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Category: Education

  • MIL-OSI Global: How Japanese anime draws on religious traditions to explore themes of destiny, sacrifice and the struggle between desire and duty

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Ronald S. Green, Professor and Chair of the Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies, Coastal Carolina University

    Kyojuro Rengoku, also known as the Flame Hashira, is a central character in the ‘Demon Slayer’ series. Deviant Art, CC BY-ND

    I have spent years studying and teaching Japanese anime, exploring how its narratives intertwine with cultural, philosophical and religious traditions. One of the most compelling aspects of Japanese anime is its ability to merge thrilling action with deep spiritual and ethical questions.

    “Demon Slayer: Mugen Train,” which shattered Japanese box-office records for earnings and ended up as 2020’s highest-grossing film in the world, is a prime example of how anime engages with these profound themes. With “Demon Slayer” continuing its global success, it is an opportune time to examine how it intertwines Buddhist, Shinto and samurai traditions into a narrative of heroism, impermanence and moral struggle.

    Spiritual themes in anime

    Anime often explores spiritual and philosophical questions by drawing on Japan’s religious traditions to examine themes of fate, self-sacrifice and the struggle between desire and duty.

    Hayao Miyazaki’s “Princess Mononoke,” for example, follows Prince Ashitaka, who is cursed by a demon and must journey to find a cure. His quest leads him into a conflict between the industrialized Irontown, which seeks to expand by clearing forests, and the spirits of the natural world, including the Deer God, a divine being that governs life and death.

    The film reflects Shinto principles by portraying nature as sacred and inhabited by “kami,” or spiritual beings. It emphasizes harmony between humans and the environment and the consequences of disrupting this balance.

    Scholar Melissa Croteau, in her book “Transcendence and Spirituality in Japanese Cinema,” notes how Miyazaki’s films use nature spirits to critique modernity’s detachment from the sacredness of the environment.

    A still from ‘Spirited Away’ in which 10-year-old Chihiro must learn to navigate an unseen world.
    GoodFon.com, CC BY-NC

    Similarly, his 2001 animated film “Spirited Away” reflects animist ideas in Japanese culture, where spirits are believed to inhabit natural elements and even everyday objects. Set in a mysterious Japanese bathhouse filled with “kami,” 10-year-old Chihiro, once shy and afraid of change, learns to navigate this hidden world and transforms along the way.

    A key moment in the film is the arrival of a polluted river spirit, which appears as a filthy, sludge-covered creature but is revealed to be a once-pristine river god, burdened by human waste. This scene embodies the animist belief that natural entities have their own spirit and must be respected. It also reinforces an environmental message: When nature is polluted or mistreated, it loses its vitality, but with care and reverence it can be restored.

    “Neon Genesis Evangelion,” a landmark Japanese anime television series that aired from 1995 to 1996, engages with deep philosophical ideas, particularly existentialist questions of identity and purpose. Set in a postapocalyptic world, the series follows 14-year-old Shinji Ikari, who is recruited to pilot a giant biomechanical weapon called an evangelion to defend humanity against mysterious beings known as Angels.

    As Shinji and his fellow pilots struggle with their roles, the series explores themes of isolation, self-worth and the challenges of forming close, meaningful relationships. It draws from both Buddhist and Gnostic thought, which emphasize a focus on inner spiritual knowledge and the belief that clinging too tightly to the material world causes suffering. Evangelion portrays suffering as arising from attachment and the inability to form meaningful relationships.

    Rengoku: The embodiment of selfless heroism

    What sets “Mugen Train” apart is its focus on the internal conflicts of its characters, symbolized by their battles with demons. These demons represent human suffering and attachment, themes deeply influenced by Buddhist thought. At the heart of the film is Kyojuro Rengoku, a demon slayer who embodies unwavering selflessness and honor.

    Rengoku’s flame-breathing forms.

    Rengoku’s fire-based fighting style is deeply symbolic. In Japanese culture, fire represents both destruction and renewal. The Kurama Fire Festival, held annually on Oct. 22 in Kyoto, is a Shinto ritual where large torches are carried through the streets to ward off evil and purify the land.

    Similarly, Buddhist goma fire ceremonies involve priests burning wooden sticks in sacred flames to symbolize the eradication of ignorance and desire. Rengoku’s own techniques reflect this duality: His flames cleanse the world of evil while signifying his unwavering spirit.

    Goma fire ritual.

    Bushido, the samurai code of honor, underpins Rengoku’s character. Rooted in Confucian ethics, Zen Buddhism and Shinto beliefs, this code emphasizes loyalty, self-sacrifice and duty to protect others. His mother’s teaching – “The strong must protect the weak” – guides his every action, reflecting the Confucian value of filial piety and the moral obligation to serve society.

    Bushido’s connection to Zen Buddhism, with its focus on discipline and acceptance of impermanence, further shapes Rengoku’s unwavering resolve, while its Shinto influences reinforce his role as a guardian upholding a sacred duty.

    Even approaching death, Rengoku remains steadfast, accepting impermanence, or “mujō,” a fundamental Buddhist principle that sees beauty in life’s transience. His sacrifice teaches that true strength lies in selflessness and moral integrity.

    Akaza: A manifestation of attachment and suffering

    Opposing Rengoku is Akaza, a demon who embodies the destructive consequences of clinging to power and immortality. Once human, Akaza became a demon in his obsession with strength, unable to accept the impermanence of life.

    His refusal to acknowledge death aligns with Buddhist teachings that suffering arises from attachment and desire. Scholars such as Jacqueline Stone have explored how Buddhist texts portray clinging to existence as a fundamental source of suffering, a theme vividly reflected in Akaza’s character.

    Visual elements reinforce Akaza’s symbolism. His body is covered in tattoos reminiscent of “irezumi,” traditional Japanese body art historically associated with crime and hardship. In Edo-period Japan, tattoos were often used to mark criminals, branding them as outcasts from society. Even today, irezumi remains stigmatized in many parts of Japan, with some public bathhouses, gyms and swimming pools barring individuals with visible tattoos due to their historical association with the yakuza. In contemporary anime, tattooed characters frequently symbolize a troubled past or inner turmoil, reinforcing Akaza’s role as a figure trapped by his own suffering and destructive path.

    Akaza’s irezumi visually conveys his entrapment in cycles of suffering, reinforcing his contrast with Rengoku’s liberating flames.

    A battle about human struggles

    The battle between Rengoku and Akaza is more than a fight between good and evil; it is a clash between two worldviews – selflessness versus egoism, acceptance versus attachment. “Mugen Train” taps into universal human struggles, making its themes resonate far beyond Japan.

    The film’s exploration of impermanence, moral duty and the pursuit of meaning contributes to anime’s broader legacy as a medium that entertains while provoking deep philosophical reflection.

    As “Demon Slayer” continues to captivate audiences worldwide, evidenced by social media buzz around its new projects and the ongoing enthusiasm of fans, its success underscores anime’s ability to blend action with profound themes.

    Whether through Rengoku’s selfless courage or Akaza’s tragic downfall, “Mugen Train” offers a timeless meditation on what it means to live with purpose and integrity.

    Ronald S. Green 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. How Japanese anime draws on religious traditions to explore themes of destiny, sacrifice and the struggle between desire and duty – https://theconversation.com/how-japanese-anime-draws-on-religious-traditions-to-explore-themes-of-destiny-sacrifice-and-the-struggle-between-desire-and-duty-246960

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Poor neighborhoods, health care barriers are factors for heart disease risk in Black mothers

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Curisa M. Tucker, Assistant Professor of Nursing Science, University of South Carolina

    The study examined more than 7 million births that occurred over 22 years. supersizer/E+ via Getty Images

    Living in a disadvantaged neighborhood contributes to a rare form of heart failure known as peripartum cardiomyopathy, a potentially deadly disease that disproportionately affects Black mothers.

    That’s the key finding of my recent study, published in February 2025 in the Journal of the American Heart Association.

    Peripartum cardiomyopathy can occur in pregnant or postpartum mothers during late pregnancy up to five months after birth. The disease is difficult to identify and is often misdiagnosed. Multiple studies estimate that 7% to 20% of U.S. mothers who have it don’t survive.

    As a nurse scientist with a research focus on maternal health equity, I wanted to learn more about the factors that cause peripartum cardiomyopathy.

    My team and I examined more than 7.3 million birth records in California between 1997 and 2019. By using the neighborhood deprivation index, which measures socioeconomic disadvantage in a geographic area, we linked hospital discharge and vital records information up to 12 months postpartum follow-up on each woman. From that data, we developed a more complete picture on why women developed the illness.

    We found that living in poor neighborhoods with fewer resources was associated with a 20% to 70% increased risk of developing this disease. Those in the most under-resourced neighborhoods – areas with less access to nutritious food, stable housing and quality health care – had the highest risk. This was true even after accounting for other factors, like income, race, high blood pressure and obesity.

    But living in highly stressed neighborhoods explained only part of the reason for the higher rates of peripartum cardiomyopathy in Black women. We found that even if they lived in better neighborhoods, Black women were still more than three times as likely to develop the condition than others.

    Why it matters

    Our findings suggest deeper issues are contributing to the increase in the disease, particularly in Black women.

    Barriers to health care are critical. These include insurance gaps,
    transportation issues, the biases of doctors and other providers and inadequate access to care.

    A better understanding of these factors can help policymakers develop effective interventions for all women at risk and reallocate resources – and dollars – to prevent disparities in maternal health outcomes.

    Pregnancy itself causes increased stress on the heart.

    What still isn’t known

    Our study only points to neighborhood disinvestment and chronic high blood pressure as contributors to the risk of peripartum cardiomyopathy. Unanswered questions remain about the other causes.

    More research is needed to fully understand how social determinants of health, which are the environmental conditions where people are born, live, work and play, affect health outcomes.

    For example, these communities are often food deserts – places with limited access to healthy food and larger supermarkets. Overcrowded or poor-quality housing also contribute to stress and health problems. So does the lack of safe space for physical activity.

    What’s next

    My future work will focus on further identifying the key factors that influence peripartum cardiomyopathy risk, such as economic stability and the effects of environmental stressors, like pollution.

    I’ll also track the long-term health of peripartum cardiomyopathy survivors to understand how social factors affect recovery. My ultimate goal is to inform policies and practices that reduce disparities and improve maternal heart health for all.

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

    NIH provided funding to support this work.

    – ref. Poor neighborhoods, health care barriers are factors for heart disease risk in Black mothers – https://theconversation.com/poor-neighborhoods-health-care-barriers-are-factors-for-heart-disease-risk-in-black-mothers-250591

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Ukraine will need major rebuilding when war ends − here’s why the US isn’t likely to invest in its recovery with a new Marshall Plan

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Frank A. Blazich Jr., Curator of Military History, National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution

    Europe after World War II? No, it’s the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut in 2023, after a year of Russian bombardment. AP Photo, File

    President Donald Trump wants Ukraine to repay the United States for helping to defend the country against Russia’s invasion.

    Since 2022, Congress has provided about US$174 billion to Ukraine and neighboring countries to assist its war effort. Trump inflated this figure to $350 billion in a March 2025 White House meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron. Separately, he has suggested Ukraine could reimburse the U.S. by giving America access to its minerals.

    Ukraine is rich in titanium, graphite, manganese and other rare earth metals used to produce electric vehicle batteries and other tech devices.

    Mining and refining these critical mineral resources would require major investment in infrastructure and economic development, including in parts of Ukraine severely damaged by fighting. Some analysts are calling for a return to the European Recovery Program, commonly known as the Marshall Plan.

    The Marshall Plan used $13.3 billion in U.S. funds – roughly $171 billion in today’s dollars – to rebuild war-torn Western Europe from 1948 to late 1951. It is often evoked as a solution for reconstruction following global crises. Yet as a military historian and curator, I find that the Marshall Plan is not well understood.

    For the U.S., the economic gains of the Marshall Plan did not come from European countries’ repaying loans or allowing the U.S. to extract their raw materials. Rather, the U.S. has benefited enormously from a half-century of goodwill, democratic stability and economic success in Europe.

    European nations turn inward

    After World War II ended in 1945, Western Europe faced a staggering burden of destruction and upheaval.

    Allied bombardment of major industrial areas and German cities such as Berlin, Hamburg and Cologne had created massive housing shortages. Meanwhile, fighting through agricultural areas and a critical manpower shortage had curtailed food production. What harvest there was could not get to hungry civilians because so many of Europe’s roads, bridges and ports had been destroyed.

    The United Kingdom, Italy, France, Germany and other European governments were buried in debt after so many years of war. They could not afford to rebuild on their own. Yet rather than cooperating on their mutual economic reconstruction, European nations looked inward, focusing primarily on their own political challenges.

    The continent was politically and militarily divided, too. Europe’s western half was influenced by the democratic, capitalistic forces led by the U.S. Eastern Europe was beholden to the communist, command-economy forces of the Soviet Union.

    In a 1946 speech at Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri, former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill articulated Europe’s growing postwar divide. Over the ruins of proud nations, he said, “an iron curtain” had “descended across the continent.”

    US looks abroad

    Unlike Europe, the U.S. emerged from World War II as the wealthiest nation in the world, with its territory intact and unharmed. Its steel and oil industries were booming. By 1947, the U.S. was the clear successor to Great Britain as the world’s superpower.

    But President Harry Truman feared the ambitions of the war’s other great victor – the Soviet Union. In March 1947, he announced a new doctrine to contain communist expansion southward across Europe by giving $400 million in military and economic aid to Greece and Turkey.

    Around the same time, U.S. Secretary of State George Marshall met with Soviet officials to plan Germany’s future. Following the Nazis’ surrender in May 1945, Germany had been divided into four occupied zones administered by U.S., British, French and Soviet forces.

    Each nation had its own goals for its section of Germany. The U.S. wanted to revitalize Germany politically and economically, believing that a moribund Germany would thwart the economic reconstruction of all of Europe.

    Marshall hoped that the Soviets would cooperate, but Soviet ruler Josef Stalin preferred extracting reparations from a prostrate Germany to investing in its recovery. A vibrant German economic engine, the Soviets felt, could just as easily rearm to attack the Russian countryside for the third time that century.

    The Truman administration chose to unilaterally rebuild the three western Allied sectors of Germany – and Western Europe.

    Marshall outlined his plan at a commencement address at Harvard University in June 1947. American action to restore global economic health, he said, would provide the foundation for political stability and peace in Europe. And an economically healthy Western Europe, in turn, would inhibit the spread of communism by plainly demonstrating the benefits of capitalism.

    “Our policy is not directed against any country,” Marshall said, “but against hunger, poverty, desperation and chaos.”

    Marshall’s plan

    Marshall invited all European nations to participate in drafting a plan to first address the immediate humanitarian aid of Europe’s people, then rebuild its infrastructure. The U.S. would pay for it all.

    For nearly bankrupt European nations, it was a lifeline.

    In September 1947, the new Committee for European Economic Co-operation, composed of 16 Western – but not Eastern – European nations, delivered its proposal to Washington.

    It would take a masterful legislative strategy for the Democratic Truman administration to persuade the Republican-led Congress to pass this $13 billion bill. It succeeded thanks to the dedicated effort of Republican Sen. Arthur Vandenberg, who convinced his isolationist colleagues that the Marshall Plan would halt the expansion of communism and benefit American economic growth.

    In April 1948, Truman signed the Economic Cooperation Act. By year’s end, over $2 billion had reached Europe, and its industrial production had finally surpassed prewar levels seen in 1939.

    NATO is born

    Along with economic stability, the Truman administration recognized that Europe needed military security to defend against communist encroachment by the Soviet Union.

    In July 1949, 12 European countries, the U.S. and Canada established the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. NATO committed each member country to the mutual defense of fellow NATO members.

    Since 1947, NATO has steadily expanded eastward to include Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic and other former Soviet satellite states directly bordering Russia.

    Ukraine, which declared its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, is not yet a NATO member. But it desperately wants to be.

    Ukraine applied for NATO membership in 2022 after Russia’s invasion. Its application is pending. Russian President Vladimir Putin has said any peace deal with Ukraine must bar NATO membership.

    Would a Marshall Plan work for Ukraine?

    Modern-day Ukraine mirrors the Western European countries of the Marshall Plan era in meaningful ways.

    It suffers from the physical devastation of war, with its major cities heavily damaged. The threat of military attack from hostile neighbors remains urgent. And it has a functional, democratic government that would – in peacetime – be capable of receiving and distributing aid to develop the nation’s economic growth and stability.

    U.S. global leadership, however, has changed dramatically since 1948.

    Outright American taxpayer financing of Ukraine’s reconstruction seems impossible. Any plan to reconstruct the country after war will likely require public funding from multiple nations and substantial private investment. That private investment could well include mineral extraction and refinement ventures.

    Ultimately, Ukraine’s recovery will most likely involve Ukraine and neighboring nations reaching agreement to restore its economic and military security. The European Union, which Ukraine also seeks to join, has the bureaucratic and economic resources necessary to reconstruct Ukraine, restore peace and ease tensions on the continent.

    Any future Marshall Plan for Ukraine will probably be European.

    Frank A. Blazich Jr. 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. Ukraine will need major rebuilding when war ends − here’s why the US isn’t likely to invest in its recovery with a new Marshall Plan – https://theconversation.com/ukraine-will-need-major-rebuilding-when-war-ends-heres-why-the-us-isnt-likely-to-invest-in-its-recovery-with-a-new-marshall-plan-251872

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How many types of insects are there in the world?

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Nicholas Green, Assistant Professor of Biology, Kennesaw State University

    This is a close-up photo of an ordinary garden fly. Amith Nag Photography/Moment via Getty Images

    Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to CuriousKidsUS@theconversation.com.

    How many types of insects are there in the world? – Sawyer, age 8, Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina

    Exploring anywhere on Earth, look closely and you’ll find insects. Check your backyard and you may see ants, beetles, crickets, wasps, mosquitoes and more. There are more kinds of insects than there are mammals, birds and plants combined. This fact has fascinated scientists for centuries.

    One of the things biologists like me do is classify all living things into categories. Insects belong to a phylum called Arthropoda – animals with hard exoskeletons and jointed feet.

    All insects are arthropods, but not all arthropods are insects. For instance, spiders, lobsters and millipedes are arthropods, but they’re not insects.

    Instead, insects are a subgroup within Arthropoda, a class called “Insecta,” that is characterized by six legs, two antennae and three body segments – head, abdomen and the thorax, which is the part of the body between the head and abdomen.

    The mandibles of the ants are its jaws; the petiole is the ant’s waist.
    Vector Mine/iStock via Getty Images Plus

    Most insects also have wings, although a few, like fleas, don’t. All have compound eyes, which means insects see very differently from the way people see. Instead of one lens per eye, they have many: a fly has 5,000 lenses; a dragonfly has 30,000. These types of eyes, though not great for clarity, are excellent at detecting movement.

    What is a species?

    All insects descend from a common ancestor that lived about about 480 million years ago. For context, that’s about 100 million years before any of our vertebrate ancestors – animals with a backbone – ever walked on land.

    A species is the most basic unit that biologists use to classify living things. When people use words like “ant” or “fly” or “butterfly” they are referring not to species, but to categories that may contain hundreds, thousands or tens of thousands of species. For example, about 18,000 species of butterfly exist – think monarch, zebra swallowtail or cabbage white.

    Basically, species are a group that can interbreed with each other, but not with other groups. One obvious example: bees can’t interbreed with ants.

    But brown-belted bumblebees and red-belted bumblebees can’t interbreed either, so they are different species of bumblebee.

    Each species has a unique scientific name – like Bombus griseocollis for the brown-belted bumblebee – so scientists can be sure which species they’re talking about.

    This is what a dragonfly looks like up close.
    Dieter Meyrl/E+ via Getty Images

    Quadrillions of ants

    Counting the exact number of insect species is probably impossible. Every year, some species go extinct, while some evolve anew. Even if we could magically freeze time and survey the entire Earth all at once, experts would disagree on the distinctiveness or identity of some species. So instead of counting, researchers use statistical analysis to make an estimate.

    One scientist did just that. He published his answer in a 2018 research paper. His calculations showed there are approximately 5.5 million insect species, with the correct number almost certainly between 2.6 and 7.2 million.

    Beetles alone account for almost one-third of the number, about 1.5 million species. By comparison, there are “only” an estimated 22,000 species of ants. This and other studies have also estimated about 3,500 species of mosquitoes, 120,000 species of flies and 30,000 species of grasshoppers and crickets.

    The estimate of 5.5 million species of insects is interesting. What’s even more remarkable is that because scientists have found only about 1 million species, that means more than 4.5 million species are still waiting for someone to discover them. In other words, over 80% of the Earth’s insect biodiversity is still unknown.

    Add up the total population and biomass of the insects, and the numbers are even more staggering. The 22,000 species of ants comprise about 20,000,000,000,000,000 individuals – that’s 20 quadrillion ants. And if a typical ant weighs about 0.0001 ounces (3 milligrams) – or one ten-thousandth of an ounce – that means all the ants on Earth together weigh more than 132 billion pounds (about 60 billion kilograms).

    That’s the equivalent of about 7 million school buses, 600 aircraft carriers or about 20% of the weight of all humans on Earth combined.

    For every person on Earth, it’s estimated there are 200 million insects.

    Many insect species are going extinct

    All of this has potentially huge implications for our own human species. Insects affect us in countless ways. People depend on them for crop pollination, industrial products and medicine. Other insects can harm us by transmitting disease or eating our crops.

    Most insects have little to no direct impact on people, but they are integral parts of their ecosystems. This is why entomologists – bug scientists – say we should leave insects alone as much as possible. Most of them are harmless to people, and they are critical to the environment.

    It is sobering to note that although millions of undiscovered insect species may be out there, many will go extinct before people have a chance to discover them. Largely due to human activity, a significant proportion of Earth’s biodiversity – including insects – may ultimately be forever lost.

    Hello, curious kids! Do you have a question you’d like an expert to answer? Ask an adult to send your question to CuriousKidsUS@theconversation.com. Please tell us your name, age and the city where you live.

    And since curiosity has no age limit – adults, let us know what you’re wondering, too. We won’t be able to answer every question, but we will do our best.

    Nicholas Green 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. How many types of insects are there in the world? – https://theconversation.com/how-many-types-of-insects-are-there-in-the-world-247333

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Genomic sequencing reveals previously unknown genes that make microbes resistant to drugs and hard to kill

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Nneka Vivian Iduu, Graduate Research Assistant in Pathobiology, Auburn University

    In the 20th century, when a routine infection was treated with a standard antibiotic, recovery was expected. But over time, the microbes responsible for these infections have evolved to evade the very drugs designed to eliminate them.

    Each year, there are more than 2.8 million antibiotic-resistant infections in the United States, leading to over 35,000 deaths and US$4.6 billion in health care costs. As antibiotics become less effective, antimicrobial resistance poses an increasing threat to public health.

    Antimicrobial resistance began to emerge as a serious threat in the 1940s with the rise of penicillin resistance. By the 1990s, it had escalated into a global concern. Decades later, critical questions still remain: How does antimicrobial resistance emerge, and how can scientists track the hidden changes leading to it? Why does resistance in some microbes remain undetected until an outbreak occurs? Filling these knowledge gaps is crucial to preventing future outbreaks, improving treatment outcomes and saving lives.

    Antimicrobial resistance can be deadly.

    Over the years, my work as a microbiologist and biomedical scientist has focused on investigating the genetics of infectious microbes. My colleagues and I identified a resistance gene previously undetected in the U.S. using genetic and computational methods that can help improve how scientists detect and track antimicrobial resistance.

    Challenges of detecting resistance

    Antimicrobial resistance is a natural process where microbes constantly evolve as a defense mechanism, acquiring genetic changes that enhance their survival.

    Unfortunately, human activities can speed up this process. The overuse and misuse of antibiotics in health care, farming and the environment push bacteria to genetically change in ways that allow them to survive the drugs meant to kill them.

    Early detection of antimicrobial resistance is crucial for effective treatment. Surveillance typically begins with a laboratory sample obtained from patients with suspected infections, which is then analyzed to identify potential antimicrobial resistance. Traditionally, this has been done using culture-based methods that involve exposing microbes to antibiotics in the lab and observing whether they survived to determine whether they were becoming resistant. Along with helping authorities and researchers monitor the spread of antimicrobial resistance, hospitals use this approach to decide on treatment plans.

    However, culture-based approaches have some limitations. Resistant infections often go unnoticed until antibiotics fail, making both detection and intervention processes slow. Additionally, new resistance genes may escape detection altogether.

    Genomics of antimicrobial resistance

    To overcome these challenges, researchers have integrated genomic sequencing into antimicrobial resistance surveillance. Through whole-genome sequencing, we can analyze all the DNA in a microbial sample to get a comprehensive view of all the genes present – including those responsible for resistance. With the computational tools of bioinformatics, researchers can efficiently process vast amounts of genetic data to improve the detection of resistance threats.

    Despite its advantages, integrating genomic sequencing into antimicrobial resistance monitoring presents some challenges of its own. High costs, quality assurance and a shortage of trained bioinformaticians make implementation difficult. Additionally, the complexity of interpreting genomic data may limit its use in clinical and public health decision-making.

    Bioinformatics allows researchers to analyze large biological datasets.
    hh5800/iStock via Getty Images Plus

    Establishing international standards could help make whole-genome sequencing and bioinformatics a fully reliable tool for resistance surveillance. The World Health Organization recommends laboratories follow strict quality control measures to ensure accurate and comparable results. This includes using reliable, user-friendly computational tools and shared microbial databases. Additional strategies include investing in training programs and fostering collaborations between hospitals, research labs and universities.

    Discovering a resistance gene

    Combining whole genome sequencing and bioinformatics, my colleagues and I analyzed Salmonella samples collected from several animal species between 1982 and 1999. We discovered a Salmonella resistance gene called blaSCO-1 that has evaded detection in U.S. livestock for decades.

    The blaSCO-1 gene confers resistance to microbes against several critical antibiotics, including ampicillin, amoxicillin-clavulanic acid and, to some extent, cephalosporins and carbapenems. These medications are crucial for treating infections in both humans and animals.

    Salmonella Typhimurium invading a cell.
    NIAID/Flickr, CC BY-SA

    The blaSCO-1 gene likely remained unreported because routine surveillance usually targets well-known resistance genes and it has overlapping functions with other genes. Gaps in bioinformatics expertise may have also hindered its identification.

    The failure to detect genes like blaSCO-1 raises concern about its potential role in past treatment failures. Between 2015 and 2018, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention began implementing whole-genome sequencing for routine surveillance of Salmonella. Studies conducted during this period found that 77% of multistate outbreaks were linked to livestock harboring resistant Salmonella.

    These missed genes have significant implications for both food safety and public health. Undetected antimicrobial resistance genes can spread through food animals, contaminated food products, processing environments and agricultural runoff, allowing resistant bacteria to persist and reach humans. These resistant bacteria lead to infections that are harder to treat and increase the risk of outbreaks. Moreover, the global movement of people, livestock and goods means that these resistant strains can easily cross borders, turning local outbreaks into worldwide health threats.

    Identifying new resistance genes not only fills a critical knowledge gap, but it also demonstrates how genomic and computational approaches can help detect hidden resistance mechanisms before they pose widespread threats.

    Strengthening surveillance

    As antimicrobial resistance continues to rise, adopting a One Health approach that integrates human, animal and environmental factors can help ensure that emerging resistance does not outpace humans’ ability to combat it.

    Initiatives like the Quadripartite AMR Multi-Partner Trust Fund provide support for programs that strengthen global collaborative surveillance, promote responsible antimicrobial use and drive the development of sustainable alternatives. Ensuring researchers around the world follow common research standards will allow more labs – especially those in low- and middle-income countries – to contribute to global surveillance efforts.

    The health of future generations depends on the world’s ability to ensure food safety and protect public health on a global scale. In the ongoing battle between microbial evolution and human innovation, vigilance and adaptability are key to staying ahead.

    This research was supported by the USDA Agricultural Research Service Program, the FDA and the HHS.

    – ref. Genomic sequencing reveals previously unknown genes that make microbes resistant to drugs and hard to kill – https://theconversation.com/genomic-sequencing-reveals-previously-unknown-genes-that-make-microbes-resistant-to-drugs-and-hard-to-kill-250148

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: UConn Law Professor Leslie Levin Honored by New York State Bar Association

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    UConn Law Professor Leslie Levin was recognized for her lifetime of work in legal ethics, media law, and evidence with the Sanford D. Levy Professional Ethics Award.

    This prestigious award is given annually by the New York State Bar Association Committee on Professional Ethics to an individual or institution who has most contributed to the understanding and advancement in the field of professional ethics.

    “Leslie Levin has long been a trusted expert on one of the most critical subjects of our profession. She is among the nation’s top authorities on legal ethics in addition to being an outstanding role model, author, and educator. She is an inspiration to her students and colleagues,” said Domenick Napoletano, president of the New York State Bar Association.

    Levin was one of the first in the legal academy to systematically study lawyers’ ethical decision making using empirical methods. She has co-edited Lawyers in Practice: Ethical Decision Making in Context, which explores the many factors that affect how lawyers resolve ethical issues in different practice contexts. She has also been extolled for her nationally recognized pathbreaking work on the impact of bar associations on the socialization of lawyers.

    “I was surprised and deeply honored to receive the award. It was the last thing I expected when they called me,” Levin said. “I am, at heart, a lawyer and when I started teaching, I wanted to write about lawyers and how they conduct themselves in the real world. How do they resolve ethical issues in practice?”

    Levin served as the first director of the UConn Law Lawyering Process Program and as the first faculty pro bono coordinator, in addition to many other positions within the law school including multiple associate deanships. She also co-authored a report and recommendations about access to justice for self-represented litigants at the request of the Connecticut Judicial Branch Access to Justice Commission.

    The graduating class of 2023 honored Levin with that year’s Perry Zirkel ’76 Distinguished Teaching Award.

    “I am delighted to see the honor conferred on Professor Levin,” Dean Eboni S. Nelson said. “She is one of our country’s leading scholars on legal ethics and a transformational teacher, whose many contributions have greatly benefited the law school and legal community.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Nigerian journalists are harassed by the public, the state and paid ‘data boys’ – what must change

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Temple Uwalaka, Lecturer in Communication and Media Studies, University of Canberra

    Death threats, kidnapping, unlawful detention, torture and assassination are some of the crimes being committed against journalists in Nigeria, according to a recent report. Another recent report details how the police and politicians are responsible for 70% of these harassment cases.

    They point to the increased level of threats that Nigerian journalists endure in their fourth estate role, serving as the voice of the people and holding government to account.

    This isn’t new. The harassment of journalists is baked into Nigerian history. But today journalists are also attracting online threats and harassment from members of the public.

    I teach and research media and politics, with a focus on online journalism in Nigeria. What’s clear is that the digital age has brought with it a complex relationship not just between journalists and the state, but also with citizens.

    All these parties need to turn down the heat, in the interests of free and fair information, particularly in a young democracy like Nigeria.

    A long history of violence

    The history of Nigerian journalism is characterised by violence from British colonial powers, from 1859 when the first newspaper was established, and also from indigenous politicians. There’s always been a suspicion that a free press could empower ordinary citizens and cause a shift in the power base.

    This isn’t unfounded. Journalism contributed to ending colonialism. But, after independence in 1960, the political class feared that an unfettered press would be difficult to control. Particularly when the country came under oppressive military rule from 1966 to 1999.

    There was always a fair amount of goodwill towards the press from citizens. But the ownership and control of major media houses by prominent Nigerian politicians, alongside the rise of social media, has changed the picture.

    The public used to act as the buffer for journalists, defending them from the attacks of government officials. Now some Nigerians have joined in attacking and harassing journalists in Nigeria.

    Online harassment

    We know that journalists in Nigeria under-report the harassment they receive. Many don’t view acute forms of harassment – verbal abuse, online disrespect and maltreatment – as an issue. One of our studies found they regard this as mere online banter, verbal sparring and attention seeking. But dismissing harassment doesn’t make it go away or stop. It just makes it worse in frequency and form.

    Read more: Threats to press freedom are taking on different forms across Africa

    Our studies indicate that online harassment of journalists is prevalent and escalating. This type of harassment is usually sustained and it often moves from one social media platform to another.

    In some cases, it spills from online to offline. The burning of the Television Continental station in Lagos in 2020 is just one example. The harassment is usually personal. Threats to the lives and safety of journalists are becoming common.

    Data Boys and corruption

    Nigerian journalists have reported that the harassers particularly target investigative and political reports, as well as perceived unethical conduct by journalists.

    The result is that political reporting is becoming difficult. A critical report about a politician makes the journalist an enemy of the politician. The politician will then unleash their supporters and paid influencers (known as “Data Boys”) to harass and hassle the journalist.

    The Data Boys phenomenon as we know it today began during Nigeria’s 2015 general elections. Data Boys are groups of young people on a politician’s payroll. They help to promote the politician’s image online and generally do their bidding. The politician sends them money to buy internet data and shares promotional “news” about themself. The Data Boys are also paid to attack any perceived enemy of the politician.

    It’s an increasingly successful political tactic in Nigeria. As a result, journalists have started censoring themselves.

    Data Boys aside, we asked ordinary Nigerians who reported engaging in online harassment why they picked on journalists. They indicated that perceived journalistic malpractice was their main reason. They accused journalists of being part of the problem because they believed many were corrupt and in the pay of politicians. Adding fuel to the fire is that Nigerian politicians are also often media owners.

    Some solutions

    One of the reasons that a culture of harassment continues is the failure of law enforcement. Those who harass journalists are not made to account for their actions. Strengthening harassment laws in Nigeria would give law enforcement the tools needed to curb it.

    There are no explicit laws around online harassment in Nigeria, just sexual and physical assault laws. This has to change if journalists are to be protected. All respondents in our studies, both journalists and the public, highlighted the law as a cardinal factor to fight harassment.

    Another solution is that journalists need to be accountable, transparent and ethical. Journalists themselves have raised these concerns about their profession.

    Yet in our studies journalists did not highlight transparency or an improved code of conduct as ways to improve the harassment situation in Nigeria.

    Read more: Western media outlets are trying to fix their racist, stereotypical coverage of Africa. Is it time African media did the same?

    Their detachment can come off as arrogant and has the potential to worsen hostility towards them. All the suggested solutions to online harassment made by journalists in our studies were external to them, like media sensitisation campaigns, improved workplace security and proper punishment for offenders. Their attitudes, we found, could be misconstrued as lacking self-reflection or empathy.

    Journalists, their harassers and politicians will all need to make changes or be brought to book if the problem is to be solved. Until then, online harassment is harming journalism as a profession in Nigeria. And this has the potential to have a negative impact on democracy.

    – Nigerian journalists are harassed by the public, the state and paid ‘data boys’ – what must change
    – https://theconversation.com/nigerian-journalists-are-harassed-by-the-public-the-state-and-paid-data-boys-what-must-change-252100

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Diabetic foot pain: expert tips on how to cope

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Peter Kamerman, Professor, University of the Witwatersrand

    An estimated 1 in 10 people worldwide have diabetes. Africa is the region with the fastest growth and it’s estimated that the number of people on the continent with diabetes will more than double in the next 20 years, increasing to about 55 million people by 2045.

    Having diabetes has serious consequences for health and is associated with increased risk of developing diseases related to damage to the heart (heart attacks), blood vessels (strokes, foot ulcers), kidneys (chronic kidney failure), and the nervous system (blindness, loss of sensation).

    When it comes to nerve damage, it typically affects long nerve fibres that supply the feet and can sometimes affect fibres that supply the hands too (a so-called glove and stocking distribution).

    It is the nerve fibres that detect sensations such as touch and temperature that are often worst affected, resulting in numbness. The numbness that develops can be a nightmare for people and is often described as their “feet feeling dead”.

    A peculiarity of this numbness is that it may be accompanied by intractable pain. This type of pain, resulting from damage to sensory nerve fibres, is called neuropathic pain.

    As scientists in the field of pain and pain management we work on neuropathic pain in people living with diabetes and its management. In this article we aim to draw attention to the problem and discuss how it can be managed.

    Nerve damage

    It has been estimated that up to 50% of people with diabetes will develop damage to peripheral nerves during their lifetime, and up to 50% will experience pain because of that nerve damage.

    The predictors of developing nerve damage are well established. Older age, increased duration of diabetes, and poor control of blood glucose concentration are the main culprits. What determines whether the nerve damage is associated with pain is largely unknown.

    Neuropathic pain is often described as a “burning” pain, and is frequently accompanied by other sensations such as “pins and needles”, and pain that feels like stabbing, shooting, electric-like shocks, and deep aching.

    In some people there is very little or no numbness. In these people pain can often be triggered by gentle touch and movement across the skin (for example, bed sheets brushing across a foot, putting on socks), and cool and warm temperatures that are not normally felt as painful.

    Sometimes my feet will hurt really badly and I can’t get up and can hardly walk. – Anonymous patient

    Having such intractable pain has devastating consequences for quality of life.

    Pain sufferers have less social interaction with family and friends, and find it much more difficult to enjoy their favourite activities. Sleep is significantly disrupted.

    Having neuropathic pain is associated with high rates of anxiety and depression. To make matters worse, the sleep disruption, anxiety and depression may feed back into a vicious cycle to worsen and maintain the pain.

    There are days when I’d really like to go somewhere or do something and just don’t go. I know it will hurt. There’s no point in doing it. – Anonymous patient

    Medications to manage the pain

    Neuropathic pain is not responsive to the medications used to treat conditions such as headaches and joint pains (for example, paracetamol and ibuprofen).

    Instead, neuropathic pain is responsive to medications that in some cases are also used to treat conditions such as depression and epilepsy.

    Examples include:

    • low doses of tricyclic antidepressants (for example, amitriptyline)

    • a class of antidepressants called serotonin and noradrenaline re-uptake inhibitors (for example, duloxetine)

    • anti-seizure drugs like gabapentinoids (for example, gabapentin and pregabalin).

    However, there is very little information to guide doctors to predict which drug will work best for a patient.

    So, often finding the correct treatment is a trial-and-error approach, which can be frustrating for both patients and doctors.

    Coping mechanisms

    Chronic pain management is also about teaching people to cope with their pain so that they get back to enjoying their lives and are no longer consumed by the pain.

    Such interventions include the practice of mindfulness, cognitive behavioural therapy, and other self-management activities specifically designed for people with chronic pain.

    With the rapidly growing number of individuals with diabetes, it is more important than ever that we detect and treat the pain caused by nerve fibre damage.

    Public education and increased awareness of this painful consequence of diabetes will hopefully encourage affected people to seek early medical attention, thus allowing management of the condition, maintaining well-being and restoring function.

    – Diabetic foot pain: expert tips on how to cope
    – https://theconversation.com/diabetic-foot-pain-expert-tips-on-how-to-cope-251937

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia and Honeywell Aerospace Technologies partner with Numana to advance quantum-safe networks

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release
    Nokia and Honeywell Aerospace Technologies partner with Numana to advance quantum-safe networks

    • Collaboration to drive innovation and enable a global post-quantum security economy for enterprises and service providers.
    • Quantum-safe communications poised to safeguard digital infrastructure.
    • The partnership benefits from Numana’s Kirq quantum communication testbed, Honeywell Aerospace Technologies’ quantum key distribution, and Nokia’s advanced cryptographic network technologies.

    24 March 2025
    Montreal, Quebec – Nokia and Honeywell Aerospace Technologies today announced a strategic partnership with Numana to advance Quantum-Safe Networks (QSN) in Montreal, Canada, and worldwide. This collaboration will drive innovation, foster collaboration, and accelerate the adoption of next-generation secure networking technologies for enterprises and service providers. Additionally, this partnership will help raise awareness about the importance and benefits of these technologies, advancing secure and reliable networking solutions for a resilient digital future.

    “As the world increasingly depends on digital infrastructure, the need for advanced cryptographic protection has never been more critical. By partnering with Numana and its collaboration partners like Honeywell Aerospace Technologies and others, we can deploy our combined expertise in enabling future-proof networks to help organizations, enterprises and service providers build a secure and resilient digital future starting today,” said Jeffrey Maddox, President of Nokia Canada.

    The partnership will benefit from Numana’s Kirq Quantum Communication Testbed, a world-class facility that provides a real-world environment for testing and validating new quantum-resistant and quantum communication technologies. Nokia will leverage its expertise in post-quantum networking, incorporating advanced IP routers, high-capacity optical transport nodes, and state-of-the-art quantum-safe cryptographic technologies, all backed by its extensive practical experience and proven success in real-world deployments.

    Additionally, Nokia intends to utilize this environment to foster collaborative-based innovations, enabling the development of solutions within the broader quantum technology ecosystem. Honeywell Aerospace Technologies will introduce quantum-secure encryption keys from space to terrestrial data centers, applications, and networks.

    “Numana will oversee the deployment, operation, and ongoing development of the testbed and make the equipment and infrastructure available to carry out various projects, based on the needs of the technology innovation ecosystem. Our ambition is to accelerate quantum technology in Quebec and help the industry develop leading-edge products to transform the province into a true global leader in quantum communication. This project aligns with Numana’s new positioning as a technology macro-accelerator which analyzes disruptive technologies and implements open testbeds to accelerate the development of products and services and their adoption,” noted Numana President and CEO François Borrelli.

    Numerous studies highlight the significant benefits for the private sector and the profound impact quantum communication is poised to have on Quebec and Canada as a whole.

    “Honeywell Aerospace Technologies welcomes the opportunity to join forces with Nokia and Numana to advance quantum-safe communications. Our quantum encryption technology will play a critical role in securing satellite networks and improving the integrity of data transmitted from space to earth,” said Lisa Napolitano, Vice President of Space at Honeywell Aerospace Technologies.

    The partnership also aligns with the commitments by Quebec and Canada to quantum innovation and cybersecurity leadership. The Numana facility in Quebec will serve as a hub where enterprises, research institutions, and government agencies can explore, evaluate, and validate secure networking technologies in a real-world environment.

    The arrival of multinational players like Nokia and Honeywell Aerospace Technologies brings immense value to this innovative network by introducing innovative technologies and unparalleled expertise. This collaborative effort will advance the development and deployment of quantum-secure solutions and foster a robust global network that supports continuous innovation, addresses cybersecurity needs, and ushers in the era of next-generation communications.

    “This important partnership in the quantum sector is another step toward developing more projects using the Kirq testbed. It clearly shows that Québec has great drawing power and reinforces our position as a global strategic hub for technological innovation and quantum science, which are critical for securing tomorrow’s communication,” said Christine Fréchette, the Minister of Economy, Innovation and Energy and Minister Responsible for Regional Economic Development.

    The collaboration will enhance the overall quantum technology landscape by concentrating on several key areas, including:

    • Education and training: While QSN solutions are available today, Numana’s technology ecosystem will provide awareness, training, and educational resources to help organizations understand and implement their quantum-secure strategies.
    • Ecosystem development: Foster collaboration among industry stakeholders, including researchers, developers, and businesses throughout the global quantum technology sector.
    • Research and development: Jointly develop, assess, and evolve the technologies and science toward advanced secure communication. 

    Multimedia, technical information and related news 
    Website: Nokia Quantum Safe Networks
    Video: Quantum-Safe Networks in 60 seconds
    Blog: Nokia and Honeywell join Numana: A Leap Toward Quantum Security in North America

    About Nokia
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think, and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed, and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs, which is celebrating 100 years of innovation.

    With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises, and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable, and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

    About Numana: A macro-accelerator for technological ecosystems
    Founded in 2007, Numana is a non-profit organization that contributes to economic and social vitality by bringing stakeholders from the private, institutional, and public technology sectors together around common goals and joint initiatives. To learn more, go to https://numana.tech/en/.

    About Honeywell
    Honeywell is an integrated operating company serving a broad range of industries and geographies around the world. Our business is aligned with three powerful megatrends – automation, the future of aviation, and energy transition – underpinned by our Honeywell Accelerator operating system and Honeywell Forge IoT platform. As a trusted partner, we help organizations solve the world’s toughest, most complex challenges, providing actionable solutions and innovations through our Aerospace Technologies, Industrial Automation, Building Automation, and Energy and Sustainability Solutions business segments that help make the world smarter and safer as well as more secure and sustainable. For more news and information on Honeywell, please visit www.honeywell.com/newsroom.

    Editor’s Note: Press event
    Numana is hosting and streaming a press event today at 9:00 am (EST) at the Maison Alcan, 1188 Sherbrooke O. in Montreal. RSVP to Simon Falardeau of Numana at falardeausimon@hotmail.com or Kevin Petschow of Nokia at kevin.petschow@nokia.com.

    Media inquiries 
    Nokia Press Office 
    Email: Press.Services@nokia.com  

    Follow Nokia on social media
    LinkedIn X Instagram Facebook YouTube BlueSky

    Numana
    Simon Falardeau
    Email: falardeausimon@hotmail.com

    Honeywell Aerospace Technologies
    Adam Kress
    Phone: +1-602-760-6252
    Email: adam.kress@honeywell.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: The Gender Pay Gap Stalls in 2025 – Payscale’s Research Shows

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Despite pay transparency laws, wage equity progress continues to stall nationwide, with systemic barriers still limiting women’s earning potential.
    • The “childbearing penalty” remains highly evident, as women with children continue to earn just 75 cents for every dollar fathers make, while fathers make 2% more than childless men.
    • While the gender pay gap showed gradual improvement from 2018 to 2022, progress has remained stagnant since the Great Resignation, with declines especially evident among older women.

    SEATTLE, March 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, Payscale Inc., the leading provider of compensation data, software and services, released its 2025 Gender Pay Gap Report (GPGR), revealing that despite pay transparency laws, the closing of the gender pay gap has stalled nationwide, with systemic barriers still limiting women’s earning potential.

    Payscale’s analysis found that in 2025 women still earn just 83 cents for every dollar men make. While this is unchanged from last year, according to AAUW, Equal Pay Day shifted back more than two weeks this year, meaning that women must work that much longer to achieve the same earnings as men in 2025, compared to 2024. The controlled gender pay gap also remains the same as last year, at 99 cents. The controlled gender pay gap is the amount that women earn for every dollar that a man earns when accounting for job title and compensable factors, while the uncontrolled gender pay gap is the difference in median pay for men and women overall.

    “Even though our 2025 Compensation Best Practices Report showed a minor decrease in support for pay equity (57%), and there has been a recent weakening of public support around Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) of late, some states have shown promising progress towards closing the gender pay gap,” said Ruth Thomas, pay equity strategist at Payscale. “While not every state has enacted pay transparency laws, which are shown to support pay equity efforts, many organizations are still staunchly committed to the cause. In fact, compared to 2020, there has been a 19% increase in corporate commitment to these efforts.”

    Key takeaways from GPGR:

    Working Parents — Motherhood continues to hurt pay equity, while fathers get a raise as a result of the childbearing penalty.

    • Women with children face a significantly wider gender pay gap, earning just 75 cents for every dollar fathers make—unchanged from last year.
    • This gap is even wider for women of color, with American Indian and Alaska Native mothers experiencing the largest disparity, earning just 64 cents for every dollar fathers earn.
    • When controlling for job roles and experience, mothers earn 98 cents for every dollar earned by fathers with similar characteristics, a figure that has remained steady.
    • Meanwhile, fatherhood financially benefits men, who earn 2% more than childless men, while mothers face stagnant or reduced pay compared to childless women.

    Job Seeking — Women seeking new jobs are closing the pay gap, but parenting responsibilities and workplace flexibility keep many stuck with lower wages.

    • The gender pay gap is narrower for women actively seeking a new job in the next six months compared to those not looking, suggesting that a willingness to leave positions may lead to higher pay.
    • Yet, this uncontrolled gender pay gap slightly widened this year to $0.83 from $0.84 last year, indicating slower progress overall.
    • Women who stay in their current job may do so due to benefits they can’t afford to lose, such as flexible work schedules, which can result in tolerating lower pay.
    • Workplace culture, flexibility, and work-life balance may be more important to women than men when deciding whether to stay with an employer, potentially influencing their pay trajectory.

    Higher Education — Despite earning advanced degrees like MBAs, law degrees, and health professional doctorates, women still face a significant pay gap, highlighting that education alone doesn’t guarantee pay equity.

    • Women with MBAs face the largest uncontrolled pay gap, earning just 77 cents for every dollar earned by men with the same degree.
    • Health professional doctorates have the smallest uncontrolled pay gap at 89 cents, while women with law degrees earn 87 cents for every dollar men with the same degree make, marking a slight decrease from last year.

    Leadership and Career Progress — Not only do women earn less as their career progresses, they’re also less likely to reach leadership roles.

    • White men are the most likely to hold leadership positions, with 45% serving as managers or in higher roles. Women are underrepresented in leadership roles, with only 5% of white women becoming executives compared to 7% of white men. The numbers are even lower for women of color: 3% for Hispanic women, 4% for Black or African American women, and 3% for Asian women.
    • Women who do ascend the corporate ladder earn less than their male counterparts, with the gap widening at higher levels. Women at the executive level earn 93 cents for every dollar men make, even when controlling for job characteristics, and just 72 cents when not controlling for these factors.
    • The gender pay gap is widest for Hispanic women and American Indian and Native Alaskan women at the executive level when data are controlled, currently standing at 91 cents, which is two points narrower than 2024.

    Gender Norms — While STEM industries show progress toward pay equity, traditional gender norms continue to widen the gap in other sectors.

    • The biggest pay gaps appear in occupations with deep-rooted gender norms, including Legal (63 cents), Farming & Fishing (77 cents), and Management (79 cents), where men dominate top-paying positions.
    • The gender pay gap is also widest in Finance & Insurance (78 cents) and Agencies & Consultancies (84 cents) industries, despite women making up 53% and 59% of the workforce in these industries, respectively.
    • Even in female-dominated industries like Healthcare (89 cents), Education (91 cents), and Nonprofits (88 cents), pay disparities persist.
    • Some STEM-heavy industries show pay equity when controlled, but women remain underrepresented in higher-paying roles within these industries.

    Location – States with and without salary transparency laws have seen improvements in the controlled gender pay gap, likely due in part to increased awareness from transparency efforts in other regions or companies adopting national pay transparency practices.

    • In 2025, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, Vermont and Massachusetts will enact pay transparency legislation.
    • The controlled pay gap remained closed in 2025 for California, Connecticut, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, and Washington, D.C. – all showed closed pay gaps last year, and, except for New Jersey and Oregon, have active pay transparency laws.
    • While other states continue to show improvement, Massachusetts, Montana, New Hampshire, North Carolina, New Mexico, Vermont, and Washington state have seen their gaps widen.
    • New gains are emerging in Alabama, Delaware, Nebraska, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Dakota, and West Virginia, where the controlled pay gap has recently closed.

    “It’s disappointing to still see a lack of progress towards closing the gender pay gap. Beyond being the right thing to do, ensuring fair pay without discrimination is required by law. This fact alone should support closing the gender pay gap. Even more, it’s a critical retention tool for businesses, which is why, unsurprisingly, women employees frequently leave organizations because they don’t think they are being paid fairly,” said Lulu Seikaly, senior corporate employment attorney at Payscale. “Pay transparency has an important role to play here, because when an employee has an understanding of their compensation trajectory it increases trust and loyalty. Our 2025 Compensation Best Practices Report revealed that over half (56%) of companies are sharing pay ranges in their job postings regardless of whether or not it’s required by law — a promising nod to the future of fair pay.”

    According to Payscale’s 2025 Compensation Best Practices Report, 72% of HR and compensation professionals believe that gender pay gap research is meaningful. Paired with Payscale’s compensation management software and services enable organizations to easily evaluate their current compensation strategies and standardize their internal pay practices to increase transparency and ensure fair pay.

    The 2025 Gender Pay Gap Report analyzes crowdsourced data from over 369,000 people in the U.S. who took Payscale’s free online salary survey between January 2024 and January 2025. The full report and its methodology, including analysis by race, job level, age, education, industry, occupation, and location, can be accessed in its entirety at Payscale.com/research-and-insights/gender-pay-gap.

    About Payscale
    As the industry leader in compensation management, Payscale is on a mission to help job seekers, employees, and businesses make sustainable fair pay a reality. Empowering 65% of the Fortune 500, Payscale provides a combination of diverse and dynamic data sources, experienced compensation services, and scalable software to enable organizations such as Panasonic, ZoomInfo, Chipotle, AccentCare, University of Washington, American Airlines, and PetSmart to make fair and appropriate pay decisions.

    Pay is powerful.

    To learn more, visit www.payscale.com.
      
    Contact: Press@Payscale.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/PAKISTAN – Lent and Ramadan are celebrated together at St. Elizabeth Catholic Hospital in Hyderabad

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    St Elisabeth Hospital

    Hyderabad (Agenzia Fides) – The fact that in 2025 the Christian Lent and the Muslim Ramadan coincide was seen as an opportune moment to promote dialogue and exchange: Christians and Muslims in a time of spiritual reflection. The goal is to reconnect with oneself and recognize the value of one’s fellow human beings, every person one knows, regardless of their faith, culture, or language. This also happened at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Hyderabad, a Catholic healthcare facility known for its leadership and excellence in the Pakistani province of Sindh.To fully experience Lent and Ramadan, the Catholic and Muslim staff of the hospital and the students of the adjacent Midwifery school have decided to meet every Friday for a shared time of reflection and to celebrate the moment of breaking the fast together. In the dining room of the dormitory of the St. Elizabeth Midwifery School, Catholics and Muslims on duty meet to share a modest meal of rice and vegetables, dates, and fruit.”It is much more than just a shared dinner. Experiencing these moments together, each in their own faith, is an initiative that strengthens the human, spiritual, and professional bonds between people. In this way, the hospital becomes a place of work and service to humanity, where dialogue is practiced, mutual respect is deepened, and the deep motivations of one’s faith are sought in order to fully live the mission one fulfills,” Father Robert McCulloch, an Australian missionary of the Missionary Society of St. Columban and a member of the hospital’s board of directors, told Fides.In a Catholic institution inspired by the values and principles of faith and service, Catholic employees fast every year during Lent and participate in the Stations of the Cross. Given the increasing presence of doctors, nurses, and staff of the Muslim faith working at the hospital, they now wanted to share this experience with other faithful. “It is an extraordinary testimony of faith and openness to others. St. Elizabeth’s Hospital and its Catholic and Muslim staff are thus at the forefront of manifesting and promoting religious harmony in Hyderabad,” said Father McCulloch.Work continues at the hospital on the construction of the “St. Elizabeth Palliative Care Day Centre,” a special unit that will provide palliative care for cancer and terminally ill patients. Such care is already offered free of charge by the hospital through a home service in the region and will soon be available within the hospital as well. The new inpatient center for such patients will be the first in all of Pakistan. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 24/3/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/PAKISTAN – A civil recognition to Cardinal Coutts for his service rendered to the nation

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Catholics in Pakistan

    Islamabad (Agenzia Fides) – For his services to the nation in the field of interreligious dialogue and the promotion of harmony, as well as for his contribution to the social welfare of Pakistan and the protection of the rights of minorities, Cardinal Joseph Coutts, Archbishop Emeritus of Karachi, was awarded the “Tamgha-i-Imtiaz” Medal of Excellence, conferred by the President of the Republic of Pakistan. This award (“Medal of Excellence”) is given to Pakistani or foreign citizens who have distinguished themselves in public service to the country and contributed to improving the nation.At the ceremony, which took place yesterday, March 23, in Islamabad, more than 100 people engaged in various social fields were awarded with various recognitions. In Cardinal Coutts’s case, the initiatives he initiated during his long pastoral service as a priest and bishop in the areas of healthcare, education, charity, and solidarity without discrimination, aimed at promoting community well-being throughout Pakistan, were recognized. “His service to humanity and his role in uniting different faiths are a source of inspiration for all Pakistanis,” said Pakistani President Ali Zardari, emphasizing the Cardinal’s commitment to the nation’s peace and well-being. Today, Cardinal Joseph Coutts is the first Catholic to head the Christian Studies Center in Rawalpindi, a well-known ecumenical center that has been promoting interreligious dialogue and social harmony in the country for over 50 years. Cardinal Joseph Coutts, Archbishop Emeritus of Karachi, was born in 1945 and ordained a priest in 1971 for the clergy of Lahore. In 1988, he was appointed Coadjutor Bishop of Hyderabad and assumed the leadership of the Diocese of Hyderabad in 1990. In 1998, he was appointed head of the Diocese of Faisalabad and in 2012, he was transferred to the Metropolitan See of Karachi, where he served as Metropolitan Archbishop until February 2021. Pope Francis created him a Cardinal at the 2018 Consistory. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 24/3/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Nagano Lean Body Tonic Benefits, Ingredients, and Real Results Explained

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TALLMADGE, Ohio, March 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Individuals are constantly searching for practical solutions to weight management and overall vitality in a world increasingly focused on health and wellness. Nagano Lean Body Tonic emerges as a promising contender in dietary supplements, offering a unique blend of natural ingredients designed to support weight loss, boost energy levels, and enhance overall health. This potent elixir is not merely about shedding pounds; it aims to rejuvenate the body and improve the quality of life. The formula is rooted in traditional wisdom, drawing inspiration from Japanese practices that have stood the test of time. With the rise of obesity and lifestyle-related diseases, the need for effective solutions has never been more critical. Nagano Lean Body Tonic is crafted to meet this demand, targeting stubborn fat areas while promoting a healthier metabolism. This article will delve deep into the formulation, benefits, and science behind this remarkable product, providing the information you need to make an informed decision about your health journey.

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic – Essential Overview

    Product Type:

    Natural Weight Management Formula

    Core Ingredients:

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic is crafted from a potent blend of science-backed botanicals and plant-based extracts, including:

    • Camu Camu – A powerful antioxidant fruit rich in vitamin C
    • EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate) – A green tea extract known for enhancing fat oxidation
    • Mangosteen – A tropical superfruit with anti-inflammatory and metabolism-supportive properties
    • Ashwagandha – An adaptogen that supports stress reduction and cortisol balance
    • Panax Ginseng – Used to promote energy, stamina, and metabolic health
    • Momordica Charantia (Bitter Melon) – Traditionally used to aid in blood sugar regulation
    • Acerola Cherry – Packed with antioxidants to support immunity and wellness
    • Alfalfa Leaf – A fiber-rich green known for its detoxifying properties
    • Eleuthero Root (Siberian Ginseng) – Helps combat fatigue and supports vitality.
    • Ginger Root – Aids in digestion and supports thermogenesis
    • Inulin (Prebiotic Fiber) – Promotes healthy gut bacteria and digestive function.
    • Cinnamon Cassia – Known for balancing blood sugar and supporting metabolism

    Key Benefits of Nagano Lean Body Tonic:

    • Promotes Natural Weight Loss – Helps activate fat-burning mechanisms through enhanced metabolic function
    • Encourages Restful Sleep – Supports relaxation and deep sleep, essential for weight management
    • Supports Digestive Wellness – With prebiotic fiber and gut-friendly herbs
    • Increases Daily Energy & Focus – Combats fatigue while supporting a more active lifestyle
    • Enhances Overall Vitality – Provides antioxidant protection and immune system support.

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic Pricing & Bundle Deals:

    • 1 Bottle: $69 + standard shipping
    • 3 Bottles: $59 per bottle (total $177) – Free shipping included
    • 6 Bottles: $39 per bottle (total $234) – Free shipping included

    Risk-Free Purchase Guarantee:

    All purchases are backed by a 180-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try Nagano Lean Body Tonic with peace of mind.

    Where to Buy:

    Visit the official site to place your order and learn more: leanbodytonic.com

    Product Overview

    Formulation

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic is meticulously crafted from a blend of carefully selected natural ingredients, each chosen for its unique properties that contribute to weight loss and overall wellness. The formulation targets metabolism, energy levels, and appetite control, making it an all-encompassing solution for those looking to transform their bodies. This emphasis on natural ingredients ensures the product is safe and beneficial for your health.

    Key Ingredients

    The tonic features a range of powerful ingredients, including Camu Camu, EGCG from green tea, Mangosteen, Panax ginseng, Momordica charantia, Ashwagandha, Acerola, eleuthero root, Alfalfa Leaf, Cinnamon, Cacao, Ginger, Inulin, and a proprietary blend of eight super antioxidants. Each ingredient is vital in enhancing metabolic function and promoting fat loss.

    Bottle Contents

    Each bottle of Nagano Lean Body Tonic contains a 30-day supply of the elixir, designed for daily use. This ensures a consistent intake of the beneficial nutrients necessary for achieving desired health outcomes.

    Guarantee

    The manufacturer’s confidence in Nagano Lean Body Tonic is evident in its 180-day money-back guarantee. If users do not experience satisfactory results, this assurance of a full refund makes it a risk-free investment in their health, reinforcing the product’s effectiveness and the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction.

    Cost

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic offers various purchasing options designed to provide significant savings. The pricing includes $79 for a single bottle, $59 per bottle when purchasing three, and an impressive $39 for six bottles. Each package comes with valuable bonuses, enhancing the overall value and making it a cost-effective choice for those serious about their health.

    What is Nagano Lean Body Tonic?

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic is a unique dietary supplement that supports weight loss and boosts overall health. This potent elixir combines traditional Japanese ingredients known for their health benefits with modern nutritional science. The tonic aims to awaken a dormant metabolism, making weight loss more straightforward and enjoyable. Providing essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants helps combat the fatigue often associated with dieting, allowing users to maintain their energy levels throughout the day. The elixir is designed for daily consumption, with a simple mix of one scoop of water or a favorite beverage each morning. This easy incorporation into a morning routine ensures that users can seamlessly integrate it into their lifestyle, enhancing their chances of long-term success.

    The formulation is rooted in the philosophy that natural ingredients can effectively support bodily functions. By targeting multiple aspects of health—such as metabolism, energy levels, and digestive health—Nagano Lean Body Tonic offers a comprehensive approach to wellness. This holistic approach ensures that your health is cared for in a well-rounded manner.

    Who is Nagano Lean Body Tonic Specifically For?

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic is designed for individuals serious about improving their health and wellness. It caters to a diverse audience, including:

    1. Weight Watchers: For those aiming to shed pounds, the tonic provides a natural way to support metabolism and fat loss. Its blend of ingredients helps to minimize cravings and enhances the body’s ability to burn calories efficiently.
    2. Busy Professionals: Many professionals struggle to maintain energy levels throughout the day. Nagano Lean Body Tonic offers a convenient solution, boosting energy and vitality that can combat fatigue and improve focus.
    3. Fitness Enthusiasts: The tonic’s ability to enhance endurance and recovery can benefit individuals engaged in regular workout routines. The ingredients support muscle function and energy production, helping to maximize workout results.
    4. Health-Conscious Individuals: Nagano Lean Body Tonic appeals to those who prioritize their health and seek to incorporate natural supplements into their diets. It is formulated with high-quality, natural ingredients that align with a holistic approach to wellness.
    5. Aging Adults: As metabolism naturally slows with age, many older adults may struggle with weight management. This tonic can help support healthy metabolism and vitality, making it suitable for individuals over 40 looking to maintain their health.

    Does Nagano Lean Body Tonic Work?

    The effectiveness of Nagano Lean Body Tonic lies in its carefully selected ingredients, each with scientific backing for their health benefits. Many users have reported positive outcomes, including weight loss, increased energy, and improved mental clarity after integrating the tonic into their daily routine. This scientific backing reassures you about the product’s effectiveness and potential to improve your health.

    Clinical studies have shown that several of the tonic’s ingredients, such as EGCG from green tea and Camu Camu, have significant properties that support weight loss and metabolic health. For example, EGCG has been linked to increased fat oxidation and improved metabolic rates. Similarly, Camu Camu is noted for its high vitamin C content and antioxidant properties, which can enhance metabolic function.

    While individual results may vary, the combination of ingredients in Nagano Lean Body Tonic aims to synergize and amplify the overall benefits. Users are encouraged to adopt a holistic approach to health, combining the tonic with a balanced diet and regular exercise for optimal results. Many testimonials support the product’s efficacy, reinforcing its reputation as a reliable supplement for those seeking to improve their health.

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic Real Customer Reviews and Testimonials

    Customer feedback for Nagano Lean Body Tonic has been overwhelmingly positive, with many users expressing satisfaction with their results. Claire S. from Dayton, OH, shared her success story: “After putting on weight during quarantine, I felt discouraged. I started using Nagano Tonic nine weeks ago and noticed a significant difference in my cravings and appetite. I stepped on the scale this morning and am delighted—this is a game changer!”

    Similarly, Mike C. from Ann Arbor, MI, noted, “I started using Nagano Tonic just over a month ago and saw immediate improvements in my weight loss efforts. I love the taste and now have much more energy without feeling jittery.”

    Hazel W. from Norfolk, VA, added, “I wanted to look great for my high school reunion, so I decided to give this a shot. After using Nagano Tonic for two months, I was thrilled with my results and felt amazing.”

    These testimonials highlight not only the effectiveness of the tonic but also the positive changes in lifestyle and confidence that users experience. The collective feedback from real customers is a testament to the product’s potential in fostering healthier living.

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic: Support your wellness journey naturally.

    The Science Behind Nagano Tonic: How Traditional Ingredients Support Modern Metabolic Health

    As we age, our metabolism slows down, energy levels decline, and maintaining a healthy weight becomes more difficult. Nagano Tonic, a unique blend of traditional botanical ingredients inspired by Japanese and Eastern medicine, is gaining attention for its potential to support metabolism, thermogenesis, and weight management. Nevertheless, what does the science say?

    This article explores the research-backed mechanisms of Nagano Tonic’s key ingredients—from green tea and ginger to camu camu and ashwagandha—and how they contribute to metabolic health, inflammation reduction, and body composition.

    Understanding the Aging-Metabolism Connection

    Aging naturally reduces basal metabolic rate (BMR)—the number of calories our bodies burn at rest. Studies show that this decline in BMR is primarily due to a loss in lean muscle mass and hormonal shifts. A 1993 study by Shimokata and Kuzuya documented these changes, revealing that metabolic efficiency decreases with age, especially without proper dietary and activity adjustments.

    A 1998 paper in Metabolism by Piers et al. confirmed that older adults exhibit reduced energy expenditure, even when accounting for body composition. This highlights the importance of interventions that can reignite metabolic activity—something Nagano Tonic aims to do.

    Thermogenesis: Your Inner Furnace

    One of the most promising approaches to boosting metabolism is through thermogenesis, the body’s process of heat production that burns calories. According to Hursel and Westerterp-Plantenga (2010), specific food-derived bioactives can stimulate thermogenesis, aiding weight control. Nagano Tonic includes several such thermogenic compounds.

    Green Tea Extract: A Proven Metabolic Enhancer

    Green tea (Camellia sinensis) is one of the most studied ingredients for metabolism. Its active polyphenols, especially epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), have significantly boosted thermogenesis and fat oxidation. According to Ohishi et al. (2021), green tea polyphenols enhance metabolism and offer potent antioxidant protection.

    A 2016 clinical trial by Chen et al. found that high-dose green tea extract led to meaningful weight loss and improved lipid profiles in overweight adults. Another study (Campbell et al., 2016) demonstrated increased resting metabolic rate in women after a single dose of a green tea thermogenic supplement.

    Additionally, green tea has been declared safe in regulated doses, according to Jiang Hu et al. (2018), making it an effective and reliable cornerstone of Nagano Tonic’s formula.

    Ginger: Igniting Energy Expenditure

    Ginger (Zingiber officinale) offers more than just flavor—it is a metabolism booster supported by multiple randomized controlled trials. A 2019 meta-analysis by Maharlouei et al. found that ginger significantly reduced body weight and waist-to-hip ratio in overweight individuals.

    In rodent studies (Sayed et al., 2020), ginger water improved energy expenditure and reduced fat accumulation. Furthermore, a comprehensive 2020 review by Nguyen et al. highlighted ginger’s thermogenic, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-lowering effects, supporting its role in holistic metabolic health.

    Camu Camu: A Gut-Microbiome Ally

    A lesser-known superfruit, Camu Camu (Myrciaria dubia), offers remarkable metabolic benefits by modulating the gut microbiota. Research published in Gut (Anhê et al., 2019) found that camu camu supplementation altered the composition of gut microbes to prevent obesity in mice.

    Additionally, its high levels of vitamin C and polyphenols exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, as Inoue et al. (2008) demonstrated, further supporting metabolic balance and immune resilience.

    Bitter Melon: The Natural Insulin Sensitizer

    Momordica charantia, or bitter melon, is traditionally used for blood sugar regulation—modern science backs this up. A 2013 review by Joseph and Jini reported that bitter melon improves insulin sensitivity, reduces blood glucose, and aids lipid metabolism.

    Bitter melon can indirectly reduce fat accumulation and improve energy utilization by improving glucose control and inflammation, making it a brilliant addition to Nagano Tonic.

    Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients for Metabolic Repair

    Chronic low-grade inflammation, marked by elevated C-reactive protein (CRP), is both a cause and effect of obesity. A 2020 study by Qiling Li et al. confirmed that high CRP levels contribute to adult-onset obesity through inflammatory pathways.

    Nagano Tonic tackles this head-on with anti-inflammatory botanicals like cinnamon, turmeric, and ashwagandha.

    Cinnamon: A Spice for Fat Regulation

    Cinnamon has demonstrated the ability to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation. Hamidpour et al. (2015) discussed cinnamon’s impact on angiogenesis and metabolic health, while a 2020 meta-analysis by Mousavi et al. linked cinnamon supplementation with significant reductions in body weight, BMI, and fat mass.

    Turmeric: Anti-Gout and Anti-Fatigue Properties

    Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has been shown to reduce inflammation markers and oxidative stress. Kiyani et al. (2019) explored its benefits in gout and inflammation, but its antioxidant power also contributes to improved metabolic health, particularly in those dealing with obesity-linked inflammation.

    Ashwagandha: Adaptogenic Stress Support

    Chronic stress is another hidden trigger for weight gain. Ashwagandha, an adaptogenic herb, has shown promise in stress reduction and weight management. In a 2017 study, Choudhary et al. found that ashwagandha supplementation reduced cortisol levels and supported healthy body composition under chronic stress conditions.

    A 2019 clinical trial published in Cureus further confirmed its anxiolytic and energy-boosting effects, which are key to maintaining a sustainable, active lifestyle as we age.

    Ginseng and Eleuthero: Traditional Tonics with Modern Benefits

    Korean Red Ginseng

    A study by Song et al. (2014) demonstrated that Korean red ginseng alters gut microbiota in a way that positively influences obesity markers. Ginseng also lowers CRP levels, as noted in a 2019 meta-analysis by Saboori et al., further supporting its inclusion in Nagano Tonic’s anti-inflammatory arsenal.

    Eleutherococcus senticosus (Siberian Ginseng)

    This herb, known as Siberian ginseng, boosts physical endurance and metabolic efficiency. A study by Kuo et al. (2010) showed improved human endurance capacity, while further analysis by Huang et al. (2011) highlighted its anti-fatigue benefits. Hashimoto et al. (2020) found that Eleuthero modulates metabolic proteins in fat and muscle cells, supporting its role in energy regulation.

    Acerola & Alfalfa: Micronutrient-Dense Enhancers

    Acerola Cherry

    Acerola (Malpighia emarginata) is an underutilized superfruit rich in vitamin C, polyphenols, and antioxidants. Prakash and Baskaran (2018) state that its bioactive compounds support immune function, oxidative stress reduction, and collagen synthesis, indirectly contributing to a healthier metabolism.

    Alfalfa

    Often overlooked, alfalfa (Medicago sativa) has demonstrated blood glucose-lowering properties in animal and human studies. Amraie et al. (2015) showed that alfalfa extracts help regulate blood sugar and lipids. Raeeszadeh et al. (2021) noted its neuroprotective and antioxidant effects, which benefit aging adults with metabolic syndrome.

    Mangosteen and Inulin: Gut & Glucose Optimization

    Mangosteen Extract

    Mangosteen is a tropical fruit with potent xanthones and shows strong insulin-sensitizing effects. A 2018 randomized trial by Watanabe et al. found that mangosteen improved insulin sensitivity and supported weight loss in obese women, likely through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions.

    Inulin: The Fiber for Fat Loss

    Inulin, a prebiotic fiber, has been shown to reduce visceral fat and improve metabolic profiles. A 2015 randomized trial by Guess et al. demonstrated that inulin supplementation led to meaningful reductions in weight and ectopic fat among prediabetic individuals. By feeding healthy gut bacteria, inulin supports improved digestion, hormone balance, and energy metabolism.

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic: Inspired by nature, designed for you.

    Nagano Tonic’s Synergistic Science

    Nagano Tonic is more than a blend of exotic ingredients—it is a strategic, science-backed formula that targets the root causes of slow metabolism, weight gain, inflammation, and energy depletion.

    Each component contributes to a comprehensive metabolic revival, from the thermogenic effects of green tea and ginger to the gut-boosting benefits of camu camu, inulin, and ginseng. Meanwhile, anti-inflammatory and adaptogenic ingredients like turmeric, cinnamon, and ashwagandha protect against modern lifestyle stressors and aging-related metabolic decline.

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic: Pros and Cons

    When considering Nagano Lean Body Tonic, it is essential to weigh the pros and cons to make an informed decision. Here is a detailed analysis:

    Pros

    • Natural Ingredients: The tonic is formulated with high-quality, natural ingredients known for their health benefits.
    • Comprehensive Benefits: It addresses multiple health aspects, including fat loss, energy boost, and mental clarity.
    • User Testimonials: Many users report positive experiences and successful weight management.
    • Money-Back Guarantee: The 180-day satisfaction guarantee provides reassurance for new users.
    • Convenient Use: The tonic can easily be incorporated into daily routines, promoting consistency.

    Cons

    • Individual Results May Vary: While many users report success, results can differ based on personal factors such as diet and exercise.
    • Availability: Nagano Lean Body Tonic is only available through the official website, which limits some consumers’ purchasing options.
    • Initial Cost: The price may be considered high for some, mainly if individuals are unsure about the product’s effectiveness.

    By carefully considering these pros and cons, potential users can make an informed choice about integrating Nagano Lean Body Tonic into their health regimen.

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic: Usage, Integration, and Purchase Guide

    How to Use Nagano Lean Body Tonic Effectively

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic has been formulated for simplicity and convenience, making it easy to include in any daily routine. The powdered formula dissolves quickly in water, requiring just one scoop mixed into a glass to deliver its full range of benefits. This straightforward method of consumption promotes consistency, which is essential for long-term health improvements.

    While Nagano Lean Body Tonic can be taken at any time, developing a consistent habit—such as consuming it in the morning or before a workout—can help ensure daily adherence and maximize results.

    Combining Nagano Lean Body Tonic with Other Supplements

    Many individuals use multiple supplements to address different wellness goals. However, it is vital to consider ingredient overlap when combining products. The ingredients in Nagano Lean Body Tonic are designed to work synergistically. Taking similar supplements concurrently may diminish the tonic’s intended balance or effectiveness.

    Following the recommended serving size and usage guidelines is crucial to avoid unintended interactions. Consulting the product label and directions ensures proper use and helps support the body’s natural balance.

    Professional Guidance Before Beginning Any Supplement Regimen

    Before incorporating Nagano Lean Body Tonic into your routine, especially if you have existing health conditions, allergies, or are taking prescription medications, it is strongly recommended that you consult with a healthcare professional. Personalized medical advice ensures that the supplement aligns with your unique health needs and supports your goals safely and effectively.

    Enhancing Results with Healthy Lifestyle Habits

    While Nagano Lean Body Tonic is designed to assist with weight management and metabolic support, the results are most noticeable when paired with a healthy lifestyle. Regular physical activity—whether through structured workouts, walking, or yoga—can naturally boost metabolism and energy levels.

    Likewise, a balanced diet of whole foods enhances the tonic’s benefits. Nutrient-dense meals that include fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats support digestive health and help sustain energy throughout the day.

    Incorporating stress management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or mindfulness can also play a significant role. Stress impacts metabolism and sleep, and managing it holistically can further enhance the benefits provided by Nagano Lean Body Tonic.

    Purchasing Nagano Lean Body Tonic: Packages, Pricing, and Exclusive Bonuses

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic can be purchased exclusively through the official website. Flexible package options are available for new users and long-term wellness plans.

    Available Packages:

    • Single Bottle: $69 + shipping
    • Three Bottles: $59 each (total $177) with free shipping
    • Six Bottles: $39 each (total $234) with free shipping

    These tiered options allow customers to start with a smaller commitment or maximize savings with a bulk purchase.

    Included Digital Bonuses

    Each order of Nagano Lean Body Tonic includes three complimentary digital guides created to support your overall health journey:

    • The Anti-Aging Blueprint – Strategies for boosting energy, improving sleep, and supporting vitality.
    • Sleep The Fat Off – A guide to understanding how sleep quality influences metabolism and weight loss.
    • Energy-Boosting Smoothies – A collection of easy-to-make smoothie recipes to maintain energy and reduce cravings.

    These resources are designed to complement the benefits of the tonic and provide practical lifestyle support.

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic: A refreshing way to support vitality.

    180-Day Money-Back Guarantee

    To ensure a risk-free experience, Nagano Lean Body Tonic is backed by a 180-day money-back guarantee. This allows users to try the product with confidence. If results do not meet expectations, a full refund can be requested within the trial period.

    More Nagano Lean Body Tonic Actual User Reviews and Testimonials

    The positive experiences of users highlight the effectiveness of Nagano Lean Body Tonic. Many individuals have shared their success stories, illustrating the tonic’s transformative impact on their lives. Users praise not only the weight loss results but also the increased energy and improved mental clarity they experience after regular use.

    For example, Emily R. from Denver, CO, stated, “I have struggled with my weight for years, and nothing seemed to work until I tried Nagano Tonic. I have lost 15 pounds in just two months and feel more energized than ever!”

    Similarly, James T. from Chicago, IL, commented, “This tonic has been a game-changer for me. Not only have I lost weight, but I also feel sharper and more focused at work.”

    These testimonials provide valuable insights into Nagano Lean Body Tonic’s real-life benefits, reinforcing its reputation as an effective supplement for weight management and overall health.

    Are There Side Effects to Nagano Lean Body Tonic?

    While Nagano Lean Body Tonic is formulated with natural ingredients, some users may experience mild side effects. Possible side effects can include digestive discomfort, such as bloating or gas, particularly for individuals sensitive to specific ingredients like Inulin. Additionally, those sensitive to caffeine may experience jitters from the EGCG present in the formula.

    Potential users should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if they have underlying health conditions or are taking medications. This precaution helps ensure that the tonic is suitable for individual health needs. Most users tolerate Nagano Lean Body Tonic well, appreciating its natural formulation and beneficial effects.

    Who Makes Nagano Lean Body Tonic?

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic is produced by a reputable company dedicated to formulating high-quality dietary supplements. The manufacturer adheres to strict quality control standards and sources ingredients from trusted suppliers. The tonic is crafted in an FDA-registered facility, ensuring it meets rigorous safety and efficacy guidelines.

    The company’s commitment to transparency and quality is evident in its approach to product development. By focusing on natural ingredients and scientific research, the manufacturer aims to provide consumers with practical and safe supplements that align with their health goals.

    Does Nagano Lean Body Tonic Work?

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic is backed by potent ingredients that support weight management and overall health. Many users report positive results, including weight loss, increased energy, and improved mental clarity. The scientific research surrounding the individual ingredients further supports the tonic’s effectiveness, highlighting their roles in boosting metabolism and promoting fat loss.

    While individual experiences may vary, the synergy created by combining ingredients in Nagano Lean Body Tonic is designed to enhance overall effectiveness. Users who combine the tonic with a balanced diet and regular exercise will likely experience the most significant benefits, making it a valuable addition to a healthy lifestyle.

    Is Nagano Lean Body Tonic a Scam?

    No, Nagano Lean Body Tonic is not a scam. It is a legitimate dietary supplement developed by a reputable company committed to quality and consumer safety. The product is crafted with natural ingredients, and the manufacturer offers a 180-day money-back guarantee, demonstrating confidence in its effectiveness.

    Consumer testimonials and reviews further validate the tonic’s reputation, as many users have reported positive experiences and successful weight loss journeys. As with any supplement, individual results may vary, and it is essential to approach weight management with realistic expectations and a holistic lifestyle.

    Is Nagano Lean Body Tonic FDA Approved?

    While Nagano Lean Body Tonic is manufactured in an FDA-registered facility, dietary supplements do not require FDA approval before marketing. However, the company adheres to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to ensure product quality and safety. This commitment to quality control helps give consumers confidence in the product’s formulation and effectiveness.

    Consumers must research and understand the ingredients and potential benefits of any supplement they are considering. Nagano Lean Body Tonic is backed by scientific research, and its formulation is designed to support health and wellness effectively.

    Where to Buy Nagano Lean Body Tonic?

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic is exclusively available for purchase through the official website. This direct purchasing model ensures that consumers receive authentic products stored and handled correctly. By avoiding third-party platforms, the manufacturer can maintain control over product quality and safety, providing customers with peace of mind when purchasing.

    Is Nagano Lean Body Tonic Really on Amazon, eBay, and Walmart?

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic on Amazon.com

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic is unavailable on Amazon or through any Amazon partners. This strategic decision by the manufacturer ensures that the product is handled and stored correctly before reaching consumers. By avoiding third-party platforms, the company guarantees the integrity and safety of the tonic. If you wish to purchase, the only authorized source is the official website, with no plans for future sales via Amazon.

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic on eBay.com

    You will not find Nagano Lean Body Tonic for sale on eBay or any affiliated eBay stores. The manufacturer avoids selling on eBay to maintain complete control over product quality. This decision helps prevent contamination or tampered goods sold, which could harm customers. Always purchase the tonic directly from the official website to ensure safety, as it is not endorsed for sale on eBay.

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic on Walmart.com

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic is not available on Walmart’s shelves or website. While Walmart may carry other natural products, this tonic requires specific storage and handling to preserve its purity and effectiveness. By selling directly through the official website, the manufacturer minimizes consumer risks and guarantees the best product quality.

    Conclusion

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic is a powerful ally in pursuing health and wellness. With its unique formulation and a blend of natural ingredients, it addresses multiple aspects of weight management, energy levels, and overall vitality. The positive customer testimonials and the science behind its ingredients provide compelling evidence of its effectiveness.

    For anyone seeking a reliable supplement to support their health goals, Nagano Lean Body Tonic presents an attractive option. The 180-day money-back guarantee further enhances its appeal, allowing users to try the product risk-free. By incorporating this tonic into a balanced lifestyle, individuals can take significant steps toward achieving their health and wellness aspirations.

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic FAQs

    What is Nagano Lean Body Tonic?

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic is a dietary supplement containing natural ingredients to support weight loss and overall health.

    How does Nagano Lean Body Tonic work?

    The tonic enhances metabolism, reduces cravings, and increases energy levels, making it easier for users to manage their weight.

    Who should use Nagano Lean Body Tonic?

    It suits busy professionals, fitness enthusiasts, and aging adults who want to lose weight, boost energy, and improve overall wellness.

    What are the key ingredients?

    Key ingredients include camu camu, EGCG, Mangosteen, Panax ginseng, and Ashwagandha, each contributing to the tonic’s benefits.

    Are there any side effects?

    Some users may experience mild digestive discomfort, but most tolerate the tonic well. It is recommended that you consult a healthcare professional before use.

    Is there a money-back guarantee?

    Yes, Nagano Lean Body Tonic has a 180-day satisfaction guarantee, which allows users to request a refund if they are unsatisfied.

    Where can I buy Nagano Lean Body Tonic?

    The tonic is exclusively available through the official website, ensuring product quality and safety.

    Is it available on Amazon or eBay?

    No, Nagano Lean Body Tonic is not sold on Amazon or eBay to maintain product integrity. Purchases should be made from the official website.

    Does Nagano Lean Body Tonic require FDA approval?

    While manufactured in an FDA-registered facility, dietary supplements do not require FDA approval before selling. The company adheres to Good Manufacturing Practices for safety.

    Can Nagano Lean Body Tonic help with energy levels?

    The tonic boosts energy levels and vitality, helping users feel more energetic throughout the day.

    Unlock natural energy today with Nagano Lean Body Tonic.

    Contact: Nagano Lean Body Tonic

    Address: 285 Northeast Ave, Tallmadge, OH 44278, United States.

    Email:: support@leanbodytonic.com

    Order Status Support: (863) 591-4284

    Legal Disclaimer

    The information presented in this article is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The content is not a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment a licensed healthcare provider provides.

    Statements about any products, including Nagano Tonic and its ingredients, have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

    Always consult a qualified healthcare professional, including dietary supplements, before changing your health routine. Individual results may vary, and no guarantees are made regarding effectiveness or safety for any individual.

    The information included herein is based on current publicly available scientific literature. While we strive for accuracy, the publisher and authors make no warranties regarding this information’s completeness, reliability, or applicability and disclaim all liability arising from its use.

    Affiliate & Financial Disclosure

    This article may contain affiliate links. If you click on an affiliate link and choose to make a purchase, we may earn a commission or referral fee at no additional cost. This compensation helps support the maintenance of our website and the continued creation of high-quality content.

    We do not accept payments in exchange for positive reviews or misleading claims. All opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and reflect honest, research-based assessments of the information available during writing.

    Before purchasing any product mentioned on this site, you must research and consult a healthcare professional. The publisher, authors, and affiliated entities expressly disclaim all liability for any direct or indirect loss or damage arising from reliance on the information or products referenced.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f2355c13-a367-48f9-a847-f98940810269

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitcoin Depot Names David Gray as Chief Financial Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ATLANTA, March 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitcoin Depot (NASDAQ: BTM), a U.S.-based Bitcoin ATM (“BTM”) operator and leading fintech company, announced today that David Gray has been appointed Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective immediately. Gray brings over 20 years of financial leadership experience, with a proven track record of success in driving business transformation, optimizing financial performance, leading high-value mergers and acquisitions, and advising on the impacts of complex strategic initiatives. 

    As CFO, Gray will oversee Bitcoin Depot’s financial strategy, treasury, and corporate development, ensuring the company remains well-positioned for continued growth amid an evolving cryptocurrency landscape. 

    Gray joins Bitcoin Depot from Aviat Networks, where he served as CFO and helped lead the company’s growth from $275 million to nearly $500 million in revenue through strategic acquisitions and financial transformation initiatives. Previously, he held CFO and senior finance leadership roles at Superior Essex, Eaton Corporation, and Newell Brands. 

    “David’s expertise in financial strategy, operational excellence, and strategic planning makes him a valuable addition to our leadership team,” said Brandon Mintz, CEO of Bitcoin Depot. “His experience navigating complex financial landscapes and driving sustainable growth will be crucial as we continue to expand Bitcoin access, scale our operations, and reinforce our market leadership.” 

    Commenting on his appointment, Gray said: “Bitcoin Depot has built a strong foundation as a leader in the Bitcoin ATM sector, and I’m eager to contribute to its financial strategy during a time of rapid innovation and expansion. I look forward to collaborating with the leadership team to enhance Bitcoin Depot’s financial strength, drive strategic growth, and support its mission of expanding access to Bitcoin.”    

    Gray holds a B.S. in Accounting from Penn State University and is a Certified Management Accountant (CMA) and a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). 

    About Bitcoin Depot  

    Bitcoin Depot Inc. (Nasdaq: BTM) was founded in 2016 with the mission to connect those who prefer to use cash to the broader, digital financial system. Bitcoin Depot provides its users with simple, efficient and intuitive means of converting cash into Bitcoin, which users can deploy in the payments, spending and investing space. Users can convert cash to bitcoin at Bitcoin Depot kiosks in 48 states and at thousands of name-brand retail locations in 29 states through its BDCheckout product. The Company has the largest market share in North America with approximately 8,400 kiosk locations as of December 31, 2024. Learn more at www.bitcoindepot.com. 

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements 

    This press release and any oral statements made in connection herewith include “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements are any statements other than statements of historical fact, and include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the expectations of plans, business strategies, objectives and growth and anticipated financial and operational performance, including our growth strategy and ability to increase deployment of our products and services, our ability to strengthen our financial profile, and worldwide growth in the adoption and use of cryptocurrencies. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s current beliefs, based on currently available information, as to the outcome and timing of future events. Forward-looking statements are often identified by words such as “anticipate,” “appears,” “approximately,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “designed,” “effect,” “estimate,” “evaluate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “goal,” “initiative,” “intend,” “may,” “objective,” “outlook,“ ”plan,“ ”potential,“ ”priorities,“ ”project,“ ”pursue,“ ”seek,“ ”should,“ ”target,“ ”when,“ ”will,“ ”would,” or the negative of any of those words or similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters, although not all forward-looking statements contain such identifying words. In making these statements, we rely upon assumptions and analysis based on our experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, and expected future developments, as well as other factors we consider appropriate under the circumstances. We believe these judgments are reasonable, but these statements are not guarantees of any future events or financial results. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as, and must not be relied on by any investor as, a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. Actual events and circumstances are difficult or impossible to predict and will differ from assumptions. Many actual events and circumstances are beyond our control. 

    These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including changes in domestic and foreign business, market, financial, political and legal conditions; failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the business combination; risks relating to the uncertainty of our projected financial information; future global, regional or local economic and market conditions; the development, effects and enforcement of laws and regulations; our ability to manage future growth; our ability to develop new products and services, bring them to market in a timely manner and make enhancements to our platform; the effects of competition on our future business; our ability to issue equity or equity-linked securities; the outcome of any potential litigation, government and regulatory proceedings, investigations and inquiries; and those factors described or referenced in filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. If any of these risks materialize or our assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from the results implied by these forward-looking statements. There may be additional risks that we do not presently know or that we currently believe are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements reflect our expectations, plans or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this press release. We anticipate that subsequent events and developments will cause our assessments to change. 

    We caution readers not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or other factors that affect the subject of these statements, except where we are expressly required to do so by law. All written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to us are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. 

    Contacts:  

    Investors   
    Cody Slach  
    Gateway Group, Inc.   
    949-574-3860   
    BTM@gateway-grp.com  

    Media   
    Brenlyn Motlagh, Ryan Deloney   
    Gateway Group, Inc.  
    949-574-3860   
    BTM@gateway-grp.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Over 100 creatives supported by Growth Programme in Winchester

    Source: City of Winchester

    Evolve, in partnership with Winchester City Council, has successfully completed the delivery of its Creative Industries Growth Programme.

    Fully funded by Winchester City Council via the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the series of free masterclasses, covering subjects such as business planning, Intellectual Property Law and branding and marketing, were held between January and early March. 

    The programme, which was curated based on the feedback provided by local creatives, was designed to support small businesses and freelancers within the sector to take their business to the next level. Over the course of nine sessions, over 100 creatives from different businesses across the district attended.

    “The workshop was brilliant … it has made me feel more confident in my business skills by connecting with others in the field.  I am more likely to ask for help now that I know so many have similar issues.” Helen Northcott – Artist and Educator

     

    Rebecca Phillips, Programme Manager at Evolve, said: “It has been an absolute pleasure to work with Winchester City Council to deliver this programme. I’ve met so many inspiring creatives working in Winchester and experienced the amazing sense of community, and watched it grow.  Bringing practical business support and new connections has resulted in clear increase in motivation levels and productivity for participants.”

    Thanks to additional funding from University of Winchester, a peer group of creatives are now benefitting from focused and relevant learning as they continue to meet.

    The University of Winchester has also agreed to fund a further series of workshops- ‘The Innovating Together: SME Business Success Programme’, which will be delivered in partnership with Evolve and will be launching soon. 

    “The creative growth course has been instrumental in turning my blurry dream into an actual strategy. Rebecca is an incredible professional, with endless reserves of knowledge, and I can’t thank her enough for the help she gave me. The highlights of the course, for me, were the business plan workshop and the 121 with Rebecca. I feel lucky to have been able to access the programme for free, and my deepest gratitude goes to both Winchester City Council and to Evolve for the splendid work they’ve done.”  Francesco Sarti – Writer and Speaker

    Jo Stark, Head of Innovation at the University of Winchester said: “We believe that as a civic university we should be supporting local businesses to thrive and recognise the particular strengths and challenges faced by the creative industries as typically micro-businesses and freelancers. The support provided by Evolve has proved invaluable and we wanted to be able to offer this to a broader range of small businesses.”

    Throughout the programme, themes of sustainability and the circular economy (extending product life through repairing, sharing, reuse and recycling) were also woven in, encouraging businesses and individuals to think about the life cycle and environmental impact of their products and services and how they might make small changes to support sustainable action.

    Councillor Lucille Thompson, Cabinet Member for Business and Culture, Winchester City Council, said: “The Winchester District Cultural Strategy identified our creative industries as a priority area for development, and we are pleased that the creative growth programme has proved to be popular and supported so many creatives. We are also thrilled that the university of Winchester are funding an extension and spin-off of the programme, offering further support to small businesses in our district. This is a great example of partnership working which is at the heart of our new strategy.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Utah’s Andy Markus recognized as 2025 NEA ESP of the Year

    Source: US National Education Union

    WASHINGTON—NEA has named Andy Markus, the head custodian at Draper Park Middle School, in Draper, Utah, the 2025 NEA Education Support Professional (ESP) of the Year.  

     Markus, an assistant facilities manager, has worked for the Canyons School District for 13 years as the assistant custodian at Midvale Elementary and the head custodian at Bella Vista Elementary, before taking over in the same role at Draper Park Middle School. As one of the first people that students see in the morning, he has the important responsibility of being an inviting face, welcoming students to an exciting day of learning. His work in ensuring that students show up to a building that invites growth and learning earned him the 2024 Utah ESP of the Year award.  

     “NEA and its three million members are proud to recognize Andy’s dedication to his students, his school and his union,” said NEA President Becky Pringle. “He consistently goes above and beyond to be a welcoming presence to all who enter the building and school grounds He inspires each of the students to be better versions of themselves and to try new things. Andy’s ability to lift the spirits of any student having a hard day, or make a new student instantly feel at home, is an invaluable asset to the Draper community.”  

     The Education Support Professional of the Year award is designed to spotlight the work of ESPs across the country and honor one member who has demonstrated extraordinary achievements and dedication to public education. ESPs are the bus drivers who get our students to school safely. They are the custodians who keep our school buildings and grounds clean, the cafeteria workers who ensure our school communities are fed, the paraeducators who meet the needs of our most vulnerable students, and so much more.   

    “Congratulations to Andy,” said Mike Evans, President of the Utah School Employees Association. “I’ve had the privilege of working with Andy for many years, and he’s consistently been an exceptional leader. He’s always the first to step up, no matter the time or place.” 

     Markus will serve as an ambassador for ESPs across the country, speaking about the work and importance of ESPs at local, state, and national events.  

     “From cleaning up the grounds to mentoring students, my work goes beyond maintaining a building,” Markus said. “It’s about fostering a community where students and staff feel proud to be. The pride and care we put into our environment are reflected in the success of our students, and I’m grateful to be a part of that positive change.”  

    One of the biggest ways that  Markus goes above and beyond is by being a lifeline for students. His after-school program allows students to let out steam, leading to better behavior in the classroom. He allows students to help him every Friday as an incentive to demonstrate good behavior throughout the week. He also partnered with his school’s counselor to start the “Andy Talk” program, where students would walk with him as he worked, giving them an opportunity to share their struggles with a trusted adult.  

     “Andy is much more than his job description,” says Erin Longacre, parent of Draper Park Middle School kids and a board member of the Parent Teacher Student Association. “He’s the ‘What do you need,’ when you’re looking for help. He’s the ‘hello,’ when you need a smile. He’s the person that gets it done!”  

     As president of the Canyons Educational Support Professionals Association and a board member of the USEA, Markus has taken an active role in advocating for his fellow ESPs, from monthly meetings with district administration officials to taking time off work to lobby representatives at the state capitol. He wasn’t just fighting for those in his district, however. He fights for the rights of ESPs across Utah. “Last year when the Nebo School District was being dealt a poor hand by their district by losing their negotiation rights, Andy was the first person to sign up to go knock on doors with the field staff over that area,” says Britt Wolf, an administrative assistant at Hillcrest High School.  

    Markus was one of five finalists that included Illinois’ Amy Evans, intervention reading assistant; North Carolina’s Beryl Torrence, director of operations-transportation; Pennsylvania’s Becky Marszalek, paraprofessional; and Virginia’s Alyce Holmes Pope, family services specialist.

     For more information on the NEA ESP of the Year Award program, including a complete list of the 2025 NEA ESP of the Year nominees and more information on the five finalists, visit www.nea.org/ESPOTY.  

    # # #    

     ESPs are categorized into nine career families: paraeducators; clerical services; custodial services; skilled trades; technical services; security services; transportation services; food services; and health and student services. Learn more at www.nea.org/esp.  

     Follow us on Bluesky at https://bsky.app/profile/neapresident.bsky.social and https://bsky.app/profile/neatoday.bsky.social.  

    The National Education Association is the nation’s largest professional employee organization, representing more than 3 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, school administrators, retired educators, students preparing to become teachers, healthcare workers, and public employees. Learn more at nea.org.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Coalition Sues Trump Administration For Dismantling Department of Education, Hurting All Students

    Source: US National Education Union

    Washington, D.C. — Advocacy organizations representing millions of educators, civil rights champions, school employees, students, and families will file a lawsuit Monday to stop the Trump Administration’s illegal attempts to dismantle the United States Department of Education. The plaintiffs include the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), public school parents, The National Education Association (NEA), and AFSCME Maryland Council 3, and they are supported by Student Defense and Education Law Center (ELC).

    Since taking office, Trump Administration officials have taken an escalating series of steps to dismantle the Department, including a series of staff reductions and the termination of $1.5 billion in current contracts and grants for Congressionally-authorized programs and activities. On March 11, the Secretary instituted a Department-wide reduction in force, which, when combined with prior staff reductions, slashes the already lean Department workforce in half.  

    Most recently, on March 20, 2024, President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order formally instructing Secretary Linda McMahon to pursue “all necessary steps to facilitate the closure of the Department of Education and return education authority to the States.” The very next day, President Trump indicated that the administration would move the higher education student loan portfolio to the Small Business Administration and disability-related programs to the Department of Health and Human Services.  

    “Taken together, Defendants’ steps since January 20, 2025, constitute a de facto dismantling of the Department by executive fiat…,” the complaint argues. “But the Constitution gives power over ‘the establishment of offices [and] the determination of their functions and jurisdiction’ to Congress—not to the President or any officer working under him.” Because it is a Congressionally-created federal agency, legally eliminating the Department of Education, or its constituent offices, or transferring them to other federal agencies, requires Congressional approval. 

    While state and local governments are responsible for the vast majority of America’s public education system, Congress created the Department to help bridge longstanding gaps in educational opportunity and provide critical funding and supports to students. The Department fulfills that role by enforcing civil rights laws, supporting students with disabilities, promoting equal educational opportunities, bolstering the educator workforce, and administering the Federal Student Aid programs that place college within reach of working Americans. 

    Eliminating or effectively shuttering the Department puts at risk the millions of vulnerable students, including those from low-income families, English learners, homeless students, rural students, and others who depend on Department support. It also jeopardizes more than 400,000 educator jobs; makes it impossible for the Department to ensure that federal education funding actually is spent as Congress intended; threatens support for 7.5 million students with disabilities; and leaves millions of students vulnerable to discrimination. It could also reduce access to Pell Grants, upend repayments for student loan borrowers, and invite fraudulent and predatory behavior from unscrupulous institutions of higher education.

    The lawsuit alleges that actions to dismantle the Department exceed the constitutional authority of the executive branch and violate the federal Administrative Procedure Act. It asks the court to immediately halt the government’s attempt to dismantle the Department.

    “As a parent of a child with disabilities who has an Individual Education Program (IEP), I am deeply troubled by the severe cuts the Trump Administration has made to the Department of Education,” said Mara Greengrass, a Maryland mother who is a plaintiff in the litigation. “Funding for special education and the Department’s oversight have been crucial in ensuring my son receives the quality education he—and every child in this country—deserves.”

    “Nothing is more important than the success of students. America’s educators and parents won’t be silent as Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and Linda McMahon try to steal opportunities from our students, our families, and our communities to pay for tax cuts for billionaires. Gutting the Department of Education will hurt all students by sending class sizes soaring, cutting job training programs, making higher education more out of reach, taking away special education services for students with disabilities, and gutting student civil rights protections. Parents, educators, and community leaders know this will widen the gaps in education, which is why we will do everything in our power to protect our students and their futures,” said National Education Association President Becky Pringle.

    “Education is power. By firing half of the workforce at the Department of Education, Trump is not only seeking to dismantle an agency — he is deliberately destroying the pathway many Americans have to a better life,” said Derrick Johnson, President and CEO of the NAACP. “The forceful elimination of thousands of essential workers will harm the most vulnerable in our communities. The NAACP and our partners are equipped with the necessary legal measures to prevent this unlawful attack on our children’s future.”

    “Congress created the Department of Education, and Congress controls its future — not billionaires Marylanders never voted for,” said AFSCME Council 3 President Patrick Moran. “This illegal move to bypass our elected representatives would be devastating to our state’s public schools. Department of Education funding supports AFSCME Council 3 members in their essential work every day. It helps bus drivers get students in rural areas to school on time, ensures cafeteria workers can deliver consistent meals to students in low-income areas, keeps custodial workers on staff to ensure public schools are safe environments, supports disability and English as a second language school services, and more. Without this funding, we lose essential school workers — and our most vulnerable students will pay the price.”

    “The Trump Administration’s effort to dismantle the Department of Education is not only illegal; it inflicts great harm on students, schools, and communities across the country,” said Robert Kim, Education Law Center Executive Director. “The Administration’s assertion that critical federal funding and support for schools and students will somehow continue as normal even after shuttering the Department reveals a dangerous lack of understanding of the Department’s role to provide funding for and implement programs for our most underserved student populations, ensure equal access and opportunity, and enforce civil rights in our nation’s schools. We cannot afford to let the Trump Administration throw our public schools into chaos.”

    “Donald Trump’s own Secretary of Education has acknowledged they can’t legally shut down the Department of Education without Congress,” said Student Defense President Aaron Ament. “Yet that is, for all intents and purposes, exactly what they are doing. It’s a brazen violation of the law that will upend the lives of countless students and families.”

    # # #

    About the National Education Association:

    The National Education Association is the nation’s largest professional employee organization, representing more than 3 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, school administrators, retired educators, students preparing to become teachers, healthcare workers, and public employees. Learn more at www.nea.org 

    About the NAACP:

    The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.

    NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF – was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.

    About AFSCME Maryland Council 3:

    AFSCME Maryland Council 3 represents more than 50,000 public service workers in local, city, county and state government as well as in higher education and the private sector who provide the valuable public services that our communities rely on. From Western Maryland to the Eastern Shore, we make Maryland happen.

    About Education Law Center:

    Education Law Center pursues justice and equity for public school students by enforcing their right to a high-quality education in safe, equitable, non-discriminatory, integrated, and well funded learning environments. We seek to support and improve public schools as the center of communities and the foundation of a multicultural and multiracial democratic society. To achieve these goals, we engage in litigation, research and data analysis, policy advocacy, communications, and strategic partnerships and collaborations. https://edlawcenter.org/

    About Student Defense:

    The National Student Legal Defense Network (“Student Defense”) is a non-profit organization that works, through litigation and advocacy, to advance students’​ rights to educational opportunity and to ensure that higher education provides a launching point for economic mobility.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Meet the Undergraduate Researcher: Kayvona Brown, CLAS

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Though she’s in her last semester at UConn, Kayvona Brown (‘25 CLAS) isn’t slowing down anytime soon. Her research is just too important. 

    Brown, who is from Stamford, is a truly interdisciplinary scholar: a psychological sciences major with minors in sociology and women’s, gender, and sexuality studies (WGSS). Over her four years at UConn, she found a way to braid together her interests in psychology and supporting the health and development of women and children of color, especially Black mothers and children.  

    Now, she is poised to pursue a Ph.D. in clinical or developmental psychology and “continue to make a difference in my community, with the people around me who don’t often get their voices heard.” 

    On Trauma, Pain, and Healing 

    Brown’s current research revolves around pain and post-traumatic stress – and ultimately, healing — among sexual assault survivors. 

    “Typically, when we study PTSD, we are looking at veterans, survivors of natural disasters; those types of traumas, not necessarily sexual assault,” she says. “For people who do not have this experience, it can be a really taboo topic, and we don’t necessarily do a lot of that research within psychology.” 

    She adds, “As a survivor myself, I really wanted to understand the biopsychosocial effects on my whole body.” 

    Brown’s research has been supported by the national McNair Scholars program, a prestigious initiative designed to prepare undergraduate students for doctoral studies through involvement in research and other scholarly activities. 

    The first research project Brown helped complete investigated how people of various gender identities experienced pain, as well as how they described this pain to male or female clinicians. She worked with Teresa Graziano ’24 Ph.D., and Natalie J. Shook, a professor in the School of Nursing. 

    “When it comes to reporting pain, there’s a lack of research on transgender and nonbinary individuals,” Brown says. This project sought to fill this gap, exploring the complex gender dynamics between patients and clinicians, as well as how hormone replacement therapy can affect patients’ physiological experiences of pain. 

    In November 2024, Brown was one of just eight students nationwide selected to share her research with the National Science Foundation and the Board of the US Department of Education at the annual McNair conference, hosted at the University of Maryland – Baltimore County. 

    The more we learn about these symptom clusters, the more we can make better and improved treatments that are personalized for specific clusters.

    She presented her poster “Relations between PTSD Symptoms Clusters and Pain within Recent Sexual Assault Survivors: An Examination of Racial Differences,” which she had previously shared at the Fall Frontiers in Undergraduate Research exhibition at UConn Storrs. 

    This work explored how PTSD symptoms impact the experience of pain for sexual assault survivors. Overall, she found that women sexual assault survivors with greater PTSD symptoms tend to have greater reported pain severity and pain interference (the degree to which pain interferes with daily life). Brown also found a significant difference in the experience of pain between white and nonwhite survivors, with survivors of color reporting higher pain levels. 

    “Pain and PTSD are highly comorbid – they go hand in hand,” Brown says. 

    Brown is specifically intrigued by the way that PTSD symptoms tend to manifest in what are called “symptom clusters.” The DSM-5 defines four distinct clusters: intrusion (intrusive thoughts, nightmares, and flashbacks), avoidance (avoidance of potentially triggering situations), negative alterations in cognition or mood, and hyperarousal (reactivity, hypervigilance, and difficulty relaxing). Each individual with PTSD will experience different symptoms across these categories. 

     “The more we learn about these symptom clusters, the more we can make better and improved treatments that are personalized for specific clusters,” Brown says. 

    Brown’s research is part of a growing tradition in the field of psychology that recognizes the interplay between people’s everyday experiences and their psychological and physiological symptoms. For instance, research has shown that experiencing racism can lead to heightened levels of chronic stress, which in turn can cause and exacerbate adverse health outcomes. 

    Bringing it Home 

    Brown presents her research at UConn’s Undergraduate Fall Frontiers in Research symposium. (Courtesy of Kayvona Brown)

    For Brown, just exploring this link through research wasn’t enough – she also wanted to try to help stop the cycle at its source. So she joined the UConn Women’s Center Violence Against Women Prevention Program (VAWPP) and started doing direct outreach in her community. 

    With the VAWPP and its associated One Love program, Brown has spoken with students in First-Year Experience (FYE) classrooms and student athletes. She leads presentations on gender-based violence and how it can manifest in different environments, as well as intimate partner violence prevention and healthy relationships. 

    Presenting her research on this subject to the Board of Education was a full-circle moment, Brown recalls. 

    “We were able to really connect, and I was able to share my story and share the stories of millions of other women,” she says. “And I remember people coming up to me and saying, that was really impactful. I realized that was something that I really wanted to continue to pursue.” 

    Currently, Brown is working on a research project entitled “The Impact of Self-Blame on PTSD Symptom Clusters in Interpersonal Trauma-Exposed Violence.” This work is taking with Board of Trustees Distinguished Professor Crystal Park, in her Spirituality, Meaning, and Health Lab. 

    She is also working in the lab of Marketa Burnett, an assistant professor of Human Development & Family Sciences and Africana Studies. With Burnett, she’s supporting a one-of-a-kind research initiative dedicated to exploring the hopes and dreams African American parents have for their daughters, as well as how these hopes show up in their parenting styles. The project’s title is “‘Getting her to see herself the way I see her’: Exploring Black Caregivers’ Hopes and Dreams for their Daughters.” 

    One variable the research team is investigating is how Black parents are supporting their daughters in dreaming big by encouraging both creative expression and STEM ambitions. 

    “A lot of parents don’t teach [girls] that STEM is an option for them,” Brown says, “and if they do, they’re teaching them to do nursing or become a doctor. But there are other types of STEM, like getting your Ph.D. and being a scientist.” 

    Soon enough, Brown will be taking the next step in her academic journey to do just that.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 10 Questions With Women’s Sports Expert Risa Isard

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    In our recurring 10 Questions series, the Neag School of Education catches up with students, alumni, faculty, and others throughout the year to offer a glimpse into their Neag School experience and their current career, research, or community activities.

    Assistant professor Risa Isard is a trailblazer in the sport industry, dedicating her career to advancing equity in women’s sports. A researcher and consultant, she explores how stigma shapes the experiences of athletes, executives, and organizations. Her work sheds light on the economic, historical, and sociocultural forces that impact women’s sports, advocating for marginalized communities, including women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people of color.

    Risa Isard at the WNBA All-Star weekend in July 2024. (Contributed photo)

    Isard’s expertise is widely recognized — her insights have been featured by the SXSW festival, MSNBC, the New York Times, ESPN, and more. As a thought leader, she has published in Sports Business Journal, Quartz, and espnW, influencing industry policies and sparking change. Beyond research, Isard is the founder of RISport, consulting for sport organizations on issues that matter to them most. Previously, she played a pivotal role at the Aspen Institute’s Sports & Society Program, where she launched national initiatives, hosted leaders such as Michelle Obama and Billie Jean King, and created tools to expand access to sports. She has also held sport industry roles with Duke women’s basketball, the Phoenix Mercury, soccer legend Brandi Chastain’s foundation, national nonprofit KABOOM!, and the Fresno Grizzlies minor league baseball team.

    With a Ph.D. in Management from UMass Amherst and a specialized bachelor’s degree from Duke, Isard and her journey are a testament to the power of sports as a vehicle for social change.

    Q: Can you share examples from your research on how stigma influences the experience of stakeholders in women’s sports?

    A: Despite progress, stigma continues to impact professionals and fans in women’s sports. Employees in women’s sport face condescending remarks, such as being asked if they plan to work for a men’s team next year, suggesting that a role with the women’s team is not an achievement. Fans struggle to access games on TV or convince bars to air matches. These experiences stem from stigmas that affect investment, visibility, and respect, reinforcing the idea that women’s sports are less valuable. Yet, the passion of athletes, employees, and fans remains strong, fueling the fight for recognition and equality.

    Q: What are some effective strategies for advancing equity in sports organizations?

    A: My study on WNBA media coverage revealed that Black athletes, who comprised 80% of the league’s athletes and won 80% of postseason awards, received only half the media coverage of their white teammates. This research led to industry-wide discussions and tangible changes in organizations’ practices, resulting in more coverage for women athletes and Black athletes in women’s sports. By tracking disparities and committing to coverage that reflects the talent on the court, organizations can create systemic change. Intentional strategies like these help level the playing field for all athletes in women’s sports.

    Q: How does intersectional diversity shape decision-making and culture within sports organizations?

    A: That same study from above shows that Black WNBA athletes with a more masculine gender presentation receive the least media coverage, while white athletes with similar gender expressions receive the most. This highlights the need for an intersectional approach to understand practices in the sport industry. Media visibility translates into financial opportunities — endorsement deals depend in part on coverage, making representation crucial for an athlete’s career. Addressing these disparities can help advance social change, like closing the wealth gap.

    By tracking disparities and committing to coverage that reflects the talent on the court, organizations can create systemic change. &#8212 Risa Isard, assistant professor

    Q: What enduring stigmas persist in women’s sports and how can the industry address them?

    A: Women’s sports still battle misconceptions about their value and the athleticism they showcase, which impact player salaries, sponsorships, media coverage, and more. Changing this requires treating women’s sports with the same respect as men’s, which means investing in their growth and recognizing their commercial successes. Supporting women athletes isn’t just about fairness — it’s also a smart business move that drives profitability and advances the industry.

    Q: How should marketing and management strategies differ when promoting women’s sports, as compared to men’s sports?

    A: Women’s sports fans engage differently than men’s sports fans. For example, they tend to be more loyal and supportive of sponsors. They also are far more likely to consume their sports alone. This means marketing approaches should reflect fans’ unique behaviors rather than mimicking men’s sports strategies. Additionally, women’s teams face distinct challenges shaped by historical and societal factors, which can affect employees. Understanding these differences and responding to them are the keys to effective growth and investment in women’s sports.

    Q: How do you balance academic research with actionable insights for the sports industry?

    A: My research is shaped by real-world industry experiences and conversations, ensuring it addresses pressing issues. Once complete, I prioritize making my findings accessible — through op-eds in trade journals and via social media — so that decision-makers can apply research-driven insights. I am also proud to be a member of The Collective Think Tank, an initiative by global sport and entertainment agency Wasserman. This bridge between academia and industry helps sports professionals implement meaningful change.

    Supporting women athletes isn’t just about fairness — it’s also a smart business move that drives profitability and advances the industry. &#8212 Risa Isard, assistant professor

    Q: Why do you think your research is important to the sports industry?

    A: My work aims to encourage the industry to grow in profitability through equity-driven business practices. Women’s sports have long been undervalued, but with research-backed strategies, we can create a future where fairness and commercial success go hand in hand. I hope my contributions help elevate women’s sports and build on the legacy of those fighting for progress.

    Q: Why did you decide to join UConn’s Neag School of Education?

    A: UConn has been a leader in supporting women’s sports, creating an environment where gender equity is normalized. This unique culture provides an ideal setting to study and influence the future of women’s sports while engaging with students who will shape the industry.

    Q: How can UConn positively impact the future of women’s sports?

    A: UConn’s early investment in women’s sports offers a model for other programs. By sharing successful strategies with the NCAA and beyond, UConn can help shape best practices for growing and sustaining women’s sports at all levels.

    Q: What trends in women’s sports do you find most promising and how can stakeholders build upon them?

    A: Women’s sports are expanding rapidly — leagues like the NWSL and WNBA are growing, while new leagues in hockey, volleyball, and softball emerge. Increased media coverage, investment, and purpose-built stadiums contribute to this momentum. With continued financial backing and visibility, women’s sports can reach new heights, solidifying their place in the broader sports industry.

    To learn more about the Neag School of Education’s Sport Management program, visit sport.education.uconn.edu.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How political leaders communicate climate policy c should be a defining factor this election

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Andrew Heffernan, Climate Associate at the Information Integrity Lab and Adjunct Professor in Political Studies, L’Université d’Ottawa/University of Ottawa

    Prime Minister Mark Carney has called an April 28 federal election, setting the stage for a campaign where climate policy could be a central issue.

    The current iteration of Canada’s consumer carbon rebate is dead — which many view as a casualty of effective communication — yet climate policy remains a pressing topic for voters and a major battleground for political leaders.



    Read more:
    The Canada Carbon Rebate is still widely misunderstood — here’s why

    As Canada grapples with intensifying climate-related challenges, the next government will not only need to implement evidence-based policies to meet international climate commitments, but also effectively communicate its vision to voters.

    The public remains concerned about environmental issues, yet many are worried that bold climate policies have damaged the economy. This tension between environmental responsibility and economic growth will shape how each party formulates and communicates their climate policies in the upcoming campaign.

    The Liberals: Navigating the middle ground

    For Carney and the Liberal Party, the challenge is twofold. First, the Liberals must present a new climate plan after the collapse of the consumer carbon rebate, which has faced widespread public opposition in recent years.

    While the new Liberal leader has already terminated the the carbon rebate, it still remains unclear what exactly his comprehensive climate plan will look like. Carney’s website states that his strategy will: “Provide incentives for consumers. Put more of the burden on big polluters. And help us build the strongest economy in the G7.”



    Read more:
    Big government, big trouble? Defending the future of Canada’s climate policy

    This suggests his climate policy will hinge more on positive incentives for consumers to invest in sustainable approaches rather than putting a cost on polluting.

    While the carbon rebate initially enjoyed broad support as a key tool for reducing emissions, it has become a lightning rod for political controversy.

    Climate change is no longer just an environmental issue; it’s increasingly seen as a matter of economic survival, with green energy jobs and clean technologies representing an opportunity for Canada to position itself as a global leader in the sector.

    Carney will have to make a convincing case that his policy will create jobs, stimulate innovation and provide a clear path toward a greener, more sustainable economy.

    Failing to do so could lead to the loss of centrist and moderate voters, some of whom are wary of the perceived economic risks of aggressive climate action.

    The Conservatives: Axing the rebate isn’t enough

    On the opposite end of the political spectrum, federal Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has made axing the carbon rebate a central part of his platform.

    Framing the carbon rebate as an economic penalty, Poilievre has played into populist sentiments by promising to “axe the tax” and relieve financial pressures on Canadian families and businesses.

    However, even if the Conservatives are successful in eliminating the carbon rebate, they still face the challenge of needing a comprehensive climate policy that lowers emissions and meets Canada’s Paris Agreement targets. Poilievre has said he would not withdraw Canada from the accord, but he hasn’t addressed how he would meet Canada’s commitments.

    Poilievre’s populist rhetoric may resonate with voters who feel economically squeezed, but it’s unlikely to be enough to win over voters concerned about the climate crisis — especially as he has voted against environmental and climate action in Parliament over 400 times in his career, a point his opponents will be sure to raise repeatedly.

    For the Conservatives, the real challenge will be how to present a climate policy that appeals to both economic conservatives, who prioritize fiscal responsibility, and environmental conservatives, who are concerned about the future of the planet.

    Poilievre will need to clearly articulate how his policies will preserve Canada’s environmental future without stifling economic growth or inflating costs for the average Canadian.

    NDP and Green Party

    A key piece of the future of climate policy in Canada will be the NDP and Green Party, who are generally considered left-of-centre parties alongside the governing Liberals.

    The NDP, which can siphon progressive votes away from the Liberals — which sometimes benefits Conservatives — have been clear as mud when it comes to their climate policy for the next election.

    NDP leader Jagmeet Singh rescinded his party’s long-standing support for the Liberal carbon rebate in April 2024, but has not yet said what his party would put in its place.

    Meanwhile, the Green Party, which has historically played a less significant role in electoral outcomes in terms of vote splitting, has generally maintained its support for the carbon rebate. Its website suggests the party supports the polluter-pays principle. However, the Greens have yet to take a clear stance on the shifting climate grounds on which this election could partially be fought.

    Political communication the key to success

    In the coming years, the future of climate policy in Canada will be less about crafting the perfect policy and more about crafting a message that addresses how people are feeling.

    The Liberal Party has been open about the demise of the carbon rebate being a combination of a lack of their own effective communication strategy, mixed with harmful disinformation campaigns that led to the demise of their signature climate policy.

    For the Liberals, Conservatives, NDP and Greens alike, the road to effective climate policy will lie in this communication. Political leaders will need to balance ambition and pragmatism, ensuring their policies align with Canadians’ economic interests.

    With 71 per cent of Canadians suggesting they want the next government to do more to address climate change, leaders who can articulate a vision for a sustainable, prosperous future while addressing the immediate concerns of Canadians will be the ones who have the best chance of winning the public’s trust — and the next election.

    Andrew Heffernan is affiliated with the Liberal Party of Canada.

    – ref. How political leaders communicate climate policy c should be a defining factor this election – https://theconversation.com/how-political-leaders-communicate-climate-policy-c-should-be-a-defining-factor-this-election-251990

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to news that influenza of avian origin (H5N1) has been confirmed in a single sheep in Yorkshire

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Scientists comment on the first case of Avian Flu (H5N1) confirmed in a sheep in Yorkshire. 

    Prof Ed Hutchinson, Professor of Molecular and Cellular Virology, MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research (MRC CVR), said:

    “Influenza viruses are common in wild birds. Over the last five years, a particularly aggressive strain of the H5N1 avian influenza virus has spread through bird populations across the world. On the way, it has caused repeated ‘spillover’ infections of mammals: mammals that wouldn’t normally get avian influenza have caught the disease from birds. Usually these are one-off infections that don’t go any further, although last year the virus began to spread widely among dairy cattle in the USA, demonstrating the potential influenza viruses have for adapting to new species.

    “The emergence of avian influenza in cattle last year was surprising, as normally cattle don’t catch this type of influenza (influenza A virus). Another animal we hadn’t previously thought of as a host for influenza A viruses is sheep, which makes this announcement of H5N1 influenza in a single sheep in Yorkshire startling. Sheep haven’t previously been thought of as hosts for influenza A viruses, although last year in the USA young goats did get infected with H5N1 at a farm in Minnesota – in this case, this was a one-off infection that didn’t go any further.

    “The sheep was on a farm where avian influenza was present in captive birds, suggesting an obvious route of transmission from wild birds to captive birds to the sheep.

    “The fact that the virus was detected in the sheep’s milk is also surprising. It suggests parallels to the ongoing H5N1 outbreak in dairy cattle in the USA, where the virus is spreading through cow’s milk. At the moment there is no evidence of any ongoing transmission from the sheep, and the case appears to have been contained.

    “More work will be needed to understand what’s going on here – in particular to understand if this is a very rare or one-off event which happened because there was a lot of H5N1 around and this was just the wrong sheep in the wrong place, or whether sheep infections with H5N1 might become more common in the future. Ongoing surveillance will be needed to understand the risk this virus poses to the welfare of sheep as well as to food security.

    “In terms of direct risk to humans, we know from the dairy outbreak in the USA that H5N1 in milk is a possible source of human infection. H5N1 can cause severe illness in humans and it is important to minimise the risk of farmed animals infecting them, although so far in the USA human cases of H5N1 contracted from cows in dairies have typically been quite mild. There is also a risk of H5N1 ‘breeding’ with human strains of influenza to produce a new human influenza virus. There is no evidence that this has happened anywhere with an H5N1 virus, but it is important that we work hard to keep that risk as low as possible.

    “A single infected sheep does not pose a significant risk to humans, particularly because it looks as if the farmer, DEFRA and the APHA have worked together effectively to contain and monitor the situation. However, H5N1 is globally distributed in birds, and if it did become clear that this was not a one-off and that sheep are at risk of infection then this would have implications for surveillance and farm biosecurity in any country with sheep farming. For the time being, this is one to keep an eye on, but not to get too alarmed about.”

     

    Professor Ian Brown, Group Leader at the Pirbright Institute, said:

    “The detection of H5 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in the mammary gland of sheep which has had close contact with infected birds is not an unexpected finding. Proactivity in looking for spillover to domestic mammals has been strengthened in the UK subsequent to the spread of infection amongst USA dairy cattle. The threat to animals and humans remains unchanged since such spillover we have learnt is possible when close contact occurs between multiple infected species. It is too early to consider whether such virus is capable of onward spread within sheep but this was an isolated small holding with a small number of birds and sheep. The pathways of spread of these viruses in the USA has been shown to be by movement of dairy cattle in commercial milking herds which appears not applicable in this single case of one animal becoming infected. It does emphasise the importance of separating species and maintaining good farm hygiene.”

    https://www.gov.uk/government/news/influenza-of-avian-origin-confirmed-in-a-sheep-in-yorkshire  

    Declared interests

    Prof Ed Hutchinson: I have received honoraria for work in a steering group of the Centre for Open Science (Open Practices in Influenza Research; 2021-2022) and on an advisory board for Seqirus (2022). I have unpaid positions on the board of the European Scientific Working group on Influenza and other respiratory viruses (ESWI) and as a scientific adviser to PinPoint Medical. I am part of FluTrailMAP(OneHealth), a UKRI-funded research consortium aiming to respond to H5N1.

    Prof Ian Brown: IB receives research funding to study avian influenza in multiple hosts. IB is a member of the UK scientific committee ‘New and Emerging Respiratory Threats Assessment Group’. IB participates in UKHSA led fora that assess the risk to human health from avian influenza viruses.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Francophonie Month 2025: Update on the implementation of the commitments made at the Villers-Cotterêts summit (21 March 2025)

    Source: Republic of France in English
    The Republic of France has issued the following statement:

    To mark Francophonie Month, the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, and the Minister Delegate for Francophonie and International Partnerships, Thani Mohamed-Soilihi, welcome the progress in implementing the 16 commitments made by President Macron, the leaders of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie, and civil society stakeholders during the 19th Francophonie summit, held in Villers-Cotterêts and Paris on 3 and 4 October 2024.

    At the first meeting of the Villers-Cotterêts commitments monitoring committee, at the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs on 6 March, the main project leaders – from the ministries, the operators and the Cité internationale de la langue française – highlighted the vitality of the projects launched at the 19th Francophonie summit in support of a practical, open, dynamic French language.

    The Villers-Cotterêts commitments are directly connected to the challenges of our time, in the current international context: young people’s employability, artificial intelligence, women’s rights, the resilience of the information space, and media education.

    Since the 19th Francophonie summit, the road map has been set in motion: the launch of the Francophone alliance for intellectual property; the signature on 8 March, with Quebec’s Minister of Francophonie and Equality , of agreements on the Francophone network for women’s equality and rights and on the Francophone feminist alliance; and the announcement of France’s contribution to the international Francophone mobility and employability programme (PIMEF), promoted by the Francophone University Agency.

    In the coming weeks, active efforts by all the stakeholders involved will continue to make several major projects launched at the Villers-Cotterêts summit operational, such as:

    • The inauguration of the ALT-EDIC / LANGU:IA language technology centre in Villers-Cotterêts on 20 March and the launch of four projects led by the European consortium (data, language models etc.);
    • The creation of the France-Quebec committee for the discoverability of French-language scientific content on 9 April;
    • The development of programmes on the TiVi5 youth channel in the Maghreb in the spring;
    • The official creation of the Collège international de Villers-Cotterêts for teacher training on 4 June;
    • The signature of the tripartite agreement between the National Institute of Industrial Property, the World Intellectual Property Organization, and the Permanent Conference of African and Francophone Consular Chambers and Intermediary Organizations, in the framework of the Francophone alliance for intellectual property, at VivaTech on 11 June;
    • Map showing training opportunities in the cultural and creative industries to be launched in Rabat in June;
    • Launch of the Volunteers united for La Francophonie programme (1) between now and the summer.

      With the power of the Francophone players taking them up – as at the trade fair for innovation in French, FrancoTech, which has been placed on a long-term footing and made an annual event in conjunction with the OIF and the Alliance of French-speaking Employers –, the wide-ranging Villers-Cotterêts commitments are directing energies towards a multilateralism that is more necessary than ever.

      For M. Jean-Noël Barrot, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, “The Villers-Cotterêts commitments show that the OIF is at the service of citizens, especially young people, when it comes to building the tools, networks and levers appropriate to a changing world.”

    For M. Thani Mohamed-Soilihi, Minister Delegate for Francophonie and International Partnerships, “We’re continuing to focus our efforts also on diversifying our partners, in order to ensure the long-term nature of the Villers-Cotterêts summit initiatives, stepping up communication efforts to highlight more effectively to our fellow citizens the impact of these projects.”

    (1) Volontaires unis pour la Francophonie – a programme enabling 100 young nationals from OIF member States to travel to other OIF countries to take part in missions in civil-society organizations, local authorities and public bodies, working in the areas of educational cooperation, social entrepreneurship and promoting the values of Francophonie.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Derby’s young climate change champions

    Source: City of Derby

    More than 150 pupils from schools across Derby took part in an event to discuss their climate change concerns and learn about potential careers that could help tackle some of these challenges.

    The children were joined by local businesses and industry experts for The Festival of Ideas – an exciting day of interactive workshops at Pride Park stadium, as part of the Derby Promise.

    A Derby City Council initiative, the Derby Promise focuses on raising employment aspirations and providing meaningful opportunities for the city’s young people, from primary school through to adult education. 

    Taking place during Science Week, the Festival of Ideas saw pupils share knowledge around climate concerns while learning about a range of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) career paths. They also had the opportunity to speak directly with councillors and local leaders about changes they’d like to see, and to ask important questions around their own power to make a difference.

    Workshops were provided by industry experts from Rolls Royce, Wates Construction, Aecom and Climate Education, each exploring different aspects of sustainability and climate action. Activities ranged from quizzes on plastic pollution and global warming, to building a scale suspension bridge which the children could then walk across, seeing the principles of civil engineering in action and understanding the environmental impacts of such projects. 

    There were games around ways to improve our carbon footprint at home, and craft projects demonstrating how wind turbines can make use of our natural resources. 

    Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Skills, said:

    The Festival of Ideas has been a fantastic opportunity for our young people on several levels. It was great to see them really getting stuck into tasks that sparked conversations around climate, but also ideas to do with possible career paths and how STEM can look outside of a classroom and be applied in the working world. 

    Meeting new people and gaining first-hand experience of what a job can entail is such an important step in inspiring and motivating children, helping them to see what’s possible, what they can work towards. The element of fun in each activity really helped too – these are jobs and projects they can enjoy and feel inspired to pursue.

    A key element of the festival was the opportunity for students to present their climate concerns and ideas to local councillors and leaders. Through creative speeches, artwork, and presentations, they highlighted areas for change and engaged in Q&A sessions.

    • Oakwood Junior School stressed the importance of trees, green spaces, and nature.  
    • Becket Primary School recognised the difference we can all make to ensure communities and the natural world are protected
    • Cherry Tree Hill Primary School are busy composting and were keen for Derby to make composting easier at home, at work, and in public places
    • Beaufort Primary School stressed the need for increased renewable energy use, reduced car usage, increased tree planting, recycling, and waste reduction 
    • Redwood Primary School suggested sustainable transport competitions, refill shops, rewilding, and climate-focused public art 
    • Cavendish Close Junior School discussed careful recycling, water conservation, re-wilding and informed buying choices.

    Students also discussed practical actions they and their schools could take, such as litter-picking groups, bug hotels, wormeries, and recycling champions. They emphasised the importance of using their voices to drive change, encouraging teachers and parents to address environmental issues.

    Councillor Carmel Swan, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Transport and Sustainability, was particularly impressed by the children’s passion, practical ideas, and optimism. She said:

    The event underlined how important it is that children’s voices are included in conversations around climate change. Our young people are very aware that they’re inheriting a planet with increasing environmental challenges, but one thing that stood out was their positivity in tackling these issues. They truly believe change is possible, and they want to lead the charge in improving climate change.

    The Derby Promise’s Festival of Ideas is an ongoing initiative. Throughout the coming year, schools will be developing their own climate action plans, and the team behind Derby Promise will be providing ongoing teacher support sessions and guidance to schools.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: A Disaster Recovery Center in Logan County, W.Va. Opening Monday, March 24

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: A Disaster Recovery Center in Logan County, W

    Va

    Opening Monday, March 24

    A Disaster Recovery Center in Logan County, W

    Va

    Opening Monday, March 24

    CHARLESTON, W

    Va

    – A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will be opening in Logan County at the Southern WV Community and Technical College at 8:00 a

    m

    , Monday March 24, 2025

     FEMA encourages all residents of the impacted counties to register for assistance, including homeowners and renters

    The center is located at: Logan County Disaster Recovery CenterSouthern WV Community & Technical CollegeLogan Campus100 College DriveLogan, WV 25601 Hours of operation:Monday through Friday: 8 a

    m

    to 6 p

    m

     Saturdays: 9 a

    m

    to 3 p

    m

    Closed on SundaysThe DRCs located in the table below remain open

    DRCs are open to all, including survivors with mobility issues, impaired vision, and those who are who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing

    Residents of the designated counties can visit any open DRC for assistance

      Logan County Disaster Recovery CenterMercer County Disaster Recovery CenterSouthern WV Community & Technical College100 College DriveLogan, WV 25601 Hours of operation:Monday to Friday: 9 a

    m

    – 6 p

    m

     Saturdays: 9 a

    m

    – 3 p

    m

    Closed Sundays   Lifeline Princeton Church of God250 Oakvale Road Princeton, WV 24740 Hours of operation:Monday to Friday: 9 a

    m

    – 5 p

    m

    Saturdays: 10 a

    m

    – 2 p

    m

    Closed Sundays Closed March 22, April 19 McDowell County (Welch) Disaster Recovery Center McDowell County Disaster (Bradshaw) Recovery Center Board of Education Office900 Mount View High School RoadWelch, WV 24801 Hours of operation:Monday through Friday: 8 a

    m

    to 6 p

    m

     Saturday March 29: 9 a

    m

    to 1 p

    m

    , weather dependentClosed on Sundays Bradshaw Town Hall10002 Marshall HwyBradshaw, WV 24817 Hours of operation:Monday to Saturday: 8 a

    m

    to 6 p

    m

    Closed Sundays  Mingo County Disaster Recovery CenterWyoming County Disaster Recovery CenterWilliamson Campus1601 Armory DriveWilliamson, WV 25661 Hours of operation:Monday through Friday: 8 a

    m

    to 6 p

    m

     Saturdays: 9 a

    m

    to 3 p

    m

    Closed on SundaysWyoming Court House24 Main AvePineville, WV 24874 Hours of operation:Monday through Friday: 8 a

    m

    to 6 p

    m

     Saturdays: 9 a

    m

    to 3 p

    m

    Closed on Sundays Residents in Logan, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Wayne, and Wyoming counties who were impacted by the winter flooding between February 15 – 18, 2025 do not have to visit a DRC to register with FEMA

    You can call 800-621-FEMA (3362)

    The toll-free telephone line operates seven days a week

    If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service

    You can also register online at DisasterAssistance

    gov or through the FEMA App on your phone

     As a reminder, accepting FEMA funds will not affect eligibility for Social Security – including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) – Medicare, Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, or other federal benefit programs

     Additionally, FEMA assistance does not need to be repaid, but residents should file insurance claims as soon as possible

    By law, FEMA cannot cover expenses that have already been covered by other sources like insurance, crowdfunding, local or state programs, donations, or financial assistance from voluntary agencies

     For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd

    wv

    gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4861, and www

    facebook

    com/FEMA

    ### FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters

    Follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA’s Facebook page or Espanol page and at FEMA’s YouTube account

    Also, follow on X FEMA_Cam

     For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready

    gov, on Instagram @Ready

    gov or on the Ready Facebook page

      
    lianza

    yap
    Sat, 03/22/2025 – 13:29

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sols 4486-4487: Ankle-Breaking Kind of Terrain!

    Source: NASA

    Written by Catherine O’Connell-Cooper, Planetary Geologist at University of New Brunswick

    Earth planning date: Wednesday, March 19, 2025 
    This terrain is a tricky drive, with rocks angled chaotically all around. One of our geologists remarked that they wouldn’t like to even walk over this without solid boots coming way up over the ankles — this is definitely the kind of terrain to result in twisted and broken ankles! So it wasn’t too unexpected that the drive we had planned on Monday cut short after 18 meters (about 59 feet). Fortunately, we ended up both at a workspace with abundant bedrock and in an orientation that allowed us to pass SRAP (our “Slip Risk Assessment Process”).  
    The rover planners were quickly able to find a spot to brush, so we have a coordinated target on “Palm Grove,” one of the laminated rocks in the lower half of the accompanying image. APXS and MAHLI will look at this target on the first sol of the plan, and then ChemCam LIBS and Mastcam will look at it on the second sol. Although the bulk of the bedrock is relatively nodule free, ChemCam will look at the nodular target “Refugio” to compare to the more dominant, nodule-poor bedrock. 
    On Monday, our workspace included some very interesting layers in the bedrock that might represent preserved sand ripples, but sadly, as Conor reported on Monday, we didn’t pass SRAP, which precluded any contact science. However, today we ended up near rocks that had similar layer geometry, and will acquire a MAHLI “Dog’s Eye” or mosaic image of these rocks at “Duna Vista” and two Mastcam 5×3 mosaics (“Bayside Trail” and “Oso Flaco”) on other examples.  
    Mastcam is taking several other images here. A 14×3 mosaic will capture the “nearfield” or area close to the rover, and a set of four further images focus on four distinct trough features, to help us better understand ongoing modification of the surface. Further afield, the “Quartz Hill” and “Pino Alto” mosaics look at areas of fragmented bedrock which may be similar to the “Humber Park” outcrop we analyzed this past weekend. Even further from the rover, ChemCam will acquire RMI (Remote Micro Imager) images of the “Boxworks” and an almost circular depression (“Torote Bowl”) whose origin is not clear. 
    The environmental theme group (ENV) planned a Mastcam tau (to look at dust in the atmosphere) and a Navcam dust-devil survey (to look for dust devils!) for the first sol of the plan. On the second sol, we fill out the movies with Navcam movies looking toward the south of the crater (suprahorizon, cloud shadow, and zenith movies) and a Mastcam sky survey.  
    In between the movies on the second sol, our drive is planned to take us another 34 meters (about 112 feet)… but we will have to see how far our intrepid rover will make it on this tricky terrain. Slow and steady will win this race!

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Rapid7 Appoints Three New Board Members

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, March 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rapid7, Inc. (NASDAQ: RPD), a leader in extended risk and threat detection, today announced that it will appoint three new members to its Board of Directors: Wael Mohamed, Mike Burns and Kevin Galligan. These appointments will expand Rapid7’s Board to comprise 11 directors. In addition, Rapid7 and JANA Partners Management, LP have entered into a cooperation agreement, which, among other things, provides that JANA Partners will support all of Rapid7’s director nominees at its upcoming annual shareholder meeting.

    Corey Thomas, Chairman and CEO of Rapid7, stated: “Rapid7 is entering an exciting new chapter of growth, and we are confident that adding Wael, Mike and Kevin to our Board will accelerate our ability to execute with greater speed, focus and impact. Each brings a wealth of expertise that will help us sharpen our strategy, strengthen execution and drive greater value creation for our shareholders.”

    Thomas continued, “With a differentiated security data platform and an expanding security operations ecosystem, we are delivering cutting-edge solutions in AI-driven threat detection and response, cloud security and exposure management — empowering organizations to secure their environments more effectively and efficiently. We are well-positioned within these markets to drive sustainable, profitable growth, and these strategic Board appointments reinforce our commitment to scaling our business, enhancing operational efficiency, and driving long-term shareholder returns.”

    Scott Ostfeld, Managing Partner of JANA Partners, added: “We are encouraged by the steps Rapid7 is taking to enhance its leadership and execution capabilities. We have appreciated our highly constructive dialogue with Rapid7 and look forward to working with management and the Board to capitalize on the significant opportunities ahead and to maximize value for shareholders.”

    A copy of the cooperation agreement will be included as an exhibit to the company’s Current Report on Form 8-K to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

    Advisors

    J.P. Morgan is serving as financial advisor, and Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP is serving as legal advisor, to Rapid7 in connection with the cooperation agreement.

    About Wael Mohamed

    Wael Mohamed has a unique combination of cybersecurity, digital transformation, and executive leadership expertise, which has enabled him to be a go-to advisor for boards and executives for more than 30 years. Mr. Mohamed is the co-founder and Managing General Partner of Global Forward Capital. Prior to that, Mr. Mohamed was an Operating Partner at Advent International and became the CEO of Forescout, an Advent International portfolio company. He previously served as President & COO and board member of Trend Micro Group. Mr. Mohamed received a Bachelor of Computer Science from Dalhousie University and the Executive Corporate Director Certificate from Harvard Business School.

    About Mike Burns

    Mike Burns has more than 25 years of senior leadership experience in finance and operations with high-growth public technology companies. Most recently, Mr. Burns served as Chief Financial Officer of Imperva, Inc. Previously he served as CFO of Gigamon as well as CFO of Volterra Semiconductor. Earlier in his career, Mr. Burns held senior finance roles at Intel Corporation. He earned his A.B. in Economics and M.S. in Industrial Engineering from Stanford University, and his MBA from the UC Berkeley Haas School of Business.

    About Kevin Galligan

    Kevin Galligan has 18 years of experience investing in companies and driving shareholder value. He is a Partner and Director of Research at JANA Partners, an investment firm specializing in enhancing shareholder value. Mr. Galligan joined JANA Partners in 2011 from Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Company where he was a Principal in the North American Private Equity Group. Prior to that, he worked in the Mergers & Acquisitions Advisory Division of The Blackstone Group. Mr. Galligan holds a B.A. in Economics from Columbia University.

    About Rapid7

    Rapid7 (Nasdaq: RPD) is on a mission to create a safer digital world by making cybersecurity simpler and more accessible. We empower security professionals to manage a modern attack surface through our best-in-class technology, leading-edge research, and broad, strategic expertise. Rapid7’s comprehensive security solutions help more than 11,000 global customers unite cloud risk management and threat detection to reduce attack surfaces and eliminate threats with speed and precision. For more information, visit our website, check out our blog, or follow us on LinkedIn or X.

    Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the statements regarding the appointment of Wael Mohamed, Michael Burns, and Kevin Galligan, and the experiences and value that they will bring to the Board and Rapid7, Inc. (“Rapid7”). Our use of the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “will” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. The events described in our forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that could cause actual results and the timing of certain events to differ materially from future results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Risks that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, growing macroeconomic uncertainty, unstable market and economic conditions, fluctuations in our quarterly results, our ability to successfully grow our sales of our cloud-based solutions, including through the shift to a consolidated platform sales approach, effectiveness of our restructuring plan that was completed during fiscal year 2024, failure to meet our publicly announced guidance or other expectations about our business, our ability to sustain our revenue growth rate, the ability of our products and professional services to correctly detect vulnerabilities, renewal of our customer’s subscriptions, competition in the markets in which we operate, market growth, our ability to innovate and manage our growth, our sales cycles, our ability to integrate acquired companies, exposure to greater than anticipated tax liabilities, and our ability to operate in compliance with applicable laws as well as other risks and uncertainties that could affect our business and results described in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, filed with the SEC on February 28, 2025, particularly in the section entitled “Item 1.A Risk Factors,” and in the subsequent reports that we file with the SEC. Moreover, we operate in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment. New risks emerge from time to time. It is not possible for our management to predict all risks, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements we may make. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of such statements. You should, therefore, not rely on these forward-looking statements as representing our views as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release.

    Additional Information

    Rapid7 intends to file a proxy statement, together with a proxy card, with the SEC in connection with its solicitation of proxies for its 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “2025 Annual Meeting”). Rapid7 stockholders are urged to read the proxy statement, together with the proxy card, and other relevant documents filed or to be filed with the SEC when they become available because they contain or will contain important information. Investors will be able to get copies of the proxy statement and other documents (including the proxy card) filled with the SEC by Rapid7 for free at the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. Copies of those documents will also be available free of charge through the “Investors” section of Rapid7’s website, under Financials/SEC Filings, at www.rapid7.com.

    Participants in the Solicitation

    Rapid7, members of our Board of Directors and certain of our executive officers are “participants” in the solicitation of proxies from the Company’s stockholders in connection with the 2025 Annual Meeting. Information regarding the Company’s Board of Directors and executive officers and their respective interests in the Company, by security holdings or otherwise, is set forth in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, filed with the SEC on February 28, 2025. To the extent such ownership interests have changed since such filings, such changes have been reflected on Statements of Change in Ownership on Form 4 filed with the SEC, and will be reflected in the Proxy Statement for the 2025 Annual Meeting when filed with the SEC. Security holders may obtain free copies of these documents as described above.

    Investor contact:
    Elizabeth Chwalk
    Vice President, Investor Relations
    investors@rapid7.com
    (617) 865-4277

    Press contact:
    Alice Randall
    Director, Global Corporate Communications
    press@rapid7.com
    (214) 693-4727 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: EDUCATION FOR ALL

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 3:25PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of School Education and Literacy is implementing an integrated centrally sponsored scheme for School education- Samagra Shiksha. The scheme treats school education holistically, without segmentation from pre-primary to class XII in alignment with the recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and aims to ensure that all children have access to quality education with an equitable and inclusive classroom environment which should take care of their diverse background, multilingual needs, different academic abilities and make them active participants in the learning process.

    Under Samagra Shiksha, financial assistance is provided to States and UTs for implementation of various provisions of Samagra Shiksha Scheme including  free uniform to eligible children at elementary level, free textbooks at elementary level, reimbursement under RTE Act, various qualitative components development of primers/textbooks for tribal language, teaching learning materials, transport/escort facility up to secondary level, special training for age appropriate admission of out of school children and residential as well as non-residential training for older children, seasonal hostels / residential camps, special training centers, age-appropriate residential and non-residential training, support to Out of School Children (16 to 19 years) for completion of education through NIOS/SIOS, Holistic Progress Card, bilingual teaching material and books.

    Further, financial assistance is also provided to the States and UTs for  opening/strengthening of new schools upto senior secondary level, construction of school buildings & additional classrooms, development/strengthening of school infrastructure in northern border areas under Vibrant Village Programme, setting up, up-gradation and running of Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas, setting up of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Avasiya Vidyalayas, construction of hostels for PVTGs under PM-JANMAN, construction of hostels under Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan for unsaturated ST population, strengthening of teacher education and strengthening of DIETs/BRCs/CRCs, provision of ICT and digital interventions.

    Under the student-oriented component for the children with special needs, financial assistance is provided for identification and assessment of children with special needs, aids and appliances, braille kits and books, appropriate teaching learning material and stipend to girl students with disability etc. It also has provisions for creation of differently-abled friendly infrastructure such as ramps, ramps with handrails and differently-abled friendly toilets for barrier free access in schools. Further, to improve the identification of CwSN, the Government has introduced the Prashast App for early screening and identification of CwSN in regular schools. Teacher capacity building programs are being undertaken under NISHTHA in hybrid mode to train general teachers to address the learning needs of CwSN.

    The New India Literacy Programme (NILP) popularly known as ULLAS – targets non-literates aged 15 years and above who have missed formal schooling and provide educational opportunities to them to make them literate. It is being implemented from FY 2022-23 to 2026-27. A dedicated ULLAS App has been created for registering learners and volunteer teachers. Till now, over 2.20 crore learners and more than 40 lakh volunteer teachers have registered on the app. The App also contains TLM in the form of ULLAS primers in all languages.

    The Scheme supports creation and strengthening of infrastructure like, School buildings, Additional Classrooms, Toilets, Drinking Water, Ramp and Handrails, electrifications, Boundary wall, Science labs, Library Rooms, Computer Rooms, and Major Repairs works as per state requirements.

    To bridge the gap between rural and urban areas in educational access, digital initiatives like ICT Labs, Smart Classrooms, PM e-Vidya including DIKSHA and SWAYAM PRABHA DTH-TV Channels are also being supported under the scheme.

    The annual plans are prepared by the States and UTs as per their requirements/ priority including creation/ strengthening of infrastructure, support to teachers’ salary etc. and same is reflected in their respective Annual Work Plan and Budget (AWP&B) Proposals. These plans are then appraised and approved by the Project Approval Board (PAB) in the Department of School Education & Literacy in consultation with the States and UTs as per the programmatic and financial norms of the scheme and physical and financial progress of the State for the interventions approved earlier.

    The information was given by the Minister of State for Education, Shri Jayant Chaudhary in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

    *****

    MV/AK

    (Release ID: 2114376) Visitor Counter : 129

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRESIDENT OF INDIA GRACES SILVER JUBILEE OF CHHATTISGARH LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 1:18PM by PIB Delhi

    The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu graced the silver jubilee function of Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly at Raipur today (March 24, 2025).

    Speaking on the occasion, the President said that the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly has set the highest standards of democratic traditions. It has made an extraordinary rule of automatic suspension of members who enter the well during the proceedings of the House and has followed it. She was happy to note that during the last 25 years, the Marshall never had to be used. She said that the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly has presented a unique example of excellent parliamentary conduct not only to the rest of India but also to all the democratic systems of the world.

    The President urged women MLAs to support all other women. She said that when they promote women working in various fields, everyone’s attention will be drawn to those women and the path of their development will be paved. She stated that whether they are teachers or officers, social workers or entrepreneurs, scientists or artists, laborers or farmers, often our sisters make their place in the outside world while fulfilling day-to-day household responsibilities and struggling hard. When all the women empower each other, our society will become stronger and more sensitive.

    The President said that Chhattisgarh has immense possibilities for development. There are ample opportunities for development in sectors like cement, mineral industry, steel, aluminum, and power generation. This beautiful state is rich in lush green forests, waterfalls, and other natural boons. She urged policymakers of the state to ensure environmental conservation while moving ahead on the path of development. She said that they also have the responsibility of connecting all sections of society with the journey of modern development.

    Please click here to see the President’s Speech – 

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2114317) Visitor Counter : 42

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: SURVEYS UNDER JAL JEEVAN MISSION

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 12:21PM by PIB Delhi

    Since August, 2019, Government of India is implementing Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) in partnership with States to make provision of potable tap water supply in adequate quantity, of prescribed quality and on regular & long-term basis to every rural household in the country. Water being a state subject, the responsibility of planning, approval, implementation, operation, and maintenance of drinking water supply schemes/ works, including those under the Jal Jeevan Mission, lies with State/UT Governments. The Government of India supports the States by providing technical and financial assistance. States/ UTs report data (related to coverage of tap connections and progress of the mission) through the means of field survey on households provided with tap connections and remaining households, or as per the methodology adopted by States/ UTs in this regard. Details of such surveys are not maintained by Ministry of Jal Shakti.

    For capturing the coverage of tap connections in States/ UTs, Ministry of Jal Shakti has developed a robust online JJM dashboard which provides State/ UT, district and village-wise progress of the mission. After reporting of the data regarding progress of JJM, by States/ UTs on JJM dashboard, the same gets recorded and starts reflecting on JJM dashboard which is available in public domain and can be accessed at: https://ejalshakti.gov.in/jjmreport/JJMIndia.aspx

    As per the information reported by States/ UTs on JJM dashboard, around 89% of Schools and 85% of Anganwadis are reported to have been covered with tap water supply in the country.

    This information was provided by THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR JAL SHAKTI SHRI V. SOMANNA in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.

    ***

    DHANYA SANAL K

    (Lok Sabha US Q3428)

    (Release ID: 2114292) Visitor Counter : 81

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: WATER SOURCES UNDER JJM

    Source: Government of India

    Since August, 2019, Government of India is implementing Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) in partnership with States to make provision of potable tap water supply in adequate quantity, of prescribed quality and on regular & long-term basis to every rural household in the country.

    Water being a state subject, the responsibility of planning, approval, implementation, operation, and maintenance of drinking water supply schemes/ works, including those under the Jal Jeevan Mission, lies with State/UT Governments. The Government of India supports the States by providing technical and financial assistance.

    As reported by State Government of Andhra Pradesh, the details of the water sources utilized for water supply under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), source type, State and district-wise in Andhra Pradesh, including those in Konaseema district, are at below.

    The number of tap connections receiving water supply from the above-mentioned sources in Konaseema district, water source-wise, are as under:

    Name of the District

    No.of Tap connections receiving water

    Ground Water Based

    Surface Water Based

    Ground Water & Surface Water both

    Konaseema

    1,28,558

    84,856

    72,537

     

    The details of Ground Water levels in meters (Below Ground level) in Konaseema district during last 5 years is enclosed at below.

    As reported by Government of Andhra Pradesh, assessment of variation of water levels of 1524 Summer Storage tanks in the state and 42 Summer Storage tanks in Konaseema District, fed from canals is being carried out through a mobile application developed for capturing photo and Geotagging of Summer Storage tanks and the supply is planned accordingly.

    Also, assessment of variation in Ground water levels is being done as per the data received Ground Water department and the supply is planned accordingly.

    Ministry of Jal Shakti does not monitor water levels for JJM sources. However, development of reliable drinking water sources and/ or augmentation of existing sources to provide long-term sustainability of water supply system in villages, is an integral part of JJM. To achieve this objective, following provisions have been made in operational guidelines for the implementation of JJM:

    i.) Any water supply scheme undertaken under JJM is approved only after the recommendation of a Source Finding Committee of the respective state government, to the effect that the identified water source through which the scheme is planned, has sufficient yield for sustaining water supply as per required norm, for the scheme design period.

    ii.) Development/ strengthening/ augmentation of drinking water sources and infrastructure for bulk transfer of water, treatment, and distribution systems in water deficit drought-prone and desert areas without dependable ground water sources apart from creation of in-village water supply infrastructure.

    iii.) Strengthening of drinking water sources in convergence with other schemes such as MGNREGS, Finance Commission grants to rural local bodies/ PRIs, MP & MLA’s Local Area Development Fund, District Mineral Development Fund, CSR fund, etc.

    Besides, National Water Mission (NWM) has developed a guidance document titled “Simple and Practical Methods of Artificial Recharge of Groundwater Augmentation” in the form of FAQs to provide technical support. Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities have also been undertaken to spread awareness about the initiative. A monitoring and evaluation framework has also been established through the Jal Sanchay Dashboard, which tracks progress with geo-tagged locations of recharge structures. CWC and CGWB also provide technical assistance for the creation and renovation of recharge structures to improve groundwater augmentation efforts.

    In so far as Government of Andhra Pradesh is concerned, State has taken number of steps towards monitoring of drinking water sources viz. Geo-tagging of sources and summer tanks, tracking water levels of summer storage tanks, feeding from canals through mobile application  for capturing photo.

    Also, State is constructing Ground Water Recharge Structures under MGNREGS programme to rejuvenate/improve ground water levels in villages near JJM sources. All the summer storage tanks are filled well before the canal closure period to ensure uninterrupted water supply to Households during summer.

    This information was provided by THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR JAL SHAKTI SHRI V. SOMANNA in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.

    ****

    List of Sources in the State of Andhra Pradesh

    Sr. No.

    Name of the District

    No. of Sources

    Ground Water based

    Surface Water based

    Total

    1

    Alluri Sitharama Raju

    7356

    627

    7983

    2

    Anakapalli

    2958

    64

    3022

    3

    ANANTAPUR

    3468

    186

    3654

    4

    Annamayya

    7458

    353

    7811

    5

    Bapatla

    828

    463

    1291

    6

    Chittoor

    7803

    45

    7848

    7

    East Godavari

    1356

    28

    1384

    8

    Eluru

    3599

    1358

    4957

    9

    Guntur

    755

    618

    1373

    10

    Kakinada

    1346

    259

    1605

    11

    Konaseema

    637

    157

    794

    12

    Krishna

    1320

    405

    1725

    13

    Kurnool

    1976

    260

    2236

    14

    Nandyal

    2707

    121

    2828

    15

    NELLORE

    5426

    716

    6142

    16

    NTR

    1522

    129

    1651

    17

    Palnadu

    2511

    625

    3136

    18

    Parvathipuram Manyam

    3253

    190

    3443

    19

    Prakasam

    3637

    334

    3971

    20

    Sri Sathya Sai

    4544

    177

    4721

    21

    Srikakulam

    5237

    373

    5610

    22

    Tirupati

    6859

    247

    7106

    23

    Visakhapatanam

    540

    56

    596

    24

    Vizianagaram

    2215

    656

    2871

    25

    West Godavari

    679

    507

    1186

    26

    Y.S.R

    5598

    424

    6022

    Total

    85,588

    9,378

    94,966

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –