NewzIntel.com

Category: Fisheries

  • MIL-OSI Canada: People, businesses urged to conserve water as drought risks increase

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Province is urging people in British Columbia to conserve water over the coming weeks as forecasts suggest much of the province will experience elevated drought conditions.

    “Saving water and responding to drought is a shared responsibility, and we know that early action can make a big difference, especially when we work together,” said Randene Neill, Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship. “The Province is doing our part to ensure communities and farmers are prepared, and we are working with large water users to reduce their water use. This is especially critical in high-risk watersheds that support fish populations or are at risk of long-term harm.”

    Voluntary reduction and water-conservation measures and changes in weather, including significant rainfall, can play a critical role in maintaining stream flows. In some B.C. communities, residential water use makes up as much as 70% of total use during the summer months, which is why even small changes at home can make a big difference. That might look like:

    • watering your lawn less often or switching to drought-tolerant plants;
    • using a broom instead of a hose to clean driveways or patios;
    • turning off the tap while brushing your teeth or washing dishes; or
    • fixing leaky faucets, which can waste hundreds of litres over time.

    The Province continues to monitor stream and weather conditions and their potential impacts to aquatic ecosystems and fish populations. In the meantime, people in British Columbia are asked to help ensure the sustainability of watersheds by reducing their water use whenever possible.

    While the recent rains provided relief for some regions in B.C., particularly the Fort Nelson area, it has not been enough to overcome limited rain from previous months. Much of the southern Interior is expected to remain dry with little to no rainfall, with drought conditions worsening and stream flows continuing to decline in the Nicola, Kettle, Okanagan and Slocan-Lower Columbia basins.

    The Province has taken a whole-of-government approach to investing in practical solutions and is working closely with First Nations, local governments, industry and the agricultural sector to manage water wisely and protect long-term water security. In spring 2025, government also updated B.C.’s Drought and Water Scarcity Response Plan to clarify the approach to monitoring drought and water-scarcity impacts ahead of the dry season, with an emphasis on early action and support for local decision-making.

    Additional efforts include a $100-million Watershed Security Fund to support local water projects that build drought resilience and more than $100 million through the Agricultural Water Infrastructure Program to help farmers and communities build better water storage and delivery systems, as well as more funding for emergency response and community planning to better manage water shortages when they happen.

    Temporary protection orders may be issued as a last resort if voluntary efforts are not enough to restore water flows and protect vulnerable animals, fish and watersheds from long-lasting harms that could take generations to recover. Decisions about whether to issue water-use restrictions are based on supporting science, and a careful analysis of local economic factors.

    Learn More:

    To learn more about drought preparation and response, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/drought

    A backgrounder follws.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: People, businesses urged to conserve water as drought risks increase

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Province is urging people in British Columbia to conserve water over the coming weeks as forecasts suggest much of the province will experience elevated drought conditions.

    “Saving water and responding to drought is a shared responsibility, and we know that early action can make a big difference, especially when we work together,” said Randene Neill, Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship. “The Province is doing our part to ensure communities and farmers are prepared, and we are working with large water users to reduce their water use. This is especially critical in high-risk watersheds that support fish populations or are at risk of long-term harm.”

    Voluntary reduction and water-conservation measures and changes in weather, including significant rainfall, can play a critical role in maintaining stream flows. In some B.C. communities, residential water use makes up as much as 70% of total use during the summer months, which is why even small changes at home can make a big difference. That might look like:

    • watering your lawn less often or switching to drought-tolerant plants;
    • using a broom instead of a hose to clean driveways or patios;
    • turning off the tap while brushing your teeth or washing dishes; or
    • fixing leaky faucets, which can waste hundreds of litres over time.

    The Province continues to monitor stream and weather conditions and their potential impacts to aquatic ecosystems and fish populations. In the meantime, people in British Columbia are asked to help ensure the sustainability of watersheds by reducing their water use whenever possible.

    While the recent rains provided relief for some regions in B.C., particularly the Fort Nelson area, it has not been enough to overcome limited rain from previous months. Much of the southern Interior is expected to remain dry with little to no rainfall, with drought conditions worsening and stream flows continuing to decline in the Nicola, Kettle, Okanagan and Slocan-Lower Columbia basins.

    The Province has taken a whole-of-government approach to investing in practical solutions and is working closely with First Nations, local governments, industry and the agricultural sector to manage water wisely and protect long-term water security. In spring 2025, government also updated B.C.’s Drought and Water Scarcity Response Plan to clarify the approach to monitoring drought and water-scarcity impacts ahead of the dry season, with an emphasis on early action and support for local decision-making.

    Additional efforts include a $100-million Watershed Security Fund to support local water projects that build drought resilience and more than $100 million through the Agricultural Water Infrastructure Program to help farmers and communities build better water storage and delivery systems, as well as more funding for emergency response and community planning to better manage water shortages when they happen.

    Temporary protection orders may be issued as a last resort if voluntary efforts are not enough to restore water flows and protect vulnerable animals, fish and watersheds from long-lasting harms that could take generations to recover. Decisions about whether to issue water-use restrictions are based on supporting science, and a careful analysis of local economic factors.

    Learn More:

    To learn more about drought preparation and response, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/drought

    A backgrounder follws.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Plant theft is often overlooked – that’s why it’s on the rise

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jenni Cauvain, Senior Lecturer in Sociology, Nottingham Trent University

    More than 180 plants were stolen from a well-loved public park in Nottingham called Arboretum in May 2025. This incident took place just days after volunteers had re-planted flowers and shrubs to repair damage from a previous theft in March. In April 2025, the nearby Forest Recreation Ground community garden was also targeted – roses and crops grown by volunteers were stolen, even a pond went missing.

    Plant theft may seem trivial, but environmental and wildlife crime tend to be overlooked. This is precisely one of the reasons why it is on the rise. Research suggests an annual growth rate in environmental crime of 5%-7%, making it the third largest criminal sector in the world.

    Globally, environmental crime has been valued at US$70-213 billion (£52-158 billion) annually. As with most crime, its true scale is difficult to estimate as it remains hidden. This is even more true for environmental crime that goes undetected.

    Plant thefts in Nottingham where I am based are small in comparison, but they tell the same story of lucrative illicit opportunities for criminals where law enforcement and potential sanctions are low. It’s most likely that people steal local plants to sell on for profit.

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

    Another reason for overlooking this growing trend in wildlife crime is that perpetrators, as well as much of society, may feel that this is a “victimless crime”. Where plants, animals, watercourses or soil are “the victim”, people don’t feel as strongly because our ethics and value systems generally prioritise fellow humans and do not recognise non-humans as victims.

    People may be more likely to care about mammals such as elephants targeted in illegal ivory trade, but environmental crime permeates every community in the UK, as the recent Nottingham cases indicate.

    Stolen benefits

    As a researcher in environmental sociology, I believe wildlife crime and environmental damage should gain higher priority in terms of public attention, law enforcement and potential sanctions. Not only because of the intrinsic value that non-human nature has in its own right, but because of the value nature brings to us humans.

    Parks and green spaces known as “green infrastructure” are central to our wellbeing in cities. They bring environmental and social benefits in terms of air quality, urban heat island effect, surface flooding, carbon storage, biodiversity and health.

    After the COVID pandemic, the importance of accessing quality green spaces for our mental and physical wellbeing became even more apparent. Visits to parks can reduce loneliness and anxiety, as well as foster a sense of belonging and community.

    This has the potential to benefit the public purse too. Nottingham is currently involved in a national green social prescribing test and learn programme to demonstrate the benefits of nature-based activity.

    Public parks are often also significant in terms of cultural heritage. This is not a new discovery. Historically, public parks were introduced in cities to improve living conditions, quality of life and as educational resources. The Arboretum – the city centre park recently targeted by thieves – was the first such public park to open in Nottingham in 1845.

    When valued green spaces are the victim of crime, this is not a mere aesthetic problem. Wider social and environmental harms are inflicted upon communities and nature that depend on open green spaces to thrive.

    This matters in cities like Nottingham that suffer from high levels of deprivation and poor health outcomes. My own research has shown that while Nottingham is often celebrated for leadership in green initiatives, it suffers from deep-seated social inequality and deprivation that are long-term challenges.

    Social inequality is associated with crime and disorder in urban areas that creates a vicious cycle when the crimes target community assets such as public parks. It is beyond doubt that public parks being ransacked will negatively impact the quality of life in Nottingham.

    It is likely that these crimes get dismissed as a minor nuisance because “only plants” were stolen, but this attitude serves to mask the broader trend of growing environmental crime and the damage this brings to communities. Unfortunately, this will further contribute to the likelihood of such crimes spreading in future.

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

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

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

    – ref. Plant theft is often overlooked – that’s why it’s on the rise – https://theconversation.com/plant-theft-is-often-overlooked-thats-why-its-on-the-rise-259334

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: We can learn a lot from Troy’s trash

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Stephan Blum, Research associate, Institute for Prehistory and Early History and Medieval Archaeology, University of Tübingen

    Beneath the epic tales of heroes and gods, Troy’s true story is written in something far less glamorous – its rubbish.

    When we think of Troy, we imagine epic battles, valiant deeds, cunning tricks and the wrath of gods. Thanks to Homer’s Iliad, the city is remembered as a stage for romance and heroism.

    But long before Paris stole Helen and Achilles raged on the battlefield, the people of bronze age Troy lived ordinary lives – with extraordinary consequences. They built, cooked, stored, traded and, crucially, threw things away. And they did it right where they lived.

    Today, waste is whisked away quickly – out of sight, out of mind. But in bronze age Troy (3000–1000BC), trash stayed close, often accumulating in domestic dumping grounds for generations.

    Having spent more than 16 summers excavating and analysing the bronze age layers of Troy, I’ve learned to read the city’s history this waste.

    Hundreds of thousands of animal bones from cattle, sheep, fish – even turtles – were found alongside vast quantities of pottery shards, ash, food scraps, and human waste. Sometimes, these layers were reused to level floors or build walls, showing how closely intertwined daily life and refuse management were.

    Archaeology’s dirty secret

    This wasn’t laziness or neglect, it was pure pragmatism. In a world without rubbish trucks or sanitation systems, managing refuse was neither chaotic nor careless, but a collective, spatially negotiated – and surprisingly strategic – effort.

    The excavations I have worked on as part of the University of Tübingen’s Troy Project, which has been going on since 1988, have revealed just how deliberate these routines were. Where people chose to dump, or not to dump, speaks volumes about status, social roles, and community boundaries. Waste is the diary no one meant to write, yet it records the intimate rhythms of daily life with unfiltered clarity.

    Far from a nuisance, Troy’s waste is an archaeologist’s treasure trove.

    Over nearly 2,000 years, Troy ended up with 15 meters of built-up debris. Archaeologists can see nine major building phases in it, each made up of hundreds of thin layers, which formed as people lived their everyday lives. These layers act like snapshots, quietly recording how the city changed over time. Some capture hearth cleanings, others record the rebuilding of entire city quarters.

    By analysing the layers and their ratios of bones to pottery, ash concentration, presence of storage jars, grinding stones, or production debris, specific spaces of activity become visible: kitchens, workshops, storage areas, rubbish pits. What appears chaotic turns out to be a carefully structured map of everyday routines – showing where meals were prepared, tools made, and discarded objects left behind.

    A schematic cross-section through the settlement mound of Troy, revealing centuries of construction, destruction, and renewal.
    University of Tübingen/Frank Schweizer, CC BY-NC-SA

    The story these remains tell is one of profound transformation. Troy began as a modest agrarian settlement, shaped by the steady rhythms of farming, herding, and small-scale craft. Over time, it grew into a thriving regional centre.

    The archaeological record, rich in refuse, traces this long arc of change. Exotic imports fashioned from stones such as carnelian and lapis lazuli begin to appear, revealing distant trade connections. Specialised metalworking tools emerge alongside monumental architecture. some buildings stretched nearly 30 metres, signalling growing ambitions and expanding capabilities.

    This rise unfolded gradually, reflected not just in grander buildings, but in shifting tools, trade, and how people dealt with what they left behind. Waste management became more organised, with designated areas for different types of waste. This reflects broader shifts in how the community structured space and managed its economy.

    Yet this ascent was interrupted. By the mid-third millennium BC, signs that things were becoming smaller appear. Architecture simplifies, household inventories shrink, production debris declines suggesting economic slowdown or political instability.

    Still, Troy endured. By the mid-second millennium BC, the city revived. Refined ceramics, luxury imports and evidence of social complexity marked a new chapter of recovery and reinvention. This splendid settlement later became the stage for Homer’s Trojan War where Greek warriors faced the daunting task of climbing towering mounds of debris built up over centuries just to reach the palaces.

    A heap worth climbing

    These insights allow us to see Troy not just as a city of walls and towers, but as a living organism shaped by daily routines, unspoken norms and social negotiation. The waste left behind is a remarkably honest archive of bronze age society – beneath myths, stones, and poetry.

    Troy’s trash heaps are the bronze age’s search history. To know what mattered 4,500 years ago, don’t ask poets – ask the garbage. From broken tools to shared meals, from imported luxuries to scraps, this waste reveals the pulse of everyday life and society’s evolving structure.

    Ironically, these mundane refuse layers preserved the bronze age world for us. Without them, we’d know far less about early Troy’s people. Their depth and composition trace changes in economy, technology, and social structure. From scraps to towers of pottery shards, waste archaeology is key to understanding early urban complexity.

    So next time you picture Achilles storming Troy’s gates, remember: the heroes might have been divine, but their city smelled very human.

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

    – ref. We can learn a lot from Troy’s trash – https://theconversation.com/we-can-learn-a-lot-from-troys-trash-260613

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Horseflies and wasps and jellyfish – how to stay safe from stings and bites this summer

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Dan Baumgardt, Senior Lecturer, School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol

    Anna Kuzmenko/Shutterstock

    Despite the glorious arrival of summer, there’s definitely a sting in the season’s tail – quite literally. Even in the UK, it’s not just sunburn we need to watch out for. From nettles to jellyfish, summer brings a full cast of prickly, buzzing, biting villains.

    My own back patio is armed with an arsenal of citronella candles and incense sticks to fend them off – not just a lifestyle choice, but a survival strategy for someone as jumpy as me around insects.

    Let’s break down the main culprits.

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

    Plant-based stings: nettles

    First up, the humble but mighty common nettle, which thrives in hedgerows and gardens, often reaching impressive heights of up to two metres by midsummer. Their sting comes from tiny hairs called trichomes, which inject histamine and other irritants into the skin as a form of defence.

    Histamine causes the classic signs of inflammation: redness, swelling, heat and pain – all of which are evident in the raised, red rash known as urticaria (or hives). Unsurprisingly, the Latin name for the nettle family is urtica, meaning “to sting.”

    And what about that old remedy of rubbing a dock leaf on the sting? Honestly, good luck identifying one among the 200-plus species. While the sap might offer a mild soothing effect, there’s no strong evidence of an active compound that reduces symptoms.

    If it works for you, great, but calamine lotion or over-the-counter antihistamines are far more reliable. And use some form of protection in the first place – if you’re clearing them from your garden, or foraging to make nettle pesto, wear gloves and proceed carefully.

    Insects: bees, wasps and horseflies

    As temperatures rise, so do the number of stinging insects like bees and wasps, not to mention the dreaded horseflies. While most don’t sting unless provoked (a mantra I repeat to myself regularly), when they do, it can be unpleasant.

    Most stings cause local irritation – simple pain relief and antihistamines usually do the trick here. But sometimes, either the original sting or subsequent scratching can cause infections.

    Cellulitis is a deeper skin infection that can spread quickly if untreated. While milder cases may clear up with oral antibiotics, some infections can be serious – even life threatening – and require hospital care.

    If a sting site or the surrounding skin becomes red, warm, painful or swollen, seek urgent medical advice. And if you feel unwell with symptoms like fevers, chills or a racing heart, treat it as an emergency.

    Insect stings can also trigger anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction. In the UK, stings account for around ten deaths per year: a small, but very sobering figure. Always take anaphylactic symptoms like facial swelling, difficulty breathing or dizziness seriously – and call 999 immediately.

    Ticks: small bites, big risks

    Tick bites are also more common in summer, thanks to more exposed skin and time spent in tall grass or woodlands. Ticks are tiny – often smaller than a poppy seed – and can be easily missed until they become engorged with blood.

    They’re usually harmless, but some ticks carry diseases like Lyme disease, a bacterial infection that can cause fatigue, joint pain and, if untreated, serious complications affecting the nervous system or heart.

    Ticks can also spread tick-borne encephalitis, a viral infection that can lead to inflammation of the brain, though it’s very rare in the UK. Watch out for the telltale bullseye rash and flu-like symptoms after a bite – and seek urgent medical advice if they appear.

    To remove a tick, use fine-tipped tweezers, gripping as close to the skin as possible and pulling steadily. Don’t twist. You want the whole tick out, legs and all. And don’t squeeze its body, as this can force potentially infected fluids into your bloodstream, raising the risk of conditions like Lyme disease, among others.

    Marine stings: jellyfish and friends

    And finally, the unexpected seaside sting. Coastal waters can play host to a range of jellyfish, from the mildly irritating to the impressively painful.

    Most UK species cause minor rashes, but be wary of the lion’s mane and the occasional (though rare) portuguese men o’war – not technically a jellyfish, but still best avoided.

    Even jellyfish washed up on shore can sting, sometimes for days. If stung, rinse the area with seawater (not fresh water), or soak in warm water. Avoid rubbing or using urine – yes, that scene in Friends is not medically sound. Peeing on a jellyfish sting can make things worse by triggering more venom release from stuck tentacles.

    If tentacles are still stuck to the skin, use tweezers or the edge of a credit card to remove them gently. Don’t use your bare hand – you could end up stinging that too.

    And like insect stings, jellyfish can rarely trigger anaphylactic shock. If someone shows symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek emergency help.

    From the garden to the seaside, summer has plenty of sting — but being prepared can make all the difference. Whether it’s nettles, bees or ticks, the best approach is prevention (think gloves, repellent and awareness), followed by prompt treatment if needed.

    Use calamine or antihistamines for rashes, and tweezers for tick or jellyfish tentacle removal. Keep a close eye out for signs of infection or allergic reaction and always seek medical advice if something doesn’t feel right.

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

    – ref. Horseflies and wasps and jellyfish – how to stay safe from stings and bites this summer – https://theconversation.com/horseflies-and-wasps-and-jellyfish-how-to-stay-safe-from-stings-and-bites-this-summer-260670

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: We can learn a lot from Troy’s trash

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Stephan Blum, Research associate, Institute for Prehistory and Early History and Medieval Archaeology, University of Tübingen

    Beneath the epic tales of heroes and gods, Troy’s true story is written in something far less glamorous – its rubbish.

    When we think of Troy, we imagine epic battles, valiant deeds, cunning tricks and the wrath of gods. Thanks to Homer’s Iliad, the city is remembered as a stage for romance and heroism.

    But long before Paris stole Helen and Achilles raged on the battlefield, the people of bronze age Troy lived ordinary lives – with extraordinary consequences. They built, cooked, stored, traded and, crucially, threw things away. And they did it right where they lived.

    Today, waste is whisked away quickly – out of sight, out of mind. But in bronze age Troy (3000–1000BC), trash stayed close, often accumulating in domestic dumping grounds for generations.

    Having spent more than 16 summers excavating and analysing the bronze age layers of Troy, I’ve learned to read the city’s history this waste.

    Hundreds of thousands of animal bones from cattle, sheep, fish – even turtles – were found alongside vast quantities of pottery shards, ash, food scraps, and human waste. Sometimes, these layers were reused to level floors or build walls, showing how closely intertwined daily life and refuse management were.

    Archaeology’s dirty secret

    This wasn’t laziness or neglect, it was pure pragmatism. In a world without rubbish trucks or sanitation systems, managing refuse was neither chaotic nor careless, but a collective, spatially negotiated – and surprisingly strategic – effort.

    The excavations I have worked on as part of the University of Tübingen’s Troy Project, which has been going on since 1988, have revealed just how deliberate these routines were. Where people chose to dump, or not to dump, speaks volumes about status, social roles, and community boundaries. Waste is the diary no one meant to write, yet it records the intimate rhythms of daily life with unfiltered clarity.

    Far from a nuisance, Troy’s waste is an archaeologist’s treasure trove.

    Over nearly 2,000 years, Troy ended up with 15 meters of built-up debris. Archaeologists can see nine major building phases in it, each made up of hundreds of thin layers, which formed as people lived their everyday lives. These layers act like snapshots, quietly recording how the city changed over time. Some capture hearth cleanings, others record the rebuilding of entire city quarters.

    By analysing the layers and their ratios of bones to pottery, ash concentration, presence of storage jars, grinding stones, or production debris, specific spaces of activity become visible: kitchens, workshops, storage areas, rubbish pits. What appears chaotic turns out to be a carefully structured map of everyday routines – showing where meals were prepared, tools made, and discarded objects left behind.

    A schematic cross-section through the settlement mound of Troy, revealing centuries of construction, destruction, and renewal.
    University of Tübingen/Frank Schweizer, CC BY-NC-SA

    The story these remains tell is one of profound transformation. Troy began as a modest agrarian settlement, shaped by the steady rhythms of farming, herding, and small-scale craft. Over time, it grew into a thriving regional centre.

    The archaeological record, rich in refuse, traces this long arc of change. Exotic imports fashioned from stones such as carnelian and lapis lazuli begin to appear, revealing distant trade connections. Specialised metalworking tools emerge alongside monumental architecture. some buildings stretched nearly 30 metres, signalling growing ambitions and expanding capabilities.

    This rise unfolded gradually, reflected not just in grander buildings, but in shifting tools, trade, and how people dealt with what they left behind. Waste management became more organised, with designated areas for different types of waste. This reflects broader shifts in how the community structured space and managed its economy.

    Yet this ascent was interrupted. By the mid-third millennium BC, signs that things were becoming smaller appear. Architecture simplifies, household inventories shrink, production debris declines suggesting economic slowdown or political instability.

    Still, Troy endured. By the mid-second millennium BC, the city revived. Refined ceramics, luxury imports and evidence of social complexity marked a new chapter of recovery and reinvention. This splendid settlement later became the stage for Homer’s Trojan War where Greek warriors faced the daunting task of climbing towering mounds of debris built up over centuries just to reach the palaces.

    A heap worth climbing

    These insights allow us to see Troy not just as a city of walls and towers, but as a living organism shaped by daily routines, unspoken norms and social negotiation. The waste left behind is a remarkably honest archive of bronze age society – beneath myths, stones, and poetry.

    Troy’s trash heaps are the bronze age’s search history. To know what mattered 4,500 years ago, don’t ask poets – ask the garbage. From broken tools to shared meals, from imported luxuries to scraps, this waste reveals the pulse of everyday life and society’s evolving structure.

    Ironically, these mundane refuse layers preserved the bronze age world for us. Without them, we’d know far less about early Troy’s people. Their depth and composition trace changes in economy, technology, and social structure. From scraps to towers of pottery shards, waste archaeology is key to understanding early urban complexity.

    So next time you picture Achilles storming Troy’s gates, remember: the heroes might have been divine, but their city smelled very human.

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

    – ref. We can learn a lot from Troy’s trash – https://theconversation.com/we-can-learn-a-lot-from-troys-trash-260613

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Horseflies and wasps and jellyfish – how to stay safe from stings and bites this summer

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Dan Baumgardt, Senior Lecturer, School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol

    Anna Kuzmenko/Shutterstock

    Despite the glorious arrival of summer, there’s definitely a sting in the season’s tail – quite literally. Even in the UK, it’s not just sunburn we need to watch out for. From nettles to jellyfish, summer brings a full cast of prickly, buzzing, biting villains.

    My own back patio is armed with an arsenal of citronella candles and incense sticks to fend them off – not just a lifestyle choice, but a survival strategy for someone as jumpy as me around insects.

    Let’s break down the main culprits.

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

    Plant-based stings: nettles

    First up, the humble but mighty common nettle, which thrives in hedgerows and gardens, often reaching impressive heights of up to two metres by midsummer. Their sting comes from tiny hairs called trichomes, which inject histamine and other irritants into the skin as a form of defence.

    Histamine causes the classic signs of inflammation: redness, swelling, heat and pain – all of which are evident in the raised, red rash known as urticaria (or hives). Unsurprisingly, the Latin name for the nettle family is urtica, meaning “to sting.”

    And what about that old remedy of rubbing a dock leaf on the sting? Honestly, good luck identifying one among the 200-plus species. While the sap might offer a mild soothing effect, there’s no strong evidence of an active compound that reduces symptoms.

    If it works for you, great, but calamine lotion or over-the-counter antihistamines are far more reliable. And use some form of protection in the first place – if you’re clearing them from your garden, or foraging to make nettle pesto, wear gloves and proceed carefully.

    Insects: bees, wasps and horseflies

    As temperatures rise, so do the number of stinging insects like bees and wasps, not to mention the dreaded horseflies. While most don’t sting unless provoked (a mantra I repeat to myself regularly), when they do, it can be unpleasant.

    Most stings cause local irritation – simple pain relief and antihistamines usually do the trick here. But sometimes, either the original sting or subsequent scratching can cause infections.

    Cellulitis is a deeper skin infection that can spread quickly if untreated. While milder cases may clear up with oral antibiotics, some infections can be serious – even life threatening – and require hospital care.

    If a sting site or the surrounding skin becomes red, warm, painful or swollen, seek urgent medical advice. And if you feel unwell with symptoms like fevers, chills or a racing heart, treat it as an emergency.

    Insect stings can also trigger anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction. In the UK, stings account for around ten deaths per year: a small, but very sobering figure. Always take anaphylactic symptoms like facial swelling, difficulty breathing or dizziness seriously – and call 999 immediately.

    Ticks: small bites, big risks

    Tick bites are also more common in summer, thanks to more exposed skin and time spent in tall grass or woodlands. Ticks are tiny – often smaller than a poppy seed – and can be easily missed until they become engorged with blood.

    They’re usually harmless, but some ticks carry diseases like Lyme disease, a bacterial infection that can cause fatigue, joint pain and, if untreated, serious complications affecting the nervous system or heart.

    Ticks can also spread tick-borne encephalitis, a viral infection that can lead to inflammation of the brain, though it’s very rare in the UK. Watch out for the telltale bullseye rash and flu-like symptoms after a bite – and seek urgent medical advice if they appear.

    To remove a tick, use fine-tipped tweezers, gripping as close to the skin as possible and pulling steadily. Don’t twist. You want the whole tick out, legs and all. And don’t squeeze its body, as this can force potentially infected fluids into your bloodstream, raising the risk of conditions like Lyme disease, among others.

    Marine stings: jellyfish and friends

    And finally, the unexpected seaside sting. Coastal waters can play host to a range of jellyfish, from the mildly irritating to the impressively painful.

    Most UK species cause minor rashes, but be wary of the lion’s mane and the occasional (though rare) portuguese men o’war – not technically a jellyfish, but still best avoided.

    Even jellyfish washed up on shore can sting, sometimes for days. If stung, rinse the area with seawater (not fresh water), or soak in warm water. Avoid rubbing or using urine – yes, that scene in Friends is not medically sound. Peeing on a jellyfish sting can make things worse by triggering more venom release from stuck tentacles.

    If tentacles are still stuck to the skin, use tweezers or the edge of a credit card to remove them gently. Don’t use your bare hand – you could end up stinging that too.

    And like insect stings, jellyfish can rarely trigger anaphylactic shock. If someone shows symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek emergency help.

    From the garden to the seaside, summer has plenty of sting — but being prepared can make all the difference. Whether it’s nettles, bees or ticks, the best approach is prevention (think gloves, repellent and awareness), followed by prompt treatment if needed.

    Use calamine or antihistamines for rashes, and tweezers for tick or jellyfish tentacle removal. Keep a close eye out for signs of infection or allergic reaction and always seek medical advice if something doesn’t feel right.

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

    – ref. Horseflies and wasps and jellyfish – how to stay safe from stings and bites this summer – https://theconversation.com/horseflies-and-wasps-and-jellyfish-how-to-stay-safe-from-stings-and-bites-this-summer-260670

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Congratulations from Dmitry Patrushev on Fisherman’s Day.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Congratulations from Dmitry Patrushev on Fisherman’s Day

    Dear colleagues!

    I congratulate the workers and veterans of the Russian fisheries complex on Fisherman’s Day.

    Fishing industry is one of the most important sectors of the Russian economy, which makes a significant contribution to ensuring not only national but also global food security. Russia is one of the leading countries in terms of volumes of aquatic bioresources production, and seeks to strengthen its position in the global fisheries industry and develop aquaculture production.

    The President of our country has outlined a strategic goal to further increase production and export of agricultural products. Fishing industry is an integral part of this goal. And much has already been done to achieve it. Thanks to the investment quota program, the industry infrastructure is being updated – modern fishing vessels, processing plants and logistics centers are being built.

    To support enterprises, the state implements comprehensive measures aimed at increasing innovation, introducing advanced environmentally friendly technologies throughout the entire chain from catching aquatic bioresources to releasing the finished product. This allows us to provide for the domestic market and increase export potential. Specialized science also plays an important role in the technological development and sustainable operation of the domestic fish industry.

    I would like to point out that all these successes would be impossible without people. The Russian fisheries industry employs more than 125 thousand people – professionals, experts, who love their work. I thank all workers in the fishing industry for their conscientious work and wish them health, prosperity, development and new successes.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Curtis Island compliance

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Issued: 14 Jul 2025

    Open larger image

    The people constructed an illegal hut and used that as a base for other illegal activity.

    Targeted patrols conducted in the Curtis Island National Park in August 2024 led to the discovery of an illegal hut and evidence of significant illegal activity.

    Rangers from the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) identified the people who built the hut in a remote area of the park.

    Regional Director Great Barrier Reef and Marine Parks Region Tina Alderson said it is illegal to build any structure in a protected area and rangers will have the hut removed.

    “Building an illegal structure in a protected area essentially excludes others from the area and causes damage to the environment. This hut was also used as a base for other illegal activities,” Ms Alderson said.

    “People who want to build a hut for their own personal use for activities such as fishing, hunting and vehicle-based activities can do so on private land but not in a national park.

    “Multiple fines and warnings have been issued for illegal activity within the protected areas of Curtis Island, and eighteen offenders have been identified.

    “QPWS is serious about compliance and anyone who builds an illegal structure in a protected area will be caught.

    “So far we have issued 22 penalty infringement notices totalling $7606, which includes two people receiving fines of more than $1000 each for their role in the offending.”

    The illegal activities include:

    • Illegal fires in a protected area putting rangers, neighbours and other park users at risk
    • Bringing domestic dogs into a protected area impacting the environment and native wildlife
    • Hunting, including the use of firearms and other weapons putting rangers, neighbours and other park users at risk.
    • Multiple driving offences including driving in restricted access areas, use of unregistered vehicles and traveling with unrestrained people.
    • Illegal clearing and harvest of trees to construct the hut.

    Anyone with information about illegal activities in Queensland’s protected areas is encouraged to call 1300 130 372. Information can be provided anonymously.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Armstrong statement on passing of Dr. Tom Strinden, husband of Lt. Gov. Michelle Strinden

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    Gov. Kelly Armstrong issued the following statement today regarding the passing of Dr. Tom Strinden, husband of Lt. Gov. Michelle Strinden. Tom Strinden passed peacefully Sunday, July 13, at their family lake home, surrounded by his loving family following a 17-month battle against brain cancer.

    “Tom valiantly fought cancer the same way he lived his life – with an unshakable faith in his savior Jesus Christ and an unwavering commitment to his family,” Armstrong said. “Tom was Michelle’s biggest fan, encouraging her to enter public service and supporting her journey to the Legislature and lieutenant governor’s office. Even after his cancer diagnosis and initial surgery, he returned to his work as a gifted eye surgeon who cared deeply about his patients and improving their quality of life. From coaching and supporting hockey programs to hunting and fishing with his kids, to making regular medical mission trips around the globe, Tom lived life to the fullest – with the happiness of others always his top priority. Our hearts go out to Michelle, Jacob, Joe, Ben, Sarah, and the entire Strinden and Strecker families. We ask all North Dakotans to pray for them as they grieve this enormous loss.”

    Funeral arrangements are pending. The Strinden family asks for privacy during this difficult time.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Statement: Standing firm against online and face-to-face abuse

    Source: City of Derby

    A statement from Paul Simpson, Chief Executive, Derby City Council:

    As a Council we are committed to delivering essential and vital services to our residents and businesses, often under challenging circumstances and with limited resources. We take immense pride in the dedication, professionalism, and compassion our teams demonstrate daily in serving our community. 

    However, we have observed a concerning increase in abusive, threatening and aggressive behaviour directed at our staff and councillors, both in person, online and over the phone. This includes deeply troubling incidents involving racist and misogynistic language, targeted threats of violence, and unacceptable harassment. 

    Unfortunately we have little choice but to make it absolutely clear – we will not tolerate abuse of any kind directed to our staff and councillors. Everyone has the right to work in an environment free from fear, intimidation and harm. 

    We recognise that not everything goes as planned, and we understand the frustration that can arise when services fall short or systems fail. We are committed to listening, improving, and being accountable. However, abuse is never the answer. 

    It’s important to remember that many of our colleagues live right here in Derby and reflect our communities. They’re regularly exposed to hateful comments that no one would wish their own loved ones to experience.

    Beyond the direct impact on our colleagues, we’re also seeing a concerning increase in negative comments directed at our diverse communities. This is entirely unacceptable.  

    We are committed to fostering a city where everyone feels safe, respected, and welcome, both in person and online.  

    We are actively addressing this behaviour by reporting serious incidents to the police, monitoring online threats, blocking abusive accounts, and providing wellbeing support. Where necessary, we will pursue legal action. We stand firmly with our staff, ensuring their safety and wellbeing remain our top priority. We will continue to deliver services with care, dignity, and respect, and we expect the same. 

    Derby has so much to celebrate this year. Our children’s services for looked after children have been rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted for the second time in three years. Our newly restored Derby Market Hall continues to thrive, and our responsible budget management places us in a strong position to continue providing quality services for all residents. 

    As a city, we must unite and treat each other with respect and compassion. Thank you to all our staff and councillors for your continued resilience, commitment and service to our communities.  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Millions Flow into Great Lakes: Canada funds $9.3 million in freshwater solutions

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    July 14, 2025 – Burlington, Ontario

    Water sustains life; it is a vital resource for people, nature and our economy. It is more important now than ever that we invest in protecting our freshwater to build a cleaner, safer and sustainable future for all.

    The Great Lakes Watershed is a critical freshwater system that we have here in Canada. It supports industry, recreation, ecosystems, and culture. It also holds spiritual and cultural significance for Indigenous peoples and their way of life.

    Today, the Honourable Julie Dabrusin, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, and Minister responsible for the Canada Water Agency, announced an investment of $9.3 million in 26 freshwater projects in the Great Lakes.  

    These projects are delivered through the Canada Water Agency’s Great Lakes Freshwater Ecosystem Initiative. Each project addresses key environmental challenges affecting water quality and ecosystem health in the region. They are also key in advancing Canada’s commitments under the Canada-United States Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement. Each of these initiatives is community-led, facilitating collaboration on freshwater science and management.

    Among the funded projects, four will support freshwater restoration in Hamilton and Burlington, representing a $1.6 million investment over four years:

    • Royal Botanical Gardens will receive up to $150,000 to enhance habitat resilience in Cootes Paradise Marsh in the Hamilton Harbour Area of Concern through invasive species control, shoreline restoration, and ecological monitoring.
    • Hamilton Region Conservation Authority will receive up to $228,000 to engage landowners in implementing watershed improvement initiatives that reduce nutrient and sediment runoff in the Hamilton Harbour Area of Concern.
    • Halton Region Conservation Authority will receive up to $242,000 to develop a science-based nutrient management plan for the Grindstone Creek watershed. This includes analyzing water quality data, identifying nutrient sources, and engaging stakeholders to recommend targeted best management practices. 
    • The Regional Municipality of Halton will receive up to $995,000 to restore two kilometers of shoreline and dune ecosystems at Beachway Park in Burlington using nature-based restoration approaches.

    This investment will help improve water quality in the Hamilton Harbour Area of Concern and throughout the Great Lakes. Local projects like these drive measurable improvements in water quality and ecosystem health across the region. These projects are also creating lasting economic and social value by supporting sustainable fisheries, protecting drinking water sources, restoring vital habitats, and engaging local communities and landowners in stewardship efforts that strengthen both environmental resilience and regional well-being.

    Through the newly established Canada Water Agency, the Government of Canada is strengthening coordination and collaboration with provinces, territories, and Indigenous peoples to address freshwater challenges and opportunities in the Great Lakes and across the country. These efforts are part of a broader commitment to building a cleaner, more secure, and more prosperous future, because when we protect our water, we protect what makes Canada strong.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: BluSky AI Inc. Announces Appointment of Tech Industry Veteran to Board of Directors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Salt Lake City, July 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BluSky AI Inc. (OTC: BSAI), (“BluSky” or the “Company”), a next-generation developer of modular AI data center infrastructure, today announced the Appointment of Dan Gay, a renowned veteran of the telecom, data and technology industry, to its Board of Directors. The Appointment underscores BluSky AI’s strategic commitment to expanding its leadership bench as the company scales its footprint in the rapidly evolving artificial intelligence infrastructure space.

    Mr. Gay brings over 30 years of experience in data center innovation, enterprise IT strategy, and AI-driven technologies, having held senior executive roles at MCI, Qwest, Montana Power, BlockCerts, and RackScale. Throughout his career, Dan has been at the forefront of digital transformation, starting new business units, developing new brands, and scaling company revenues from long distance, internet services, data services, and high-performance computing initiatives across multiple sectors.

    “We are thrilled to welcome Dan Gay to the BluSky AI board,” said Trent D’Ambrosio, Chief Executive Officer of BluSky AI. “Dan’s extensive experience in leading growth in technology companies will be invaluable as we continue executing on our vision to deploy scalable, energy-efficient AI data centers across the United States. Dan’s leadership in serving as BluSky AI’s COO this past year has been key in positioning the company for the future.”

    BluSky AI is pioneering a modular approach to AI compute infrastructure by building rapidly deployable, plug-and-play data centers on powered land assets. As demand for AI compute power surges globally, BluSky’s innovative model offers unmatched speed-to-market, scalability, and sustainability — positioning the company as a premier partner for AI companies and enterprises seeking advanced compute solutions.

    Mr. Gay expressed enthusiasm about the appointment:

    “AI represents one of the greatest technology shifts of our time, and infrastructure will be a critical enabler of that future. I’m fortunate to have played a role in introducing equal access to long distance, internet and datacenter services, blockchain, and now AI infrastructure. I was also fortunate to collaborate with BluSky AI’s founder throughout my career. Now, BluSky’s modular strategy is exactly what the market needs — agile, intelligent, and ready to scale. I’m excited to contribute to this mission and support the team in delivering on its bold vision.”

    Trent D’Ambrosio
    CEO, BluSky AI Inc.
    trentdambrosio@bluskyaidatacenters.com
    www.bluskyaidatacenters.com

    About BluSky AI Inc.

    Headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, BluSky AI Inc. delivers modular, rapidly deployable data center infrastructure purpose-built for artificial intelligence. These next generation scalable AI Factories provide speed-to-market, and energy optimization for entities requiring high-performance infrastructure to support machine learning workloads. BluSky AI empowers small, mid-sized, enterprise, and academic partners from start-up to scale-up to drive innovation without compromise.

    Forward-Looking Statements:

    This news release includes certain forward-looking statements or information. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this release are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties.  Forward-looking statements in this news release include statements with respect to the potential impact for the Company. There can be no assurance statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from anticipated in such statements.

    BluSky AI Inc. disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events except as required by applicable securities legislation.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Dan Goldman Introduces Bill to Close Loopholes Allowing Pre-Trial Defendants to Access Firearms

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    Delays in Background Check Reporting Mean Those on Pre-Trial Release Are Oftentimes Still Able to Buy Firearms Despite Court Prohibition

     

    Patchwork State Background Check Laws Create Dangerous Loopholes for Gun Purchases 

    Read the Bill Here 

    Washington, DC – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) today introduced the ‘Preventing Pretrial Gun Purchases Act,’ a bill that would close a critical loophole in the federal background check system and prevent individuals on pretrial release who are deemed a public safety risk from obtaining firearms. Senator Cory Booker (NJ-D) has introduced a companion bill in the Senate. 

    “Improving our background check system and closing loopholes that allow potentially dangerous individuals to access firearms is a commonsense step we can take to address America’s tragic gun violence crisis,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “I am proud to be jointly re-introducing the Preventing Pretrial Gun Purchases Act in the House, which will close a dangerous loophole in our background check system by flagging individuals on pretrial release who are legally barred from purchasing firearms as a condition of their release. Congress must stop twiddling our thumbs and start taking decisive steps to close these deadly loopholes and prevent weapons from falling into the wrong hands.” 

     

    Senator Cory Booker said, “We must close the existing loopholes in the background check system, especially when individuals who are known risks to public safety are still able to buy a firearm,” said Senator Booker. “This legislation will ensure that individuals subject to a pretrial release court order cannot walk into a gun store and buy one. We must act to close the dangerous gaps in our background check system so we can save lives and keep our communities safe.” 

    Current federal law requires licensed gun dealers to conduct a background check of a firearm buyer using the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) to ensure that the buyer is not legally prohibited from purchasing a firearm. Unfortunately, differences between various state and federal background check processes have exposed numerous vulnerabilities in this system. One vulnerability is that jurisdictions are unable to effectively and accurately report the pretrial status of individuals who, as a condition of their pretrial release, are prohibited by a court from purchasing or possessing a firearm.  

    The Preventing Pretrial Gun Purchases Act would: 

    • Amend federal law to prevent firearm sales to any person subject to a pretrial releasecourt order that prohibits the person from purchasing to possessing a firearm before trial.  

    • Prohibit any person from providing firearms to individuals in this category. 

    • Provide $25 million in funding to aid states in paying for timely and accurate reporting of pretrial orders involving firearms restrictions to NICS 

    The Preventing Pretrial Gun Purchases Act has been endorsed by Brady: United Against Gun Violence, Everytown for Gun Safety, and GIFFORDS. 

    Congressman Dan Goldman remains committed to protecting families and communities by ensuring firearms do not end up in the hands of those who pose a threat to public safety. He is currently the Vice-Chair of the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force. 

    In January of 2024, the Congressman also cosponsored the ‘Bolstering Security Against Ghost Guns Act’ to strengthen the United States Department of Homeland Security’s response to the growing threat of untraceable firearms, which can be bought online without a background check. 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Couple found guilty of killing their newborn baby following Met investigation

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A couple who were arrested following a police search across the UK have been found guilty of killing their newborn baby.

    Mark Gordon, 51 (08.06.74) and Constance Marten, 38 (16.05.87), both of no fixed address, lived outside in a tent in freezing conditions with their baby Victoria.

    The court heard they went on the run with Victoria to evade the authorities after their previous four children were taken into care.

    After a 53-day search, they were arrested in Brighton on 27 February 2023 and officers later found the body of their child in a shopping bag at an allotment where they had been living.

    Today, Monday, 14 July following a trial at the Old Bailey, they were found guilty of gross negligence manslaughter.

    Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke, who led the homicide investigation into Victoria’s death, said: “The selfish actions of Mark Gordon and Constance Marten resulted in the death of an innocent newborn baby who would have recently had her second birthday and should have had the rest of her life ahead of her.

    “This was an incredibly challenging investigation for the hundreds of officers across the UK who were involved in the search. Our main focus throughout the search was finding Victoria alive and we were devastated by the outcome.

    “We know today’s verdict won’t bring Victoria back, but I am pleased our investigation has resulted in the couple who caused her death finally being brought to justice.”

    Investigation launched

    Concerns were first raised on 5 January 2023 when the couple’s car broke down and caught fire on the M61 in Greater Manchester. Firefighters found the pair had abandoned their car and left the motorway before help had arrived.

    The car was full of items, including nappies and clothing. A placenta was also found and there was concern that whoever had been in the car had recently given birth and could be in need of urgent medical care.

    Officers were called and a missing person’s investigation was launched. Marten’s passport was found in the wreckage of the fire.

    Through speaking to witnesses and viewing CCTV it later became clear that the couple had travelled to Bolton and then to Liverpool that evening.

    Moving across the country

    From Liverpool the couple paid a taxi driver £350 to take them 270 miles away to Harwich in Essex.

    The reason for them choosing this location is unclear, however it is thought they may have been trying to leave the country by boat.

    They arrived in the town in the early hours of 6 January 2023 and checked into a hotel. Marten gave staff a fake surname and CCTV showed she had a baby underneath her coat.

    Concerned about the welfare of the couple and their newborn child, officers shared a public appeal for information.

    This was being widely reported in the media and on 7 January 2023 they were stopped by a member of the public who asked if they were the people who were on the news.

    Avoiding authorities

    From Harwich the couple took a taxi to Colchester and then on to east London. They arrived in East Ham at around midday on the same day and went to buy a buggy from a branch of Argos.

    The buggy they bought was too big for a newborn baby. They dumped it in an alleyway and transferred their child into a supermarket bag for life.

    CCTV also showed them sitting in a restaurant in Whitechapel. This footage was the first time baby Victoria had been seen alive on camera since her birth.

    The couple’s erratic and unpredictable movements across the country made it difficult for officers to trace them.

    Travelling to Newhaven

    Shortly after midnight on 8 January 2023 they couple paid £475 for a taxi to Newhaven in East Sussex.

    Soon after arriving in the town they were seen on CCTV entering the South Downs Way.

    This is a huge area of open land in the south of England. Officers carried out searches, but could not locate the pair.

    On 16 January 2023 a member of the public spotted them in a tent at the Stanmer Park Nature Reserve near Brighton. It was winter and temperatures regularly dropped below freezing.

    There were further sightings over the following weeks. These were not reported to police at the time.

    Arrests

    After more than a month living in a tent, the couple visited a shop in Hollingbury Place in Brighton on 27 February 2023.

    A member of the public, who recognised them from the media appeals, called police and officers from Sussex Police responded quickly.

    They were arrested nearby in Golf Drive, however there was no sign of baby Victoria.

    Officers carried out emergency interviews and asked them both where their child was. Both refused to share any information and Gordon instead continually asked for food.

    Finding baby Victoria

    Over the following days, hundreds of officers from the Met travelled to Sussex to search the area near to where the couple were arrested.

    On 1 March 2023, following an extensive search, officers found the body of a baby inside a carrier bag at a shed on an allotment where they had been staying.

    Pathologists were unable to confirm how Victoria had died. Marten told officers she had died while the couple was sleeping but did not share any further information.

    Detective Superintendent Lewis Basford, who led the search for the couple, said:     “Victoria’s death was completely avoidable. The couple had plenty of opportunities to do the right thing and come forward to ask for help. They knew that officers were looking for them.

    “We have waited more than two years to secure justice for baby Victoria and I am pleased we have now been able to get that for her – despite her parents trying to disrupt and derail not one, but two trials.

    “I would like to thank the media for the support they showed throughout the search, as well as the many members of the public who reported sightings. I’d also like to thank the jury for their patience and resilience in having to sit through a long trial where they had to listen to Marten and Gordon’s horrific actions.

    “This information was incredibly important, and officers travelled across the country to track down CCTV and speak to witnesses.

    “Speaking personally as a father, I find it hard to comprehend how, instead of providing the warmth and care their child needed, Mark Gordon and Constance Marten chose to live outside during freezing conditions to avoid the authorities.”

    Chief Superintendent James Collis, from Sussex Police, said:     “The search for Constance Marten and Mark Gordon ended in the most tragic circumstances and had a profound effect on the local community in Sussex.

    “Our thoughts remain with baby Victoria and extend to her wider family after what must have been an extremely difficult time.

    “I hope the conclusion of these criminal proceedings will everyone the space to begin to come to terms with the traumatic events of the last 28 months.

    “I would once again like to thank the public for their compassion and support throughout this process, and of course the police officers, staff and volunteers who took part in the extremely challenging search as well as those who have supported the investigation.”

    The pair will be sentenced at the Old Bailey on a date to be set.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Couple found guilty of killing their newborn baby following Met investigation

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A couple who were arrested following a police search across the UK have been found guilty of killing their newborn baby.

    Mark Gordon, 51 (08.06.74) and Constance Marten, 38 (16.05.87), both of no fixed address, lived outside in a tent in freezing conditions with their baby Victoria.

    The court heard they went on the run with Victoria to evade the authorities after their previous four children were taken into care.

    After a 53-day search, they were arrested in Brighton on 27 February 2023 and officers later found the body of their child in a shopping bag at an allotment where they had been living.

    Today, Monday, 14 July following a trial at the Old Bailey, they were found guilty of gross negligence manslaughter.

    Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke, who led the homicide investigation into Victoria’s death, said: “The selfish actions of Mark Gordon and Constance Marten resulted in the death of an innocent newborn baby who would have recently had her second birthday and should have had the rest of her life ahead of her.

    “This was an incredibly challenging investigation for the hundreds of officers across the UK who were involved in the search. Our main focus throughout the search was finding Victoria alive and we were devastated by the outcome.

    “We know today’s verdict won’t bring Victoria back, but I am pleased our investigation has resulted in the couple who caused her death finally being brought to justice.”

    Investigation launched

    Concerns were first raised on 5 January 2023 when the couple’s car broke down and caught fire on the M61 in Greater Manchester. Firefighters found the pair had abandoned their car and left the motorway before help had arrived.

    The car was full of items, including nappies and clothing. A placenta was also found and there was concern that whoever had been in the car had recently given birth and could be in need of urgent medical care.

    Officers were called and a missing person’s investigation was launched. Marten’s passport was found in the wreckage of the fire.

    Through speaking to witnesses and viewing CCTV it later became clear that the couple had travelled to Bolton and then to Liverpool that evening.

    Moving across the country

    From Liverpool the couple paid a taxi driver £350 to take them 270 miles away to Harwich in Essex.

    The reason for them choosing this location is unclear, however it is thought they may have been trying to leave the country by boat.

    They arrived in the town in the early hours of 6 January 2023 and checked into a hotel. Marten gave staff a fake surname and CCTV showed she had a baby underneath her coat.

    Concerned about the welfare of the couple and their newborn child, officers shared a public appeal for information.

    This was being widely reported in the media and on 7 January 2023 they were stopped by a member of the public who asked if they were the people who were on the news.

    Avoiding authorities

    From Harwich the couple took a taxi to Colchester and then on to east London. They arrived in East Ham at around midday on the same day and went to buy a buggy from a branch of Argos.

    The buggy they bought was too big for a newborn baby. They dumped it in an alleyway and transferred their child into a supermarket bag for life.

    CCTV also showed them sitting in a restaurant in Whitechapel. This footage was the first time baby Victoria had been seen alive on camera since her birth.

    The couple’s erratic and unpredictable movements across the country made it difficult for officers to trace them.

    Travelling to Newhaven

    Shortly after midnight on 8 January 2023 they couple paid £475 for a taxi to Newhaven in East Sussex.

    Soon after arriving in the town they were seen on CCTV entering the South Downs Way.

    This is a huge area of open land in the south of England. Officers carried out searches, but could not locate the pair.

    On 16 January 2023 a member of the public spotted them in a tent at the Stanmer Park Nature Reserve near Brighton. It was winter and temperatures regularly dropped below freezing.

    There were further sightings over the following weeks. These were not reported to police at the time.

    Arrests

    After more than a month living in a tent, the couple visited a shop in Hollingbury Place in Brighton on 27 February 2023.

    A member of the public, who recognised them from the media appeals, called police and officers from Sussex Police responded quickly.

    They were arrested nearby in Golf Drive, however there was no sign of baby Victoria.

    Officers carried out emergency interviews and asked them both where their child was. Both refused to share any information and Gordon instead continually asked for food.

    Finding baby Victoria

    Over the following days, hundreds of officers from the Met travelled to Sussex to search the area near to where the couple were arrested.

    On 1 March 2023, following an extensive search, officers found the body of a baby inside a carrier bag at a shed on an allotment where they had been staying.

    Pathologists were unable to confirm how Victoria had died. Marten told officers she had died while the couple was sleeping but did not share any further information.

    Detective Superintendent Lewis Basford, who led the search for the couple, said:     “Victoria’s death was completely avoidable. The couple had plenty of opportunities to do the right thing and come forward to ask for help. They knew that officers were looking for them.

    “We have waited more than two years to secure justice for baby Victoria and I am pleased we have now been able to get that for her – despite her parents trying to disrupt and derail not one, but two trials.

    “I would like to thank the media for the support they showed throughout the search, as well as the many members of the public who reported sightings. I’d also like to thank the jury for their patience and resilience in having to sit through a long trial where they had to listen to Marten and Gordon’s horrific actions.

    “This information was incredibly important, and officers travelled across the country to track down CCTV and speak to witnesses.

    “Speaking personally as a father, I find it hard to comprehend how, instead of providing the warmth and care their child needed, Mark Gordon and Constance Marten chose to live outside during freezing conditions to avoid the authorities.”

    Chief Superintendent James Collis, from Sussex Police, said:     “The search for Constance Marten and Mark Gordon ended in the most tragic circumstances and had a profound effect on the local community in Sussex.

    “Our thoughts remain with baby Victoria and extend to her wider family after what must have been an extremely difficult time.

    “I hope the conclusion of these criminal proceedings will everyone the space to begin to come to terms with the traumatic events of the last 28 months.

    “I would once again like to thank the public for their compassion and support throughout this process, and of course the police officers, staff and volunteers who took part in the extremely challenging search as well as those who have supported the investigation.”

    The pair will be sentenced at the Old Bailey on a date to be set.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Enovix Appoints Srikanth Kethu as Head of Enovix India to Accelerate Global Innovation and Regional Expansion

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FREMONT, Calif., July 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enovix Corporation (Nasdaq: ENVX) (“Enovix”), a leader in advanced silicon battery technology, today announced the appointment of Srikanth Kethu as Head of Enovix India, effective today. In this key leadership role, Mr. Kethu will oversee the company’s Hyderabad R&D center and play a strategic role in supporting the ramp-up of Enovix’s high-volume manufacturing facility in Malaysia, while driving the broader expansion of Enovix’s footprint in India.

    Mr. Kethu brings more than two decades of experience leading high-performance engineering teams and scaling offshore operations for global automotive and industrial leaders including ZF, Mercedes-Benz, and as an external consultant to BMW’s R&D center in Germany. His deep expertise in product development, systems integration, and cross-border team building makes him uniquely qualified to help lead Enovix through its next phase of global growth.

    “We are thrilled to welcome Srikanth to the Enovix leadership team,” said Dr. Raj Talluri, President and CEO of Enovix. “India has always had a tremendous depth of engineering talent. I was fortunate to have been part of establishing and growing India’s cutting-edge R&D teams for Texas Instruments, Qualcomm and Micron — and now Enovix. As head of Enovix India, Srikanth will not only strengthen our world-class R&D center in Hyderabad but also support our efforts to industrialize at scale — including helping ensure the success of our new facility in Malaysia. He brings the experience and leadership we need to accelerate innovation and execution.”

    Enovix’s Hyderabad R&D center plays a critical role in developing next-generation battery technology. Under Mr. Kethu’s leadership, the India team will expand its contributions to core cell and pack design, advanced manufacturing, and reliability testing. In addition to scaling R&D efforts, Mr. Kethu will help Enovix establish broader operational capabilities in India as the company grows its regional presence.

    “I’m excited to join Enovix at such an important time for the battery industry and to make an impact,” said Mr. Kethu. “The Hyderabad team has already demonstrated exceptional technical capability. I look forward to working with our talented and dedicated teams across India and Southeast Asia to scale world-class solutions, support our factory in Malaysia, and help Enovix deliver breakthrough battery performance on a global scale. India offers a vast and highly skilled talent pool, and we remain committed to leveraging this strength to drive Enovix’s continued growth as a leading R&D hub in the region.”

    About Enovix Corporation

    Enovix is a leader in advancing lithium-ion battery technology with its proprietary cell architecture designed to deliver higher energy density and improved safety. The Company’s breakthrough silicon-anode batteries are engineered to power a wide range of devices from wearable electronics and mobile communications to industrial and electric vehicle applications. Enovix’s technology enables longer battery life and faster charging, supporting the growing global demand for high-performance energy storage. Enovix holds a robust portfolio of issued and pending patents covering its core battery design, manufacturing process, and system integration innovations. For more information, visit https://www.enovix.com.

    Forward‐Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding Enovix’s global growth strategy, expected plans for expansion in India, research and development in India, operational scale-up in Malaysia, product development roadmap, and other future events or expectations. Words such as “expects,” “intends,” “believes,” “will,” “plans,” and similar expressions are used to identify these forward-looking statements.

    Actual results may differ materially due to a variety of risks and uncertainties, including those identified in the “Risk Factors” section of Enovix’s most recent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. All forward-looking statements in this release speak only as of the date hereof, and Enovix undertakes no obligation to update any such statements as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by law.

    Investor Contact:
    Robert Lahey
    ir@enovix.com

    Media Contact:
    Bateman Agency for Enovix
    Kaelyn Attridge
    enovix@bateman.agency

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Songshan Lake: A Microcosm of China’s Innovation Ecosystem

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    GUANGZHOU, July 14 (Xinhua) — The area around Songshan Lake in southern China’s Guangdong Province exudes youthful energy. Just two decades ago, it was a quiet orchard, but now it is home to a thriving innovation hub. These days, it is not harvesting fruits, but ideas.

    The 103 square kilometer high-tech zone is home to more than 17,000 market players, including seven national manufacturing champions and 770 national high-tech enterprises. Each is contributing to the rise of next-generation technologies, from connected vehicles and robotics to intelligent engineering, biomedicine, and advanced materials and energy.

    The rapid growth of enterprises is facilitated by the innovative ecosystem of Songshan Lake, which is home to six universities and 18 provincial-level new R&D institutions. It is also home to several key scientific facilities, including the China Spallation Neutron Source and an advanced attosecond laser infrastructure currently under construction.

    The evolution of ePropulsion, co-founded by Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) alumnus Pan Zongliang and three of his classmates, is a vivid illustration of this dynamic ecosystem.

    In 2012, recognizing the significant potential in marine renewable energy, they formed a startup team dedicated to research and development in marine electric propulsion systems. By 2014, they had completed the prototype of their first electric outboard motor. However, the process of turning this innovation into a market-ready product was fraught with challenges. The industrialization process proved to be a complex undertaking that required considerable effort and resources to manage.

    Fortunately, HKUST professor Li Zexiang founded the XbotPark robotics base in Songshan Lake area in 2014. He also facilitated the relocation of ePropulsion’s five-person staff to Songshan Lake, providing them with valuable assistance.

    “As a marine renewable energy company, we needed a water area to test our products,” explained Pan Zongliang, co-founder and COO of ePropulsion. The Songshan Lake Administrative Committee provided the team with a key asset: a special dock for conducting water tests. “It was a huge support,” Pan Zongliang recalled.

    In addition to political support, Songshan Lake’s strategic location allows XbotPark companies to take advantage of the supply chain advantages of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

    According to the director of the XbotPark robotics base, teams working in this environment often say: “If you can imagine it, you can build it.” “Finding suppliers for good ideas can usually be completed in about thirty minutes,” he says.

    ePropulsion currently operates from a manufacturing facility in Dongguan, Guangdong Province, southern China, where Lake Songshanhu is located. The product range includes a wide range of overhead electric systems from 500 to 1000 kW, as well as overhead drives, embedded systems, batteries and control systems, which are sold worldwide.

    “Our main market is Europe and the United States, and our small and medium-sized electric outboard motors ranked first in the world in terms of shipment volume last year,” Pan Zongliang said. “The domestic market share is also growing as the new energy boat sector expands in China,” he added.

    Their eco-friendly propulsion systems now power boats at events such as SailGP and the America’s Cup, as well as on scenic waters across China, including Donghu Lake in Wuhan, West Lake in Hangzhou and the Lijiang River in Guilin.

    According to XbotPark, it has helped create more than 80 startups in the field of robotics and intelligent equipment, of which six are included in the list of unicorn companies whose estimated value has grown to a billion US dollars in a short period of time. At the same time, their survival rate has exceeded 80%. The total value of the leading companies in the base is $ 10 billion.

    Nearby, at the Guangdong Institute of Intelligent Robotics (GIRI), another industrial park near Songshan Lake, a bright yellow robot maneuvers in a test tank, rising and falling with the agility of a fish. This intelligent underwater inspection robot, developed by BlueDiveBot, conducts comprehensive inspections with no blind spots.

    “Underwater robots can perform equipment maintenance, garbage collection, water quality monitoring and emergency response, overcoming human limitations and safety risks,” said Hu Gangyi, CEO of BlueDiveBot.

    Incubated by GIRI and founded in 2023, BlueDiveBot has established a collaborative innovation platform integrating industry, education, research and application for advanced underwater equipment. The company has mastered a number of advanced technologies in the field of unmanned underwater intelligent systems, some of which are the first of their kind in the country.

    “The well-developed industrial chain in Dongguan and surrounding areas accelerates the commercialization of our R&D,” Hu Gangyi said. “We have quickly achieved the expansion of production capacity and significant growth in market sales.”

    Since its establishment in August 2015, GIRI has focused its R&D and commercialization efforts on key robotics components such as high-power lasers, sensors and machine vision systems, in addition to its core products that include industrial robots, high-end intelligent equipment, unmanned autonomous systems and industrial big data.

    GIRI Deputy Director Zhou Xiaoxiao compares prototype technologies to an “unripe green apple.” In order to become a “ripe red apple,” the technology must undergo a process of refinement, she says, and this transformation is necessary for the technology to become the basis for producing a wide range of products, including both “apple jam” and “apple juice.”

    Further development of innovation was supported by Songshan Lake High-tech Zone’s partnership with Huawei Cloud to build the “Developer Village” in April 2022. It meets the digitalization needs of enterprises through deep integration and joint innovation between various developer organizations, promoting digital innovation and industrial upgrading. Currently, 29 companies are located there.

    “The Songshan Lake High-Tech Zone has carried out cutting-edge basic research,” concluded Wang Qianqian, deputy director of the Songshan Lake Science, Technology and Innovation Bureau. “Based on the results of basic research, we have built a complete innovation chain from pioneering research to commercialization and industrial development.” -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • CPI inflation at 2.10% in June 2025; food inflation turns negative

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s retail inflation for June 2025 has dropped to its lowest level in more than six years, according to the latest data released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation. The provisional Consumer Price Index (CPI) shows that headline inflation for June stood at 2.10 percent for the country overall, with rural inflation at 1.72 percent and urban inflation at 2.56 percent. This marks the lowest headline CPI since January 2019, offering a significant respite to households grappling with cost pressures over recent years.

    Food inflation, which has often been the primary driver of household expenses, remained in the negative for the second month in a row. The Combined Consumer Food Price Index (CFPI) recorded a deflation of 1.06 percent in June, with rural areas seeing a 0.92 percent decline and urban areas witnessing a 1.22 percent fall in food prices. Compared to the same period last year, the drop in food inflation has been substantial, mainly due to easing prices of vegetables, pulses, cereals, milk, meat and fish, sugar and spices.

    On a month-on-month basis, headline inflation in June rose by 0.62 percent, while food inflation increased by 1.08 percent, largely in line with seasonal trends and normal price movements. Meanwhile, certain core categories continue to show moderate yet steady increases. Housing inflation in urban areas came in at 3.24 percent, slightly higher than May’s 3.16 percent. Education inflation was recorded at 4.37 percent compared to 4.12 percent in the previous month, while health expenses rose by 4.43 percent, up from 4.34 percent. Transport and communication costs remained stable, increasing marginally to 3.90 percent from 3.85 percent. Fuel and light inflation dropped to 2.55 percent from 2.84 percent in May.

    The ministry highlighted that the price data for this calculation was gathered from over 1,100 urban markets and 1,181 villages, with 100 percent coverage in rural areas and over 98 percent coverage in urban centres. This robust coverage ensures that the estimates reflect prevailing market conditions across the country.

    Economists believe that the sustained decline in food prices will offer relief to households, but they also point out that the persistent rise in services such as health, education and housing requires careful monitoring. The latest figures suggest that inflation is well within the Reserve Bank of India’s target range of 2 to 6 percent, giving policymakers more room to focus on growth and employment in the coming months.

    The final inflation report for June will be released on August 12. Until then, the latest numbers present a clear picture of easing consumer prices and a cautious optimism for economic planners who have been grappling with fluctuating global commodity prices and unpredictable weather patterns affecting agricultural output.

  • CPI inflation at 2.10% in June 2025; food inflation turns negative

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s retail inflation for June 2025 has dropped to its lowest level in more than six years, according to the latest data released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation. The provisional Consumer Price Index (CPI) shows that headline inflation for June stood at 2.10 percent for the country overall, with rural inflation at 1.72 percent and urban inflation at 2.56 percent. This marks the lowest headline CPI since January 2019, offering a significant respite to households grappling with cost pressures over recent years.

    Food inflation, which has often been the primary driver of household expenses, remained in the negative for the second month in a row. The Combined Consumer Food Price Index (CFPI) recorded a deflation of 1.06 percent in June, with rural areas seeing a 0.92 percent decline and urban areas witnessing a 1.22 percent fall in food prices. Compared to the same period last year, the drop in food inflation has been substantial, mainly due to easing prices of vegetables, pulses, cereals, milk, meat and fish, sugar and spices.

    On a month-on-month basis, headline inflation in June rose by 0.62 percent, while food inflation increased by 1.08 percent, largely in line with seasonal trends and normal price movements. Meanwhile, certain core categories continue to show moderate yet steady increases. Housing inflation in urban areas came in at 3.24 percent, slightly higher than May’s 3.16 percent. Education inflation was recorded at 4.37 percent compared to 4.12 percent in the previous month, while health expenses rose by 4.43 percent, up from 4.34 percent. Transport and communication costs remained stable, increasing marginally to 3.90 percent from 3.85 percent. Fuel and light inflation dropped to 2.55 percent from 2.84 percent in May.

    The ministry highlighted that the price data for this calculation was gathered from over 1,100 urban markets and 1,181 villages, with 100 percent coverage in rural areas and over 98 percent coverage in urban centres. This robust coverage ensures that the estimates reflect prevailing market conditions across the country.

    Economists believe that the sustained decline in food prices will offer relief to households, but they also point out that the persistent rise in services such as health, education and housing requires careful monitoring. The latest figures suggest that inflation is well within the Reserve Bank of India’s target range of 2 to 6 percent, giving policymakers more room to focus on growth and employment in the coming months.

    The final inflation report for June will be released on August 12. Until then, the latest numbers present a clear picture of easing consumer prices and a cautious optimism for economic planners who have been grappling with fluctuating global commodity prices and unpredictable weather patterns affecting agricultural output.

  • CPI inflation at 2.10% in June 2025; food inflation turns negative

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s retail inflation for June 2025 has dropped to its lowest level in more than six years, according to the latest data released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation. The provisional Consumer Price Index (CPI) shows that headline inflation for June stood at 2.10 percent for the country overall, with rural inflation at 1.72 percent and urban inflation at 2.56 percent. This marks the lowest headline CPI since January 2019, offering a significant respite to households grappling with cost pressures over recent years.

    Food inflation, which has often been the primary driver of household expenses, remained in the negative for the second month in a row. The Combined Consumer Food Price Index (CFPI) recorded a deflation of 1.06 percent in June, with rural areas seeing a 0.92 percent decline and urban areas witnessing a 1.22 percent fall in food prices. Compared to the same period last year, the drop in food inflation has been substantial, mainly due to easing prices of vegetables, pulses, cereals, milk, meat and fish, sugar and spices.

    On a month-on-month basis, headline inflation in June rose by 0.62 percent, while food inflation increased by 1.08 percent, largely in line with seasonal trends and normal price movements. Meanwhile, certain core categories continue to show moderate yet steady increases. Housing inflation in urban areas came in at 3.24 percent, slightly higher than May’s 3.16 percent. Education inflation was recorded at 4.37 percent compared to 4.12 percent in the previous month, while health expenses rose by 4.43 percent, up from 4.34 percent. Transport and communication costs remained stable, increasing marginally to 3.90 percent from 3.85 percent. Fuel and light inflation dropped to 2.55 percent from 2.84 percent in May.

    The ministry highlighted that the price data for this calculation was gathered from over 1,100 urban markets and 1,181 villages, with 100 percent coverage in rural areas and over 98 percent coverage in urban centres. This robust coverage ensures that the estimates reflect prevailing market conditions across the country.

    Economists believe that the sustained decline in food prices will offer relief to households, but they also point out that the persistent rise in services such as health, education and housing requires careful monitoring. The latest figures suggest that inflation is well within the Reserve Bank of India’s target range of 2 to 6 percent, giving policymakers more room to focus on growth and employment in the coming months.

    The final inflation report for June will be released on August 12. Until then, the latest numbers present a clear picture of easing consumer prices and a cautious optimism for economic planners who have been grappling with fluctuating global commodity prices and unpredictable weather patterns affecting agricultural output.

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AMERICA/HAITI – The Camillians celebrate their founder by dreaming of a clinic for the people of Pourcine

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Monday, 14 July 2025

    MM

    Pic Makaya (Agenzia Fides) – On the feast day of Saint Camillus of Lellis, founder of the Order of the Ministers of the Sick (MI), Father Massimo Miraglio, parish priest of the small community of Pourcine Pic-Makaya, shared with Fides that this will also be an important day for the entire Camillian religious family in Haiti, which always strives to help those most in need.”This year, too, we Camillians in Haiti want to live the feast of Saint Camillus with great hope and the desire to continue to witness to the merciful love for the sick that our Father and Founder left us as a legacy, not only spiritually but also in our active life, in our daily lives,” he emphasized.”On this occasion,” the missionary added, “there will be no shortage of initiatives in favor of the poor and sick, with food distributions and the hospital’s open doors, ready to welcome all those in need.””Unfortunately, the country has been in an extremely difficult situation for years, and the work is becoming more complicated every day,” Father Massimo said, referring to the catastrophic humanitarian situation the island has been experiencing for years (see Fides, 17/6/2025). My brothers and sisters in Port-au-Prince, who have been running the St. Camillus Hospital with its foyer for disabled children for years, are also feeling this. Despite a thousand difficulties, they manage to keep it open and welcome sick and poor people every day who are looking for a solution and the means to continue.”Working in Port-au-Prince and in many areas of the country has become truly difficult today, because of the gangs that control the territory and in the face of a state that no longer exists, a police force, and an army that are powerless against the strength and violence of the gangs, even in Jeremie,” he reports.”Especially in the parish of Pic Makaya, we are trying to continue our work and, following the example of Saint Camillus, we want to be especially close to the poorest and sickest people. All the projects we carry out in the parish always have the goal of preserving the population and supporting it with various activities. Our commitment to healthcare certainly remains a priority, but so too is the aqueduct, which will allow us to bring water to the center of the country and control it, and the effort to make the roads and mule tracks more accessible to avoid a whole series of accidents that systematically occur. School is another area in which we are strongly involved. It is a reference point for the education of children and young people, and for adults, where we can share information and practice prevention (see Fides, 15/4/2025). And we dream of soon being able to open a clinic for the population.” “This is truly the dream we have,” emphasizes the missionary, “to soon be able to begin construction of the St. Camillus Outpatient Clinic, where we can accommodate the sick. It won’t be a large clinic, but rather an emergency room, a place where the people in the area—currently around 4,000/5,000 people, who will be a potential catchment area—can receive the minimum of necessary, initial treatment. It would be a truly important point of contact that would fundamentally change the lives of the people in this area.””At the moment,” Father Massimo concludes, “we are unfortunately forced to continue with a very small informal clinic in my rectory, which is not even sufficient to meet the basic needs of the population.” “We hope that, through the intercession of St. Camillus, we will be able to establish this outpatient clinic next year, which will allow us to assist the sick and also bear witness to the love that St. Camillus passed on to us,” he affirms. (AP) (Agenzia Fides, 14/7/2025)

    MM

    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/PAKISTAN – Christians accused of blasphemy continue to seek justice

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Lahore (Agenzia Fides) – Asif Pervaiz, a 42-year-old Pakistani Christian, has been in prison for 12 years after being sentenced to death for blasphemy by a Lahore court in 2020. This is just one of many cases in which the accusations are false and an innocent person has been accused. Today, his family denounces to Fides the delays in the Pakistani justice system: “Last April, finally, thanks to lawyer Saif-ul-Malook, a date for the appeal was set. But the judge canceled it unexpectedly and without giving any reason,” said Waseem Anwar, the convicted man’s brother, who had to move with his family and Asif Pervaiz’s family for security reasons, fearing reprisals that can occur against relatives of those accused of blasphemy. Waseem Anwar, who, like his brother, works in a textile factory, also cares for Asif’s wife and their four children. The incident underlying the verdict occurred in 2013 in the textile factory where Asif worked. Someone took his cell phone and sent blasphemous text messages. “It was his co-workers who did this out of envy, jealousy, and contempt for Christians,” says Waseem. “Unfortunately, the court at first instance rejected Asif’s statement denying the allegations and sentenced him to death.” Asif Pervaiz had also reiterated that the supervisor at his factory had confronted him and asked him to convert to Islam, which he refused. Muhammad Saeed Khokher, the plaintiff, however, denied that he wanted to convert Parvaiz. Following the conviction at first instance, the family sought assistance in organizing the appeal process. However, a new trial has not yet been opened. “Cases of false accusations of blasphemy can also lead to a positive outcome after a long trial,” Catholic lawyer Khalil Tahir Sandhu, who has defended many victims in court, told Fides. “However, the fact remains that innocent defendants often spend many years in prison, and their families suffer irreparable damage, without compensation and without punishment for those who make false accusations,” he notes. Among the cases with positive outcomes, on July 8, a court in Lahore acquitted two young Christians of a false blasphemy charge that arose from a minor dispute. Adil Babar and Simon Nadeem were 18 and 14 years old, respectively, when they were charged in 2023 and have now been acquitted two years later. The case of a Catholic who was acquitted of blasphemy charges after 23 years in prison caused a stir. Anwar Kenneth, now 71, was arrested in 2001 for alleged blasphemy and sentenced to death by a Lahore court in July 2002. Last June, after reviewing the case, the Supreme Court finally ordered his acquittal on the grounds that he was mentally ill. A report by the human rights organization Human Rights Watch, titled “A Conspiracy to Grab the Land,” published in June 2025, states: “Pakistan’s blasphemy laws are discriminatory, deny non-Muslims equality before the law, and encourage violence against anyone accused of the crime. Blasphemy is a crime officially punishable by death in Pakistan, and the laws have long been used to pursue personal vendettas and persecute members of religious minorities with serious consequences. A simple accusation of blasphemy can mean a death sentence: dozens of people have been killed in mass violence over the past decade based on blasphemy allegations.” The text continues: “People who make blasphemy allegations often do so for economic reasons, such as acquiring land owned by others. Although victims of blasphemy allegations and the violence resulting from the law come from all socioeconomic and religious groups in Pakistan, most victims come from marginalized groups.” These groups are often unable to afford defense for economic reasons: “A deep-rooted prejudice in the criminal justice system leads to miscarriages of justice against people accused of blasphemy. Authorities almost never bring to justice those who commit violent acts in the name of blasphemy, while those charged under discriminatory laws – usually without evidence – suffer long pretrial detentions, lack of due process, and unfair trials that can lead to years in prison.” (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 14/7/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Demystifying the Link Between Major Depression and Alzheimer’s Disease

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Over 7 million people in the United States live with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia (ADRD). Some risk factors for ADRD, like genetics, can’t be controlled, but others can be treated. One of the most prevalent is depression (known clinically as major depressive disorder, or MDD). Between 11.1% and 14.7% of ADRD cases – affecting roughly one million individuals in the US – are attributable to MDD.  

    Now, researchers at the UConn Center on Aging have uncovered a variety of mechanisms linking these conditions, giving at-risk individuals and health care providers a greater understanding of how the disease may be prevented and mitigated. 

    “We’ve known for a long time that depression is one of the most relevant, potentially preventable risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease,” says Breno Diniz, MD, Ph.D., associate professor of psychiatry at UConn Health and the Center on Aging, who has devoted his research career to tackling this issue. “However, we didn’t know why.”  

    Diniz’s latest publication, in the journal Nature Mental Health, has uncovered two key factors linking these diseases: proteostasis, or how the body synthesizes and metabolizes proteins; and dysregulation of inflammatory responses.  

    “Depression is a disease that is bigger than a depressed mood,” Diniz says. “It has consequences that are silent, that may appear many years later.” 

    The Power in the Proteins

    Diniz’s research team identified a series of protein markers in the body that seemed to increase the risk of ADRD for everyone – patients both with and without a history of MDD. These markers are related to general processes in the body that tend to change with age, such as inflammation, cell division, and apoptosis (the destruction and removal of damaged cells from the body). 

    But in patients with MDD, the researchers found a unique change in the process of proteostasis. This change increased inflammation in the brain, which in turn increased the risk of developing ADRD. 

    “What we have here is a causal effect,” says Diniz, explaining that these two factors – changes in proteostasis and an increase in neuroinflammation – “seem to work together, synergistically, to increase the risk of dementia.” 

    Using this insight, the team developed a Proteomic Risk Score that can be used to assess the risk for an individual patient with depression developing ADRD. This unique tool evaluates multiple proteins and offers “a more concrete way of looking at the risk of dementia in these individuals,” says Diniz. 

    To the research team’s surprise, the newly developed tool was a better predictor of ADRD risk than any previous model. It was more effective than models which evaluate the classic risk factors for ADRD, both in the general population and among those with depression – signaling hope for early detection and prevention. 

    “It’s a very robust model,” says Diniz, “and it has concrete clinical applications.” 

    The Proteomic Risk Score tool will help clinicians and patients holistically examine their ADRD risk factors, and it may also enable researchers to better select human subjects for ADRD intervention and prevention efforts. 

    Breaking it Down

    In this study, Diniz and his co-authors used a combination of proteomic and genomic approaches to analyze data available from the United Kingdom Biobank, specifically tracking ADRD outcomes among middle-aged adults with depression.  

    Proteomics is the study of the proteins that are created by cells in the body. And genomics – the study of someone’s entire set of DNA – is a natural complement to proteomics, since DNA determines which proteins are produced by cells. Combining these two analytical approaches is called proteogenomics, and it can give researchers a deeper insight into complex biological processes and how they are related to different pathologies.  

    “Every molecular layer – from genes to epigenetics, RNA, and proteins – conveys different biological information, and they can have different roles in … creating prediction models,” explains Diniz. “Their combination makes the models more powerful, and brings them a step closer to precision geroscience.” This is a major goal of the UConn Pepper Center, led by the paper’s co-authors George Kuchel, MD, and Richard Fortinsky, Ph.D.

    To enable this multifaceted analysis, Diniz partnered with other researchers across departments at UConn and UConn Health, including Kuchel; Fortinsky; Zhiduo Chen, Ph.D.; David C. Steffens, MD; and Chia-Ling Kuo, Ph.D. The research team also included scientists from the University of Exeter (UK) and the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health in Toronto, Canada. 

    Depression’s ‘Silent Consequences’

    This research emphasizes the profound interconnection between mind and body, especially the long-term health impacts of untreated mental illness. For those outside the scientific community, Diniz hopes this work will spur people to take their mental health just as seriously as their physical health. 

    “It’s extremely important to seek help,” Diniz urges. “Not only when you’re 50 or older – anytime in your life. Lots of studies in the past decade have shown that any depressive episode throughout the lifespan, even in your 20s, can increase the risk of dementia later on. So, it’s very important to seek help, and it’s very important to treat – and try to reach full remission of – the depressive episode.” 

    Fortunately, he notes, many of the lifestyle recommendations which have been shown to improve depressive symptoms – like exercise and not smoking – also improve other health outcomes, so treating depression does not need to occur in isolation. 

    Offering patients and health care providers tools like the Proteomic Risk Score and a more holistic understanding of health, this research joins a growing body of literature dedicated to preventing many cases of ADRD before it’s too late. 

    This work was supported by the NIA grant P30AG067988 (UConn Pepper Center, PIs: Kuchel and Fortinsky).  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Demystifying the Link Between Major Depression and Alzheimer’s Disease

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Over 7 million people in the United States live with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia (ADRD). Some risk factors for ADRD, like genetics, can’t be controlled, but others can be treated. One of the most prevalent is depression (known clinically as major depressive disorder, or MDD). Between 11.1% and 14.7% of ADRD cases – affecting roughly one million individuals in the US – are attributable to MDD.  

    Now, researchers at the UConn Center on Aging have uncovered a variety of mechanisms linking these conditions, giving at-risk individuals and health care providers a greater understanding of how the disease may be prevented and mitigated. 

    “We’ve known for a long time that depression is one of the most relevant, potentially preventable risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease,” says Breno Diniz, MD, Ph.D., associate professor of psychiatry at UConn Health and the Center on Aging, who has devoted his research career to tackling this issue. “However, we didn’t know why.”  

    Diniz’s latest publication, in the journal Nature Mental Health, has uncovered two key factors linking these diseases: proteostasis, or how the body synthesizes and metabolizes proteins; and dysregulation of inflammatory responses.  

    “Depression is a disease that is bigger than a depressed mood,” Diniz says. “It has consequences that are silent, that may appear many years later.” 

    The Power in the Proteins

    Diniz’s research team identified a series of protein markers in the body that seemed to increase the risk of ADRD for everyone – patients both with and without a history of MDD. These markers are related to general processes in the body that tend to change with age, such as inflammation, cell division, and apoptosis (the destruction and removal of damaged cells from the body). 

    But in patients with MDD, the researchers found a unique change in the process of proteostasis. This change increased inflammation in the brain, which in turn increased the risk of developing ADRD. 

    “What we have here is a causal effect,” says Diniz, explaining that these two factors – changes in proteostasis and an increase in neuroinflammation – “seem to work together, synergistically, to increase the risk of dementia.” 

    Using this insight, the team developed a Proteomic Risk Score that can be used to assess the risk for an individual patient with depression developing ADRD. This unique tool evaluates multiple proteins and offers “a more concrete way of looking at the risk of dementia in these individuals,” says Diniz. 

    To the research team’s surprise, the newly developed tool was a better predictor of ADRD risk than any previous model. It was more effective than models which evaluate the classic risk factors for ADRD, both in the general population and among those with depression – signaling hope for early detection and prevention. 

    “It’s a very robust model,” says Diniz, “and it has concrete clinical applications.” 

    The Proteomic Risk Score tool will help clinicians and patients holistically examine their ADRD risk factors, and it may also enable researchers to better select human subjects for ADRD intervention and prevention efforts. 

    Breaking it Down

    In this study, Diniz and his co-authors used a combination of proteomic and genomic approaches to analyze data available from the United Kingdom Biobank, specifically tracking ADRD outcomes among middle-aged adults with depression.  

    Proteomics is the study of the proteins that are created by cells in the body. And genomics – the study of someone’s entire set of DNA – is a natural complement to proteomics, since DNA determines which proteins are produced by cells. Combining these two analytical approaches is called proteogenomics, and it can give researchers a deeper insight into complex biological processes and how they are related to different pathologies.  

    “Every molecular layer – from genes to epigenetics, RNA, and proteins – conveys different biological information, and they can have different roles in … creating prediction models,” explains Diniz. “Their combination makes the models more powerful, and brings them a step closer to precision geroscience.” This is a major goal of the UConn Pepper Center, led by the paper’s co-authors George Kuchel, MD, and Richard Fortinsky, Ph.D.

    To enable this multifaceted analysis, Diniz partnered with other researchers across departments at UConn and UConn Health, including Kuchel; Fortinsky; Zhiduo Chen, Ph.D.; David C. Steffens, MD; and Chia-Ling Kuo, Ph.D. The research team also included scientists from the University of Exeter (UK) and the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health in Toronto, Canada. 

    Depression’s ‘Silent Consequences’

    This research emphasizes the profound interconnection between mind and body, especially the long-term health impacts of untreated mental illness. For those outside the scientific community, Diniz hopes this work will spur people to take their mental health just as seriously as their physical health. 

    “It’s extremely important to seek help,” Diniz urges. “Not only when you’re 50 or older – anytime in your life. Lots of studies in the past decade have shown that any depressive episode throughout the lifespan, even in your 20s, can increase the risk of dementia later on. So, it’s very important to seek help, and it’s very important to treat – and try to reach full remission of – the depressive episode.” 

    Fortunately, he notes, many of the lifestyle recommendations which have been shown to improve depressive symptoms – like exercise and not smoking – also improve other health outcomes, so treating depression does not need to occur in isolation. 

    Offering patients and health care providers tools like the Proteomic Risk Score and a more holistic understanding of health, this research joins a growing body of literature dedicated to preventing many cases of ADRD before it’s too late. 

    This work was supported by the NIA grant P30AG067988 (UConn Pepper Center, PIs: Kuchel and Fortinsky).  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Leicester Senior Coroner awarded national honour

    Source: City of Leicester

    Professor Catherine E. Mason, HM Senior Coroner for Leicester, has been honoured in the national Muslim Community Service Awards for Outstanding Achievement.

    The awards are an initiative of the Muslim Community Association, to recognise and celebrate individuals who have made a positive impact on Muslim communities.

    Professor Mason has championed the use of non-invasive virtual autopsies, using MRI and CT scanning to determine cause of death. This approach provides greater dignity for the deceased and significantly reduces distress for grieving families across Leicester.

    Her expertise and integrity, which won national recognition at the 2024 National Burial Council (NBC) Conference in Leicester, were central to this latest accolade.

    Suleman Nagdi MBE, Deputy Lieutenant of Leicestershire said: “This award could not be more richly deserved. Having had the privilege of working closely with Cathie since her appointment—through both my involvement with the Muslim Burial Council of Leicestershire and the NBC—I have been continually inspired by her extraordinary compassion and unwavering dedication to our communities when they need us most.

    “Her service has been nothing short of exceptional, and we in Leicester are truly fortunate to have benefited from her remarkable commitment.”

    Leicester City Mayor Sir Peter Soulsby said: “The award recognises Professor Mason’s exceptional dedication, innovation, and leadership in coronial services. Her pioneering work has set a national benchmark, driving significant advancements – most notably her efforts to reduce the need for invasive post-mortem examinations.”

    Professor Mason said: “I am deeply humbled and profoundly moved to receive this recognition. This award belongs not just to me, but to everyone who has walked alongside me on this remarkable journey. If my work has brought even a moment’s comfort to families during their darkest hours of grief, then every effort has been worthwhile”

    The awards ceremony took place on 9 July, at the Royal Regency Hotel in London.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “Sometimes you have to prove your competence a little more than a man would have to,” says Veronika Zolotova, a RUDN University graduate who reached the semi-finals of the construction leadership competition

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peoples’Friendship University of Russia –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Veronika Zolotova graduated from the RUDN University Agrarian and Technological Institute in 2020 in the field of “Land Management and Cadastres”. Now she is a project manager for the department for the construction of educational facilities in the autonomous non-profit organization “Development of Social Infrastructure” (ANO “RSI”). This year, Veronika reached the semi-finals of the All-Russian competition of managers “Leaders of the Construction Industry”, organized with the support of the Ministry of Construction of Russia. Veronika talks about who inspired her to go into construction, what the industry is living today and what it means to be a modern leader in an interview.

    When you are a child, the field of “Land Management and Cadastre” cannot be called a dream profession. Everyone wants to become astronauts, doctors, teachers. How did you come to the profession?

    Since childhood, I imagined myself in different professions. But one thing has always remained unchanged – the desire to be part of something great, significant, to leave a mark on history. Over time, I realized that the best way to make this dream come true is to work in the construction industry. In the field thanks to which cities are created before our eyes, the space of the future is formed. I was inspired by my godfather, who worked as a surveyor. His stories about the profession were filled with passion and meaning. Then, for the first time, I became truly interested in this field – and that is how I came to choose the direction of “Land Management and Cadastre”.

    One of the facets of student life is exams and tests, preparation for which often makes students nervous. What was the most difficult subject during your studies?

    It’s been a while since I graduated from university. Each exam was exciting and difficult in its own way, especially at the beginning. But one subject from my first year has remained especially vivid in my memory: soil science. At that time, it seemed incredibly difficult, almost incomprehensible. It’s funny, but many subjects have faded from memory over time, but soil science has not. Apparently, it was precisely because of its complexity and depth that it was so firmly imprinted in my mind.

    Which teacher are you most grateful to?

    ⁠I am sincerely grateful to all the teachers of our university — everyone who generously shared their knowledge, experience and warmth with us. All of them are true masters of their craft, devoted to their profession and their students. I would like to express special gratitude to two teachers who played a key role in my professional path. An amazing teacher and expert in his field — Anton Aleksandrovich Poddubsky. He taught geodesy and a number of other disciplines, thanks to which I discovered this science from a completely new, deep and fascinating side.

    Mikhail Vyacheslavovich Aleshin not only taught classes on the theory of errors and mathematical processing of geodetic measurements, methods of decoding and other specialized subjects, but also became my scientific supervisor when writing my diploma thesis. His approach, exactingness and support became a real intellectual challenge for me and an important school of professional growth.

    Thanks to such teachers, studying became not just a mandatory stage, but a real inspiration and a confident step into a future profession.

    The most vivid memory from my studies at RUDN University…

    The defense of my diploma sank deep into my soul. The fear was almost paralyzing, it is impossible to put into words. Tears, sleepless nights, anxiety to the point of trembling… But I coped. I coped largely thanks to the support of the teachers, who believed in us even when we ourselves doubted. And the joy when I heard: “The defense was successful” was truly immeasurable. It was as if I had flown to seventh heaven from happiness. I still keep in my archives videos where my classmates and I are crying from stress, and then, beaming with joy, we leave the defense – winners.

    Already in your first year you started working in the construction industry. What projects did you manage to work on?

    My career path began as an assistant surveyor in one of the largest construction companies in Moscow. I learned from professionals, gained experience, and gradually moved on to independent work. Over time, I became a full-fledged surveyor, and was involved in both office and field work. At that time, I was lucky enough to be part of large-scale projects, including the Rudnevo electric depot, Zaryadye Park, and the construction of the metro. This experience not only strengthened my professional skills, but also taught me responsibility, discipline, and the ability to work in a team under real production tasks.

    When you are an applicant, “Land Management and Cadastres” sounds like something mysterious and enigmatic. In what areas can graduates of this program work today?

    This is a multidisciplinary specialty, and you can develop along a variety of tracks.

    Firstly, it is geodesy – work on construction sites, support of engineering surveys, creation of digital terrain models. Demand for surveyors is consistently high, especially in large infrastructure projects.

    Secondly, cadastral activities – registration of land plots, work in cadastral chambers, preparation of technical documentation. This area requires attention to detail and a good understanding of the legislation.

    Thirdly, land and legal relations. Here, specialists who understand the regulatory framework, can support transactions, participate in land use issues and dispute resolution are in demand.

    In addition, areas related to the digitalization of the cadastre are developing – GIS systems, work with spatial data, automation of accounting processes. This is an excellent option for those who want to keep up with technology. The specialty provides a broad base and flexibility – you can choose both a technical direction and a legal one, or combine both. The main thing is not to be afraid to study further and look for your niche.

    Where did you find yourself?

    As a project manager. Today, I supervise objects from the conception stage to the moment of their transfer to the balance sheet — I control all stages: from surveys and design to registration of rights and commissioning. This requires a comprehensive approach, knowledge of several areas at once — and it was Land Management and Cadastres that gave me this foundation. So I am sure: this specialty has broad prospects, and success depends on how you yourself reveal its potential.

    What principles do you follow in your work?

    First of all, responsibility. If I accept a task, I will definitely bring it to a result, while focusing on the level of quality that I would like to receive. There is no place for negligence in the construction industry – even a small mistake can result in serious technical or financial consequences.

    The second important principle is respect for people. Regardless of the position and role – be it a contractor, a customer, a colleague or a subordinate – I believe it is important to build communication on mutual respect. This helps to find a common language and quickly resolve even the most difficult issues.

    The third principle is a friendly atmosphere in the team. We have warm, almost family-like relationships in our team: we support each other, we can talk not only about work, but also share personal moments. Such an environment increases trust and makes working together easier and more productive.

    It is this foundation that gives a sustainable result. This is not about beautiful words – it is about how to work effectively, especially in conditions of limited time, resources and high responsibility. In our field, the winner is not the one who is louder, but the one who knows how to build a process, hears the team and is responsible for the result.

    You are a finalist in the “Leaders of the Construction Industry” competition. What does participation in this competition mean to you?

    For me, this is a big and very important stage in my professional development. The competition program is aimed at identifying promising managers who have experience in senior positions in the construction or housing and utilities sector. For the final, we are developing our own projects. I will not reveal all the cards yet. But I will say one thing: my project addresses current challenges in the construction industry and offers solutions aimed at achieving sustainable development goals. Now I am focusing on the final!

    Daily work often becomes routine. What inspires you and allows you to maintain energy and move forward?

    In any job, especially management, there is a place for routine – documents, meetings, process coordination. But I am always inspired by one thought: the result of your work is something tangible and long-lasting. When an object is completed, put into operation and begins to benefit the city and people – this is a real feeling of satisfaction. The pleasure of understanding that you have invested effort, experience, time and done something really useful for this world. The thought charges even in the most difficult moments.

    And to replenish my energy, I have my own “recipe for a perfect weekend”: a trip to the countryside with friends in tents. We have an amazing team of 19 people, and we are all from the construction industry: surveyors, designers, architects, estimators, designers, project managers… In general, the list can go on and on. We met at one of the professional events, and then became real friends – our families are friends, we support each other both at work and in life. We even have our own name – “Go? Go!” This is about the fact that we are always “for” any activity: hiking, climbing, running, lectures, master classes, parties. This team is my source of energy and inspiration. With such people around you, you feel that you can move mountains – both literally and professionally.

    Is it difficult to be a girl in the construction industry – a stereotype or prejudice that still exists today?

    This stereotype, unfortunately, still exists – although not in such an open form as before. Sometimes you have to prove your competence a little more than a man would have to in the same position. But personally, I don’t make a problem out of it – I do my job well, consistently and for the result. And this is what ultimately builds trust and respect.

    Construction is not about gender, but about responsibility, knowledge of processes, the ability to build communication and bring a project to completion. And every year there are more and more women like me in the industry – strong, smart, professional.

    If I encounter bias, I try not to waste energy on arguments. It is much more effective to show in action that you are competent and reliable. And when you have more than one successfully completed project under your belt, the opinion of skeptics changes on its own.

    If you had the opportunity to go back to your first year, what would you tell yourself then?

    I would tell myself: don’t be afraid to be active, ask more questions, try yourself and don’t put off important steps “for later”. University is not only about lectures and tests, it is a time when you can form yourself as a professional, build connections, participate in projects, and most importantly – learn to take initiative. I would advise not to be afraid of mistakes. Because it is through them that a real understanding of the profession and self-confidence comes. A mistake is not a failure, but an experience, if you draw conclusions.

    And, probably, the main advice: everything will work out if you do your job with interest and are truly involved.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Astronaut Shannon Walker Retires

    Source: NASA

    NASA astronaut Shannon Walker retired July 10, concluding a career that spanned 38 years, including 30 years of federal service and more than 21 years as an astronaut. During two spaceflights, she spent 330 days in orbit, contributing to hundreds of scientific experiments and technology demonstrations for the benefit of humanity.
    Walker served as a mission specialist during NASA’s SpaceX Crew-1 mission to the International Space Station in 2020, the first crewed operational Dragon spacecraft flight. She also was the first woman to fly aboard a Dragon spacecraft. Once aboard the orbiting laboratory, Walker joined the Expedition 64/65 crew and briefly commanded Expedition 65, logging 167 days in space before returning to Earth in May 2021.
    She spent 163 days in space during her first spaceflight in 2010 as a member of the space station’s Expedition 24/25 crew. She was the pilot of the Soyuz TMA-19, which became the first crew to dock with the station’s Rassvet module.
    “Shannon’s dedication to human space exploration has left an incredible impact, not just here in Houston, but across the industry,” said Steve Koerner, acting director of NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. “Her leadership and guidance will be missed immensely, but she leaves behind a legacy of excellence that will continue to inspire the next generation of explorers for decades to come.”
    Most recently, Walker served as the deputy chief of the Astronaut Office. She also oversaw the 2021 class of astronaut candidates, supervising their training and graduation in 2024.
    “Shannon and I were a part of the same astronaut class back when we first started,” said Joe Acaba, chief of the Astronaut Office at NASA Johnson. “She has been a great friend to me ever since and a great leader within the Astronaut Office. I could not imagine a better partner by my side when, nearly 20 years later, we’d become chief and deputy chief. She has undoubtedly been a positive influence on this office, and her retirement is well-deserved.”
    Walker began her career as a flight controller in the Mission Control Center at NASA Johnson, supporting several shuttle missions. She next worked in the International Space Station Program Office, helping to develop, build, and integrate hardware for the space station. In the early days of the space station, she returned to mission control, leading the engineering team responsible for the space station’s technical health.
    She was selected as an astronaut in 2004. After completing her initial two years of training, she served as a crew support astronaut and worked as a capsule communicator, or capcom. She also held leadership positions within the several branches of the Astronaut Office focused on International Space Station operations, crew Soyuz missions, and supporting astronauts with flight assignments. She also commanded the NASA Extreme Environment Mission Operations project, or NEEMO 15 underwater mission.
    “I had always known I wanted to be an astronaut when I grew up, but looking back on the past 38 years, I never would have imagined how many adventures my career would take me on,” said Walker. “I feel fortunate to have been able to work with people all over the world in the pursuit of space exploration. I have seen a lot of change in the evolution of human spaceflight, and I know the future is in good hands with all the talented people we have here and the generations yet to come.”
    The Houston native attended Rice University in her hometown, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in physics, followed by a master’s degree and doctorate in space physics.
    Learn more about how NASA explores the unknown and innovates for the benefit of humanity at:  https://www.nasa.gov/
    -end-
    Chelsey Ballarte
    Johnson Space Center, Houston
    281-483-5111
    Chelsey.n.ballarte@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Díaz-Balart Stands in Solidarity with the Cuban People on Fourth Anniversary of Historic Pro-Democracy July 11 Protests and Condemns Ongoing Repression

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (25th District of FLORIDA)

    MIAMI, FL – Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26), Chairman of the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Subcommittee of the House Committee on Appropriations, issued the following statement in solidarity with the Cuban people on the fourth anniversary of the July 11, 2021, pro-democracy protests in Cuba:

    “Today marks four years since the historic July 11thprotests, when courageous Cubans from every city and province hit the streets to demand freedom. In the past four years, the Cuban people have continued to raise their voices in the face of escalating repression, with more than a thousand documented political prisoners –including children– unjustly imprisoned in inhumane conditions.

    “The Grammy-winning song ‘Patria y Vida’ became a mantra for these brave protests for freedom. Yet many of the musicians who created that song, like Maykel Castillo “El Osorbo” and Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara, remain behind bars.

    “Unfortunately, the regime’s lies, violence, and abuse continue against courageous pro-democracy activists like José Daniel Ferrer, Félix Navarro, Sayli Navarro, and thousands more.

    “I stand in unwavering solidarity with the Cuban people and urge the international community to do the same in condemning this murderous regime.

    “The Cuban people will be free, and it will be due to the courage of those heroes who, despite the immense personal sacrifices, dare to denounce the regime’s repression and human rights abuses.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by CS at Student of the Year Awards 2024/25 Presentation Ceremony (English only) (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Following is the speech by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, at the Student of the Year Awards 2024/25 Presentation Ceremony today (July 12):
     
    Catherine (Chief Executive Officer of the South China Morning Post (SCMP), Ms Catherine So), Dr Lake Wang (Executive Director, People and Organisational Development of the Hong Kong Jockey Club), Tammy (Editor-in-Chief of the South China Morning Post, Ms Tammy Tam), Advisory Board members, ladies and gentlemen,
     
    Good morning. And what a great morning this is for Hong Kong. Today, we celebrate our secondary schools and the exceptional professionalism and dedication of principals, teachers and support staff. We also thank parents for their endless support. And, most importantly, we honour the students among us today – the winners and finalists of this 44th annual Student of the Year Awards.
     
    This year, over 840 students from 177 schools were nominated. And that, I’m delighted to say, is a new record high for the Awards.
     
    Rewarding excellence is no easy task, yet Hong Kong is fortunate to have so many deserving students.
     
    The judging panel had the tough task of bringing all those impressive nominations down to 40 finalists for the Awards’ 10 student categories, including the Grand Prize.
     
    The Government is firmly committed to youth development.  
     
    The Youth Development Blueprint for Hong Kong, released in late 2022, outlines our guiding principles for promoting long-term youth development. Its original 160-plus measures have been expanded, since then, to about 250, in an ongoing effort to ensure that the Blueprint evolves to meet the changing needs of our youth.
     
    Our vision is to raise a new generation of youth instilled with a global perspective, a positive mindset and a deep love for our city and our country.
     
    That demands a community-wide effort, including valued partnerships with organisations like the SCMP and the Jockey Club, working closely with educational institutions and families, to create an enabling environment for the youth of Hong Kong.
     
    This year’s theme, “Building Tomorrow: Growth Through Action”, reflects that shared vision.
     
    My congratulations to each and every one of this year’s awardees and finalists. Remember, this city, together with your proud parents, your school, teachers and mentors, and so many others who have helped you along the way, believe in you and look forward to your future with great expectations.
     
    I am grateful to the South China Morning Post and the Hong Kong Jockey Club for organising this prestigious event year after year and, in doing so, putting a brilliant spotlight on education, our youth and Hong Kong.  
     
    My thanks, too, to the Awards’ judges, nearly 40 in all, for their invaluable time and expertise, and their compelling commitment to excellence.
     
    Ladies and gentlemen, I know you will all enjoy this memorable day in the life.
     
    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –