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Category: Health

  • MIL-OSI Banking: KDCA and SK bioscience forge ahead to shield South Korea against future pandemic influenza threats, says GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    KDCA and SK bioscience forge ahead to shield South Korea against future pandemic influenza threats, says GlobalData

    Posted in Pharma

    South Korea has launched the Priority Infectious Disease Pandemic Preparedness Rapid R&D Support Program, led by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) in collaboration with SK bioscience. This proactive initiative is expected to significantly strengthen and prepare the nation against emerging influenza threats, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    This government-led initiative focuses on developing vaccines against avian influenza that are identified as high-risk candidates for future pandemics. SK bioscience has demonstrated technological capabilities by manufacturing vaccines for global partners and successfully launching its own COVID-19 vaccine.

    SK bioscience’s portfolio includes the WHO-prequalified SkyCellflu Quadrivalent and Skycellflu, both domestically developed cell-cultured influenza vaccines, and SKYCovione, South Korea’s first homegrown COVID-19 vaccine. It is the only domestic company to have commercialized cell-culture-based vaccines for both influenza and COVID-19 with significant strengths in vaccine development.

    Chilamula Srija, Pharma Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The experiences with the COVID-19 pandemic underscored the risk of dependence on international supply chains for essential medical resources. By investing in domestic R&D, South Korea aims for greater autonomy and to ensure timely access to life-saving vaccines for its citizens in future emergencies.”

    According to GlobalData’s Pharmaceutical Intelligence Center, SK bioscience is expected to initiate a Phase I/II study for an avian influenza vaccine in H2 2026. Ilyang Pharmaceutical Co Ltd is another domestic company in Phase III trials targeting Influenza A Virus, H1N1, and H3N2 subtypes.

    KDCA and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) collaborated in May 2024 to accelerate vaccine development and other biological countermeasures against public health threats. This partnership underscores the commitment to global health security and the rapid response to a broad spectrum of high priority infectious diseases, including Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), Ebola, mpox.

    SK bioscience has previously collaborated with KDCA, notably winning the most bids in the government’s 2023-24 national flu vaccination program. Other companies such as GC Pharma, Ilyang Pharmaceutical, Boryung Corp., and Korea Vaccine also contributed millions of doses to support national immunization efforts.

    Chilamula concludes: “With a robust vaccine pipeline, national collaboration, and advanced manufacturing capabilities, SK bioscience is poised to lead the nation’s next-generation pandemic preparedness strategy. By encouraging domestic companies, South Korea is preparing to face future pandemics and positioning the country as a global leader in pandemic readiness while reducing reliance on foreign pharmaceutical giants.”

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 26 May 2025 Departmental update WHO guideline on contact tracing now available in Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian and Spanish

    Source: World Health Organisation

    On 13 January 2025, WHO published its first disease-agnostic guideline on contact tracing (in English) after two years of evidence retrieval and deliberations. This guideline was curated by a WHO steering group, a Guideline development group, and reviewed by an External review group under the Surveillance Systems department’s leadership and with the Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network (GOARN) operational support team’s collaboration, as well as the constant support from the WHO Guidelines Review Committee secretariat.  

    This guideline was developed to address the need for the development of evidence-based contact tracing strategies. It establishes definitions for “contact”, “contact person”, “contact tracing” and other associated concepts. It allows for improvement of contact tracing strategies and provides recommendations attempting to answer some, though not all, questions that arose during the 2019 coronavirus pandemic and other outbreaks. The use of this guideline begins once people have been diagnosed and the potential for transmission exists. It is not, however, intended to assist with case investigation. 

    The primary audience for this guideline includes WHO Member States, national public health agencies, WHO teams and other organizations which play roles in implementing or researching contact tracing efforts including NGOs, community-based groups, academic institutions, and UN agencies.

    The guideline is now available in all six official languages on WHO website.

    Looking ahead, to encourage the application of these concepts and definitions and the uptake of the recommendations, a practical implementation guidance is being developed. It will provide practical explanations, best practices, and standardized procedures to enhance the effectiveness of contact tracing strategies across diverse public health setting. More specifically, it will:

    • identify key factors influencing decisions to start, to stop, to scale-up and to scale-down contact tracing;
    • provide a systematic overview of methods used for contact person identification and to assess their applicability;
    • provide a systematic overview of methods used for contact person follow-up and monitoring and to assess their applicability;
    • provide a systematic overview of methods used for measuring the performance of the contact tracing strategies and assess their applicability; and
    • define a minimum set of variables needed for contact tracing.

     For more information about this project, please contact us at contacttracing@who.int.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fischer, Smith Reintroduce Bipartisan Legislation to Enhance Awareness of Federal Mental Health Grant Opportunities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer
    U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Tina Smith (D-Minn.) this week reintroduced the Achieving Thorough Transparency & Accessibility for Information Navigation (ATTAIN) on Mental Health Act. This bipartisan legislation would create a user-friendly online dashboard to assist applicants in identifying federal grants that support mental health and address substance use.
    “Every person deserves equal access to mental health care services, but many rural communities in Nebraska are still being left behind. This bipartisan legislation takes a crucial step forward by bridging this gap and bringing vital services to those who need them most,” said Fischer.
    “In Minnesota and across the country, too many people don’t have access to the mental or behavioral health care they need. This bipartisan legislation will improve access to mental health care by making it faster and easier for organizations to apply for mental health grant funding. I’ll be working to move it forward with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle so that people can get the health care they need, when they need it,” said Smith.
    Background:The ATTAIN Mental Health Act would establish an interactive, web-based dashboard for potential applicants from a variety of sectors across our communities — such as state and local educational agencies, nonprofits, faith and community-based organizations, mental health treatment facilities, municipal governments, tribal governments, and first responders. The dashboard would provide organizations with the ability to review eligibility and status information for mental health and substance use grant funding across multiple federal agencies. The legislation would task the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) with developing this online tool in a collaborative interagency effort.
    The legislation has been endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), the First Responders Foundation, At Ease USA, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and the American Psychiatric Association (APA).
    Read the full text of the bill 
    here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Dedicated health professionals improve care for people on Kiribati

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

    Life in Kiribati, an island nation in the central Pacific Ocean, is influenced by its remote location, high disease burden and the worsening impacts of climate change. The country’s healthcare system is under immense strain. With health workforce shortages, Kiribati relies on skilled and dedicated members of the community to provide care on the outer islands.

    In the heart of Abaiang island, a northern atoll of Kiribati, Batiua (pronounced Besiwa) has been the sole medical assistant for six years, serving a community of 6,000 people with limited resources. Medical assistants are nurses with additional training in medical conditions and treatment pathways who can treat patients with the support of trained physicians.

    Alongside doctors from Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), Batiua provides essential healthcare, helping to tackle issues like malnutrition, infectious diseases, and pregnancy complications.

    MSF midwife Esther Karume teaches local community members in Abaiang how to test for high blood pressure. Non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension are common. Kiribati, April 2025.
    Victor Caringal/MSF

    Today, patients greet Batiua when they walk into the clinic, a small single-storey cement structure surrounded by coconut trees. Here at the primary healthcare centre, she examines the first patient of the day and translates the patient’s I-Kiribati language to English for the MSF doctor. Batiua is the main focal point for all the patients, while the doctor supports in the diagnosis and treatment plan and provides guidance in patient care.

    Nurses and medical assistants employed by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services provide valuable community-level care within Kiribati’s healthcare system. They play a vital role in their villages, where there are not enough staff and a high disease burden.

    MSF’s medical professionals have been supporting Ministry of Health and Medical Services nurses in Abaiang since 2024.

    “We focus our energies here as there is a high incidence of referrals for maternal care from outer islands to Tungaru Central hospital on the main island of Tarawa. We identified the need to support the medical assistants and nurses by implementing the community-based model of care,” says MSF medical coordinator Kiera Sargeant. This means women will be able to receive care closer to home.

    A villager sits in shade in Abaiang. The high heat and humidity is consistent through days and nights on Abaiang.
    Victor Caringal/MSF

    In 2024, MSF screened 888 women for non-communicable diseases in Abaiang. A quarter of the women had diabetes, with almost 20 per cent having hypertensive disorders in pregnancy. More than 60 per cent showed signs of obesity.

    Among the 514 children screened nine per cent had had recent diarrhoea, emphasising the ongoing challenges related to water and sanitation.

    Kiribati’s high burden of disease

    Of the five patients waiting their turn for Batiua, three are pregnant women and two are children accompanied by their mothers.

    When it is 10-month-old Gianna’s turn to be examined, Rutii, her mother, crouches beside her.

    “Our doctor says her chest sounds better than yesterday, an improvement from when she arrived the day before,” says Batiua.

    Rutii nods and smiles. “My baby, Gianna had high fever; she had difficulty to breathe. And she wasn’t eating well,” recalls Rutii. “The MSF doctor and the medical assistant asked me to admit the baby immediately. I was very worried. Now she is much better. She has started to eat.”

    The impact of climate change makes children and adults more susceptible to non-communicable and communicable diseases.

    Disruptions in food systems exacerbate malnutrition risks, which can lead to overweight and obesity, increasing the risk of non-communicable disease, including pregnancy-induced hypertension and gestational diabetes. This is in part due to over-reliance on hyper-processed foods and lack of arable land due to erosion, and high salinity of soil and water.
     

    A child receives antibiotics by Batiua, a medical attendant two days after being admitted at the PHC. This was the last dose that the PHC had.
    Pratistha Koirala/MSF

    More than 15 per cent of children in Kiribati under five years of age are stunted, 3.5 per cent of children under five years of age are affected by wasting, and 90 per cent of children live in food poverty, meaning they have limited access to a diverse and nutritious diet.

    Malnutrition makes children more susceptible to infectious diseases and other illnesses. “Children are affected more as it directly impacts the growth,” says Batiua.

    Growing preference for imported, processed food, and reduced ability to grow food locally are some of the contributors to malnutrition and many non-communicable diseases in Kiribati. Extreme weather conditions and rising sea levels threaten agricultural production and livelihoods.

    The climate crisis is a health crisis

    Most patients at the clinics on the outer island of Abaiang are women.

    While Kiribati has some of the highest burdens of disease in the Pacific region, it has one of the lowest rates of access to primary healthcare, increasing the vulnerability of pregnant women and children. MSF is helping women have safer pregnancies by working with local health workers to help diagnose and treat diabetes and hypertension in pregnant women.

    Any cases, including high-risk pregnancies, that are not treatable at the clinic are referred to the Tungaru Central hospital in the capital, Tarawa, via a two- to four-hour boat trip or a flight which leaves once or twice a week.

    The local staff of Médecins Sans Frontières Kiribati waits for water testing equipment to be unloaded as the airplane lands in the outer island of Abaiang. Abaiang is an atoll just north of Tarawa, the main island of Kiribati, with around 6,000 inhabitants. Teirio, the main island of Abaiang, is about 30 km long. There is no running water, no electricity, no restaurants; and the airfield is a gravel strip in the forest. There are 18 villages in Abaiang, 16 of which are on Teiro.
    Pratista Koirala/MSF

    “Transporting a critical patient is always a challenge,” says Diana, the nurse at Takarano clinic on the north of the island. A single nurse or medical assistant is responsible for each clinic.

    “It’s a big relief to the island when we have MSF’s doctor Joseph, as he has more medical knowledge,” says Batiua with a smile.

    For the people of Kiribati, the climate crisis is a daily health threat. Rising sea levels contaminate freshwater, increasing diarrhoeal diseases, while extreme weather disrupts food supply, worsening malnutrition. Warmer temperatures fuel mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue, and heat stress impacts those with heart disease and diabetes, as well as pregnant women. These challenges, combined with limited healthcare access, create a worsening cycle of poor health.

    Improving access to clean water

    Accessing clean, safe water is a daily challenge for people in Kiribati. Shallow groundwater, which is contaminated with seawater, rubbish and other waste, is the main drinking water. The limited access to potable water supply at the clinic poses a significant challenge, affecting both patient care and clinic sanitation. With no running water on the island, the health clinics rely on rainwater or water carried from nearby homes.

    The Ministry of Health and Medical Services is making efforts to secure a water supply. MSF has also been working with the ministry to test the quality of water in the groundwater table on the island and looking at how this correlates with health conditions such as hypertension or diarrhoea in pregnancy.

    “We’re also working on geo-mapping the various water wells so the community has more information about the water quality in each well and can make healthier choices about where they get their water,” says Kiera.

    The primary sources of freshwater are underground freshwater lenses and rainwater harvesting. Groundwater wells can be salty or contaminated by bacteria.

    Remote island logistics

    Kiribati faces unique geographical challenges that impact nearly every aspect of daily life, including healthcare, transportation and waste management. Spread across 33 atolls and reef islands, the country’s vast distances and limited infrastructure make it difficult to transport essential medical supplies, access specialised healthcare, and manage waste effectively. Many outer islands rely on infrequent boat or air transport for critical supplies, and delays can lead to medicine shortages and limited healthcare access. Meanwhile, the lack of proper waste disposal infrastructure poses environmental and health risks, with medical waste often accumulating in unsafe conditions.

    Médecins Sans Frontières wash supervisor Mila Tirikai pours sample well water in whirl-pakc theo-bag for faecal coliform test. The sample water is interacted with growth medium which them is poured into a compartment bag for incubation. By using different testing methods like the one in the picture, sample water is tested for conductivity (used for conversion to TDS and salinity), pH, turbidity, iron and potassium.
    Pratistha Koirala/MSF

    The remote location, high disease burden and worsening effects of climate change continue to place immense strain on Kiribati’s healthcare system. With a growing population facing increasing health challenges—including malnutrition, non-communicable diseases, and limited access to clean water—the need for sustained medical support is critical.

    MSF’s partnership with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services aims to provide medical care to people, strengthen pharmacy management and improve sanitation efforts. Working in collaboration with medical professionals at all levels, tertiary to grassroots, has been one of the key pillars of the collaboration. Nurses and medical assistants like Batiua find joy in helping people.

    “My mission in life is to eradicate malnutrition in Abaiang, especially among children under five,” she says.

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    MIL OSI NGO –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Bluetongue virus restricted zone to be extended to all of England on 1 July 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Press release

    Bluetongue virus restricted zone to be extended to all of England on 1 July 2025

    The bluetongue virus (BTV) restricted zone is being extended to cover the whole of England, ending movement restrictions for animals.

    The  Bluetongue Virus restricted zone will be extended from 1 July 2025 to cover the whole of England, ending movement restrictions for animals and allowing farmers to move cattle, sheep, all ruminants, camelids, throughout England without movement tests.

    Bluetongue virus (BTV-3) is primarily transmitted by midge bites and affects cattle, goats, sheep, goats, deer and camelids such as llamas and alpacas. The impacts on susceptible animals can vary greatly – but in most cases seen since September 2024 clinical signs have been mild and animals have recovered.

    The decision to extend the zone follows consultation between industry and scientists recognising that the area of England where disease has been found is now too large for movement restrictions to remain an effective and proportionate way of controlling the disease. 

    Many areas of England are now affected by BTV and safe and effective vaccines are available. Bluetongue serotype 3 (BTV-3) vaccines are now available and farmers are strongly encouraged to discuss their use with their private vet as vaccination is the most effective way to protect livestock from bluetongue.  

    This new approach is in alignment with the approach taken throughout the EU. This will also allow a renewed focus on resources on higher priority disease risks, which now presents a greater risk to industry, such as Foot and Mouth Disease and African Swine Fever.

    UK Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss said: 

    Through movement controls we have slowed the westerly spread of bluetongue until vaccines are available. We are now moving away from government imposed movement controls which are costly and disruptive to farming particularly those within the zones. An all-England restriction zone will allow livestock farmers currently impacted by burdensome restrictions to be on equal footing with rest of England. 

    We encourage all farmers and keepers to discuss the use of BTV-3 vaccines to protect their herds and flocks with their private vet as this is the most effective way of protecting susceptible species. 

    I urge all livestock keepers to report suspect disease. It is especially important to remember that foot and mouth disease and bluetongue can have similar clinical presentation.

    BTV is a notifiable disease. Farmers should continue to monitor their animals frequently for clinical signs and report suspicion of disease immediately, they should also make sure their animals and land are registered with APHA so keepers can be kept informed and animals easily located

    Suspicion of BTV in animals in England must be reported to the Animal and Plant Health Agency on 03000 200 301. 

    In Wales, suspected disease should be reported to the Animal and Plant Health Agency on 03003 038 268. 

    In Scotland, you should contact your local Field Services Office if you suspect bluetongue. In Northern Ireland please report to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office. 

    Restrictions on the freezing of germinal products within the restricted zone will remain

    Guidance for livestock owners on how to spot and report the disease can be found here: Bluetongue: news, information and guidance for livestock keepers – GOV.UK

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    Published 23 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Miller-Meeks Bill to Strengthen Veteran Suicide Prevention Passes House

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks’ (IA-02)

    Washington, D.C. – This week, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1969, the No Wrong Door for Veterans Act, bipartisan legislation introduced by Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) to expand and improve the Department of Veterans Affairs’ suicide prevention grant program.

    “As a 24-year Army veteran and physician, I’ve seen firsthand how difficult it can be for veterans in crisis to navigate a complicated system when every second counts,” said Miller-Meeks. “The No Wrong Door for Veterans Act ensures that our heroes are never turned away or left without help. It streamlines access, strengthens coordination, and reaffirms our promise to those who served. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan effort—and to say to every veteran: we see you, we hear you, and we will fight for you.”

    “Since House Republicans created the Fox Grant program in 2020, hundreds of organizations in communities across the United States have been able to provide traditional and non-traditional mental health and therapy support services to veterans in need,” said VA Committee Chairman Mike Bost. “I want to thank my friend and our Health subcommittee Chairwoman Dr. Miller-Meeks for her work on the No Wrong Doors for Veterans Act to continue this lifesaving suicide prevention program. This bill also includes provisions to allow disabled veterans to receive prosthetics through VA to enjoy sports and recreational activities,” Chairman Bost continued. “With Dr. Miller-Meeks bill, we would expand mental health and wellness support by ensuring that there is truly no wrong door for veterans and their families to turn to – I look forward to seeing this bill passed in the Senate and signed into law by President Trump soon.”

    The No Wrong Door for Veterans Act reauthorizes the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program through 2026 and makes key improvements—requiring local VA coordination, modernizing screening protocols, expanding access to emergent care, and holding grantees accountable.

    Background:

    The Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program helps community-based organizations deliver life-saving mental health and suicide prevention services to veterans. Congresswoman Miller-Meeks’ No Wrong Door for Veterans Act strengthens this program by closing communication gaps between grantees and VA medical centers, requiring clearer eligibility standards, and extending funding authority.

    Additionally, Miller-Meeks secured inclusion of her Veterans Supporting Prosthetics Opportunities and Recreational Therapy (SPORT) Act, which ensures veterans can access adaptive prostheses and terminal devices for sports and recreational activities—fostering both physical and mental well-being.

    To read the full bill text, click HERE.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: SAHPRA approves first mpox diagnostic kit to boost access to testing

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) has announced the approval of the first WHO Emergency Use Listing (EUL) for a test kit for mpox. 

    This approval represents a significant advancement in enhancing global access to mpox testing through a reliance process.

    According to SAHPRA, the emergency use authorisation for the Alinity m MPX assay, developed by Abbott Molecular and licensed to Abbott Laboratories South Africa, is a crucial step in expanding diagnostic capabilities during mpox outbreaks. 

    Since the outbreak began in May 2024, South Africa has reported about 31 infections, including six cases recorded this year and three deaths.

    SAHPRA stressed that rapid and accurate testing is essential for early detection, timely treatment, and effective containment of the virus. 

    This is after the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) declared Mpox a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security (PHECS) in Africa in August 2024. 

    “For SAHPRA to have listed this assay promptly after the WHO PQ EUL [WHO prequalification Emergency Use Listing], it marks a significant milestone in improving global access to mpox testing by leveraging regulatory reliance mechanisms,” CEO of SAHPRA, Dr Boitumelo Semete-Makokotlela, said. 

    Currently, SAHPRA only considers molecular RT-PCR (reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction) tests for approval, which involve nasal swab samples. 

    The watchdog also noted that the Africa CDC and World Health Organisation (WHO) have indicated that there are no independently validated antigen rapid diagnostic test (RDT) kits available in the market that demonstrate a minimum clinical sensitivity of 80%, suitable for mpox testing in Africa.

    This means mpox antigen and antibody rapid test kits, including self-test kits, are not recommended for use.

    For more details on the regulatory requirements for mpox diagnostics, go to Issue No.: MD01-2024/25 v1. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Director General in Lombardy to Advance Nuclear Science and Technology

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    Health was a major topic of the visit, and the Director General visited the National Cancer Institute of Milan, Italy’s first ever cancer research and treatment institute, which Mr Grossi called “a beacon of quality in the field”. The IAEA is exploring ways to increase its collaboration with the institute, including under its Rays of Hope initiative, to improve access to cancer care for those who need it most. 

    Mr Grossi also toured the high-end National Center for Oncological Hadrontherapy (CNAO) in Pavia, alongside May Abdel-Wahab, Director of the Human Health Division of the IAEA. CNAO is one of only a handful of institutes in the world that is treating radio-resistant or inoperable tumours using hadrontherapy, an advanced nuclear technique that uses charged particles for radiotherapy, while reducing damage to surrounding tissues. 

    In a press release about the visit, CNAO’s President Gianluca Vago said: “It is important to foster a positive culture of nuclear energy use. What CNAO has been doing for over twenty years is a demonstration of this. CNAO has long been engaged in promoting educational and training activities to make people understand that atomic particles are an important resource to be used for clinical purposes and is ready to start new collaborations within the international network promoted by IAEA.” 

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Funding improves access to food in northern B.C.

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    People in northern B.C. will have more reliable access to healthy food, thanks to an investment from the Province.

    This support for local projects will address unique food-access challenges in rural, remote and First Nations communities. It will also increase the capacity of food-access organizations to meet increased demand for their services due to global inflation. It is made possible by a $2-million investment administered by Food Banks BC (FBBC) and the Public Health Association of BC (PHABC).

    “In many northern rural and remote communities, getting affordable fresh food can be challenging,” said Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction. “Working together with our partners, we are helping local groups meet the increasing demand for nutritious food.”

    This funding, part of $5 million announced in 2023, is distributed through two streams to support better food access in northern B.C. The Large Scale Innovations for Food System Transformation Pilot stream provides approximately $1.7 million for five partnerships to develop advanced models for food security. The Ideas Lab for Food Systems Transformation stream provides $300,000 across 13 projects, aiming to improve regional food security.

    “This investment underscores the power of collaboration to advance our key project priorities: strengthening food systems, empowering communities and creating lasting change,” said Dan Huang-Taylor, executive director, Food Banks BC. “As demand for food banks reaches unprecedented levels, we are proud to partner with the B.C. government and the Public Health Association of BC to expand access to local, healthy and culturally appropriate food for northern B.C. communities.”

    These projects are creating partnerships of non-profits, businesses, governments and other partners to work together and expand food access. Projects include:

    • using existing transportation networks to improve food delivery;
    • building the first school farm in northern B.C., which will provide fresh fruits and vegetables for school meals;
    • constructing greenhouses in school communities; and
    • partnering with Indigenous groups to support sustainable and culturally relevant food infrastructure.

    “Community partners have worked to build local solutions that strengthen regional food security and support dignified food access,” said Shannon Turner, executive director, PHABC. “This funding supports communities to make vital changes to food systems. Through this project, legacies of co-operation and effective policy are addressing food insecurity with new skills and models designed to reduce hunger and grow local capacity to address inequities and feed those in need.”

    Funding also supported new research to understand the unique barriers and opportunities to improve food access throughout B.C., informed by the experiences of local organizations and people experiencing food insecurity.

    This investment is part of the historic $200 million in funding announced in March 2023 to strengthen the food supply chain throughout B.C., increase the availability of fresh food, encourage more food production in remote areas, strengthen food infrastructure and create more regional community food hubs.

    Quotes:

    Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food –

    “One of the best ways we can boost our province’s food security is by directly partnering with farming communities and organizations who are on the ground in remote areas. The projects funded by these investments will put more food in the cupboards of people in northern British Columbia and beyond, and they will pay off in our long-term goal of a sustainable, healthy food system, with a thriving agricultural sector grown by and for the people of the region.”

    Dianne Villesèche, quality management system program manager, and Community Food Systems Innovation program manager, Ecotrust Canada –

    “We’re deeply grateful for the Large Scale Innovation for Food Systems Transformation Pilot grant, a giant step forward for the Prince Rupert area. With this opportunity, we’re creating school-based infrastructure that connects students to land, food, and culture, while supporting a more resilient, connected and just food economy rooted in local knowledge and community priorities.”

    Velma Sutherland, band administrator, Sik-E-Dakh (Glen Vowell) First Nations –

    “This facility is more than a place to cut and wrap meat — it’s a commitment to our sovereignty, resilience and cultural integrity. By investing in local food processing through the Large Scale Innovation for Food Systems Transformation Pilot program, we are strengthening our ability to provide affordable, high-quality food while creating jobs and training rooted in our Gitxsan values. This is a step toward revitalizing Gitxsan Food Ways — honouring the knowledge of our ancestors, respecting the animals that sustain us and building a stronger, self-reliant future for our people.”

    Nicholas Fricke, operations manager, BC Bus North (operated by Pacific Western) –

    “We are proud to be a partner with the Northern Food Distribution Network for northern B.C. Being able to have stable access to food is paramount for all. If we can assist with helping those in need gain access to food, especially fresh produce, that is such an amazing thing to be a part of.”

    Learn More:

    For a full list of grant recipients, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/FoodGrantsNew.pdf

    To learn more about the $5 million in funding to support food access in northern B.C., visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023SDPR0061-001580

    To learn more about FBBC, visit: https://www.foodbanksbc.com/

    For more information about PHABC, visit: https://phabc.org/

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: DeGette, Hudson, DeLauro, Cole, Norton, Stauber Introduce Legislation to Invest in Research for Down Syndrome

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Diana DeGette (First District of Colorado)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Representatives Diana DeGette (D-CO), Richard Hudson (R-NC), Rosa DeLauro (D-CT), Tom Cole (R-OK), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), and Pete Stauber (R-MN) introduced the bipartisan DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act to advance innovative research into Down syndrome and better understand the disease.

    “Last Congress, the INCLUDE Project Act passed unanimously out of the House of Representatives because Down syndrome research is a bipartisan priority,” said DeGette. “This bill will advance vital research into Down syndrome and improve health outcomes for those living with Down syndrome and related conditions. Colorado is home to the Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome Research, the largest research facility dedicated to Down syndrome in the world. The INCLUDE Project Act will help us better understand the disease while bolstering our commitment to groundbreaking and innovative research.”

    “People with Down syndrome enrich our world in many unique ways,” said Rep. Hudson. “The DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act ensures people with Down syndrome are valued, respected members of society and that NIH is supporting their health, enabling them to live their lives to their full potential – with no barriers or bias or obstacles standing in their way. I am honored to continue and grow research efforts so people with Down syndrome have the long and healthy lives they deserve.

     “Biomedical research is essential – I consider myself alive to because of it,” said DeLauro. “We must do all we can to strengthen the resources that facilitate lifesaving medical breakthroughs and help folks with Down syndrome live long and full lives. Since 2018, as the top Democrat on the Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Subcommittee, I am proud that on a bipartisan basis we have provided more than $400 million in funding for the more than 200 INCLUDE Project research grant awards at the National Institutes of Health. Now more than ever, we must fight to protect that funding. I am proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation with my colleagues, to build on that success and show our strong support for this critical program.”

    “Innovative medical research has the power to transform lives. The INCLUDE Act will do just that by strengthening the environment needed to advance medical breakthroughs and support individuals with down syndrome. I am proud to help lead this legislation forward, as it will make a real difference for those with down syndrome, and I thank Rep. DeGette for introducing this legislation,” said Congressman Cole.

    “Substantial NIH research funding is needed to benefit and enhance health and quality of life for people with Down syndrome, including my own daughter Katherine, and this bill will authorize the necessary funding,” said Norton. “Thank you to Rep. DeGette for your leadership on this important issue. I urge my colleagues to support this bill to provide robust funding for Down syndrome research.”

    “As a father of a son with Down syndrome, I understand the important role research plays in improving the lives of those with disabilities,” said Rep. Stauber. “I’m proud to help lead this effort to ensure continued investment in these life-changing discoveries. Every individual deserves a chance to thrive, and this legislation brings us one step closer to that goal.”

    “The reintroduction of the DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act is a powerful next step in ensuring that the NIH continues to invest in Down syndrome research that will elongate life and improve health outcomes for our children and adults with Down syndrome,” says Michelle Sie Whitten, President and CEO of the Global Down Syndrome Foundation. “GLOBAL, our self-advocates and families, and our researchers and medical professionals are deeply grateful for Reps. Diana DeGette and Richard Hudson’s leadership, and we are so pleased that original cosponsors Reps. Tom Cole, Rosa DeLauro, Pete Stauber, and Eleanor Holmes Norton continue to support this effort. To know that this bill will also provide a legacy in memoriam for our Ambassador DeOndra Dixon means the world to me, Dr. Joaquin Espinosa, and our entire team. I am proud that the awesome people with Down syndrome we serve, brings both sides of the aisle together. We look forward to working with our congressional champions to pass this important legislation into law this year.” 

    The House of Representatives passed H.R. 7406, the DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act of 2024, unanimously in the last Congress.

    This week, Rep. DeGette was presented with the Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Award by the Global Down Syndrome Foundation for her continued strong advocacy in Congress that makes an impact on the lives of people with Down syndrome and their families.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hear from the Health Experts About the Human Harm of HHS’ Mass Terminations 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Peter Welch (D-Vt.) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) this week held a two-day spotlight forum, entitled “Trump’s Destruction of HHS: Mass Firings, Reorganization, and the Human Harm Caused.”  The forum examined the human harm caused by the Trump Administration’s sweeping reorganization and mass terminations at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).  
    Watch the forums on Senator Welch’s YouTube. 
    Tuesday’s forum featured testimony from Dr. Robert Califf, the former Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA); Dr. Meg Sullivan, the former Acting Secretary for Administration for Children and Families (ACF); Ms. Chiquita Brooks La-Sure, the former Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS); and Ms. Carole Johnson, the former Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).  
    Wednesday’s forum featured Dr. Anne Schuchat, the former Principal Deputy Director, Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC); Ms. Trina Dutta, the former Chief of Staff, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA); Dr. Sean Bruna, the former Senior Advisor, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ); Professor Alison Barkoff, the former Administrator for Administration for Community Living (ACL); and Dr. Jeremy Berg – former Director of the National Institute of General Medical Sciences at NIH.  
    Watch the livestreams of the hearings below, and hear directly from the health experts: 
    “The multiple rounds of firings that have occurred have had a significant impact on both the physical ability of the FDA to do its work and the morale of the organization…It’s hard for me to imagine a more effective approach to demoralizing a workforce. The bottom line is that the firings have left the FDA with not enough people to do the work, and we lost so many of the most experienced people that making the most complex judgements needed in the day-to-day work of the agency and multiple-regulated industries,” said Dr. Robert Califf, Former Commissioner of the U.S. Food and Drug Agency (FDA). “These issues are leading to, first: many of aspects of the industry looking to go overseas to develop their products. And perhaps, most importantly—China is now emboldened to overtake the United States in the infrastructure needed for this vital part of our public health and the economy,” 
    “Gutting the staff that administer ACF programs will make children, families, and communities suffer. In addition, when the programs are cut or disappear, everyone feels the impact and longer wait lists, fewer providers, and local organizations stretched to the breaking point,” said Dr. Meg Sullivan, Former Acting Assistant Secretary of the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). “ACF programs, including those not mentioned just now, support the services communities rely on in every corner of America. They can be the difference for your child care center staying open, your local diaper bank having supplies, meal delivery for older adults, or for a child remaining safely at home. We should be investing in our children and families, but firing child well-being experts at ACF and proposing senseless cuts will unquestionably cause them harm.” 
    “The current proposals drown both Medicaid and ACA Marketplace in excessive red tape that will hurt everyone—including seniors, mothers, children, those with disabilities, and it will cause more uncertainty, more churn, and more people delaying lifesaving treatments,” said Chiquita Brooks-LaSure, Former Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. “The proposals in the House Reconciliation bill that target both Medicaid and the Marketplace seek to undermine the very progress that the Affordable Care Act sought to achieve in making our health care system more affordable and accessible to everyone regardless of their income or health care needs. The bill aims to increase friction in the health care system for enrollees and does so at the same time that many of the staff, who could help reduce this friction, were fired. These changes not only hurt the millions of people that rely on those programs, but our providers and, in fact, our entire health care system.” 
    “Rather than strengthen this essential safety net, the Administration is prioritizing dismantling it. The Administration has already slashed health center program staffing, put the widely acclaimed pediatrician who oversaw maternal and child health programs on leave, fired the transplant surgeon recruited to help reform the nation’s transplant system, and eliminated entire offices that are essential to any organization — like HR and communications,” said Carole Johnson, Former Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). “If the current Administration follows through on its plans, HRSA will cease to exist and the families and communities in your states that most depend on this help will lose it just as the majority looks to make it harder for them to get and keep Medicaid coverage. The safety net may never have been more fragile than it is at this moment.” 
    “The cuts are dangerous for the American public. You, your families and communities are less safe. If you are pregnant, your risk of dying after you deliver will be higher because the Perinatal Quality Collaborative was cut and the pregnancy risk factor assessment monitoring system, or PRAMS was also eliminated. If you have a toddler, they’ll have a higher chance of losing IQ points to lead poisoning because CDC’s lead poisoning program was canceled. Last year, more than 500 children were affected by lead contamination of cinnamon flavored applesauce and CDC led the response. Next year there will be no one to call,” said Dr. Anne Schuchat, Former Principal Deputy Director of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 
    “Proposed cuts of more than $1 billion threaten to stymie progress just as we’re seeing real, measurable results. Such cuts to SAMHSA’s discretionary grant portfolio will impact on-the-ground programs that serve millions of Americans. SAMHSA’s discretionary grants serve as a powerful innovation engine, which have allowed the government to scale up interventions like coordinated specialty care for first episode psychosis, peer support services, and crisis care. Cuts to programs like those that support pregnant and postpartum women with substance use disorder, that foster mental health awareness training, and that promote the wellness of young children, would force states to use their block grant dollars to pick up the slack. And at a time when looming Medicaid cuts will put even more pressure on those block grants, communities will be left in a precarious position as they address their mental health and substance use disorder needs,” said Trina Dutta, Former Chief of Staff of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). 
    “Dismantling AHRQ will have nationwide consequences. It weakens evidence-based care. It hinders health care from addressing emerging threats and dismantles grant programs that support current research and the training of future researchers. It eliminates mandatory funding from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Trust Fund, requiring an Affordable Care Act amendment, and strips vital tools from state and local health systems working to improve care. In short, the two applied science strands that facilitate medical progress and aid in implementing scientific innovations in our healthcare systems would be lost,” said Dr. Sean Bruna, Former Senior Advisor to the director of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ).  
    “Dismantling the Administration for Community Living and cutting its programs will devastate the tens of millions of older adults and disabled people who rely on them to stay in their own homes and communities,” said Alison Barkoff, a George Washington University professor who led ACL during the Biden Administration. “Cuts to ACL’s programs will force people into institutions like nursing homes, taking away their independence and increasing costs to programs like Medicaid and Medicare.”       
     “I can summarize the consequences of these terminations in one word: delay…Termination of grants management specialists may make it even harder and will affect all aspects of the NIH mission. The most time-sensitive component of NIH are clinical trials…A delay of a month or two might not seem like a lot, but many of the patients in these trials don’t have many months left. These treatments represent a chance for a strong, favorable outcome for individual patients and an opportunity for researchers to learn how to make these treatments work better in the future. I honestly cannot imagine how frustrating it must be for these patients and their loved ones,” said Dr. Jeremy Berg, Former Director of the National Institute of General Medical Sciences at NIH. “The number of research subjects and patients at the clinical center is down apparently by 30% or more. This prevents patients from receiving care, slows research, and is a colossal waste of resources for the world’s greatest research hospital. That this is all being done in the name of ‘efficiency’ would make George Orwell blush.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: We found a germ that ‘feeds’ on hospital plastic – new study

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Ronan McCarthy, Professor in Biomedical Sciences, Brunel University of London

    Amparo Garcia/Shutterstock.com

    Plastic pollution is one of the defining environmental challenges of our time – and some of nature’s tiniest organisms may offer a surprising way out.

    In recent years, microbiologists have discovered bacteria capable of breaking down various types of plastic, hinting at a more sustainable path forward.

    These “plastic-eating” microbes could one day help shrink the mountains of waste clogging landfills and oceans. But they are not always a perfect fix. In the wrong environment, they could cause serious problems.

    Plastics are widely used in hospitals in things such as sutures (especially the dissolving type), wound dressings and implants. So might the bacteria found in hospitals break down and feed on plastic?

    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.

    To find out, we studied the genomes of known hospital pathogens (harmful bacteria) to see if they had the same plastic-degrading enzymes found in some bacteria in the environment.

    We were surprised to find that some hospital germs, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, might be able to break down plastic.

    P aeruginosa is associated with about 559,000 deaths globally each year. And many of the infections are picked up in hospitals.

    Patients on ventilators or with open wounds from surgery or burns are at particular risk of a P aeruginosa infection. As are those who have catheters.

    We decided to move forward from our computational search of bacterial databases to test the plastic-eating ability of P aeruginosa in the laboratory.

    We focused on one specific strain of this bacterium that had a gene for making a plastic-eating enzyme. It had been isolated from a patient with a wound infection. We discovered that not only could it break down plastic, it could use the plastic as food to grow. This ability comes from an enzyme we named Pap1.

    Biofilms

    P aeruginosa is considered a high-priority pathogen by the World Health Organization. It can form tough layers called biofilms that protect it from the immune system and antibiotics, which makes it very hard to treat.

    Our group has previously shown that when environmental bacteria form biofilms, they can break down plastic faster. So we wondered whether having a plastic-degrading enzyme might help P aeruginosa to be a pathogen. Strikingly, it does. This enzyme made the strain more harmful and helped it build bigger biofilms.

    To understand how P aeruginosa was building a bigger biofilm when it was on plastic, we broke the biofilm apart. Then we analysed what the biofilm was made of and found that this pathogen was producing bigger biofilms by including the degraded plastic in this slimy shield – or “matrix”, as it is formally known. P aeruginosa was using the plastic as cement to build a stronger bacterial community.

    Pathogens like P aeruginosa can survive for a long time in hospitals, where plastics are everywhere. Could this persistence in hospitals be due to the pathogens’ ability to eat plastics? We think this is a real possibility.

    Many medical treatments involve plastics, such as orthopaedic implants, catheters, dental implants and hydrogel pads for treating burns. Our study suggests that a pathogen that can degrade the plastic in these devices could become a serious issue. This can make the treatment fail or make the patient’s condition worse.

    Thankfully, scientists are working on solutions, such as adding antimicrobial substances to medical plastics to stop germs from feeding on them. But now that we know that some germs can break down plastic, we’ll need to consider that when choosing materials for future medical use.

    Ronan McCarthy receives funding from the BBSRC, NC3Rs, Academy of Medical Sciences, Horizon 2020, British Society for Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, Innovate UK, NERC and the Medical Research Council. He is also Director of the Antimicrobial Innovations Centre at Brunel University of London.

    Rubén de Dios receives funding from the BBSRC and the Medical Research Council.

    – ref. We found a germ that ‘feeds’ on hospital plastic – new study – https://theconversation.com/we-found-a-germ-that-feeds-on-hospital-plastic-new-study-256945

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Can you upload a human mind into a computer? A neuroscientist ponders what’s possible

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Dobromir Rahnev, Associate Professor of Psychology, Georgia Institute of Technology

    The human brain has 86 billion neurons that make trillions of connections. Grafissimo/DigitalVision Vectors via Getty Images

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

    Is it possible to upload the consciousness of your mind into a computer? – Amreen, age 15, New Delhi, India

    The concept, cool yet maybe a little creepy, is known as mind uploading. Think of it as a way to create a copy of your brain, a transmission of your mind and consciousness into a computer. There you would live digitally, perhaps forever. You’d have an awareness of yourself, you’d retain your memories and still feel like you. But you wouldn’t have a body.

    Within that simulated environment, you could do anything you do in real life – eating, driving a car, playing sports. You could also do things impossible in the real world, like walking through walls, flying like a bird or traveling to other planets. The only limit is what science can realistically simulate.

    Doable? Theoretically, mind uploading should be possible. Still, you may wonder how it could happen. After all, researchers have barely begun to understand the brain.

    Yet science has a track record of turning theoretical possibilities into reality. Just because a concept seems terribly, unimaginably difficult doesn’t mean it’s impossible. Consider that science took humankind to the Moon, sequenced the human genome and eradicated smallpox. Those things too were once considered unlikely.

    As a brain scientist who studies perception,
    I fully expect mind uploading to one day be a reality. But as of today, we’re nowhere close.

    Living in a laptop

    The brain is often regarded as the most complex object in the known universe. Replicating all that complexity will be extraordinarily difficult.

    One requirement: The uploaded brain needs the same inputs it always had. In other words, the external world must be available to it. Even cloistered inside a computer, you would still need a simulation of your senses, a reproduction of the ability to see, hear, smell, touch, feel – as well as move, blink, detect your heart rate, set your circadian rhythm and do thousands of other things.

    But why is that? Couldn’t you just exist in a pure mental bubble, inside the computer without sensory input?

    Depriving people of their senses, like putting them in total darkness, or in a room without sound, is known as sensory deprivation, and it’s regarded as a form of torture. People who have trouble sensing their bodily signals – thirst, hunger, pain, an itch – often have mental health challenges.

    That’s why for mind uploading to work, the simulation of your senses and the digital environment you’re in must be exceptionally accurate. Even minor distortions could have serious mental consequences.

    For now, researchers don’t have the computing power, much less the scientific knowledge, to perform such simulations.

    New and updated scanning technology is a necessity.

    Scanning billions of pinheads

    The first task for a successful mind upload: Scanning, then mapping the complete 3D structure of the human brain. This requires the equivalent of an extraordinarily sophisticated MRI machine that could detail the brain in an advanced way. At the moment, scientists are only at the very early stages of brain mapping – which includes the entire brain of a fly and tiny portions of a mouse brain.

    In a few decades, a complete map of the human brain may be possible. Yet even capturing the identities of all 86 billion neurons, all smaller than a pinhead, plus their trillions of connections, still isn’t enough. Uploading this information by itself into a computer won’t accomplish much. That’s because each neuron constantly adjusts its functioning, and that has to be modeled, too.

    It’s hard to know how many levels down researchers must go to make the simulated brain work. Is it enough to stop at the molecular level? Right now, no one knows.

    Technological immortality comes with significant ethical concerns.

    2045? 2145? Or later?

    Knowing how the brain computes things might provide a shortcut. That would let researchers simulate only the essential parts of the brain, and not all biological idiosyncrasies. It’s easier to manufacture a new car knowing how a car works, compared to attempting to scan and replicate an existing car without any knowledge of its inner workings.

    However, this approach requires that scientists figure out how the brain creates thoughts – how collections of thousands to millions of neurons come together to perform the computations that make the human mind come alive. It’s hard to express how very far we are from this.

    Here’s another way: Replace the 86 billion real neurons with artificial ones, one at a time. That approach would make mind uploading much easier. Right now, though, scientists can’t replace even a single real neuron with an artificial one.

    But keep in mind the pace of technology is accelerating exponentially. It’s reasonable to expect spectacular improvements in computing power and artificial intelligence in the coming decades.

    One other thing is certain: Mind uploading will certainly have no problem finding funding. Many billionaires appear glad to part with lots of their money for a shot at living forever.

    Although the challenges are enormous and the path forward uncertain, I believe that one day, mind uploading will be a reality. The most optimistic forecasts pinpoint the year 2045, only 20 years from now. Others say the end of this century.

    But in my mind, both of these predictions are probably too optimistic. I would be shocked if mind uploading works in the next 100 years. But it might happen in 200 – which means the first person to live forever could be born in your lifetime.

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

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

    Dobromir Rahnev has received funding from the National Institutes of Health and the Office of Naval Research.

    – ref. Can you upload a human mind into a computer? A neuroscientist ponders what’s possible – https://theconversation.com/can-you-upload-a-human-mind-into-a-computer-a-neuroscientist-ponders-whats-possible-250764

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Construction begins on Prince George long-term care home

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Seniors in Prince George will soon have access to more long-term care as construction starts on a new long-term care village.

    “Northern B.C.’s growing senior population highlights the need for modern, expanded long-term care options,” said Bowinn Ma, Minister of Infrastructure. “This new care village is a vital investment that will provide seniors with the comfort, respect and quality care they deserve, while strengthening our health system and creating good local jobs.”

    Once built, the new home will provide 200 new beds for seniors, with an eight-bed geriatric psychiatry unit. A new 30-person adult day program will include services that support seniors’ living in the community by providing social interaction, activities and a sense of community, reducing loneliness and isolation. Also, 37 affordable licensed community child care spaces will create intergenerational connections in the home, with spaces prioritized for staff.

    The new non-profit long-term care home is modelled after Canada’s first public long-term care village based on the concepts of a dementia village that opened in July 2024 in Comox on Vancouver Island. The design features of the long-term care village foster a strong sense of belonging, purpose and community for residents. The Prince George village is set to open in early 2028 at 6500 Southridge Ave.

    “Growing older should always come with the assurance of being cared for in a familiar place, surrounded by community and compassion,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health. “This new long-term care village is a transformative addition to Prince George where residents will benefit from the expert, person-centered care and support they need to live with dignity as they age.”

    The village will include 16 close-knit “households,” each home to 12 residents. Every household will offer private suites with ensuite bathrooms, along with a shared kitchen and gathering spaces that are meant to create a sense of home. In addition to these living spaces, the village will feature a community hall, recreation areas, bistro, grocery store, art studio and therapeutic outdoor environments. Dedicated community and Indigenous-centred spaces — such as a sacred gathering space designed in consultation with the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation — will foster a welcoming atmosphere for families, celebrations and cultural ceremonies.

    The new long-term care home will also provide learning opportunities for students to explore careers in health care through local partnerships with educational institutions.

    “This project represents a complete reimagining of what long-term care can and should be,” said Mark Blandford, president and CEO, Providence Living. “We’re creating a community where northern B.C. seniors can live with dignity, joy and purpose through our innovative long-term care village and Home for Us care model.”

    In addition to this project, there are two more long-term care projects in development by Providence Living in northern B.C. Construction of a new long-term care home in Quesnel is expected to start in late 2026, and construction on a new long-term care home in Smithers will start in 2028. These three combined projects will replace 123 beds and provide 581 new long-term care beds to northern B.C.

    The Province is investing more than $2 billion for long-term care facility redevelopment and replacement projects that will provide 2,297 beds in:

    • Vancouver
    • Colwood
    • Abbotsford
    • Richmond
    • Nanaimo
    • Delta
    • Campbell River
    • Kelowna
    • Squamish
    • Chilliwack
    • Cranbrook

    Quotes:

    Susie Chant, parliamentary secretary for seniors’ services and long-term care —

    “Long-term care is crucial throughout the province, providing essential support for seniors and ensuring they can live in comfort as they age. This new long-term care facility will enhance the lives of our residents, offering a safe, accessible and caring environment, promoting and maintaining connections to the community they love.”

    Debra Toporowski, parliamentary secretary for rural health —

    “This marks a step forward in our commitment to ensuring equitable, culturally safe care for all people in British Columbia. The new long-term care village will provide seniors in Prince George and surrounding communities with the opportunity to age with dignity, close to their families and their territories. By working in partnership with First Nations leaders, we are creating spaces that honour cultural traditions and support wholistic well-being.”

    Tamara Davidson, MLA for North Coast-Haida Gwaii —

    “Long-term care is essential in northern B.C. where access to health-care services can be limited, ensuring seniors receive the care and support they need. The excitement surrounding the new long-term care home reflects the community’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for residents and ensuring seniors can stay in the community that they helped build.”

    Colleen Nyce, board chair, Northern Health —

    “Today marks a significant step forward in how we care for our seniors in the North. This new facility, built in partnership with Providence Living, reflects our shared commitment to creating a home where residents are supported with dignity, compassion and community. We’re proud to be building not just for today, but for generations to come.”

    Jennifer Gibson, executive director, quality, practice and safety, Providence Living —

    “The Prince George village will feature the innovative Home for Us care model, a made-in-B.C. approach that has transformed care at our Comox site. This social-relational model prioritizes residents’ autonomy, emotional connections and home-like living over traditional institutional care.”

    Quick Facts:

    • Northern B.C.’s senior population is expected to grow by 26% over the next decade.
    • There are 1,141 publicly funded long-term care beds in northern B.C.

    Learn More:

    To read the initial funding announcement for this project, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023HLTH0140-001775

    Images and renderings of the design concepts for Providence Living Prince George are available on the Providence Living website: providenceliving.ca/our-homes/providence-living-prince-george

    To learn more about senior’s care village built by Providence Living in Comox, visit: https://providenceliving.ca/our-homes/providence-living-at-the-views/

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: The New Weyburn General Hospital Reaches 75 Per Cent Completion

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on May 23, 2025

    Construction of the new Weyburn General Hospital (WGH) is progressing on schedule, with the building envelope and exterior finishing complete. All interior phases of the hospital are advancing by receiving finishes such as drywall, paint and flooring. Site concrete and parking lot paving activities are to start in the coming weeks. To date, construction of the facility is approximately 75 per cent complete. 

    “We are pleased to announce 75 per cent completion of the Weyburn General Hospital,” SaskBuilds and Procurement Minister David Marit said. “This achievement is the result of the collective dedication and collaboration of all stakeholders working on this project. We are committed to supporting the enhancement of health care services in the Weyburn community and surrounding areas.” 

    “I am delighted to see the great progress made on the new Weyburn General Hospital and soon, area residents will have access to more health services in one convenient location,” Rural and Remote Health Minister Lori Carr said. “I appreciate the Weyburn and District Hospital Foundation and the community for their fundraising efforts and continued support as we see this project through to completion.”

    When completed, the new 35-bed health care facility in Weyburn will offer improved and expanded access to health services for residents in the area. The facility will include 25 acute care beds, 10 inpatient mental health beds, Emergency Medical Services, ambulatory care, allied health, a heliport to facilitate safer and more efficient patient transport, along with additional space for social work and the Weyburn and District Hospital Foundation office. All these services will be housed under one roof, making it more convenient for patients to receive the care they need, closer to home.

    “The 75 per cent completion construction update is great news for this community and surrounding areas,” Weyburn-Bengough MLA Michael Weger said. “Once the Weyburn Hospital is complete, residents will have access to a fully modern hospital with improved patient safety such as purpose-built mental health inpatient beds and single patient rooms. 

    “This milestone marks meaningful progress on the new Weyburn General Hospital,” Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) Chief Operating Officer Derek Miller said. “Patients will benefit from improved and expanded access to a wider range of health services under one roof. This will empower our teams to provide safe, high-quality care to residents of Weyburn and the surrounding area where and when they need it.”

    “Wright Construction is delighted to maintain our strong partnership with SaskBuilds, their representatives and the community of Weyburn,” Wright Construction President Chris Doka said. “We truly enjoy working in Weyburn and extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has contributed to the project’s success. Reaching this milestone is exciting, and we are grateful to our Design Team and Trade Partners for their unwavering commitment and innovation as we progress into the finishing phases of construction.”

    “Reaching the 75 per cent completion mark is an exciting milestone in the journey toward opening our new hospital,” Weyburn and District Hospital Foundation Chair Jeff Hayward said. “This project represents a major investment in the health and future of our community. Thanks to the generosity of our donors and the dedication of the Foundation Board, what was once a vision is rapidly becoming a reality. We are closer than ever to delivering the high-quality care our region deserves.”

    The Government of Saskatchewan is investing more than $120 million in the development of the facility. Additional capital costs, furniture, fixtures and equipment, will be funded by the community, Weyburn and District Hospital Foundation and their generous donors.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Charges San Diego County Dermatologist with Insurance Fraud of Over $1.3 Million

    Source: US State of California Department of Justice

    Friday, May 23, 2025

    Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

    SAN DIEGO – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced the filing of felony charges against a San Diego dermatologist for Medi-Cal fraud of over $1.3 million. The investigation uncovered that the dermatologist charged Medi-Cal $1,386,995 for services that were never rendered.

    “We will not tolerate fraud where individuals take advantage of Medi-Cal to line thier own pockets, potentially jeopardizing critical, necessary medical services our most vulnerable residents rely on,” said Attorney General Bonta. “Today’s action is possible due to my team’s efforts to hold accountable those who defraud Medi-Cal, and we will continue to do so. At the California Department of Justice, we are committed to fighting against all types of elder abuse, theft, and fraud. We will take prompt action to ensure that anyone who exploits or harms these vulnerable members of our community is held accountable.”

    It is alleged that the dermatologist was invoicing for as many as 233 patients on a daily basis, averaging between 60 to 70 patients per day for identical or comparable services. Furthermore, it was found that all patients were undergoing light therapy, with the majority using non-medical lamps. A complaint was filed in San Diego County Superior Court charging the dermatologist with 22 counts of healthcare insurance fraud, one count of Medi-Cal fraud, the white-collar crime enhancement, and the excessive takings enhancement. 

    The California Department of Justice’s Division of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse (DMFEA) works to protect Californians by investigating and prosecuting those responsible for abuse, neglect, and fraud committed against elderly and dependent adults in the state, and those who perpetrate fraud on the Medi-Cal program. Assistance on this investigation was provided by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, California Department of Healthcare Services, and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General. 

    The Division of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse receives 75 percent of its funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under a grant award totaling $69,244,976 for Federal fiscal year (FY) 2025. The remaining 25 percent is funded by the State of California. FY 2025 is from October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2025.
     
    A copy of the complaint can be found here.  

    It is important to note that criminal charges must be proven in a court of law. Every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Owner of Durable Medical Equipment Companies Agrees to Plead Guilty in Nearly $30 Million Fraud Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant allegedly used proceeds to purchase two Ferraris, a Mercedes-Benz Model S, at least three Rolex watches

    BOSTON – The owner of Pharmagears, LLC (Pharmagears) and RR Medco, LLC (RR Medco) has agreed to plead to guilty in connection with a nearly $30 million health care fraud conspiracy involving medically unnecessary durable medical equipment (DME), including orthotics such as back and knee braces. 

    Raju Sharma, 61, of Sharon, Mass., has agreed to plead guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud. A plea hearing has not yet been scheduled by the Court. Per the plea agreement, the government will recommend a sentence of 10 years in prison and more than $15.8 million in restitution.

    Sharma was arrested and charged by criminal complaint in February 2025 and subsequently released on conditions pending trial. He was later ordered detained in April 2025 after the Court found that he violated the conditions of his release by contacting a potential witness. 

    According to the charging documents, between February 2021 and February 2025, Sharma – on behalf of Pharmagears and RR Medco – entered into contracts with telemarketing companies that generated DME orders by targeting Medicare beneficiaries. It is alleged that Sharma then billed Medicare for this medically unnecessary DME, which the Medicare beneficiaries often did not want or could not use; and/or a medical practitioner ordered without having met or examined the beneficiary; or were ordered by the fraudulent use of practitioners’ national provider identifiers without their knowledge or assent. It is further alleged that these DME orders were obtained in violation of the anti-kickback statute, because although Sharma agreed in the contracts to pay the marketing companies a flat fee for their services, Sharma in fact paid the marketing companies on a per-lead, or per-order, basis.  

    According to the charging documents, Sharma worked with multiple other co-conspirators, including family and acquaintances, to open and operate additional DME companies in the same fraudulent manner. In total, the companies owned, operated, or connected with Sharma billed Medicare approximately $29.6 million for these fraudulent DME orders and were paid approximately $15.8 million. 

    Sharma made substantial profits from this alleged fraud, which he used to purchase luxury goods, including two Ferraris, a Mercedes-Benz Model S and at least three Rolex watches. Pursuant to the plea agreement, the defendant has agreed to forfeit these luxury goods, as well as over $250,000 in cash investigators seized from his bank accounts. 

    The charge of conspiracy to commit health care fraud provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, supervised release for up to three years and a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Roberto Coviello, Special Agent in Charge, Health and Human Services-Office of Inspector General; and Kimberly Milka, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the United States Marshals Service and the Sharon Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lauren Graber and Sarah Hoefle of the Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.

    The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Insect trafficking poses risk to wildlife and human health

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    Rhinoceros beetles are just one of the insect species being traded illegally

    By Angus Nurse, Anglia Ruskin University and Elliot Doornbos, Nottingham Trent University

    Four men were recently arrested and fined for attempting to smuggle more than 5,000 ants out of Kenya. Aiming to sell them as part of the exotic pet trade, these ants were being stored in individual test tubes and syringes with small amounts of cotton wool for transportation. This unusual case highlights an important yet overlooked aspect of wildlife trafficking.

    Wildlife trafficking is a crime against nature which occurs mainly because of consumer demand. Trafficking refers to the illegal smuggling and continued exploitation of wild animals, plants or timber. That includes, as in this case, insects.

    Much conservation effort, reporting, study and enforcement activity focuses on recognised species such as rhinos. Wildlife trafficking is often associated more with these charismatic species and products made from them such as elephant tusks and rhino horn.

    But wildlife trafficking includes a whole spectrum of illicit animal trade from poaching and smuggling to the distribution of protected and endangered species. There is also thriving illegal trade in insects.

    For avid collectors, trophies and the exotic pet trade a wide array of insects have been seized over the years including rhino beetles into Japan, praying mantis eggs into the US and butterflies out of Sri Lanka.

    Globally, insect species are declining. This is caused by an array of threats such as pollution, pesticides, climate change and urbanisation. Although the extent of the harm being caused by trafficking is unknown, this adds further pressure to species that already face extinction.

    Protections for insects vary. The conservation status of each ant species affects their level of protection both nationally and internationally.

    Ants that are on the red list – which is the largest classification of endangered species produced by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) – and classed as critically endangered or endangered cannot be captured, killed or disturbed in any manner. An example is the anathema ant, which is currently listed as an endangered species.

    International law puts controls on wildlife that may be threatened by trade. Some ants are protected under UK law which makes it an offence to disturb or destroy the nests of species like the red wood ant.

    This case shows how wildlife trafficking extends to areas such as the smuggling of, and illegal trade, in ants. Some organised crime groups have moved from smuggling drugs and weapons to trafficking in plants, medicinal compounds and animals – including insects. Organised crime can include smaller and partially disorganised groups and networks. Where there is money to be made smuggling, networks will target wildlife.

    The scale of the insect smuggling problem is unknown. Many cases will go unreported due to the clandestine nature of the trade. As such, both law enforcement and the wider public might not know or care about this being an offence.

    Although there have been some insect trade seizures, law enforcement agencies are often underresourced and may view wildlife crimes as a low priority in comparison to other areas of criminality, such as drugs.

    Often, insects are easily concealed. For example, 37 rhino beetles were discovered at Los Angeles International airport hidden within sweet and crisp packets.

    Even once insects are seized, it can be difficult to identify the species to find out whether they are protected, given so many different levels of protections for species internationally.

    Invasive species risk

    Insect trafficking could introduce non-native species to new places. If they establish a breeding population and pose a threat to local ecosystems, they can become known as “invasive species”. Invasive species can outcompete native species for food. Some destroy habitats. Others have the potential to bring new diseases to a country.

    Not only can invasive insects pose threats to the environment such as the ongoing issue of invasive Asian hornets within Europe, but also affect people. Hawaii spends US$10 million (£7.5 million) on invasive species control measures – US$2.4 million of that is set aside just for coconut rhinoceros beetles.

    Although predicting which species and when they may become invasive is a challenge, insect trafficking can cause serious consequences. Undervaluing some species protections provides avenues for traffickers, so enforcing trafficking laws for all wildlife, including insects, is crucial.

    Elliot Doornbos, Senior Lecturer of Criminology, Nottingham Trent University and Angus Nurse, Professor of Law and Environmental Justice, Anglia Ruskin University

    This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

    The opinions expressed in VIEWPOINT articles are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of ARU.

    If you wish to republish this article, please follow these guidelines: https://theconversation.com/uk/republishing-guidelines

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New study shows millions still lack access to glasses

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    Millions of people across the world still lack access to basic eye care such as glasses according to a new study led by Professor Rupert Bourne of Anglia Ruskin University (ARU).

    The research, published in The Lancet Global Health, measured the global availability and quality of treatment for uncorrected refractive error, one of the most common forms of vision loss.

    The study used data from 815,273 participants from 76 countries and found that global refractive correction (eREC) is currently at 65.8%, just six percentage points higher than in 2010.

    The researchers say the results mean the World Health Organisation (WHO)’s target, set in 2021, of a 40 percentage point increase in eREC by 2030 is likely to be missed unless urgent action is taken across the world to increase the access to basic treatments such as spectacles.

    The results are grouped into ‘super regions’: north Africa and the Middle East; Sub-Saharan Africa; Latin America and the Caribbean; south Asia; southeast Asia, east Asia and Oceania; central Europe, eastern Europe and central Asia; and high income (areas of north America and western Europe, which includes the UK).

    The burden of uncorrected vision loss falls more heavily on low-income countries, women, and older adults. In the high income region, eREC is at 85% for men and 83% for women, while in sub-Saharan Africa the figure is around 30% for men and 27% for women. The WHO targets are set at country level, with high income countries such as the UK expected to strive for 100% eREC by 2030.

    The data shows some encouraging trends. Between 2000 and 2023, there was a 50% improvement in the number of people receiving the correct prescription for eyeglasses. However, the authors note that the need for glasses has also increased, largely driven by lifestyle-related risk factors, for example increased screen time and reduced outdoor activities during childhood.

    The research cites examples of action that individual countries have already taken and could be adopted by others. In France, full reimbursement of the cost of spectacles was introduced as part of universal health insurance in 2021/22. Pakistan has implemented a series of national eye-care plans over the past 20 years that have increased spectacle use and reduced vision impairment caused by uncorrected refractive error.

    Rupert Bourne, Professor of Ophthalmology at Anglia Ruskin University, is Principal Investigator for the Vision Loss Expert Group, a global network of health researchers that carried out the study.

    “Correction of refractive error is the safest, most efficient, and most economical intervention to improve daily vision quality for the majority of individuals affected by vision impairment worldwide, contributing to reducing poverty and improvements in wellbeing, work productivity, education, and equity.

    “Data from 815,000 people across 76 countries in our new study shows that we are off track to meet World Health Organisation targets. Urgent global action is needed to reach the goal of a 40% increase in eyeglasses coverage by 2030.”

    Professor Rupert Bourne of Anglia Ruskin University

    To read the study, visit https://www.thelancet.com/journals/langlo/article/PIIS2214-109X(25)00194-9/fulltext

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China Ready to Open New Chapter in Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Germany – Xi Jinping

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, May 23 (Xinhua) — China is willing to work with Germany to open a new chapter in the history of bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership, promote new progress in China-EU ties, and make new contributions to the stable growth of the world economy, Chinese President Xi Jinping said Friday.

    During a telephone conversation with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Xi Jinping once again congratulated him on taking office. He noted that in a world where changes unseen in a century are accelerating and the international situation is volatile and unstable, the strategic and global significance of China-Germany and China-Europe relations is becoming even more noticeable.

    Healthy and stable relations between China and Germany serve the interests of both countries and meet the expectations of various social circles in China and Europe, the Chinese president said.

    The Chinese leader stressed that China and Germany have always developed their bilateral relations based on the spirit of mutual respect, seeking common ground while preserving differences, and cooperation for mutual benefit. Such a fine tradition should be carefully preserved and developed, Xi Jinping said.

    First, the Chinese President called for strengthening political mutual trust. He noted that China regards Germany as a partner, welcomes its development and prosperity, and is ready to strengthen close high-level exchanges with Germany, respect each other’s fundamental interests, and strengthen the political foundation of interstate relations.

    Secondly, Xi called on the two sides to enhance the resilience of bilateral relations. He said that they should not only continue to expand existing cooperation in traditional areas such as automobiles, machinery and chemicals, but also cultivate cooperation in cutting-edge sectors such as artificial intelligence and quantum technology, and strengthen exchanges and cooperation in areas such as climate change and green development, bringing the wisdom and solutions of China and Germany to global sustainable development.

    Third, the Chinese President noted that it is important to increase the momentum of cooperation. He assured that China is willing to share with Germany the development opportunities brought by high-level opening up, adding that China hopes that Germany will provide more policy support and promotion for mutual investment, and provide a fair, transparent and non-discriminatory business environment for Chinese enterprises.

    According to Xi Jinping, facts have fully proven that partnership is the correct positioning of China-Germany and China-EU relations, and a stable and predictable political environment is an important guarantee for bilateral cooperation.

    The Chinese president pointed out that the responsibility of major countries is the common mission of both sides. Recalling that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the EU, Xi said the two sides should jointly summarize the successful experience of developing China-EU ties and send a positive signal to safeguard multilateralism and free trade, as well as deepen open and mutually beneficial cooperation. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Ricketts Celebrates National Beef Month

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Pete Ricketts (Nebraska)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) celebrated Beef Month in America during his weekly press call. Ricketts highlighted his work supporting ranchers and producers. He spoke with members of Nebraska press about National Beef Month:
    “Nebraska’s ranchers feed the world,” said Ricketts. “This month, we honor hard-working cattlemen and women that promote this great industry. Overall, agriculture accounts for $31.6 billion of cash receipts for Nebraska’s economy. Our livestock bring in $18 billion in cash receipts, that’s 7.2% of the U.S.’s total. Nebraska beef production is key to our state’s success.” 
    Watch the video here.
    TRANSCRIPT
    Senator Ricketts: “Thank you for joining our press call today.   
    “Nebraska is the Beef State.  
    “In May, we celebrate National Beef Month. 
    “Agriculture is the heart and soul of our state, and beef is a cornerstone.  
    “Nebraska’s ranchers feed the world.  
    “This month, we honor the hard-working cattlemen and women that promote this great industry.
    “Overall, agriculture accounts for $31.6 billion of cash receipts for Nebraska’s economy.  
    “Our livestock bring in $18 billion in cash receipts, that’s 7.2% of the U.S.’s total.  
    “Nebraska beef production is key to our state’s success.  
    “Last year, we led the nation with over $2 billion in beef exports.  
    “Nebraska also led the nation in commercial cattle slaughter, with 6.8 million head.  
    “We have the top three beef-producing counties in the nation in Cherry, Custer, and Holt Counties.  
    “Much of the land used for livestock production couldn’t be used for anything else.  
    “Agricultural land is divided into two categories: arable land and marginal land. 
    “Arable land, which represents one-third of agricultural land, can be plowed.  
    “That means it’s suitable for growing food.  
    “Marginal land, representing two-thirds of agricultural land, is not suitable for growing food.  
    “Marginal land receives little or no water, has lower quality soils, or is rocky.   
    “Cattle production keeps marginal lands thriving.  
    “Beef production is critical to our state economy and our nation.  
    “Food security is national security.   
    “When I was Governor, I led trade missions to Japan and Vietnam to promote Nebraska beef.  
    “On those trips, I traveled with Nebraska cattle producers and discussed the challenges they faced.  
    “At that time, cow-calf operators shared concerns about market prices.  
    “I told them the answer was premium, diversified trade markets.  
    “Under Joe Biden, the U.S. had an agricultural trade deficit of $32 billion dollars last year.  
    “But with President Trump’s recent trade negotiations, our way of life looks to be growing stronger.  
    “The May 8th trade deal announcement with the U.K. creates $5 billion for new exports of U.S. products.  
    “That includes more than $700 million in ethanol exports and $250 million in other agricultural products like beef.  
    “The U.K. also increased their tariff-free quotas on beef from 1,000 metric tons to 13,000 metric tons.  
    “Meanwhile, the E.U. only imported 13,438 metric tons of beef in 2022, despite a total population over six times as large as the U.K.  
    “I would like to see the final deal more favorable for Nebraska ranchers, with an end to the ban on hormone-treated beef. 
    “But, alongside the other negotiations, the President’s trade strategy is already delivering wins for Nebraska beef.  
    “I’m fighting to ensure our ranchers have what they need to be successful.  
    “I support expanded funding in the farm bill to double trade-promotion. 
    “And I recently led a bicameral letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Health and Human Services, and the Environmental Protection Agency, pushing back on radical environmentalists’ anti-ag agenda.  
    “We warned against their agenda advancing harmful health, economic, or food security policies under the guise of human health.  
    “We should be encouraging more beef consumption, not less. 
    “In addition to being tasty, beef is one of the most nutrient-dense foods you can eat.
    “One 6-ounce cooked serving of beef provides 25 grams of protein.  
    “Beef contains ten essential nutrients including iron, zinc, and B vitamins.  
    “It takes more calories of plant protein to equate to similar levels of protein from beef.  
    “And research has linked beef protein to a host of positive health outcomes such as weight loss, muscle retention, and diet satisfaction.  
    “Nebraska ranchers and farmers are the original conservationists. 
    “They understand the science and they know what’s good for the land, animals, and consumers. 
    “They want to preserve the land and animals for the next generation.  
    “But Nebraska beef is not just healthy.  
    “It is our culture and way of life.  
    “This month, and every month, we celebrate our state’s beef industry. 
    “Happy National Beef Month, Nebraska!­­”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: University Research – Daytime boosts immunity, scientists find – UoA

    Source: University of Auckland (UoA)

    Kiwi scientists have discovered how daylight can boost the immune system’s ability to fight infections.

    NZT 6am Saturday 24 May: A breakthrough study, led by scientists at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland, has uncovered how daylight can boost the immune system’s ability to fight infections.

    The team focused on the most abundant immune cells in our bodies, called ‘neutrophils’, which are a type of white blood cell. These cells move quickly to the site of an infection and kill invading bacteria.

    The researchers used zebrafish, a small freshwater fish, as a model organism, because its genetic make-up is similar to ours and they can be bred to have transparent bodies, making it easy to observe biological processes in real time.

    “In earlier studies, we had observed that immune responses peaked in the morning, during the fish’s early active phase,” says lead researcher Associate Professor Christopher Hall, from the Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology.

    “We think this represents an evolutionary response such that during daylight hours the host is more active so more likely to encounter bacterial infections,” says Hall.

    However, the scientists wanted to find out how the immune response was being synchronised with daylight.

    With this new study, published in Science Immunology, and led by two doctoral researchers, neutrophils were found to possess a circadian clock that alerted them to daytime, and boosted their ability to kill bacteria.

    Most of our cells have circadian clocks to tell them what time of day it is in the outside world, in order to regulate the body’s activities. Light has the biggest influence on resetting these circadian clocks.

    “Given that neutrophils are the first immune cells to be recruited to sites of inflammation, our discovery has very broad implications for therapeutic benefit in many inflammatory diseases,” Hall says.

    “This finding paves the way for development of drugs that target the circadian clock in neutrophils to boost their ability to fight infections.”

    The research was funded through the Royal Society of NZ’s Marsden Fund.

    Current research is now focussed on understanding the specific mechanisms by which light influences the neutrophil circadian clock.

    Find out about animal-based research at the University of Auckland: http://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/research/about-our-research/openness-in-animal-research.html

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: After Health Secretary Kennedy Claims Ignorance Of Cuts To Medical Research, Durbin Pens Letter To NIH Director Demanding Answers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    May 23, 2025
    In hopes that the Director will be prepared to answer Senators’ questions in a June Committee hearing, Durbin sent a letter to Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, Director of NIH, requesting information about drastic cuts to medical research
    WASHINGTON – Following repeated claims of ignorance by Trump Administration officials during Committee hearings, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), a member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services (HHS), Education, and Related Agencies, sent a letter to Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), requesting specific information on cancelled and paused grant funding for ALS, childhood cancers, Alzheimer’s Disease, and congenital heart research.  Durbin sent the letter to bring transparency to the Trump Administration’s chaotic and harmful attack on medical research, and in hopes that Dr. Bhattacharya will be adequately prepared to answer Senators’ questions during the Appropriations Subcommittee hearing on June 10 that will examine the Trump Administration’s proposed drastic cuts to NIH’s Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) budget.
    “On Tuesday, June 10, 2025, you will appear before the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services (HHS), Education, and Related Agencies to discuss the Administration’s Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Request for the National Institutes of Health (NIH), which would slash medical research funding by $18 billion, or 40 percent,” Durbin wrote.
    Referencing HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s inability to offer satisfactory answers to questions about cuts to medical research funding during an Appropriations Subcommittee hearing earlier this week, Durbin expressed frustration at HHS leadership and its nonchalant approach to slashing funding for life-saving medical research.
    “During his appearance before the Subcommittee on May 20, 2025, I asked HHS Secretary Kennedy about reported cancellations and pauses to previously awarded NIH grants.  He did not appear to have any familiarity with these disruptions to medical research funding, which raises serious concerns about the lack of accountability, oversight, and process for the reportedly hundreds, if not thousands, of affected research grants,” Durbin wrote.
    Urging Dr. Bhattacharya to come prepared to the June 10 Committee hearing, Durbin requested a complete list of all cancelled or paused NIH grants and funding awards, since January 20, 2025, related to ALS, Alzheimer’s, childhood cancers, and congenital heart defect research.  Despite repeated inquiries from congressional staff, the Trump Administration refuses to make public an accurate and comprehensive list of cancelled or paused NIH grants.  Rather, the Administration deflects by falsely asserting that they’re only cutting out “waste, fraud, and abuse.”
    “Therefore, in advance of your hearing, I request that you provide me with a comprehensive list of all NIH grants and awards that have either been cancelled or paused since January 20, 2025, related to ALS, Alzheimer’s Disease, childhood cancers, and congenital heart defect research.  For each, please include an explanation as to why you decided that these grants or awards were no longer worthy of NIH funding, despite prior agency review and approval through a rigorous peer review process,” Durbin continued his letter.
    “I request that you provide this information to my office no later than Friday, June 6, 2025.  Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter and I look forward to discussing these terminated or paused grants with you on June 10, 2025.  Families battling ALS, Alzheimer’s, childhood cancers, and congenital heart defects deserve this basic level of transparency,” Durbin concluded his letter.
    Over the past decade, Durbin has pushed for annual, real five percent funding increases for NIH.  Since Fiscal Year 2015 (FY15), because of Durbin’s efforts, Congress has provided NIH with a 60 percent increase in annual funding, raising the appropriations level from $30 billion in FY15 to $49 billion today.  However, President Trump continues to target NIH, by cancelling hundreds of grant awards, firing or forcing out thousands of scientists, and freezing billions of dollars in research funding—which jeopardizes new breakthroughs that provide hope for patients.  Additionally, President Trump’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget request proposes slashing medical research funding at NIH by 40 percent, which would be the deepest funding cut in NIH history.
    This year, Durbin has twice asked for unanimous consent (UC) to pass a resolution he introduced with U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), as well as 21 other Senators, that would pledge support for NIH.  The resolution simply said that the work of NIH should not be subject to interruption, delay, or funding disruptions in violation of the law, and it reaffirmed that the NIH workforce is essential to sustaining medical progress.  The first UC request was blocked by U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) and the second was blocked by U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK).
    Durbin has long been a strong advocate for robust medical research.  His legislation, the American Cures Act, would provide annual budget increases of five percent plus inflation at America’s top four biomedical research agencies: NIH, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Department of Defense Health Program, and the Veterans Medical and Prosthetics Research Program.
    Full text of the letter follows:
    May 23, 2025
    Dear Director Bhattacharya:
                On Tuesday, June 10, 2025, you will appear before the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services (HHS), Education, and Related Agencies to discuss the Administration’s Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Request for the National Institutes of Health (NIH), which would slash medical research funding by $18 billion, or 40 percent.
                During his appearance before the Subcommittee on May 20, 2025, I asked HHS Secretary Kennedy about reported cancellations and pauses to previously awarded NIH grants.  He did not appear to have any familiarity with these disruptions to medical research funding, which raises serious concerns about the lack of accountability, oversight, and process for the reportedly hundreds, if not thousands, of affected research grants.   
    Therefore, in advance of your hearing, I request that you provide me with a comprehensive list of all NIH grants and awards that have either been cancelled or paused since January 20, 2025, related to ALS, Alzheimer’s Disease, childhood cancers, and congenital heart defect research.  For each, please include an explanation as to why you decided that these grants or awards were no longer worthy of NIH funding, despite prior agency review and approval through a rigorous peer review process.  This limited and defined request does not represent the totality of cancelled or paused research grants pertaining to many other diseases and conditions that impact families nationwide.  But, given how vast the devastation to medical research funding has been over the past few months, and the limited time we have to discuss such matters, I have limited my inquiry to these few devastating diagnoses.
    I request that you provide this information to my office no later than Friday, June 6, 2025.  Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter and I look forward to discussing these terminated or paused grants with you on June 10, 2025.  Families battling ALS, Alzheimer’s, childhood cancers, and congenital heart defects deserve this basic level of transparency.
    Sincerely,
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Esophagogastric Tube Recall: BD Issues Correction for Esophagogastric Balloon Tamponade Tubes due to Challenges Removing Plastic Plugs from Rubber Lumen

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    This recall involves updating the Instructions for using these devices and does not involve removing them from where they are used or sold. The FDA has identified this recall as the most serious type. This device may cause serious injury or death if you continue to use it without following the updated instructions.
    Affected Product 

    The FDA is aware that BD and their subsidiary C.R. Bard Urology and Critical Care have issued a letter to affected customers that all lots of certain esophagogastric balloon tamponade tubes have updated use instructions:

    Device Name

    Model Number

    UDI-DI

    Bard Minnesota Four Lumen Esophagogastric Tamponade Tube
    0092220
    00801741076824

    Bard Blakemore Esophageal Nasogastric Tube 
    0092100 
    00801741076800

    Bard Blakemore Esophageal Nasogastric Tube (Child)
    0092110
    00801741076817

    Bard Blakemore Esophageal Nasogastric Tube (Intermediate)
    0092300 
    00801741076831

    Bard Single Intragastric Linton Balloon Tube
    0092740
    00801741076848

    What to Do
    These devices are used in critical and emergency situations. Users should review and follow the updated instructions for removal of the plastic plugs provided below prior to continued use. 

    On April 17, BD sent all affected customers a letter with recommended actions. On May 19, 2025, a follow-up letter was sent with more detailed instructions:

    Follow the Plastic Plug Removal Instructions: 

    Before use with patients, prepare the device by removing the plastic plugs and set them aside to remain with the device.  
    To aid in plug removal, fully open the 5” Straight Smooth Jaw Hemostats and insert one hemostat jaw between the plug and the rubber lumen. While the hemostat jaw is inserted, rotate the jaw around the plug’s circumference as seen in the image below. Remove the hemostat, then the plug.
    Following removal of the plastic plugs, test the balloons for evidence of air leaks prior to proceeding with the remaining steps required for placement as described in the original instructions for use (IFU).

    Check all inventory locations within your institution for the affected product. Post the provided notice where the devices are stored. 
    Store 5” Straight Smooth Jaw Hemostat with the affected devices for immediate availability to be used for plastic plug removal.  
    Have secondary balloon tamponade devices available for immediate replacement if the first device is damaged during plastic plug removal. 
    Share the provided notice with any users of the product within your facilities or with any interfacility users where product was transferred, to ensure they are also aware of this Medical Device Correction. 

    Check this web page for updates. The FDA is currently reviewing information about this potentially high-risk device issue and will keep the public informed as significant new information becomes available.

    Reason for Updated Use Instructions
    BD has become aware that users are sometimes unable, or find it difficult, to remove the plastic plugs from the rubber lumen in order to inflate the gastric and/or esophageal balloons. In some cases, the devices may become damaged during removal of the plastic plugs in which a replacement device will be needed. 
    Potential health consequences include delay in diagnosis or delay in treatment which may result in the onset or prolongation of hypotension and its potential short and long-term complications, up to and including death. This issue may also result in additional and unexpected diagnostic and medical/surgical interventions to manage the patient’s bleeding.
    BD has reported two serious injuries and one death associated with this issue.
    Device Use
    Esophagogastric balloon tamponade tubes are devices made of flexible tubing used to help identify and control bleeding from enlarged veins in the esophagus and stomach. The tubes use pressure from balloons to compress an area to help control bleeding, and suction ports to remove fluids from the esophagus and stomach.
    Contact Information
    Customers in the U.S. with adverse reactions, quality problems, or questions about this recall should contact BD at productcomplaints@bd.com or 1-844-823-5433 and say “product complaints” when prompted.
    Unique Device Identifier (UDI)
    The unique device identifier (UDI) helps identify individual medical devices sold in the United States from distribution to use. The UDI allows for more accurate reporting, reviewing, and analyzing of adverse event reports so that devices can be identified more quickly, and as a result, problems potentially resolved more quickly.

    How do I report a problem?
    Health care professionals and consumers may report adverse reactions or quality problems they experienced using these devices to MedWatch: The FDA Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program. 

    Content current as of:
    05/23/2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Transforming Hudson Valley Downtowns

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced awards for a total of 28 transformational projects for the Mid-Hudson Region as part of two economic development programs: the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward. Thirteen projects were announced for White Plains, the Round 7 winner of a $10 million DRI award; ten projects were announced for Highland Falls, a Round 2 winner of a $4.5 million NY Forward award; and five projects were announced for Montgomery, also a Round 2 winner of a $4.5 million NY Forward award.

    “Our downtowns are where New Yorkers unwind and our communities connect. Every downtown that we transform through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs elevate the quality of life for residents and that is what we’re doing in the Hudson Valley,” Governor Hochul said. “When communities are invested in, they thrive — and we’re investing in the development of beautiful main streets and boosting our local economies, creating lasting change for New Yorkers all across the state.”

    New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “When we invest in our downtowns, we’re investing in the heart of our communities. Through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward program, we’re not just funding projects — we’re fostering vibrant, walkable neighborhoods that spur economic growth, enhance quality of life for residents and preserve the unique character of each municipality and region. These signature programs exemplify our commitment to ensuring that every New Yorker, in every corner of our State, has the opportunity to succeed and thrive.”

    Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs are transforming communities across New York State by turning local visions into bold investments to generate place-based economic development. These projects will create new opportunities for businesses, support vibrant public spaces, and attract residents and visitors alike — laying the foundation for sustainable growth and stronger regional economies.” 

    New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “All across this State, the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs are strategically prioritizing communities, growing economies with targeted awards, creating more housing opportunities that improve affordability for New Yorkers where it is most needed, and building on the diverse character of our neighborhoods. By working with local and municipal partners, these awards continue Governor Hochul’s commitment to developing the full potential of our downtowns as economic drivers and attractive places to live.” 

     City of White Plains

    The White Plains DRI focuses on the City’s traditional urban core. The area is home to numerous multi-family developments, the soon to be redeveloped Galleria and City Center shopping malls, a thriving restaurant row and hospitality center, and a busy Metro North train station. DRI projects identified by the community focus on enhancing downtown buildings and community centers, public gathering spaces, safe and accessible pedestrian and bike infrastructure, and interconnectivity between the downtown and the adjacent neighborhoods.

    The 13 White Plains DRI projects, totaling $9.7 million, include:

    • Build a Protected Bicycle Track and Implement Pedestrian Safety Improvements on Hamilton Avenue ($2,700,000): Establish a boulevard-style median on Hamilton Avenue, featuring a two-way protected cycle track and refuge islands at intersections to improve pedestrian safety, calm vehicle traffic and improve corridor appearance.
    • Create the “Water Street Connector,” a Linear Park Connecting Hillside Terrace to Downtown ($2,250,000): Transform the right-of-way between Water Street and Hillside Terrace into a linear park connecting Hillside Terrace to downtown.
    • Create and Implement a Comprehensive Branding and Wayfinding Initiative ($749,000): Develop a brand unique to White Plains and create wayfinding to direct residents and visitors to key locations and various points of interest.
    • Create a Pocket Park at 73 Waller Avenue ($745,000): Convert the municipal parking lot at 73 Waller Avenue into a new pocket park.
    • Implement a Small Projects Fund for Building Improvements and Public Art ($600,000): Create a Small Projects Fund to help advance a wide range of small downtown projects including exterior and interior building renovations, upper story residential improvements, permanent equipment acquisition and public art installations.
    • Improve the Thomas H. Slater Center ($600,000): Enhance and improve the Thomas H. Slater Center with a new ADA accessible bathroom and new windows to foster a sense of expansiveness and light, improve energy efficiency and enhance comfort in the building.
    • Enhance Streetscaping Throughout the DRI Area ($554,000): Create and implement an overall streetscaping vision throughout downtown.
    • Establish the ArtsW’s Makerspace at the ArtsWestchester Building ($500,000): Create the “ArtsW’s Makerspace,” a new multi-purpose education center, by expanding the footprint of the ArtsWestchester building.
    • Reimagine the White Plains Train Station Clock Tower ($270,000): Restore the White Plains Train Station clock tower into a vibrant landmark featuring community-driven art.
    • Enhance Curb Appeal at the Chester Apartments ($245,000): Enhance the visual impression of Chester Avenue with public art, landscaping and a creative ground floor façade at the Chester apartment building.
    • Install Decorative Lighting Throughout the Business Improvement District ($225,000): Enhance the public realm with decorative lighting installations that create a more festive and inviting environment throughout the Business Improvement District.
    • Revitalize the Mamaroneck Pedestrian Pathway ($132,000): Revitalize the pedestrian pathway from Mamaroneck Avenue to the municipal garage to create a safer, more enjoyable pedestrian experience.
    • Upgrade the Interior and Exterior of the Play Group Theatre ($130,000): Renovate the Play Group Theatre with new stage lighting, flooring, window shades and lighting. Upgrade the HVAC system and building façade.

    Village of Highland Falls

    The Village of Highland Falls has been identified in Orange County’s most recent comprehensive plan as a priority growth area, which makes it an ideal location for downtown revitalization. The Village’s NY Forward projects will build on and expand past incremental downtown improvements, including upgrading and renovating downtown buildings for mixed use; enhancing park and community spaces; completing wayfinding and branding initiatives; and creating new housing options.

    The 10 Highland Falls NY Forward Projects, totaling $4.5 Million, include:

    • Redesign and Expand Ladycliff Park to Increase Usage and Offer New Amenities in Downtown ($1,300,000): Transform Ladycliff Park by expanding the park along Webb Lane and adding ADA accessible walking paths, tables and seating, an amphitheater to host community events and additional landscaping.
    • Improve and Restore Downtown Buildings with a Small Project Fund ($600,000): Establish a Small Project Fund that will enable business and property owners to improve building facades, enhance building interiors, purchase permanent equipment and enhance building exteriors with public art.
    • Renovate 441 Main Street to Add and Improve Residential Units and Make an Inviting Storefront ($405,000): Renovate existing apartments and construct new apartments on an additional story at 441 Main Street. Also, upgrade the storefront exterior with new signage and windows to make the restaurant more inviting to the public.
    • Highlight Downtown Highland Falls with a Comprehensive Branding and Wayfinding Initiative ($400,000): Create a branding strategy for downtown Highland Falls to attract and inform visitors about points of interest and downtown businesses; design and install custom wayfinding signage to facilitate navigation and inform visitors about the downtown.
    • Enhance South Gate Tavern Through Building Repairs and Capacity Upgrades ($314,000): Expand existing South Gate Tavern with second floor restaurant balcony to provide outdoor seating along Main Street. Restore the building’s exterior façade and perform interior upgrades.
    • Revitalize 447 Main Street to Add New Apartments and Modernize the Building Exterior ($400,000): Add a second story and renovate the exterior of 447 Main Street to modernize the façade and add new residential units.
    • Develop 285 Main Street into an Arts and Retail Space ($201,000): Reactivate 285 Main Street into an art center to provide opportunities for community arts programming, retail space and exhibit/event space.
    • Add New Residential and Commercial Spaces at 327 Main Street ($475,000): Renovate 327 Main Street to include an additional residential unit, reactivate the vacant commercial storefront, improve the existing grocery store with equipment and interior upgrades and enhance the building exterior.
    • Renovate 293 Main Street to Improve Interior and Exterior Conditions ($180,000): Enhance 293 Main Street by conducting façade upgrades, interior and exterior renovations and upgrades to mechanical systems.
    • Renovate 209 Main Street to Attract Commercial Tenants ($225,000): Conduct interior and exterior renovations to upgrade the building façade and enhance the functionality of vacant commercial space to make it rentable.

    Village of Montgomery

    The Village of Montgomery is a quaint historic village with a strong sense of community and a picturesque location along the Wallkill River. The NY Forward downtown area is compact and walkable, containing a high concentration of historic buildings, businesses and civic and cultural amenities. The NY Forward projects will develop new housing options; improve connectivity among the Village’s downtown parks and green spaces; improve streetscape safety and walkability; preserve historic structures; and expand childcare facilities.

    The 5 Montgomery NY Forward Projects, totaling $4.5 Million, include:

    • Foster a Walkable Downtown Montgomery Through Streetscaping and Enhanced Connections ($1,500,000): Enhance the streetscape of the core downtown area, including sidewalk upgrades and the installation of street trees, lampposts, seating areas and crosswalks on up to six streets with a focus on Clinton and Union Streets.
    • Redesign and Upgrade Veterans Memorial Park to Meet the Needs of All Residents and Visitors ($961,000): Redesign Veterans Memorial Park to improve circulation, enhance accessibility, safety and aesthetics, and provide new and improved amenities for users of all ages, including new pedestrian and bicycle paths, play area amenities, new and improved athletic fields and improvements to the current teen center.
    • Construct a Mixed-Use Development on an Underutilized Parking Lot at 71- 73 Clinton Street ($950,000): Construct a mixed-use building at 71-73 Clinton Street that includes commercial space on the ground floor and residential apartments on the upper floors, as well as pedestrian improvements along Charles Street from Union to Bridge Street.
    • Expand Montgomery Nursery School to Meet the Demand for Additional Students ($589,000): Expand the Montgomery Nursery School to include additional classroom space and amenities, ensuring the facility is equipped to serve its students’ educational needs.
    • Establish a Small Project Fund to Provide Funding Opportunities for Capital Improvements and Small Business Assistance ($500,000): Establish a Small Project Fund dedicated to revitalizing downtown buildings by preserving their historic character and enhancing their overall quality, including façade upgrades and historic restoration, accessibility and safety enhancements and energy-efficiency improvements.

    In the FY2025 Enacted Budget, Governor Hochul made the “Pro-Housing Community” designation a requirement for cities, towns and villages to access up to $650 million in State discretionary programs, including the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and New York Forward. To date, more than 300 municipalities across the State have become certified. To further support localities that are doing their part to address the housing crisis, Governor Hochul is creating a $100 million Pro-Housing Supply fund for certified Pro-Housing Communities to assist with critical infrastructure projects necessary to create new housing, such as sewer and water infrastructure upgrades.

    MHREDC Co-Chairs Dr. Marsha Gordon and Dr. Kristine Young said, “These investments in White Plains, Highland Falls, and Montgomery underscore how targeted, community-driven projects can unlock long-term value. By enhancing cultural spaces, activating underused properties, and improving public infrastructure, DRI and NY Forward are enabling communities to build on their assets in ways that reflect local priorities and strengthen civic life.” 

    City of White Plains Mayor Tom Roach said, “Thank you Governor Hochul for recognizing the potential of White Plains and making a bold investment in our city’s future. The Downtown Revitalization Initiative will help us reimagine and reinvigorate the heart of our community – transforming key corridors, enhancing public spaces, improving pedestrian safety, and creating new cultural and recreational amenities. These projects will build on our momentum and ensure downtown White Plains continues to thrive as a dynamic, walkable, and inclusive hub for residents, visitors, and businesses alike.”

    Village of Montgomery Mayor Michael R. Hembury said, “We are grateful to receive this grant from the state. It will be used to enhance the downtown and park areas in our beautiful and historic village. We are glad that New York State recognized that Montgomery village is a great place to live and raise a family.”

    State Senator Shelley B. Mayer said, “I am thrilled that White Plains will receive nearly $10 million from the seventh round of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative to support 13 projects throughout the city. White Plains is a beautiful and vibrant community, and this funding will enable positive investments in downtown White Plains for its diverse community and will enhance our city’s arts and culture, tourism, and street safety. I am proud to represent White Plains, and I want to thank the Governor for her commitment to supporting our communities.”

    Assemblymember Amy Paulin said, “Downtown revitalization has long been a driving force behind White Plains’ growth, and this new investment will help propel it forward. White Plains has been a leader in sustainable development, and these projects, including protected bike and pedestrian lanes, refuge spaces, and streetscaping, are essential to that mission. I thank Governor Hochul and White Plains Mayor Tom Roach for their leadership and commitment to these transformative efforts.”

    Assemblymember Chris Burdick said, “I am delighted that the Mid-Hudson Region is the recipient of these terrific grants. Representing White Plains, I am particularly proud of the projects selected, which will have a significant positive impact on the vitality of this area, improving the safety, culture, and sense of community. Kudos to White Plains for having the initiative to go after these grants.”

    Assemblymember Chris Eachus said, “These NY Forward projects for the Village of Highland Falls will be transformative for a region that so recently saw catastrophic flooding only two years ago. Enhancing streets and infrastructure, revitalizing Main Street with new cultural and economic centers, and sustainably developing new residential units in areas of need will all add to the already existing beauty of the area. Highland Falls is a gem on the shores of the Hudson River, neighboring the historic West Point, and I am proud to see it receiving the attention it deserves.”

    Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said, “On behalf of Westchester County, I want to thank Governor Kathy Hochul for this tremendous investment in White Plains — a city that is not only our County Seat, but a vibrant hub where people live, work, and play. These transformative projects will breathe new life into our downtown, support small businesses, enhance our arts and cultural spaces, and improve public infrastructure for residents and visitors alike. This bold commitment by Governor Hochul is a game-changer for White Plains and a powerful reminder of what’s possible when the State and local communities work together to build a stronger, more inclusive future.”

    DRI and NY Forward communities developed Strategic Implementation Plans (SIPs), which create a vision for the future of their downtown and identify and recommend a slate of complementary, transformative and implementable projects that support that vision. The SIPs are guided by a Local Planning Committee (LPC) composed of local and regional leaders, stakeholders and community representatives, with the assistance of an assigned consultant and DOS staff, all of whom conduct extensive community outreach and engagement when determining projects. The projects selected for funding from the SIP were identified as having the greatest potential to jumpstart revitalization and generate new opportunities for long-term growth.

     About the Downtown Revitalization Initiative

    The Downtown Revitalization Initiative was created in 2016 to accelerate and expand the revitalization of downtowns and neighborhoods in all ten regions of the state to serve as centers of activity and catalysts for investment. Led by the Department of State with assistance from Empire State Development, Homes and Community Renewal and NYSERDA, the DRI represents an unprecedented and innovative “plan-then-act” strategy that couples strategic planning with immediate implementation and results in compact, walkable downtowns that are a key ingredient to helping New York State strengthen its economy, as well as to achieving the State’s bold climate goals by promoting the use of public transit and reducing dependence on private vehicles. Through nine rounds, the DRI has awarded a total of $900 million to 91 communities across every region of the State.

    About the NY Forward Program

    First announced as part of the 2022 Budget, Governor Hochul created the NY Forward program to build on the momentum created by the DRI. The program works in concert with the DRI to accelerate and expand the revitalization of smaller and rural downtowns throughout the State so that all communities can benefit from the State’s revitalization efforts, regardless of size, character, needs and challenges.

    NY Forward communities are supported by a professional planning consultant and team of State agency experts led by DOS to develop a Strategic Investment Plan that includes a slate of transformative, complementary and readily implementable projects. NY Forward projects are appropriately scaled to the size of each community; projects may include building renovation and redevelopment, new construction or creation of new or improved public spaces and other projects that enhance specific cultural and historical qualities that define and distinguish the small-town charm that defines these municipalities. Through three rounds, the NY Forward program has awarded a total of $300 million to 60 communities across every region of the State.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: U.S. FDA Approves Liquidia’s YUTREPIA™ (treprostinil) Inhalation Powder for Patients with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) and Pulmonary Hypertension Associated with Interstitial Lung Disease (PH-ILD)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • FDA’s approval of YUTREPIA paves the way for prescribers to add a new treatment option for patients with PAH and PH-ILD
    • YUTREPIA is designed to enhance deep-lung delivery with an easy-to-use device requiring low inspiratory effort
    • Demonstrated tolerability and titratability in the pivotal INSPIRE study
    • Liquidia will host a webcast Tuesday, May 27, 2025 at 8:30 a.m. ET to provide an update on commercial launch preparations

    MORRISVILLE, N.C., May 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Liquidia Corporation (NASDAQ: LQDA), a biopharmaceutical company developing innovative therapies for patients with rare cardiopulmonary disease, announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved YUTREPIA™ (treprostinil) inhalation powder, a prostacyclin analog for adults with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and pulmonary hypertension associated with interstitial lung disease (PH-ILD) to improve exercise ability. YUTREPIA is the first and only prostacyclin dry-powder formulation enabled by Liquidia’s proprietary PRINT™ technology, which yields uniform, free-flowing particles designed to enhance deep-lung delivery via an easy-to-use, low-effort device requiring less inspiratory effort.

    Dr. Roger Jeffs, Chief Executive Officer of Liquidia, said: “Today, we celebrate for the patients and physicians who will now have access to a potential best-in-class dry-powder form of treprostinil with exceptional portability, tolerability, titratability and durability. Thank you to the clinical investigation team, our steering committee, and the members of the pulmonary hypertension patient communities who helped make this day a reality. With today’s milestone, our commercial team is prepared to launch YUTREPIA and bring meaningful change to the lives of patients in need, and we look forward to speaking with physicians and patients about the unique benefits of YUTREPIA in the days and weeks ahead.”

    The approval of YUTREPIA is based on findings from the Phase 3 INSPIRE trial which evaluated patients who were naïve to treprostinil, as well as those transitioning to YUTREPIA from nebulized treprostinil. YUTREPIA was shown to be safe and well-tolerated regardless of a patient’s previous exposure to treprostinil. Results from the INSPIRE study were published in the Pulmonary Circulation Journal in 2022 and the Vascular Pharmacology Journal in 2021. Please see the “Selected Safety Information” in the section entitled “About YUTREPIA™ (treprostinil) Inhalation Powder.”

    Dr. Nicholas Hill, Chief Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Division, Professor of Medicine at Tufts University School of Medicine and Principal Investigator on the Phase 3 INSPIRE study, said: “I am so pleased that patients with PAH and PH-ILD now have this newly introduced option for inhaled treprostinil. Having treated patients for more than six years in Liquidia’s INSPIRE and extension studies, I am confident in the safety, tolerability and dosing that YUTREPIA offers. The low-effort inhalation device used to deliver YUTREPIA may make it easier to start and maintain patients on treatment, especially those with limited inspiratory flows or lung capacity.”

    Matt Granato, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Pulmonary Hypertension Association, said: “PAH and PH-ILD impact more than 105,000 patients in the U.S. alone. These patient communities and the physicians who serve them need therapies that can lead to the improvement of quality of life. We are always glad to see industry research leading to development of drugs that expand options for the patient community.”   

    As previously disclosed, United Therapeutics Corporation (UTHR) filed a complaint on May 9, 2025, in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina (Case No. 1:25-cv-00368) against Liquidia alleging infringement of U.S. Patent No. 11,357,782 (the ‘782 patent) and seeks to enjoin Liquidia from commercializing YUTREPIA to treat PAH and PH-ILD.   UTHR has filed a motion for temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction to block Liquidia from commercially launching YUTREPIA. Oral argument on the motion was held on May 20, 2025. The motion remains pending with the Court.

    Webcast Information
    Liquidia will provide an update on YUTREPIA commercial launch preparations via a live webcast on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. ET. Access to the webcast will be available on the “Investors” page of Liquidia’s website at https://liquidia.com/investors/events-and-presentations. A replay and transcript of the webcast will be archived on the company’s website for at least 30 days.

    About Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH)
    Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare, chronic, progressive disease caused by narrowing, thickening or stiffening of the pulmonary arteries that can lead to right heart failure and eventually death. Currently, an estimated 45,000 patients are diagnosed and treated in the United States. There is currently no cure for PAH, so the goals of existing treatments are to alleviate symptoms, maintain or improve functional class, delay disease progression, and improve quality of life.

    About Pulmonary Hypertension Associated with Interstitial Lung Disease (PH-ILD)
    Pulmonary hypertension (PH) associated with interstitial lung disease (ILD) includes a diverse collection of up to 200 different pulmonary diseases, including interstitial pulmonary fibrosis, chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis, connective tissue disease-related ILD, and chronic pulmonary fibrosis with emphysema (CPFE) among others. Any level of PH in ILD patients is associated with poor 3-year survival. A current estimate of PH-ILD prevalence in the United States is greater than 60,000 patients, though population size in many of these underlying ILD diseases is not yet known due to factors including underdiagnosis and lack of approved treatments until March 2021, when inhaled treprostinil was first approved for this indication.

    About YUTREPIA™ (treprostinil) Inhalation Powder
    YUTREPIA is an inhaled dry-powder formulation of treprostinil delivered through a convenient, low-effort, palm-sized device. YUTREPIA was designed using Liquidia’s PRINT® technology, which enables the development of drug particles that are precise and uniform in size, shape and composition, and that are engineered for enhanced deposition in the lung following oral inhalation. Liquidia has completed the INSPIRE trial (NCT03399604), or Investigation of the Safety and Pharmacology of Dry Powder Inhalation of Treprostinil, an open-label, multi-center phase 3 clinical study of YUTREPIA in patients diagnosed with PAH who are naïve to inhaled treprostinil or who are transitioning from Tyvaso® (nebulized treprostinil). YUTREPIA is currently being studied in the ASCENT trial (NCT06129240), or An Open-Label ProSpective MultiCENTer Study to Evaluate Safety and Tolerability of Dry Powder Inhaled Treprostinil in PH, with the objective of informing YUTREPIA’s dosing and tolerability profile in patients with PH-ILD. YUTREPIA was previously referred to as LIQ861 in investigational studies.

    INDICATION
    YUTREPIA (treprostinil) inhalation powder is a prostacyclin analog indicated for the treatment of:

    • Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH; WHO Group 1) to improve exercise ability. Studies establishing effectiveness predominately included patients with NYHA Functional Class III symptoms and etiologies of idiopathic or heritable PAH (56%) or PAH associated with connective tissue diseases (33%).
    • Pulmonary hypertension associated with interstitial lung disease (PH-ILD; WHO Group 3) to improve exercise ability. The study establishing effectiveness predominately included patients with etiologies of idiopathic interstitial pneumonia (IIP) (45%) inclusive of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), combined pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema (CPFE) (25%), and WHO Group 3 connective tissue disease (22%).

    SELECTED SAFETY INFORMATION: WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

    • Treprostinil is a pulmonary and systemic vasodilator. In patients with low systemic arterial pressure, treatment with Treprostinil may produce symptomatic hypotension.
    • Treprostinil inhibits platelet aggregation and increases the risk of bleeding.
    • Co-administration of a cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C8 enzyme inhibitor (e.g., gemfibrozil) may increase exposure (both Cmax and AUC) to treprostinil. Co-administration of a CYP2C8 enzyme inducer (e.g., rifampin) may decrease exposure to treprostinil. Increased exposure is likely to increase adverse events associated with treprostinil administration, whereas decreased exposure is likely to reduce clinical effectiveness.
    • Like other inhaled prostaglandins, YUTREPIA may cause acute bronchospasm. Patients with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other bronchial hyperreactivity, are at increased risk for bronchospasm. Ensure that such patients are treated optimally for reactive airway disease prior to and during treatment.
    • Most common adverse reactions with YUTREPIA (≥10%) are cough, headache, throat irritation and dizziness.

    Prescribing Information and Instructions for Use for YUTREPIA (treprostinil) inhalation powder are available at YUTREPIA.com.  

    About Liquidia Corporation
    Liquidia Corporation is a biopharmaceutical company developing innovative therapies for patients with rare cardiopulmonary disease. The company’s current focus spans the development and commercialization of products in pulmonary hypertension and other applications of its proprietary PRINT® Technology. PRINT enabled the creation of YUTREPIA™ (treprostinil) inhalation powder, a drug that has been approved for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and pulmonary hypertension associated with interstitial lung disease (PHILD). The company is also developing L606, an investigational sustained-release formulation of treprostinil administered twice-daily with a next-generation nebulizer and currently markets generic Treprostinil Injection for the treatment of PAH. To learn more about Liquidia, please visit www.liquidia.com.

    Tyvaso® is a registered trademark of United Therapeutics Corporation.

    Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release may include forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements contained in this press release other than statements of historical facts, including statements regarding our future results of operations and financial position, our strategic and financial initiatives, our business strategy and plans and our objectives for future operations, are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements, including statements regarding clinical trials, clinical studies and other clinical work (including the funding therefor; anticipated patient enrollment, safety data, study data, trial outcomes, timing or associated costs); regulatory applications and related submission contents and timelines; our ability to successfully commercialize our products, including YUTREPIA, for which we obtain FDA or other regulatory authority approval; the acceptance by the market of our products, including YUTREPIA, and their potential pricing and/or reimbursement by third-party payors, if approved (in the case of our product candidates) and whether such acceptance is sufficient to support continued commercialization or development of our products; the successful development or commercialization of our products, including YUTREPIA; our revenue from product sales and whether or not we may become profitable in the near term, or at all; future competitive or other market factors that may adversely affect the commercial potential for YUTREPIA; and our ability to execute on our strategic or financial initiatives, involve significant risks and uncertainties and actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied herein. Despite the approval of YUTREPIA by the FDA, it is possible that commercialization of YUTREPIA may be blocked or delayed in connection with legal proceedings that have been initiated or that may in the future be initiated, or we may be required to pay damages, including royalties, in connection with our commercial launch, as a result of these legal proceedings. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “target,” “would,” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, short-term and long-term business operations and objectives and financial needs. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks discussed in our filings with the SEC, as well as a number of uncertainties and assumptions. Moreover, we operate in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment and our industry has inherent risks. New risks emerge from time to time. It is not possible for our management to predict all risks, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements we may make. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the future events discussed in this press release may not occur and actual results could differ materially and adversely from those anticipated or implied in the forward-looking statements. Nothing in this press release should be regarded as a representation by any person that these goals will be achieved, and we undertake no duty to update our goals or to update or alter any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Contact Information

    Investors:
    Jason Adair
    919.328.4350
    jason.adair@liquidia.com

    Media:
    Patrick Wallace
    919.328.4383
    patrick.wallace@liquidia.com

    The MIL Network –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen, Young Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Cybersecurity of U.S Health Care System

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Todd Young (R-IN) introduced the Healthcare Cybersecurity Act to bolster the health care and public health sectors’ cybersecurity. This bipartisan bill would direct the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to collaborate on improving cybersecurity and make resources available to non-federal entities relating to cyber threat indicators and appropriate defense measures. It would also create a special liaison to HHS from CISA to support cybersecurity for health care and public health sector entities.
    “For years, America’s health care system has faced devastating cyberattacks that have exposed patients’ data, jeopardized access to care, and hurt local and rural medical facilities across Nevada,” said Senator Rosen. “I’m introducing this bipartisan legislation to increase coordination to prevent cybersecurity attacks and make more resources available to hospitals and health care entities to improve their cybersecurity. I’ll keep working with both parties to strengthen our cybersecurity and protect Nevadans from cybercriminals.”
    “In recent years, hospitals and other health care facilities in Indiana and across America have experienced a dramatic increase in cyberattacks,” said Senator Young. “Our bipartisan bill will take critical steps to strengthen cybersecurity infrastructure and better protect patients’ personal data.”
    Since she joined the Senate, Senator Rosen has been working across party lines to improve our nation’s cybersecurity. Last month, she sent a letter to Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert Kennedy Jr. expressing her deep concerns and demanding answers regarding the elimination of critical information technology and cybersecurity personnel and leadership at HHS. Last year, Senator Rosen announced that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) implemented her bipartisan law to strengthen the cybersecurity of veterans’ personal information and data.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison Names Leadership Team, Reorganizes Criminal Division

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBUQUERQUE – U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison announced today the appointment of a new executive leadership team to guide the District of New Mexico’s mission, along with a restructuring of the Albuquerque office’s Criminal Division to best advance the Administration’s priorities.

    Mr. Ellison named Kimberly Brawley as First Assistant U.S. Attorney, overseeing the Criminal, Civil, and Administrative Divisions. Ms. Brawley joined the office in 2007 and has worked across all sections of the Criminal Division. From 2013 to 2018, she supervised the General Crimes Section, which handled violent crimes, firearms offenses, narcotics, and immigration cases.   Since 2018 she has prosecuted white collar, national security, and civil rights cases.  Ms. Brawley earned her B.A. with honors from New Mexico State University and graduated cum laude from the University of New Mexico School of Law.  Before becoming an Assistant U.S. Attorney, she clerked for the office and practiced civil defense litigation in the private sector.

    Christopher McNair will serve as Executive Assistant U.S. Attorney. Mr. McNair joined the office 2018 and has primarily handled firearms, violent crime, and immigration offenses. Mr. McNair graduated magna cum laude from the University of New Mexico School of Law and earned his B.A. from the University of New Mexico.

    Roberto Ortega has been appointed as Chief of the Civil Division. Mr. Ortega has over 35 years of legal experience, including 25 years as an Assistant U.S. Attorney. He has prosecuted a wide range of federal criminal cases and now focuses on defending the United States in civil litigation. Mr. Ortega holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from Stanford University and a Juris Doctor from the University of New Mexico School of Law. He is also an active community leader, having served on several local boards, including the UNM Alumni Association and the National Hispanic Cultural Center Foundation. He and his wife, Dr. Loretta Cordova de Ortega, have four children.

    Niki Tapia-Brito will lead the Albuquerque Office’s Criminal Division as Chief. Ms. Tapia-Brito joined the office in 2011, after serving for 10 years as a prosecutor in the 7th and 2nd Judicial District Attorneys’ Offices.  Throughout her career with the office, Ms. Tapia-Brito has prosecuted federal cases in the Indian Crimes, Violent Crimes, Civil Rights and Public Integrity sections.  Ms. Tapia-Brito earned her B.A. from Stanford University and a JD at University of New Mexico School of Law.

    In the Las Cruces Branch Office, Richard Williams will serve as Chief of the Criminal Division. He joined the office in 2001 as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney and became an Assistant U.S. Attorney in 2002. From July 2008 to July 2022, Mr. Williams served in supervisory roles, including Deputy Branch Chief and Section Supervisor. Throughout his career with the office, he has led numerous criminal investigations and prosecutions involving immigration, firearms, narcotics, money laundering, murder and other violent crimes, white-collar offenses, and various federal violations. He has also argued multiple appeals before the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals, securing two successful topside appeals. In recognition of his appellate work, Mr. Williams received the EOUSA Director’s Award for Superior Performance in 2010. Before joining the office, he practiced commercial litigation as an associate at Vinson & Elkins L.L.P. in Houston, Texas. Mr. Williams earned his J.D. with honors from the University of Texas School of Law and his B.A. cum laude from Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas. He grew up in Fort Worth, Texas.

    Paige Messec will continue to serve as the Chief of the Appellate Division, which she has headed since 2018. Ms. Messec joined the office in 2008 and served in the Immigration, General Crimes, and White Collar sections of the Criminal Division before moving to the Appellate Division in 2015. She received her undergraduate degree summa cum laude from Georgetown University and law degree cum laude from Harvard Law School. Before joining the office, she clerked for Judge Harris L Hartz on the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals.

    Jeremy Peña has been appointed as Senior Litigation Counsel for the Albuquerque Criminal Division. Mr. Peña joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office in 2011, starting in the General Crimes Section and moving to the White Collar Section that same year. In 2014, he received the U.S. Attorney’s Award for the trial conviction of Sheriff Thomas Rodella.  He has prosecuted some of the Office’s most complex cases, including Ayudando Guardians and the recent trial conviction of Solomon Peña.  Mr. Peña graduated from Pomona College and the University of Chicago Law School.  He was an Assistant District Attorney for five years before becoming an AUSA.

    In the Las Cruces Branch Office, Terri Abernathy will continue to serve as Senior Litigation Counsel for the Criminal Division, a position she has held since 2010. In this role, Ms. Abernathy is responsible for coordinating the training of Assistant U.S. Attorneys and Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys in the Las Cruces Office. She has been with the office since 2000 and serves as the District’s Border Security Coordinator. Over her 25-year career, Ms. Abernathy has prosecuted complex narcotics cases and more than a thousand immigration cases. Before joining the office, she clerked for Circuit Judge Bobby R. Baldock of the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals and is a graduate of Washington University School of Law in St. Louis, Missouri.

    In addition to his executive leadership team, Mr. Ellison announced a restructured Criminal Division in the Albuquerque Office, now organized into four sections:

    • Narcotics and Organized Crimes: Led by Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Elaine Ramirez and Deputy Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Lou Mattei.
    • White Collar Crimes: Led by Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Fred Federici.
    • Violent and General Crimes: Led by Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Samuel Hurtado and Deputy Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Mysliwiec.
    • Indian Country Crimes: Led by Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew McGinley.

    The Las Cruces Branch Office is organized into two sections:

    • Organized and General Crimes: Led by Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Joni Stahl.
    • Violent and General Crimes: Led by Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Armijo.

    Public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for the District of New Mexico. With this new leadership team in place, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to vigorously enforcing the law, protecting our communities, and upholding the rights of all New Mexicans. The office will continue to collaborate closely with local, state, tribal, and federal partners to address violent crime, combat drug trafficking, and strengthen border security. 

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 23 May 2025 Departmental update Progress on patient safety across health systems around the world

    Source: World Health Organisation

    WHO highlighted improvements made in 108 countries listed in the Global Patient Safety Report 2024, in advancing targeted policies, improving patient safety processes, strengthening incident reporting and learning systems, engaging patients, and building health workforce competencies to reduce avoidable harm in health care. To support countries, WHO has provided technical support and capacity building to Member States, continues to develop essential technical resources, and has actively engaged in establishing and leading strategic partnerships and global alliances. 

    Despite improvements, important gaps remain. Only one-third of countries have specific national programmes or action plans in place, prompting WHO to initiate dialogue with 59 countries to address these issues. Progress has also been slow, with only 25% of countries fostering a safety culture and 23% adopting a human factors approach. WHO is developing guidance to address these challenges. 

    WHO continues to support the Global Patient Safety Challenge: Medication Without Harm, with 74% of countries implementing the Challenge. Efforts to integrate patient safety into healthcare professional education and training remain limited, with only 20% of countries incorporating it into curricula. WHO is developing the WHO Academy Patient Safety Essentials course and updating the Patient Safety Curriculum Guide. 

    WHO continues to support Member States in promoting access to high-quality and safe services within national health systems, ensuring that these services are integrated into universal health coverage and humanitarian response efforts. As a demonstration of the political commitment to patient safety, the series of the Global Ministerial Summit  on Patient Safety continues, with the 8th one to be hosted by Oman in 2026 to discuss progress made by Member States. 

    “,”datePublished”:”2025-05-23T06:00:00.0000000+00:00″,”image”:”https://cdn.who.int/media/images/default-source/health-topics/patient-safety/who-023396.jpg?sfvrsn=2bd64df3_26″,”publisher”:{“@type”:”Organization”,”name”:”World Health Organization: WHO”,”logo”:{“@type”:”ImageObject”,”url”:”https://www.who.int/Images/SchemaOrg/schemaOrgLogo.jpg”,”width”:250,”height”:60}},”dateModified”:”2025-05-23T06:00:00.0000000+00:00″,”mainEntityOfPage”:”https://www.who.int/news/item/23-05-2025-progress-on-patient-safety-across-health-systems-around-the-world”,”@context”:”http://schema.org”,”@type”:”NewsArticle”};
    ]]>

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 23 May 2025 Departmental update Progress on infection prevention and control

    Source: World Health Organisation

    Following the adoption of resolution WHA75.13, WHO developed a global action plan and monitoring framework between June 2023 and March 2024. This included consultations with Member States and experts, as well as a Delphi survey to define key actions, indicators, and targets at global, national, and facility levels. The finalized framework, covering the period 2024–2030, was adopted by the Seventy-seventh World Health Assembly in 2024. 

    To assess the implementation of IPC measures worldwide, WHO launched a global survey in November 2023 across 150 countries, territories, and areas. The survey evaluated adherence to minimum IPC requirements and gathered updated data on healthcare-associated infections and antimicrobial resistance. The results were published in the 2024 WHO Global Report on IPC, expanding the evidence base for global IPC efforts. 

    Between June 2022 and December 2024, WHO published 21 IPC guidance documents, 11 training resources, and three assessment tools. Technical support was provided to countries across all WHO regions, including 25 in Africa, 12 in the Americas, all 11 in South-East Asia, 11 in the Eastern Mediterranean, 25 in Europe, and eight in the Western Pacific. 

    In addition to technical work, WHO has actively promoted IPC in high-level political forums. Since May 2023, IPC has been included in the agendas and outcome documents of major international meetings, including the G20 in Brazil, G7 summits in Italy, the United Nations General Assembly high-level meeting on antimicrobial resistance, and the Fourth Global High-level Ministerial Conference on Antimicrobial Resistance in Saudi Arabia. 

    WHO reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Member States in strengthening national IPC programmes and aligning with the global action plan and monitoring framework. These efforts are seen as essential to improving healthcare safety, reducing the spread of infections, and addressing the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance. 

    “,”datePublished”:”2025-05-23T06:00:00.0000000+00:00″,”image”:”https://www.who.int/images/default-source/wpro/emergencies-hub/goarn/severe-acute-respiratory-infection-isolation-and-treatment-center-facility_2003.jpg?sfvrsn=91c7b11d_5″,”publisher”:{“@type”:”Organization”,”name”:”World Health Organization: WHO”,”logo”:{“@type”:”ImageObject”,”url”:”https://www.who.int/Images/SchemaOrg/schemaOrgLogo.jpg”,”width”:250,”height”:60}},”dateModified”:”2025-05-23T06:00:00.0000000+00:00″,”mainEntityOfPage”:”https://www.who.int/news/item/23-05-2025-progress-on-infection-prevention-and-control”,”@context”:”http://schema.org”,”@type”:”NewsArticle”};
    ]]>

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    May 27, 2025
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