren’t equipped to solve. Inflation remains stubbornly high, wages have stagnated for much of the working class, and unexpected expenses—from car repairs to medical bills—are catching families off guard. In this climate, many people find themselves needing fast access to cash but lack the credit score or banking history to secure a traditional loan.

    This has led to a dramatic increase in demand for no credit check personal loans. Consumers are actively searching for solutions that provide instant access to funds without the judgment of a hard inquiry on their credit reports. In the middle of this surge in alternative lending options stands CashUSA, one of the most well-known platforms catering specifically to borrowers with less-than-perfect credit profiles.

    Why Traditional Lending Models No Longer Work for Most Consumers

    Banks and credit unions have long maintained rigid approval processes built around high FICO score requirements, stable W-2 employment history, and narrow debt-to-income ratios. Unfortunately, those requirements disqualify a large segment of the population—including freelancers, gig workers, recent graduates, and anyone with a prior default or bankruptcy.

    Even if someone qualifies, the process can be slow and cumbersome, with approvals taking days or even weeks. For people facing urgent financial needs, these delays are often not an option.

    CashUSA offers an alternative. By acting as a fintech-powered loan marketplace rather than a direct lender, it connects borrowers to a wide network of potential loan partners willing to evaluate more than just a credit score.

    How Fintech Platforms Like CashUSA Are Revolutionizing Personal Lending

    In recent years, the growth of AI-driven lending platforms and alternative credit scoring models has transformed how lenders assess risk. Rather than relying solely on outdated FICO metrics, many CashUSA partners use data points like income flow, job consistency, and even mobile phone bill payments to determine eligibility.

    This shift has made personal loans more accessible to people who might otherwise be excluded from the financial system. Platforms like CashUSA have embraced this mobile-first, digitally secure, and privacy-conscious approach, positioning themselves as the go-to for borrowers who need a lifeline and don’t want to deal with banks or predatory payday lenders.

    CashUSA doesn’t guarantee approval, but its model offers an inclusive approach that aligns with what today’s borrowers actually need: speed, accessibility, and fairness.

    What Is CashUSA? A 2025 Fintech Leader in Lending

    An Overview of the CashUSA Lending Platform

    CashUSA is a leading online personal loan marketplace that connects borrowers to a wide network of lenders, specializing in fast funding for people with poor or no credit. Unlike traditional banks that rely on rigid approval criteria, CashUSA operates as a bridge between individuals in need of quick cash and lenders open to evaluating more than just credit scores.

    Rather than functioning as a direct lender, CashUSA streamlines the loan process through a centralized platform that simplifies how borrowers are matched with potential loan offers. The platform is entirely digital, allowing applicants to start and complete the process through a smartphone or computer — no office visits, faxing, or paper signatures required.

    How CashUSA Operates as a Marketplace, Not a Lender

    One of the most important distinctions to understand is that CashUSA is not the lender itself. It serves as a referral platform, aggregating offers from lenders who partner with them. After submitting an application, CashUSA distributes that request across its network, which may include traditional financial institutions, fintech startups, and specialty lenders focused on underserved credit markets.

    Once a borrower is matched with an offer, the decision to accept or reject that loan — along with the final terms — lies solely with the third-party lender. CashUSA does not control interest rates, fees, or repayment policies. It simply facilitates the connection.

    Disclaimer: CashUSA is not a direct lender. All loan terms are established by third-party providers and may vary. Always review the lender’s full terms before signing any agreement.

    What Makes CashUSA Unique in Today’s Lending Ecosystem

    In 2025, CashUSA stands out by combining the speed of fintech, the reach of nationwide lending networks, and the flexibility of no credit check approvals. This makes it particularly attractive for people who’ve been denied by conventional banks or are dealing with urgent financial issues like car repairs, rent, or medical expenses.

    Key differentiators include:

    • A quick and user-friendly application that takes just minutes
    • Same-day funding availability (if approved early in the day)
    • No cost to apply or get matched
    • Data protection features using secure, encrypted channels

    CashUSA also accommodates borrowers with irregular income, making it a viable option for freelancers, gig economy workers, and those living paycheck-to-paycheck. The company has evolved alongside rising consumer demand for fast, mobile-first financial solutions that minimize friction and reduce the stress typically associated with borrowing money.

    CashUSA makes borrowing smarter — get connected to trusted lenders with flexible terms and no hard credit pull when you apply right now.

    The Pain Points of Traditional Lending — and How CashUSA Solves Them

    Why Traditional Loans No Longer Serve the Needs of Most Borrowers

    For many Americans, the process of getting a personal loan through a bank or credit union has become unnecessarily complicated. Borrowers are often met with a long list of documentation requirements, rigid credit score thresholds, and delayed decisions. Worse, even after weeks of waiting, there’s no guarantee of approval.

    This traditional model leaves out a huge portion of the population — especially those with unstable income, low credit scores, or non-traditional employment. It also creates anxiety for those who need emergency funds within days, not weeks.

    Pain Point #1: Credit Scores as a Barrier to Access

    Credit scores are still the gatekeepers in most lending scenarios. A missed payment years ago, a sudden drop in income, or a medical emergency can cause a lasting dip in someone’s credit profile — making it nearly impossible to qualify for a standard loan. Unfortunately, this outdated model doesn’t reflect the full picture of financial responsibility.

    CashUSA addresses this by working with lenders who often do not perform hard credit checks. Instead, many of its partners use alternative data — such as employment status, income flow, and even mobile payment history — to assess a borrower’s reliability.

    Pain Point #2: Long Wait Times for Urgent Needs

    In an emergency, time is everything. A car breakdown, overdue rent, or medical bill can’t wait for a two-week approval process. Traditional loans rarely offer same-day funding, especially for applicants with credit challenges.

    CashUSA makes speed a core priority. The online application takes only a few minutes to complete, and once matched, many borrowers can receive funds as soon as the next business day if they accept and sign early.

    Pain Point #3: Hidden Fees and Lack of Transparency

    Many borrowers have been burned by unexpected fees, ballooning interest rates, and opaque repayment terms buried in fine print. Unfortunately, this remains common among payday lenders and even some online lending platforms.

    CashUSA differentiates itself by providing full visibility into loan offers before commitment. Since CashUSA itself is not the lender, applicants are not obligated to accept any offer they receive. The platform encourages transparency, allowing borrowers to read the exact terms before moving forward.

    Disclaimer: Loan terms vary by lender. It is the borrower’s responsibility to review the full contract details before accepting a loan through any partner lender.

    A Lending Marketplace Designed for Real-Life Challenges

    CashUSA’s approach resonates with people navigating the financial uncertainties of modern life. Whether it’s the freelancer without a steady paycheck or the single parent managing unexpected expenses, the platform connects users to lenders who understand that life doesn’t always follow a perfect script.

    With features like no hard credit pull, mobile-first application access, and same-day funding options, CashUSA is engineered to reduce friction and open doors where others close them.

    Who Should Use CashUSA? 

    Borrowers with Poor or No Credit History

    One of the biggest strengths of CashUSA is its accessibility for individuals who have been turned away by traditional lenders. People with poor credit scores (typically under 580) or no formal credit history at all often find themselves ineligible for loans from banks or credit unions. Unfortunately, these are often the individuals who need funds the most — for everything from rent payments to urgent vehicle repairs.

    CashUSA connects these borrowers to lenders willing to look beyond a single score. Many CashUSA lending partners evaluate employment status, income consistency, and alternative credit data rather than depending solely on FICO. For young adults, recent immigrants, or people recovering from bankruptcy, this inclusive lending approach can be a financial lifeline.

    People Facing Emergency Financial Situations

    Emergencies don’t wait for perfect timing. Whether it’s a sudden hospital visit, an overdue utility bill, or an unexpected job loss, millions of people in the U.S. are one crisis away from serious hardship. Traditional loans may take too long to approve, and payday loans often come with predatory terms and interest rates that can spiral out of control.

    CashUSA offers a faster, more consumer-friendly alternative. Borrowers often receive their funds within 24 hours of approval, and there’s no obligation to accept any offer, allowing them to compare terms in real time. For people needing fast relief with minimal stress, this speed and flexibility make a significant difference.

    Freelancers, Gig Workers, and the Self-Employed

    The rise of remote work, freelancing, and gig platforms has created a large population of earners without W-2 forms or “traditional” income documentation. Unfortunately, many financial institutions still haven’t adapted their lending models to accommodate these working styles.

    CashUSA, on the other hand, enables borrowers to apply without needing to meet rigid employment classifications. As long as the applicant can demonstrate a verifiable income stream, even from non-traditional sources like ride-sharing apps or freelance contracts, they may still qualify for a loan offer.

    This is particularly beneficial in 2025, when millions of Americans are earning money outside the 9-to-5 mold. By embracing the needs of this evolving workforce, CashUSA positions itself as a more modern, flexible, and financially inclusive solution.

    Borrowers Seeking a Frictionless Digital Experience

    For many, convenience matters just as much as accessibility. CashUSA’s mobile-first and digitally streamlined platform appeals to users who expect to complete their loan applications from their phones, receive updates by text or email, and access documents electronically.

    There are no in-person appointments or faxed forms required. Instead, the entire loan-matching process is managed online, usually in under 10 minutes — from application submission to seeing potential lender matches.

    In a financial landscape increasingly defined by speed and user experience, CashUSA is built for borrowers who value both efficiency and simplicity.

    Apply for a CashUSA loan today to see how easy, secure, and credit-friendly online borrowing can be — you could get funds within 24 hours.

    The Application Process — How to Apply for a CashUSA Personal Loan

    Step-by-Step Overview of the Loan Application Process

    CashUSA has developed a simple and streamlined digital process that enables borrowers to apply for personal loans in just a few minutes. Unlike traditional financial institutions that often require long paperwork trails, in-person visits, or weeks of waiting, CashUSA’s interface makes loan matching fast and straightforward.

    Here’s how it works:

    1. Fill Out the Online Form: The application begins on CashUSA.com, where users enter basic personal details including name, contact information, ZIP code, and income status.
    2. Specify Loan Needs: Applicants select the loan amount they’re seeking (typically between $500 and $10,000) and describe the intended use — whether for debt consolidation, emergency bills, rent, car repairs, or another purpose.
    3. Submit Financial Details: This includes employment status, monthly income, banking information (for deposit purposes), and residence type. Lenders use this to evaluate the borrower’s overall ability to repay.
    4. Get Matched with Lenders: Once submitted, CashUSA sends the request to its network of partnered lenders. If a match is found, the applicant is shown the lender’s terms and can review the full offer before proceeding.
    5. Review and Accept an Offer: If the borrower likes the terms — including repayment period, interest rate, and fees — they can digitally accept. Otherwise, they’re free to decline and exit the process.
    6. Receive Funds: For those who accept an offer early in the business day, funds may be deposited as soon as the next business day, depending on the lender’s processing time.

    Disclaimer: Fund disbursement timing depends on individual lender policies and the time of application. Same-day or next-day funding is not guaranteed.

    What You’ll Need to Apply

    To complete the CashUSA application, borrowers should be prepared with:

    • A valid government-issued ID
    • Proof of income (such as bank statements or pay stubs)
    • An active checking account
    • A working phone number and email address
    • U.S. citizenship or permanent residency

    While some partnered lenders may require additional verification, the basic application is designed to be quick and minimally invasive. Importantly, most lenders do not perform a hard credit inquiry during this initial phase, helping protect the borrower’s credit score.

    Who Qualifies for a CashUSA Loan?

    CashUSA serves a wide audience, but borrowers generally must:

    • Be at least 18 years old
    • Have a monthly income of at least $1,000
    • Have a checking account in their name
    • Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident

    Having bad credit does not disqualify an applicant. In fact, CashUSA is designed specifically to help borrowers with credit challenges. Many of the lenders in its network focus on alternative risk models that look beyond FICO scores.

    The Advantage of No Hard Credit Pulls

    One of the key benefits of using CashUSA is the absence of a hard credit inquiry during the initial application process. This means applying won’t negatively affect your credit score, giving borrowers a risk-free way to explore options before committing to a specific loan.

    Later in the process, if a borrower accepts an offer and proceeds with a specific lender, that lender may perform a hard inquiry to finalize the agreement. However, at the matching stage, the borrower’s credit is protected.

    CashUSA Loan Details Explained (Loan Terms, APR, and Repayment)

    Understanding the Types of Loans Offered Through CashUSA

    CashUSA connects borrowers to a range of personal loan offers, primarily from lenders who specialize in unsecured loans. These loans don’t require collateral, which means borrowers don’t need to put up property or other assets to qualify. Loan amounts generally range from $500 to $10,000, depending on the applicant’s profile and the lender’s criteria.

    Each lender sets their own guidelines, so the exact terms may vary significantly. However, borrowers are always given the chance to review the complete offer before deciding whether to move forward.

    Disclaimer: CashUSA is not a direct lender. Loan types and terms are determined solely by the third-party lending partners and may vary based on financial history, state of residence, and lender-specific criteria.

    Loan Amounts and Funding Limits

    Most lenders in the CashUSA network offer loans between $500 and $10,000. The actual amount a borrower qualifies for depends on several factors, including:

    • Monthly income
    • Employment status
    • Debt-to-income ratio
    • Banking history
    • Lending laws in the borrower’s state

    There’s no guarantee that the full requested amount will be offered, but the platform aims to connect users with the highest-value offer they may qualify for.

    Disclaimer: Loan amounts are not guaranteed and may differ from the requested amount. Always verify with the lender before proceeding.

    APR (Annual Percentage Rate) and Interest Rates

    APR is one of the most critical elements of any loan — and it can vary widely depending on the lender. Through CashUSA, APRs often range between 5.99% and 35.99%, depending on borrower risk factors and the specific lender’s underwriting model.

    Low APRs may be offered to those with steady income and favorable credit histories, while higher APRs are more common for borrowers with poor or limited credit profiles.

    Disclaimer: APRs vary based on the lender and individual application details. Always review full APR terms on the official offer before acceptance. Check www.cashusa.com for the most up-to-date information, as rates are subject to change.

    Repayment Terms and Flexibility

    CashUSA’s lenders typically offer repayment terms ranging from 3 months to 72 months. The longer the repayment term, the smaller the monthly payment — but also the higher the total interest paid over time.

    Some lenders allow borrowers to select repayment dates or even change payment due dates if needed. Others may charge a penalty for early repayment, though many offer no prepayment penalty, which allows users to save on interest by paying down their loan ahead of schedule.

    Borrowers are strongly advised to read every detail of the repayment plan before accepting any loan, including:

    • Monthly payment amount
    • Total repayment amount
    • Payment frequency (monthly, biweekly)
    • Late fees or penalties

    Disclaimer: Repayment flexibility depends on the individual lender. Be sure to request a repayment schedule and check for early repayment penalties before signing any agreement.

    Understanding the Total Cost of the Loan

    While the speed and accessibility of a loan are important, the true cost of borrowing must be clearly understood. Always factor in the total interest over the full loan term. A lower monthly payment might seem appealing, but if spread over five years at a high APR, it can significantly increase the cost of borrowing.

    CashUSA provides the platform to compare offers and see the total repayment amount upfront — a crucial benefit over other fast-loan providers that hide these details in the fine print.

    Worried your credit score will hold you back? With CashUSA, it won’t — discover prequalified personal loan offers without damaging your credit.

    Real User Reviews: What Are People Saying About CashUSA in 2025?

    Why Consumer Feedback Matters in the Lending Space

    In the world of online lending, trust is everything. With so many digital platforms promising fast money and easy approval, borrowers need real-world insights to separate legitimate solutions from predatory traps. That’s where user reviews come in. Hearing directly from people who’ve used CashUSA can help potential borrowers decide whether this service aligns with their financial goals and expectations.

    Online reviews also highlight important aspects of the borrower experience — from application speed to customer service quality — that aren’t always clear from a company’s own promotional materials.

    Positive Experiences Shared by Verified Users

    Many borrowers appreciate CashUSA’s fast application process, non-intrusive credit policies, and ability to quickly connect them with real loan offers. In 2025, the feedback continues to reflect the platform’s strengths in accessibility, speed, and ease of use.

    Here are a few consistent themes found in user-submitted reviews on platforms like Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau:

    • “I had bad credit and was still able to get matched with a lender. Funds hit my account the next day.”
    • “The process was way easier than I expected. I applied during my lunch break and had multiple offers before dinner.”
    • “I liked that there was no pressure to accept anything. I saw my options and only moved forward when the offer felt right.”

    Borrowers frequently mention that CashUSA is helpful for urgent cash needs — such as car repairs or unexpected utility bills — and is often less stressful than trying to get a traditional loan.

    Constructive Criticism and Limitations Highlighted by Users

    No service is perfect, and CashUSA is no exception. Some reviewers note that:

    • Not all applicants receive offers, especially if income is very low or unverifiable.
    • Certain lenders present high APRs, which may not be suitable for long-term borrowing.
    • Some users confuse CashUSA as the lender, when in fact it is a referral marketplace.

    It’s important for applicants to understand that CashUSA doesn’t control the terms of any loan — it simply provides access to third-party offers. Each lender has its own approval requirements and repayment guidelines, which can vary significantly.

    Disclaimer: Individual experiences will vary. CashUSA does not guarantee approval, rates, or specific loan terms. Be sure to read all disclosures provided by the lender before signing any agreement.

    Overall Satisfaction and Trust Score Trends in 2025

    As of 2025, CashUSA continues to maintain generally favorable consumer ratings, especially for its transparency, ease of use, and suitability for people with limited credit access. While some complaints are related to misunderstandings about the platform’s role, the majority of users express relief at finding a non-judgmental, efficient path to emergency funding.

    With so many lenders using complex language and hidden fees, many borrowers are grateful for the clarity and comparison CashUSA provides.

    Comparing CashUSA to Other Top Lending Platforms

    CashUSA vs Payday Loans

    Payday loans are often marketed as quick fixes for financial emergencies, but they come with significant downsides: ultra-short repayment terms, extremely high interest rates, and severe penalties for missed payments. While they may seem convenient, they can trap borrowers in a cycle of debt due to APR rates that sometimes exceed 400%.

    CashUSA, by contrast, connects borrowers with personal loan providers offering more reasonable APRs, longer repayment periods, and no hidden rollover fees. Unlike payday loans, these offers are designed with repayment in mind, not long-term dependency.

    The key difference is transparency and structure. Most CashUSA lenders provide clear, upfront terms and allow you to repay in manageable monthly installments — not within days or weeks.

    CashUSA vs Traditional Bank Loans

    Bank loans typically offer competitive interest rates — but only if your credit score is high, your income is stable, and you have a solid financial track record. For people with average or below-average credit, these institutions are often out of reach. Approval can take weeks, and the documentation process is often intense and time-consuming.

    CashUSA simplifies this by allowing borrowers to apply online in just minutes and receive offers without any initial hard credit pull. Many users with fair or even poor credit are matched with lenders willing to consider them based on employment, income, and alternative credit data — not just a FICO score.

    This makes CashUSA a more accessible and time-efficient choice for people who don’t meet the rigid standards of traditional banks.

    CashUSA vs Other Online Loan Marketplaces

    There are several other platforms offering online loan matching services, such as:

    • PersonalLoans.com
    • BadCreditLoans.com
    • Avant
    • LendingClub

    While each has its merits, CashUSA is often praised for its wide lender network, simple interface, and emphasis on quick access without traditional credit checks. It’s also one of the few that does not charge any fees for the application or matching process.

    Some competing platforms may limit loan amounts or charge service fees, while others may not work with lenders that cater to borrowers with sub-600 credit scores.

    CashUSA’s combination of speed, accessibility, and broad eligibility makes it one of the top-tier options in 2025 for anyone exploring personal loans with credit concerns.

    Why CashUSA Stands Out in 2025

    In the current financial climate, where many people are navigating job changes, rising expenses, or unplanned emergencies, CashUSA offers a solution that feels more adaptive to real-world needs.

    Key advantages include:

    • No application fees or commitment
    • Fast approvals with potential next-day funding
    • High transparency in lender offers
    • Flexibility in repayment terms
    • No hard credit pull during initial application

    Disclaimer: Terms, funding speed, and approval outcomes may vary by lender. Always verify full loan terms and conditions through the official website or your lender’s disclosures.

    CashUSA may not be the right solution for every borrower, but for those prioritizing speed, simplicity, and accessibility, it remains one of the most competitive personal loan platforms on the market today.

    If you’ve been denied by banks, let CashUSA open doors to new funding possibilities — fast, free, and designed for real-life financial needs.

    Security, Support, and Privacy Policies

    Is CashUSA Safe to Use for Online Loan Applications?

    Security is a top concern for anyone sharing personal and financial information online. CashUSA addresses this with bank-grade encryption protocols that safeguard sensitive data during transmission. The platform uses 256-bit SSL encryption, a standard commonly used by major financial institutions, to ensure your information remains private and protected from unauthorized access.

    CashUSA also maintains a secure connection between the borrower and the lender — once you are matched, communication is conducted through protected channels. This prevents data leaks and limits exposure to potential third-party misuse.

    Disclaimer: While CashUSA uses industry-standard security measures, no platform can guarantee 100% protection against cyber threats. Users should avoid submitting applications on public Wi-Fi or shared devices.

    What Happens to Your Information After You Apply?

    CashUSA collects personal information strictly for the purpose of loan matching. This may include your name, address, phone number, income level, employment details, and banking information.

    This data is only shared with partnered lenders in their network for the purpose of evaluating your loan request. CashUSA does not sell your information to unrelated third parties or use it for marketing without consent.

    Borrowers have the option to review CashUSA’s privacy policy in full on their official website. Additionally, users can opt out of communications or request data removal by contacting customer service.

    Customer Support Options and Contact Info

    Although CashUSA is primarily a digital service, it offers customer support via:

    • Email support through their contact form
    • Phone assistance via the number provided on their official contact page
    • Educational resources and FAQs available on the site for quick answers

    It’s worth noting that while CashUSA provides help navigating their platform, any loan-related questions (rates, repayment, changes to terms) must be directed to the individual lender you’re matched with.

    Transparency and Third-Party Accountability

    Because CashUSA is not the lender, it plays a limited role once the match is made. However, the company maintains high standards of transparency by:

    • Not charging borrowers for access to its services
    • Providing complete lender details before any agreement is signed
    • Requiring partner lenders to clearly disclose terms, fees, and repayment structures

    Disclaimer: Borrowers are strongly advised to read all loan documents carefully and confirm the identity of any lender they are matched with. If an offer feels suspicious, you should decline and report it to CashUSA’s support team.

    Pricing, Fees & Refunds — Know Before You Commit

    Does CashUSA Charge a Fee to Use the Platform?

    One of CashUSA’s standout features is that it does not charge borrowers any fees to apply or use the platform. There is no cost to fill out the loan request form, get matched with lenders, or review loan offers. This zero-cost access makes it a low-risk tool for people seeking financing without having to commit upfront.

    It’s important to note, however, that while CashUSA itself is free, the lenders you’re matched with may apply fees, interest charges, or penalties based on the loan terms they offer.

    Disclaimer: CashUSA is not a lender and does not control the fees or rates charged by its lending partners. Always review the full loan disclosure provided by the lender before signing.

    Understanding Loan Fees and Interest Rates

    While some lenders offer low APRs (as little as 5.99% for qualified applicants), others may present higher rates, especially for borrowers with poor or limited credit history. APRs can reach up to 35.99% in some cases — which is still significantly lower than many payday or title loans.

    Common lender-applied fees include:

    • Origination Fees (usually 1%–5% of the loan total)
    • Late Payment Fees
    • Non-Sufficient Funds (NSF) Fees
    • Early Repayment Clauses (some charge, though many do not)

    Borrowers should read the Truth-in-Lending Act (TILA) disclosures provided by the lender to see a breakdown of all applicable costs before proceeding.

    Disclaimer: Pricing, interest rates, and fees are set individually by each lender. These details may change at any time. Always verify the latest information on the official CashUSA website or directly with the matched lender.

    Are There Prepayment Penalties?

    Some lenders within the CashUSA network allow borrowers to pay off their loans early without penalty — which can help reduce the total amount of interest paid over time. However, this isn’t universal.

    Always check whether your lender includes prepayment penalty clauses in the contract. If your goal is to borrow short-term and repay quickly, selecting a lender that waives prepayment fees can save money in the long run.

    What If You Change Your Mind After Accepting a Loan?

    Once a loan offer is accepted and the funds are disbursed, borrowers are bound by the repayment agreement signed with the lender. However, some lenders offer a short cancellation period (e.g., 24 to 48 hours) during which borrowers may cancel the loan without penalty — but this must be clarified in advance.

    If the lender doesn’t offer such a window, the borrower will be required to repay the full loan plus any applicable interest and fees.

    Disclaimer: Cancellation and refund policies vary by lender. CashUSA cannot reverse a disbursed loan. Contact your lender directly to explore any cancellation options.

    Always Confirm Details with the Official Source

    The terms offered through CashUSA’s lending network are not static — they can vary depending on lender policies, borrower qualifications, and even geographic location. Because of this, it’s essential to verify all rates, fees, and timelines before accepting any offer.

    Disclaimer: Prices, fees, and interest rates are subject to change. For the most accurate and up-to-date loan details, visit www.cashusa.com and review the disclosures provided by the matched lender before proceeding.

    Explore your loan options risk-free with CashUSA — there’s no charge to apply, no commitment required, and your credit won’t take a hit.

    Disclaimers to Keep in Mind (Transparency Section)

    CashUSA Is Not a Direct Lender

    One of the most important things borrowers should understand is that CashUSA is not a lender. It does not issue loans, set interest rates, or determine repayment terms. Instead, it serves as a digital loan marketplace, matching applicants with third-party lenders based on their submitted profile.

    Once a match is made, all loan details — including APR, fees, funding speed, and repayment terms — are managed entirely by the lending partner. Borrowers must review and accept these terms directly with that lender, not with CashUSA.

    Disclaimer: CashUSA does not fund loans or make credit decisions. Final loan terms are determined solely by the lender and may vary based on creditworthiness, income, and other criteria.

    Loan Approval Is Not Guaranteed

    While CashUSA is designed to assist borrowers with poor or limited credit, it does not guarantee that every applicant will receive a loan offer. Approval is still subject to lender evaluation and may depend on factors like:

    • Verified income
    • State of residence
    • Employment status
    • Minimum age and citizenship

    Some borrowers may receive multiple offers, while others may not qualify at all. CashUSA provides access — but it is up to the lender to determine eligibility.

    Disclaimer: Submission of an application does not guarantee loan approval or any specific offer. All lending decisions are made by third-party lenders.

    Terms, Fees, and APRs May Vary Widely

    Each lender in the CashUSA network has their own underwriting model. As a result, loan terms can differ significantly from one offer to the next. Factors that affect loan conditions include:

    • Credit and banking history
    • Requested loan amount
    • Duration of the loan
    • Lender risk tolerance

    Borrowers are strongly advised to compare offers carefully, especially when considering long-term loans with higher APRs.

    Disclaimer: Always read the full loan agreement before signing. Interest rates, fees, and repayment terms are controlled by the lender and are subject to change at any time.

    Always Verify Current Information Through Official Sources

    Loan details can fluctuate based on market conditions, lender policies, and applicant-specific data. Because of this, any examples or figures mentioned in this article — including APR ranges, loan amounts, or fee structures — should be treated as general estimates only.

    To avoid confusion, borrowers should consult the official website and carefully read all lender disclosures before finalizing any agreement.

    Disclaimer: For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit www.cashusa.com. Pricing and availability are subject to change without notice. Always confirm loan terms with the lender before proceeding.

    Final Verdict: Is CashUSA the Best No Credit Check Loan Option in 2025?

    Summing Up the Strengths of CashUSA

    In a lending landscape crowded with rigid banks and risky payday loan providers, CashUSA has carved out a compelling position as a trusted, tech-driven loan matching service for borrowers who are underserved by the traditional financial system. By providing access to a wide lender network, avoiding hard credit checks during initial inquiry, and offering same-day funding potential, it checks many of the boxes that modern borrowers are searching for.

    Some of the most notable advantages include:

    • Fast and mobile-friendly application
    • No cost to use or apply
    • No initial hard credit pull
    • Broad lender access for applicants with poor or no credit
    • Loan amounts up to $10,000
    • Transparent offers with no obligation to accept

    CashUSA’s strength lies in its simplicity and inclusivity — it’s a platform that serves real-world needs without gatekeeping access to capital.

    Who Should Seriously Consider CashUSA

    CashUSA is ideal for:

    • Borrowers with low or no credit scores
    • Freelancers or gig workers with non-traditional income streams
    • Individuals facing urgent financial needs who don’t have time to wait weeks for bank approval
    • Anyone who wants to compare multiple loan offers without commitment

    For those who fit this profile, CashUSA offers one of the most accessible and streamlined paths to personal loan funding available in 2025.

    Who Might Want to Explore Other Options

    CashUSA may not be the best fit for:

    • Borrowers with excellent credit who can qualify for lower rates from credit unions or direct banks
    • People seeking secured loans or loans over $10,000
    • Those who prefer to work with a local lender in-person rather than an online interface

    If you prioritize ultra-low interest rates and have strong credit, you may get better long-term value from a traditional financial institution. However, even in those cases, CashUSA can serve as a useful comparison tool.

    Disclaimer: Always compare multiple lending options and review all associated terms and costs before choosing any personal loan provider.

    Verdict: A Top-Tier Choice for 2025’s Financial Realities

    In a year defined by inflation pressures, non-traditional work, and rising financial emergencies, CashUSA delivers what most borrowers actually need — speed, flexibility, and access without judgment. It stands out not just for what it offers, but for what it removes: complexity, gatekeeping, and credit-score shame.

    For borrowers navigating unpredictable terrain, CashUSA is one of the most reliable no credit check lending platforms of 2025, offering a bridge to liquidity when it’s needed most.

    See how CashUSA can match you to emergency cash when you need it most — apply online in minutes and get the help you need, when you need it.

    Common Questions About CashUSA Answered (FAQs)

    Does CashUSA Perform a Hard Credit Check?

    No, CashUSA does not perform a hard credit inquiry when you submit your initial loan request. Instead, your application is shared with a network of lenders who may use a soft credit pull or alternative data to assess your eligibility. This means your credit score is not affected just by applying through the CashUSA platform.

    However, if you choose to move forward with a specific lender and accept their loan offer, that lender may conduct a hard inquiry as part of their final approval process.

    Disclaimer: Credit check policies vary by lender. Always review the lender’s terms regarding soft vs. hard inquiries before accepting a loan.

    Can I Get a Loan from CashUSA Without a Job?

    Employment is a factor in the loan decision process, but being unemployed does not automatically disqualify you. What lenders are looking for is verifiable, consistent income. This could come from sources such as:

    • Government benefits
    • Disability payments
    • Social Security income
    • Self-employment or freelance work
    • Alimony or legal settlements

    CashUSA’s lenders are generally open to applicants with non-traditional income streams, which is part of what makes the platform more inclusive than many traditional financial institutions.

    How Fast Can I Receive My Funds?

    In many cases, borrowers who are matched with a lender and accept the offer early in the day can receive funds as soon as the next business day. Funding speed depends on a few factors:

    • Time of day the loan is accepted
    • The lender’s processing and disbursement schedule
    • The borrower’s bank policies regarding incoming transfers

    Disclaimer: CashUSA does not guarantee same-day or next-day funding. Time to funding varies by lender and borrower banking institution.

    Is My Personal Information Safe with CashUSA?

    Yes, CashUSA uses secure 256-bit SSL encryption to protect all information submitted on its website. Personal and financial details are only shared with relevant lending partners for the purpose of evaluating your loan request. The platform also follows strict data handling practices to minimize risk.

    For further details, borrowers can read the full privacy policy available at cashusa.com.

    Disclaimer: While the platform uses industry-standard security measures, users should still avoid applying from public Wi-Fi or unsecured devices.

    Can I Cancel My Loan After It’s Been Approved?

    Once a lender has approved your application and disbursed funds into your account, you’re bound by the loan agreement. However, some lenders may offer a short grace period in which you can cancel the loan or return the funds without incurring a penalty.

    If you need to cancel a loan after accepting it, contact your lender immediately. CashUSA customer support cannot cancel loans once they’ve been finalized with a lender.

    What If I Miss a Payment?

    Missing a loan payment can result in:

    • Late fees and penalties
    • Damage to your credit score (if the lender reports to credit bureaus)
    • Increased interest or default status

    If you anticipate difficulty making a payment, contact your lender as early as possible. Some lenders may offer payment plan modifications or deferment options depending on your circumstances.

    Disclaimer: Each lender sets its own policies for late payments and defaults. Always review the terms of your loan agreement thoroughly before signing.

    Will Using CashUSA Hurt My Credit Score?

    No, applying through CashUSA will not affect your credit score during the initial inquiry phase. The platform only conducts a soft credit check to connect you with potential lenders. This is important for borrowers concerned about protecting their credit rating while exploring loan options.

    Only if you proceed with a loan offer from a specific lender might a hard credit check occur — and even then, it happens after you’ve reviewed the terms and chosen to move forward.

    This approach makes CashUSA ideal for people seeking no credit check personal loan options in 2025.

    What Types of Personal Loans Can I Use CashUSA For?

    CashUSA facilitates access to unsecured personal loans that can be used for nearly any purpose, including:

    • Emergency medical expenses
    • Rent or mortgage gaps
    • Utility bills or home repairs
    • Debt consolidation
    • Travel, education, or moving costs

    Since the platform connects you with lenders offering flexible terms and no upfront credit check, it’s a great fit for borrowers looking for multi-purpose loans without judgment based on credit score alone.

    How Is CashUSA Different from Direct Lenders?

    CashUSA is not a lender — it’s a loan referral marketplace that connects borrowers with a network of online personal loan providers. This gives users access to multiple offers from competing lenders, improving the chance of finding better rates or more flexible repayment options.

    Unlike direct lenders, who typically offer a fixed set of terms, CashUSA’s network may include:

    • Lenders using alternative credit data
    • Providers specializing in bad credit loans
    • Lenders offering fast funding and mobile-first applications

    This broader scope makes CashUSA one of the best fintech-powered lending platforms for borrowers who want comparison and control.

    Is There a Minimum Credit Score Requirement to Use CashUSA?

    No, there is no minimum credit score required to submit a loan request on CashUSA. The platform was designed to help individuals with poor credit, limited credit history, or even no credit score at all.

    Many of the lenders in CashUSA’s network use alternative data points — like income history and employment stability — rather than relying exclusively on a traditional FICO score.

    This makes it one of the most inclusive options for accessing personal loans without a credit check in today’s evolving financial ecosystem.

    CashUSA is changing the game for borrowers — apply now and unlock fast, fair, and secure access to personal loan offers without the hassle.

    • Company: CashUSA
    • Email: support@cashusa.com
    • Order Phone Support: 866-973-6587

    Disclaimers and Disclosures

    General Disclaimer:
    The content presented in this article is provided strictly for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute professional financial advice, legal advice, credit counseling, or loan underwriting recommendations. The publisher, authors, editors, and all affiliated syndication partners make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of any information contained herein. While reasonable efforts have been made to ensure factual accuracy at the time of publication, errors, omissions, or outdated information may exist. The publisher, authors, editors, and all affiliated parties expressly disclaim all liability for any inaccuracies, typographical errors, or incomplete information contained within this content.

    Readers are strongly encouraged to independently verify any statements, statistics, or figures provided herein by consulting official sources or professional advisors. Any decisions made based on the information provided in this content are done solely at the reader’s own risk. Neither the publisher, its contributors, nor its syndication partners shall be held liable for any damages, financial loss, or adverse outcomes arising from reliance on the information provided.

    Customer Notice:
    If you are facing serious financial difficulties, you should consider alternative options and may want to seek professional financial advice.

    Legal Notice:
    CashUSA.com’s Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy apply to the use of this website and its services. The Privacy Policy also acts as your privacy notice.

    Not a Lender, Broker or Creditor:
    The owners and operators of this site and the network(s) used by this site are not lenders or brokers, are not creditors, do not offer loans, do not make loans, do not broker loans, and do not make any credit decisions. This site’s only involvement with loan offers obtained through lenders or lending partners in its network is to transmit loan request information to those lenders or lending partners and to connect users with them if they choose to extend a loan offer. This site exercises no control over the lenders or lending partners in its network and is not responsible for their actions, decisions, or offers. This site is not an agent or representative of any lender or lending partner. Any loan request submitted through this site does not constitute a loan application.

    We Are Paid by Lenders, Lender Networks, and Other Advertisers:
    CashUSA.com offers a free, for-profit, advertiser-supported loan connection service to consumers. Lenders in its network and third-party lender networks utilized by this site pay compensation to the site if a lender offers a loan to a consumer after reviewing their information. Compensation also impacts which lender the consumer may be connected with. In many cases, this site uses a “ping-tree” or similar bidding process, whereby the highest bidder is connected to the consumer. Therefore, if a consumer receives a loan offer, it is likely from the highest bidder—not necessarily from the lender offering the most favorable terms. Consumers are strongly advised to review all options and never assume that any loan offer received through this service represents the best loan available to them. This site may also receive compensation from other advertisers in other forms. For more details, please refer to the site’s advertising disclosure.

    Credit Checks:
    By submitting a loan request through CashUSA.com, users instruct and authorize lenders, lending partners in its network, and/or other intermediaries to obtain consumer report information from their credit profile in order to conduct credit checks, verify submitted information (including but not limited to Social Security number and/or driver’s license number), review creditworthiness, prequalify the user, and/or determine eligibility for certain credit terms. Users also authorize CashUSA.com to share their information with lenders and lending partners in its network.

    Availability:
    Loan terms, conditions, product types, and availability may vary by state. Many factors about the user and the submitted loan request information will affect the loan terms offered. Not all applicants will qualify for all loan types or terms, and not all loan types or terms are available in all areas. Consumers are strongly advised to carefully review all loan offers and options available to them and to never assume that any offer received through this platform represents the best loan option available.

    Syndication and Liability Disclaimer:
    The publisher of this content, including any and all syndication partners and distribution channels, shall not be held liable for any financial outcomes, damages, claims, or losses incurred by any individual or entity as a result of reliance on the information provided herein. This disclaimer extends to all republished, distributed, or otherwise syndicated versions of this content, regardless of the platform or medium. The content is provided “as is” without warranties of any kind, either express or implied.

    By accessing or using the information in this article, the reader agrees to release the publisher, authors, editors, syndication partners, and affiliated entities from any and all liability, claims, damages, or legal actions arising from reliance on this content or from engaging with any services, lenders, or offers referenced herein.

    Readers are urged to consult official sources, financial professionals, or legal advisors before making any financial decisions.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘Peace be with all of you’: how Pope Leo XIV embodies a living dialogue between tradition and modernity

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Darius von Guttner Sporzynski, Historian, Australian Catholic University

    When Robert Francis Prevost appeared on the loggia of St Peter’s Basilica as Pope Leo XIV, he set three precedents.

    He is the first pope from North America, the first Augustinian to occupy the throne of Peter, and the first native English-speaker to do so since Adrian IV in the 12th century.

    Pope Leo XIV greeted Rome and the world with a simple benediction: “peace be with all of you”.

    In choosing a blessing that stressed concord – and in issuing it in Italian and Spanish – he signalled both pastoral directness and cultural breadth.

    A Chicago childhood and academic rigour

    Prevost was born in Chicago in 1955.

    Raised in the working-class suburb of Dolton, he served as an altar boy and attended St Augustine Seminary High School. He studied a bachelor of science at Villanova University, and earned a doctoral degree in canon law at the Angelicum in Rome.

    Prevost entered the Augustinian order in 1977, professed solemn vows in 1981 and was ordained in 1982.

    For Augustinians, virtue lies not in poverty for its own sake, but in the radical sharing of goods: community precedes individual achievement.

    There are three pillars: interiority, the practical love of neighbour, and a relentless search for truth. This framework would guide Prevost’s missionary work, and his call for unity and peace.

    Chiclayo Cathedral, officially the Cathedral of Saint Mary in Chiclayo, Peru is the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Chiclayo.
    BETO SANTILLAN/Shutterstock

    Prevost has administered communities in more than 50 countries, but he first arrived as a missionary in northern Peru in 1985. Over the next decade he taught canon law, ran a seminary in Trujillo, judged marriage cases and led a fledgling parish on Lima’s urban fringe.

    The experience sharpened his awareness of informal employment, extractive industries and migration – concerns that echo the Rerum novarum , an open letter issued by his namesake Leo XIII in 1891. They remain visible in Prevost’s social priorities today.

    In 2015, he was appointed Bishop of Chiclayo, Peru, and, in 2023, prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, effectively placing him in charge of vetting episcopal appointments world-wide.

    What’s in a name?

    Created cardinal in September 2023 and elevated to the rank of cardinal-bishop of Albano in February 2025, Prevost entered the conclave with a reputation for quiet competence, linguistic dexterity (he speaks five languages fluently) and unspectacular holiness.

    The electors turned to him on the fourth ballot. An hour later he greeted the city and the world as Pope Leo XIV, first in Italian then in Spanish: a bilingual gesture honouring his Italian American Chicago roots and his Peruvian citizenship.

    Leo XIV’s choice of name is a programmatic signal. By invoking examples of Rome’s protector Leo the Great (pope from 440–61) and the great social teacher Leo XIII (1878–1903), the new Pontiff intimates he will draw upon their precedent.

    Raphael’s The Meeting between Leo the Great and Attila, painted in 1514, depicts Leo, escorted by Saint Peter and Saint Paul, meeting with the Hun king outside Rome.
    Wikimedia Commons

    His substantive focus will remain squarely on the challenges of 2025: translating Augustinian communal spirituality into governance, extending the social teaching inaugurated by Leo XIII, and mediating polarised factions.

    The memory of his Leo predecessors functions as a compass rather than a map, orienting a pontificate whose horizon is the digital, migratory and climatic upheavals of the 21st century.

    Pope Leo XIV will draw inspiration from his namesake, Leo XIII.
    Library of Congress

    We can expect where Leo the Great entered dialogue, Leo XIV will offer diplomacy. Where Leo XIII defended trade-union rights and attacked exploitative capitalism, Leo XIV must address labour, climate disruption and forced displacement.

    If Leo XIII gave Catholicism its first systematic response to industrial modernity, Leo XIV may be tasked with articulating an Augustinian vision for the digital Anthropocene: a view of humanity as a pilgrim community, bound by shared love rather than algorithmic preference-profiling.

    Of one heart

    The opening sentence of the Rule of Saint Augustine is “be of one mind and heart on the way to God”.

    The order’s stress on interior prayer rather than external activism complements Leo XIV’s preference for silent Eucharistic adoration over elaborate ceremony. The Augustinian tradition of learning aligns with his own scholarly instinct.

    Consistent with Francis, Leo XIV has condemned abortion and euthanasia. He has criticised hard-line immigration policies in the United States. He holds the line only men can be deacons. In a 2012 address, he pointed to media normalisation of “alternative families comprised of same-sex partners”.

    The combination marks him as a centrist prepared to defend doctrinal boundaries while pressing assertively on social justice, climate action and the governance transparency that Francis began but did not finish.

    Challenges ahead

    Leo XIV inherits a fragmented Church. Traditionalists fear doctrinal drift, while progressives want accelerated reform of governance, liturgy and the role of women.

    His Augustinian commitment to shared discernment could provide a mediating structure. Meanwhile geopolitical crises demand renewed Holy See diplomacy and Vatican finances still run unsustainable deficits.

    Ultimately, Leo XIV embodies a living dialogue between tradition and modernity.

    Whether he succeeds will depend on his capacity to translate the Augustinian Order’s ancient ideal of one heart, one mind into structures that protect the vulnerable worker, the displaced migrant and the wounded planet.

    Yet his formation, intellect and record of bridge-building suggest he understands the Church’s credibility now rests where it did in 1891 under Leo XIII: in that social charity and theological clarity are not rivals, but partners on the road to God.

    Like Leo XIII, Leo XIV approaches the world not as an enemy to be refuted but as a moral terrain to be cultivated. His pontificate must confront the ecological, technological and migratory questions of our age.

    His inaugural plea for peace hints at an integral vision in which social justice, ecological stewardship and human fraternity intersect.

    Whether he can translate that vision into institutional reform and global moral leadership remains to be seen.

    By invoking the heritage of Leo XIII, Leo XIV has set the compass of his papacy. It points toward a Church intellectually serious, socially committed and pastorally close: one speaking anew to workers in Amazon warehouses, migrants in detention camps, students in schools, refugees in the Sahel and young people navigating the gig economy.

    If he succeeds, the name he chose will read as prophetic promise, linking 1891’s clarion call for justice with the uncharted demands of 2025 and beyond.

    Darius von Guttner Sporzynski 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. ‘Peace be with all of you’: how Pope Leo XIV embodies a living dialogue between tradition and modernity – https://theconversation.com/peace-be-with-all-of-you-how-pope-leo-xiv-embodies-a-living-dialogue-between-tradition-and-modernity-256084

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: PNG’s Gorethy Kenneth: 23 years of fearless journalism and unwavering truth

    PROFILE: By Alu J Kalinoe

    At Papua New Guinea’s Post-Courier, our senior journalists often operate in the shadows, yet their courageous efforts are often overlooked — continuously pushing boundaries to bring us important stories that shape our lives and venturing outside their comfort zones to deliver top-notch content.

    This is the tale of one of Post-Courier’s esteemed senior journalists, Gorethy Kenneth. From Tegese Village, Lontis on Buka Island in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, “GK” (Gee-Kay) as her colleagues fondly call her, has dedicated 23 years of her life to journalism at this newspaper.

    When asked about who inspired her to pursue a career in media and journalism, she said, “My late father!” She mentions that she “always wanted to be an economist like her uncle Julius Longa”.

    However, she states that “Maths was horrible . . .  So, my late papa told me, I talk too much and should think about television — I ended up with newspaper reporting.”

    Fast forward to 2024
    Through her dedication and persistence, Kenneth is now a senior journalist within the company, specialising as a political editor. She commends the company for its commitment to well-researched investigative journalism, impartial reporting, comprehensive coverage, community involvement, thorough analysis, and informative content.

    Starting off with Uni Tavur student journalist newspaper at the University of Papua New Guinea, Kenneth has amassed a wealth of experience as a profound writer and encountered different personalities over the years, noting numerous stories she covered during her tenure at the Post-Courier.

    As a proud Bougainvillean, she highlights her interview with Francis Ona, the reclusive leader of her home province at the time. Reflecting on the experience, she remarks, “I was the first and last to interview him — the journey to get through to him was tough, despite my Bougainvillean heritage.”

    Kenneth is known for her unique approach to investigative journalism. One memorable story she recalls, is about a scandalous love triangle between a former Secretary of Foreign Affairs and his secret lover, known as “Jolyne”.

    Senior Post-Courier journalist Gorethy Kenneth . . . a distinguished career marked by championing significant projects and advocating for social change. Image: Post-Courier

    Using a clever tactic, Kenneth assumed the identity of “Jolyne” and managed to reach the Secretary through a landline call, shedding light on the secretive affair. Amusingly, veteran journalists now refer to her as “Jolyne”, a nod to the character she ingeniously portrayed to deceive the unsuspecting Secretary.

    In the early 2000s, she, alongside security reporter Robyn Sela, daringly stepped out of their comfort zone, orchestrating an audacious plan: deliberately getting themselves arrested and spending time in Boroko Jail.

    Their goal? To delve into the conditions of a prison cell in Port Moresby and report on it firsthand. However, their scheme didn’t escape the notice of chief-of-staff Blaise Nangoi and editor Oseah Philemon, who, upon discovering their intentions, expressed concern.

    “They almost sidelined us for getting bailed out with company money – BUT, we got our story,” she gladly remarked.

    As one of Post-Courier’s prominent writers, Kenneth has faced numerous hurdles during her time as a journalist. She faced threats and legal disputes from unsatisfied readers and grappled with “ethical dilemmas” while covering sensitive topics — she has encountered her fair share of challenges.

    Moreover, she has confronted issues surrounding gender and diversity during her career.

    Senior Post-Courier journalist Gorethy Kenneth with her “big, big, big very big boss”, News Corp’s Rupert Murdoch. Image: Gorethy Kenneth/FB

    In addition to these personal and professional obstacles, Kenneth highlights the impact of “digital disruption” on the newspaper industry. The transition from traditional print media to digital platforms, including the widespread use of social media and streaming services, has significantly challenged newspaper companies like the Post-Courier in recent years.

    Fortunately, Kenneth managed to power through these challenges with the support of training and supervision provided by Post-Courier. She applauds the company for its unwavering support during trying times.

    Additionally, she took proactive steps to enhance her understanding of journalistic issues, demonstrating her commitment to growth and professional development.

    Gorethy Kenneth . . . proactive steps to enhance her understanding of journalistic issues, demonstrating her commitment to growth and professional development. Image: Post-Courier

    Continuing to persevere, Gorethy forged a distinguished career marked by championing significant projects and advocating for social change. Armed with the ability to influence public opinion, she found her work as a journalist immensely rewarding.

    Her career afforded her the opportunity to travel both locally and internationally, and she reported on stories rife with conflict and controversy. Furthermore, she finds fulfillment in the role of mentoring future journalists, cherishing the chance to impart her knowledge and experience onto the next generation.

    When asked about what she is proud of, she says . . .  “I am still 16 at heart – don’t tell me I’m old among my young journo colleagues.”

    During her free time, she enjoys sipping on her whiskey and reading. She continues to support her family, friends, enemies and her community at a personal level and at a professional level as a senior journalist.

    Republished from the Post-Courier with permission.

    Reporting during the covid-19 pandemic in Papua New Guinea. Image: Post-Courier

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Google is rolling out its Gemini AI chatbot to kids under 13. It’s a risky move

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lisa M. Given, Professor of Information Sciences & Director, Social Change Enabling Impact Platform, RMIT University

    Studio Nut/Shutterstock

    Google has announced it will roll out its Gemini artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot to children under the age of 13.

    While the launch starts within the next week in the United States and Canada, it will launch in Australia later this year. The chatbot will only be available to people via Google’s Family Link accounts.

    But this development comes with major risks. It also highlights how, even if children are banned from social media, parents will still have to play a game of whack-a-mole with new technologies as they try to keep their children safe.

    A good way to address this would be to urgently implement a digital duty of care for big tech companies such as Google.

    How will the Gemini AI chatbot work?

    Google’s Family Link accounts allow parents to control access to content and apps, such as YouTube.

    To create a child’s account, parents provide personal details, including the child’s name and date of birth. This may raise privacy concerns for parents concerned about data breaches, but Google says children’s data when using the system will not be used to train the AI system.

    Chatbot access will be “on” by default, so parents need to actively turn the feature off to restrict access. Young children will be able to prompt the chatbot for text responses, or to create images, which are generated by the system.

    Google acknowledges the system may “make mistakes”. So assessment of the quality and trustworthiness of content is needed. Chatbots can make up information (known as “hallucinating”), so if children use the chatbot for homework help, they need to check facts with reliable sources.

    What kinds of information will the system provide?

    Google and other search engines retrieve original materials for people to review. A student can read news articles, magazines and other sources when writing up an assignment.

    Generative AI tools are not the same as search engines. AI tools look for patterns in source material and create new text responses (or images) based on the query – or “prompt” – a person provides. A child could ask the system to “draw a cat” and the system will scan for patterns in the data of what a cat looks like (such as whiskers, pointy ears, and a long tail) and generate an image that includes those cat-like details.

    Understanding the differences between materials retrieved in a Google search and content generated by an AI tool will be challenging for young children. Studies show even adults can be deceived by AI tools. And even highly skilled professionals – such as lawyers – have reportedly been fooled into using fake content generated by ChatGPT and other chatbots.

    Will the content generated be age-appropriate?

    Google says the system will include “built-in safeguards designed to prevent the generation of inappropriate or unsafe content”.

    However, these safeguards could create new problems. For example, if particular words (such as “breasts”) are restricted to protect children from accessing inappropriate sexual content, this could mistakenly also exclude children from accessing age-appropriate content about bodily changes during puberty.

    Many children are also very tech-savvy, often with well-developed skills for navigating apps and getting around system controls. Parents cannot rely exclusively on inbuilt safeguards. They need to review generated content and help their children understand how the system works, and assess whether content is accurate.

    Google says there will be safeguards to minimise the risk of harm for children using Gemini, but these could create new problems.
    Dragos Asaeftei/Shutterstock

    What risks do AI chatbots pose to children?

    The eSafety Commission has issued an online safety advisory on the potential risk of AI chatbots, including those designed to simulate personal relationships, particularly for young children.

    The eSafety advisory explains AI companions can “share harmful content, distort reality and give advice that is dangerous”. The advisory highlights the risks for young children, in particular, who “are still developing the critical thinking and life skills needed to understand how they can be misguided or manipulated by computer programs, and what to do about it”.

    My research team has recently examined a range of AI chatbots, such as ChatGPT, Replika, and Tessa. We found these systems mirror people’s interactions based on the many unwritten rules that govern social behaviour – or, what are known as “feeling rules”. These rules are what lead us to say “thank you” when someone holds the door open for us, or “I’m sorry!” when you bump into someone on the street.

    By mimicking these and other social niceties, these systems are designed to gain our trust.

    These human-like interactions will be confusing, and potentially risky, for young children. They may believe content can be trusted, even when the chatbot is responding with fake information. And, they may believe they are engaging with a real person, rather than a machine.

    AI chatbots such as Gemini are designed to mimic human behaviour and gain our trust.
    Ground Picture

    How can we protect kids from harm when using AI chatbots?

    This rollout is happening at a crucial time in Australia, as children under 16 will be banned from holding social media accounts in December this year.

    While some parents may believe this will keep their children safe from harm, generative AI chatbots show the risks of online engagement extend far beyond social media. Children – and parents – must be educated in how all types of digital tools can be used appropriately and safely.

    As Gemini’s AI chatbot is not a social media tool, it will fall outside Australia’s ban.

    This leaves Australian parents playing a game of whack-a-mole with new technologies as they try to keep their children safe. Parents must keep up with new tool developments and understand the potential risks their children face. They must also understand the limitations of the social media ban in protecting children from harm.

    This highlights the urgent need to revisit Australia’s proposed digital duty of care legislation. While the European Union and United Kingdom launched digital duty of care legislation in 2023, Australia’s has been on hold since November 2024. This legislation would hold technology companies to account by legislating that they deal with harmful content, at source, to protect everyone.

    Lisa M. Given receives funding from the Australian Research Council. She is a Fellow of the Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia and the Association for Information Science and Technology.

    – ref. Google is rolling out its Gemini AI chatbot to kids under 13. It’s a risky move – https://theconversation.com/google-is-rolling-out-its-gemini-ai-chatbot-to-kids-under-13-its-a-risky-move-256204

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Voices across ages and fields unite to reimagine Manukau Harbour’s future

    Source: Secondary teachers question rationale for changes to relationship education guidelines

    From policy to infrastructure; traditional knowledge to harnessing the power of community action. The Manukau Harbour Symposium on Saturday 31 May will showcase thinking, solutions and opportunities for New Zealand’s second-biggest harbour.

    Keynote speaker and thought leader Cassie Roma will show how communities can open hearts and minds to connect to the environment and work together to create cultures of care between people, systems and pathway.

    Regnerative specialists Johnie Freeland (Ngāti Te Ata Waiohua, Ngāi Tūhoe) and Charmaine Bailie (Te Uri o Hau – Ngāti Whātua o Kaipara) will reflect on restoring and healing the whenua in large scale and local projects. Scientist Peter Nuttall will speak on climate change impacts in the South Pacific and its impact on coastal and marae communities here in the harbour, while Dr Rashi Parker of Birdcare Aotearoa will reflect on the contribution of seabirds to resilient populations and how we can start to solve the impacts of human activity on their wellbeing.

    The work of our rangitahi to create genuine outcomes for the harbour, through the Rangitahi Environmental Action Leaders program will be highlighted and in a section of intergenerational stories we will hear from those who love and spend time on the harbour including Coastguard, the Portage Crossing Trust, Pest Free South Auckland, Awhitu Landcare, SeaCleaners, and more.

    Attendees will learn about Auckland Council work programs and Scientist Dr Megan Carbine will highlight Auckland Council’s latest environmental monitoring data while Cr Richard Hills from Auckland Council will present on the National Environment Strategy work program.

    Myself and the rest of the Forum members are excited to be bringing this event to the shores of the Manukau. There’s a great range of speakers and there should be lots of opportunity to catch up with other people doing great work around the Harbour

    There will also be a range of community displays, and the Watercare Central Interceptor Travelling Discovery Centre and Auckland Council Marine Biosecurity trailer will be featured.

    The day will be hosted by MC Mandy Kupenga, and the Symposium will also announce recipients of the ‘Ngaa Tohu o te Manukau – Celebrating Harbour Champions’ Awards, which recognise individuals, stakeholders, organisations or community groups for their work to protect and restore the mauri of the harbour.

    One week before the Symposium the Manukau Harbour Forum will also host a clean-up and restoration event, the Love Your Harbour Day, at Island Road, Māngere. This event is held with the support of Te Motu a Hiaroa Charitable Trust, Auckland Council and SeaCleaners, and targets one of the worst sites for illegal dumping in the region.

    The Manukau Harbour Symposium will be held on Saturday 31 May in the Auditorium at Green Bay High School.

    The Symposium is supported by the Manukau Harbour Forum, a joint committee formed by the nine local boards of Auckland Council that surround the harbour. It advocates for better resourcing and a focus on this taonga.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Telescopes Tune Into a Black Hole Prelude, Fugue

    Source: NASA

    NASA released three new pieces of cosmic sound Thursday that are associated with the densest and darkest members of our universe: black holes. These scientific productions are sonifications — or translations into sound — of data collected by NASA telescopes in space including the Chandra X-ray Observatory, James Webb Space Telescope, and Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE).

    This new trio of sonifications represents different aspects of black holes. Black holes are neither static nor monolithic. They evolve over time, and are found in a range of sizes and environments.

    [embedded content]
    Credit: X-ray: NASA/CXC/SAO; Infrared: (Herschel) ESA/NASA/Caltech, (Spitzer) NASA/JPL/Caltech, (WISE) NASA/JPL/Caltech; Infrared: NASA/ESA/CSA/STScI/Webb ERO Production Team; Image processing: NASA/CXC/SAO/J. Major; Sonification: NASA/CXC/SAO/K.Arcand, SYSTEM Sounds (M. Russo, A. Santaguida)

    The first movement is a prelude to the potential birth of a black hole. WR124 is an extremely bright, short-lived massive star known as a Wolf-Rayet at a distance of about 28,000 light-years from Earth. These stars fling their outer layers out into space, creating spectacular arrangements seen in an image in infrared light from the Webb telescope. In the sonification of WR124, this nebula is heard as flutes and the background stars as bells. At the center of WR124, where the scan begins before moving outward, is a hot core of the star that may explode as a supernova and potentially collapse and leave behind a black hole in its wake. As the scan moves from the center outward, X-ray sources detected by Chandra are translated into harp sounds. Data from NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope is heard as metallic bell-like sounds, while the light of the central star is mapped to produce the descending scream-like sound at the beginning. The piece is rounded out by strings playing additional data from the infrared telescopic trio of ESA’s (European Space Agency’s) Herschel Space Telescope, NASA’s retired Spitzer Space Telescope, and NASA’s retired Wide Image Survey Explorer (WISE) as chords.

    [embedded content]
    Credit: X-ray: (IXPE): NASA/MSFC/IXPE; (Chandra): NASA/CXC/SAO; (XMM): ESA/XMM-Newton; IR: NASA/JPL/Caltech/WISE; Radio: NRAO/AUI/NSF/VLA/B. Saxton. (IR/Radio image created with data from M. Goss, et al.); Image Processing/compositing: NASA/CXC/SAO/N. Wolk & K. Arcand; Sonification: NASA/CXC/SAO/K.Arcand, SYSTEM Sounds (M. Russo, A. Santaguida)

    In the second movement of this black hole composition, listeners can explore a duet. SS 433 is a binary, or double, system about 18,000 light-years away that sings out in X-rays. The two members of SS 433 include a star like our Sun in orbit around a much heavier partner, either a neutron star or a black hole. This orbital dance causes undulations in X-rays that Chandra, IXPE, and ESA’s XMM-Newton telescopes are tuned into. These X-ray notes have been combined with radio and infrared data to provide a backdrop for this celestial waltz. The nebula in radio waves resembles a drifting manatee, and the scan sweeps across from right to left. Light towards the top of the image is mapped to higher-pitch sound, with radio, infrared, and X-ray light mapped to low, medium, and high pitch ranges. Bright background stars are played as water-drop sounds, and the location of the binary system is heard as a plucked sound, pulsing to match the fluctuations due to the orbital dance.

    [embedded content]
    Credit: X-ray: (Chandra) NASA/CXC/SAO, (IXPE) NASA/MSFC; Optical: ESO; Image Processing: NASA/CXC/SAO/K. Arcand, J. Major, and J. Schmidt; Sonification: NASA/CXC/SAO/K.Arcand, SYSTEM Sounds (M. Russo, A. Santaguida)

    The third and final movement of the black hole-themed sonifications crescendos with a distant galaxy known as Centaurus A, about 12 million light-years away from Earth. At the center of Centaurus A is an enormous black hole that is sending a booming jet across the entire length of the galaxy. Sweeping around clockwise from the top of the image, the scan encounters Chandra’s X-rays and plays them as single-note wind chimes. X-ray light from IXPE is heard as a continuous range of frequencies, producing a wind-like sound. Visible light data from the European Southern Observatory’s MPG telescope shows the galaxy’s stars that are mapped to string instruments including foreground and background objects as plucked strings.
    For more NASA sonifications and information about the project, visit https://chandra.si.edu/sound/
    These sonifications were led by the Chandra X-ray Center (CXC), with support from NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center and NASA’s Universe of Learning program, which is part of the NASA Science Activation program. The collaboration was driven by visualization scientist Kimberly Arcand (CXC), astrophysicist Matt Russo, and musician Andrew Santaguida (both of the SYSTEM Sounds project), along with consultant Christine Malec.
    NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, manages the Chandra program. The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory’s Chandra X-ray Center controls science from Cambridge Massachusetts and flight operations from Burlington, Massachusetts. NASA’s Universe of Learning materials are based upon work supported by NASA under cooperative agreement award number NNX16AC65A to the Space Telescope Science Institute, working in partnership with Caltech/IPAC, Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian, and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
    The agency’s IXPE is a collaboration between NASA and the Italian Space Agency with partners and science collaborators in 12 countries. The IXPE mission is led by Marshall. BAE Systems, Inc., headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, manages spacecraft operations together with the University of Colorado’s Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics in Boulder.
    To learn more about NASA’s space telescopes, visit:
    https://science.nasa.gov/universe

    Learn more about the Chandra X-ray Observatory and its mission here:

    chandra

    https://chandra.si.edu

    This release features three sonifications related to black holes, presented as soundtracks to short videos. Each sonification video features a composite image representing a different aspect of the life of a black hole. These images are visualizations of data collected by NASA telescopes. During each video, a line sweeps through the image. When the line encounters a visual element, it is translated into sound according to parameters established by visualization scientist Kimberly Arcand, astrophysicist Matt Russo, musician Andrew Santaguida, and consultant Christine Malec.
    The first sonification features WR124, an extremely bright, massive star. Here, the star is shown in a short-lived phase preceding the possible creation of a black hole. At the center of the composite image is the large gleaming star in white and pale blue. The star sits at the heart of a mottled pink and gold cloud, its long diffraction spikes extending to the outer edges. Also residing in the cloud are other large gleaming stars, glowing hot-pink dots, and tiny specks of blue and white light. In this sonification, the sound activation line is an ever-expanding circle which starts in the center of the massive star and continues to grow until it exits the frame.
    The second sonification features SS 433, a binary star system at the center of a supernova remnant known as the Manatee Nebula. Visually, the translucent, blobby teal nebula does, indeed, resemble a bulbous walrus or manatee, floating in a red haze packed with distant specs of light. Inside the nebula is a violet streak, a blue streak, and a large bright dot. The dot, represented by a plucking sound in the sonification, is the binary system at the heart of the nebula. In this sonification, the vertical activation line begins at our right edge of the frame, and sweeps across the image before exiting at our left.
    The third and final sonification features Centaurus A, a distant galaxy with an enormous black hole emitting a long jet of high-energy particles. The black hole sits at the center of the composite image, represented by a brilliant white light. A dark, grainy, oblong cloud cuts diagonally across the black hole from our lower left toward our upper right. A large, faint, translucent blue cloud stretches from our upper left to our lower right. And the long, thin jet, also in translucent blue, extends from the black hole at the center toward the upper lefthand corner. In this sonification, the activation line rotates around the image like the hand of a clock. It begins at the twelve o’clock position, and sweeps clockwise around the image.

    Megan WatzkeChandra X-ray CenterCambridge, Mass.617-496-7998mwatzke@cfa.harvard.edu
    Lane FigueroaMarshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Alabama256-544-0034lane.e.figueroa@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sols 4532-4533: Polygon Heaven

    Source: NASA

    Written by Catherine O’Connell-Cooper, Planetary Geologist at University of New Brunswick
    Earth planning date: Monday, May 5, 2025
    Our 29-meter weekend drive (about 95 feet) was successful, and we are still in the band of polygon-rich bedrock.
    The origin of these cracks is not clear — could they have formed as desiccation cracks as Mars began to get drier, billions of years ago? Or during later periods when groundwater moved through the bedrock? Spending time in this area will help us to tease out their origin by sampling as much of the diversity as we can, from regular bedrock to the stranger textured targets. Touch and Go plans allow only a few hours of science at a given workspace — in this plan, the rover turns on around 9 a.m. local time, and by 2 p.m. we have picked up and moved on to the next stop. So planning on a day like today is quite the balancing act, trying to cram in as much science, as efficiently as possible, in a small amount of time.
    On Friday, I helped plan APXS on some of the polygon features, so today we were able to concentrate on more typical bedrock without polygonal features, to compare with our last targets. We wiIl acquire a short APXS integration on the brushed target “Encinitas,” and image the target with MAHLI. In contrast, ChemCam will use LIBS to analyze “Jack Creek,” an elongated vein feature about 30 centimeters long (about 12 inches), which may be related to the polygon features. Both Mastcam and MAHLI will image this vein.  
    Beyond the workspace, but relatively closer to the rover, Mastcam will image “Loma Verde” on a small, overturned block and “Temescal Canyon,” looking at a larger expanse of bedrock with polygonal structures. Further afield, ChemCam will acquire a long-distance image at “Agua Tibia,” which is close to “Torote Bowl,” a circular feature that we have been imaging periodically since sol 4486.  
    Once all the science has been gathered here in our very busy morning, we move on in a 26-meter drive (about 85 feet). We are edging closer to the “boxwork structures” — it feels like we have been saying this in every blog for a long time, but we will have “wheels on” for the first time within the next few drives. 

    MIL OSI USA News –