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Category: Health

  • MIL-OSI Russia: GUU took part in the discussion of the future of business education

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Official website of the State –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The State University of Management took part in a joint open meeting of the Presidium of the National Accreditation Council for Business and Management Education (NASDOBR) and the Council for Professional Qualifications in Management and Law.

    The SUM was represented at the event by Rector Vladimir Stroyev, Vice-Rector Dmitry Bryukhanov and Academic Director of the SUM Higher School of Business and Technology, Vice-President of the Russian Association of Business Education Vladimir Godin.

    The meeting was also attended by First Deputy Chairman of the State Duma of the Russian Federation Alexander Zhukov; Chairman of the Presidium of NASDOBR, Vice-Rector of RANEPA Sergey Myasoedov; Vice-President of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs Alexander Murychev; Deputy Chairman, Head of the Executive Committee of Delovaya Rossiya Nonna Kagramanyan, Chairman of the Council of the Moscow City Branch of OPORA RUSSIA Dmitry Nesvetov, and General Director of the National Agency for Qualifications Development Alexey Vovchenko.

    The participants considered issues of NASDOBR activities in accreditation of MBA business education programs and preparation for pilot accreditation of the DBA program “Doctor of Business Administration”, development of professional and public accreditation of higher education programs, and intensification of work on development of business education in the regions.

    The results of the work of the specialized sections of NASDOBR and RABO at the Caucasus Investment Forum and the International IT Forum with the participation of BRICS and SCO countries were summed up. The high demand for business education programs in the regions was noted, especially in terms of developing management competencies and increasing labor productivity.

    In addition, those gathered discussed the expansion of the powers of the Council for Professional Qualifications in Management and Law: the creation of educational programs, their professional and public accreditation, and the formation of a system for independent assessment of qualifications in this area.

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

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Foreign Minister Lin hosts welcome luncheon for Haitian Foreign Minister Jean-Baptiste

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Foreign Minister Lin hosts welcome luncheon for Haitian Foreign Minister Jean-Baptiste

    Date：2025-07-09
    Data Source：Department of Latin American and Caribbean Affairs

    July 9, 2025  
    No. 234  

    Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung hosted a luncheon on July 7 for a delegation from the Republic of Haiti led by Minister of Foreign Affairs Jean-Victor Harvel Jean-Baptiste and his wife. Minister Lin welcomed the delegation on behalf of the Taiwan government and expressed his anticipation that, based on the deep friendship between the two nations, bilateral exchanges and cooperation would continue to expand.
     
    Minister Lin noted that Taiwan and Haiti had maintained diplomatic relations for 69 years and that the two sides had enjoyed fruitful collaboration in a wide range of areas, including food security, medical care, public health, and education. He added that such cooperation had benefited the people of Haiti and earned considerable recognition from the international community. 
     
    Furthermore, Minister Lin thanked the Haitian government for voicing support for Taiwan on the international stage, such as at the World Health Assembly and the Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. He said that the people and government of Taiwan deeply appreciated Haiti’s long-term and staunch backing of Taiwan’s participation in international organizations.
     
    In his remarks, Minister Jean-Baptiste thanked Minister Lin for his warm hospitality. He also took the opportunity to express, on behalf of the people and government of Haiti, gratitude to all sectors of Taiwan for providing humanitarian and food assistance over the years and participating in projects that benefited women, children, and other disadvantaged groups in Haiti. Minister Jean-Baptiste said that he looked forward to gaining a better understanding of Taiwan’s political, economic, and social development during his visit so as to further deepen the close collaborative relations between the two countries.
     
    Minister Lin, Minister Jean-Baptiste, and the other guests at the luncheon exchanged views on Haiti’s current political and social situation, as well as bilateral cooperation. Minister Lin expressed Taiwan’s willingness to continue to work with the Haitian government to help Haiti restore social stability, advance economic prosperity, and bolster national development. (E)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Supermarket treatments for depression don’t require a prescription. But do they work?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jon Wardle, Professor of Public Health, Southern Cross University

    Australians have long been some of the highest users of herbal and nutritional supplements that claim to boost mood or ease depression. These include omega-3s (found in fish oil), St John’s wort, probiotics and vitamin D.

    In fact, among Australians with depression, these supplements are more popular than prescription medicines.

    But do they actually work? And how do they compare to other treatments? A new review has assessed the evidence from 209 studies – here’s what it found.

    Do these supplements work?

    The new study aimed to assess the international evidence available for common over-the-counter products for depression in adults aged 18–60.

    Despite their widespread popularity and availability, the study found there is surprisingly little research on these therapies, compared with psychological therapies and prescription antidepressants.

    Only a few products had a relatively large body of evidence suggesting they were effective at treating symptoms. These were omega-3 supplements, St John’s wort, saffron, probiotics and vitamin D.

    However, most products had only a single trial examining their use.

    The researchers noted there was promising evidence for some herbal and nutritional supplements, where multiple studies did exist. These included folic acid, zinc, Rhodiola, lavender and lemon balm. But there is not enough evidence yet to recommend them, so more studies would be needed.

    What does other research say?

    These findings appear to support previous research assessing supplements for depression.

    In 2024, the Australian government’s review of natural therapies also found moderate evidence that several herbal medicines can relieve symptoms in mild to moderate depression. These include curcumin (from turmeric), saffron and St John’s wort.

    It also found moderate evidence St John’s wort was as effective as conventional antidepressants.

    However, the major caveat is that much of the existing evidence relates to mild to moderate depression.

    Mild to moderate depression usually means few symptoms beyond the minimum required for diagnosis (such as loss of pleasure and depressed mood). Major depression involves five or more symptoms along with significant distress and impact on day-to-day function.

    While some products were found to have some effect in major depressive disorders – probiotics, for example – there is little evidence to suggest they’re effective where a large number of symptoms exist.

    Dose and quality varies

    The dose and quality of over-the-counter products can also vary significantly, which can make it difficult to identify appropriate products or assess which ones work.

    In the United Kingdom, official advice for health-care practitioners acknowledges there is evidence St John’s wort can help with less severe forms of depression. But it also advises caution in recommending it, given how much the dose, preparation and quality can vary between different herbal products.

    Man takes a vitamin
    St John’s wort dosage and quality varies between products.
    photoroyalty/Shutterstock

    In Australia, guidelines for psychiatrists treating mood disorders such as depression note that good evidence exists for using omega-3 fatty acids (fish oils). But they highlight that there only seems to be a benefit when the product has 60% or more eicosapentaenoic acid (one of the main types of omega-3).

    Whether folate supplements are effective for depression can depend on their form, which active ingredient is used, and how well the body can absorb it.

    There may be other nuances in other supplements that we need more research to understand.

    Are there any risks or downsides?

    The study also concluded these products present few safety issues, whether used alone or in combination with other treatments. This is the reason most remain available over the counter.

    However, herbal medicines and dietary supplements also contain chemicals that can work like drugs and interact with other medications.

    For example, the way St John’s wort works on neurotransmitters (the body’s chemical messengers) is similar to many prescription antidepressants.

    So taking it alongside antidepressants can lead to serotonin syndrome, a condition which can lead to fever and seizures in extreme instances. In rare cases, you may experience similar side effects to taking antidepressants.

    However, many of these treatments are not only safe but more effective when used together with conventional treatments for depression.

    For instance, some studies suggest omega-3 supplements used in addition to standard antidepressant therapy resulted in the best outcomes. But more research is needed to explore this link.

    How do they stack up against other therapies?

    Pharmaceutical medications, such as antidepressants, and talk therapies remain the gold standard in Australian guidelines for mood disorders. They are the most studied interventions for these disorders, which means we have the most evidence for how well they work.

    However, emerging evidence is developing for other therapies too.

    Lifestyle interventions to improve diet and exercise have been shown to be as effective in addressing symptoms of depression as receiving psychological treatment alone.

    Nutrients are the building blocks of many body processes, and some nutrient deficiencies themselves (such as iron and B12) can cause depressive symptoms. So their potential role of nutritional supplements is perhaps unsurprising.

    However, research – including our own – increasingly demonstrates eating nutrient-rich foods (rather than taking supplements) can be enough to improve symptoms in mood disorders such as depression.

    The Australian government’s review of natural therapies also found the evidence for non-pharmacological treatments, such as yoga, was more certain than for herbal medicines and nutritional supplements in treating depression.

    It’s also important to note that depressive symptoms rarely present alone. They can be secondary to other underlying health conditions (such as hypothyroidism) or present with other conditions.

    Investigating and addressing these potential root causes and improving general health is essential in managing symptoms.

    What are the key takeaways?

    Some herbal and nutritional supplements do appear to have a potentially beneficial effect for less severe forms of depression. But for many of these therapies there is still not enough evidence to offer definitive recommendations.

    While the Therapeutic Goods Administration regulates the safety and quality of supplements, there is still variation in product quality, dose and how well the body can absorb it.

    If you’re thinking of using herbal or nutritional supplements, it’s important to consult a health professional, such as a GP, naturopath or even a psychologist.

    If this article has raised issues for you, or if you’re concerned about someone you know, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

    The Conversation

    Jon Wardle is Foundation Director of the National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine and the Maurice Blackmore Chair of Naturopathic Medicine at Southern Cross University, which undertakes training and research in nutritional and herbal therapies. He has received funding from multiple foundations and agencies to conduct research on nutritional and herbal medicines, including the National Health and Medical Research Council and Medical Research Future Fund. He was part of the both the National Health and Medical Research Council Natural Therapies Working Committee and the Department of Health Natural Therapies Review Expert Advisory Panel which supported Professor Kidd in conducting the reviews mentioned in this article. However, this article represents his personal academic opinion and does not represent the opinions of either of these organisations.

    Carrie Thomson-Casey is affiliated with both major psychology professional associations the Australian Psychological Society (APS) and the Australian Association of Psychologists Inc (AAPi). Carrie is also the past convenor and now treasurer of an APS interest group Psychology and Integrative Mental Health.

    Carrie is an author of one of the papers Jon has cited.

    Jessica Bayes has received funding from several organisations to conduct research exploring diet and mental wellbeing, in addition to research investigating nutritional supplements. Jessica has also authored some of the articles referenced here.

    – ref. Supermarket treatments for depression don’t require a prescription. But do they work? – https://theconversation.com/supermarket-treatments-for-depression-dont-require-a-prescription-but-do-they-work-261010

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New UK eVisas for Pakistani students and workers

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    World news story

    New UK eVisas for Pakistani students and workers

    Most main applicants travelling to the UK on study or work-related visas will no longer need a physical sticker visa in passports from today (15 July).

    The UK Government is replacing physical immigration documents for most student and worker visas with a digital proof of immigration status, an eVisa. An eVisa is an online record of a person’s immigration permission in the UK, and any conditions which apply, which can be viewed by creating and accessing an online UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account.

    eVisas are part of an enhanced border and immigration system that will not only make the visa process easier, but is more secure, digital and streamlined. eVisas are tried and tested, with millions of people already using them on select immigration routes.

    British High Commissioner, Jane Marriott CMG OBE, said:

    These changes to the UK visa system will make it much simpler for students and workers to prove their identity and visa status. It also means applicants can hold onto their passports, saving them time.

    Updating from a physical document to an eVisa does not affect anyone’s immigration status or the conditions of their permission to enter or stay in the UK.

    E-visas are being rolled out for the main applicants for:

    • Students, including short term study for 11 months   

    • Global Business Mobility routes (specifically, Senior or Specialist Worker, Graduate Trainee, UK Expansion Worker, Service Supplier, Secondment Worker)   

    • Global Talent    

    • International Sportsperson    

    • Skilled Worker (including Health and Care)   

    • Temporary Work routes (specifically, Charity Worker, Creative Worker, Government Authorised Exchange, International Agreement, and Religious work routes)    

    • Youth Mobility Scheme   

    Holders can link their travel document (such as passport) to their UKVI account to facilitate straightforward international travel. People who have created a UKVI account will be able to use the view and prove service to prove their status securely with third parties, such as employers or landlords (in England).

    Applicants applying as a dependant, or as a main applicant for visas other than study or work, e.g. general visitor visas, will still need a physical sticker visa. Anyone with existing, in date, physical visa stickers do not need to take any action.

    This will eventually be rolled out to all visa routes meaning a more secure and streamlined process for all UK visa customers.

    For updates on the British High Commission, please follow our social media channels:

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health Appointments – New Medical Director appointed – College of GPs

    Source: Royal NZ College of General Practitioners

    The Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners has appointed Dr Prabani Wood as its new Medical Director.
    Dr Wood is a Hamilton-based specialist GP working at the University of Waikato Student Health Service.
    Dr Wood obtained her medical degree and BA in Physiological Science from the University of Oxford and emigrated to New Zealand in 2005. She has been a GP for more than 16 years and brings a wealth of post-graduate experience in medicine, surgery, anaesthetics and public health, including a Master’s degree in public health from the University of Auckland.
    In 2015, Dr Wood established a new GP practice in Hamilton, with the multi-disciplinary team providing comprehensive care to over 8,500 patients in the region.
    College Chief Executive Toby Beaglehole says, “Dr Wood’s extensive academic, clinical and medical advisory experience gives her great insight into the challenging nature of general practice, primary care and rural hospital medicine. She is a passionate advocate for primary healthcare and shaping policy to deliver better health outcomes for New Zealanders, and we’re looking forward to welcoming Dr Wood onto the College team.”
    A desire to join the call for change and highlight the economic case for strengthening the specialist GP workforce led Dr Wood to publish a research report with The New Zealand Initiative in April 2025. The report, ‘The Heart of Healthcare: Renewing New Zealand’s Primary Care System’ reviews the critical role and challenges facing general practice in New Zealand, focusing on the importance of continuity of care and systemic health care issues.
    Dr Wood takes up the Medical Director’s role on Monday 11 August.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Deluzio: “Hardworking Western Pennsylvanians Need Healthcare More Than Billionaires Need Tax Giveaways”

    Source: US Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA)

    Outside of a Local Nursing Home, Homecare Worker & Mom Whose Kids with Disabilities Rely on Medicaid Joined Congressman in Slamming Trump’s “Big Ugly Bill”

    HARMAR TOWNSHIP, PA – Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) spoke out against Donald Trump’s and Congressional Republicans’ “Big Ugly Bill” that will hurt Western Pennsylvania. Deluzio emphasized how it slashes healthcare for millions of hardworking Americans while giving tax handouts to the ultra rich—calling it “class warfare” and “fiscally reckless.” 

    Congressman Deluzio held his event outside of a local nursing home in Harmar Township. This is a sector where people count on Medicaid funding to pay for nursing home care for their loved ones, and businesses count on it as a revenue stream to fund their nursing home services and keep the doors open. At the press conference, a healthcare worker and a Pennsylvania mother whose kids rely on Medicaid shared their stories of how Medicaid is a lifeline for them that is now at risk.  

    “I was elected to do everything I can to make life better and less of a rip-off for my constituents. That’s exactly why I voted against this dangerous and unpopular bill that will rip away healthcare from hardworking Americans to pay for fiscally reckless tax giveaways to the richest and most powerful corporations and people to have ever walked our planet. Hardworking Western Pennsylvanians need healthcare more than billionaires need tax giveaways,” said Congressman Deluzio. “D.C. Republicans talk a lot about class warfare: they’re waging it against working class Americans.” 

    “I’m an Independent who voted for Trump, but these Medicaid cuts are a direct attack on the health of my family and my community,” said Denise Siters, a home care worker who lives in Beaver Falls. “I quit my job to become a full-time home care worker for my son David, who has schizoaffective disorder, autism and other health issues. His care is funded through Medicaid, and he also receives food support through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Medicaid and SNAP cuts will put his life in danger and make it much harder for us just to get by. I am terrified about my son’s future. The fact that Pennsylvania Senator McCormick and nine of our Republican Congress members voted to sell out our healthcare just to fund huge tax giveaways to billionaires is sickening, it’s disgusting.” 

    “Medicaid is health coverage. But it is also so much more. Medicaid sustains our struggling hospitals, reduces levels of uncompensated care, and keeps insurance rates lower for everyone. Medicaid helps small businesses by covering low wage workers and ensuring that the local community is economically strong enough to support their local businesses,” said Erin Gabriel, Government Affairs Representative with the Pennsylvania Health Access Network, and the mother of children with disabilities who rely on Medicaid for care. “Ultimately, Medicaid means families like mine can stay together, seniors like my parents can age in place with the people they love, and people with disabilities can participate in their communities and live their lives – just like every other American.” 

    The “Big Ugly Bill”, which was signed into law by President Trump on July 4th, will: 

    Congressman Deluzio will continue to fight back against the efforts of this Administration and Congressional Republicans to hurt the hardworking people of Western PA.  

    Photos from the event are available here. Video/audio is available upon request.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Many fish are social, but pesticides are pushing them apart

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Kyle Morrison, PhD Candidate in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, UNSW Sydney

    Kazakov Maksim, Shutterstock

    Scientists have detected pesticides in rivers, lakes and oceans worldwide. So what are these pesticides doing to the fish?

    Long before pesticides reach lethal doses, they can disrupt hormones, impair brain function and change fish behaviour. Many of these behaviours are essential for healthy ecosystems.

    In a new study, my colleagues and I found that pesticides affect many different behaviours in fish. Overall, the chemical pesticides make fish less sociable and interactive. They spend less time gathering in groups, become less protective of their territory, and make fewer attempts to mate.

    Imagine the ocean without the vibrant schools of fish we’ve come to love – only isolated swimmers drifting about. Quietly, ecosystems begin to unravel, long before mass die-offs hit the news.

    Healthy reef ecosystems feature fish swimming together and socialising.
    Mike Workman, Shutterstock

    Fish are living and dying in polluted water

    Australia is a major producer and user of pesticides, with more than 11,000 approved chemical products routinely used in agricultural and domestic settings. Remarkably, some of these chemicals remain approved in Australia despite being banned in other regions such as the European Union due to safety concerns.

    When a tractor or plane sprays pesticides onto crops, it creates a mist of chemicals in the air to kill crop pests. After heavy rain, these chemicals can flow into roadside drains, filter through soil, and slowly move into rivers, lakes and oceans.

    Fish swim in this diluted chemical mixture. They can absorb pesticides through their gills or eat contaminated prey.

    At high concentrations, mass fish deaths can result, such as those repeatedly observed in the Menindee Lakes. However, doses in the wild often aren’t lethal and more subtle effects can occur. Scientists call these “sub-lethal” effects.

    One commonly investigated sub-lethal effect is a change in behaviour – in other words, a change in the way a fish interacts with its surrounding environment.

    Our previous research has found most experiments have looked at the impacts on fish in isolation, measuring things such as how far or how fast they swim when pesticides are present.

    But fish aren’t solitary — they form groups, defend territory and find mates. These behaviours keep aquatic ecosystems stable. So this time we studied how pesticides affect these crucial social behaviours.

    Pesticide exposure makes fish less social

    Our study extracted and analysed data from 37 experiments conducted around the world. Together, these tested the impacts of 31 different pesticides on the social behaviour of 11 different fish species.

    The evidence suggests pesticides make fish less social, and this finding is consistent across species. Courtship was the most severely impacted behaviour – the process fish use to find and attract mates. This is particularly alarming because successful courtship is essential for healthy fish populations and ecosystem stability.

    Next, we found pesticides such as the herbicide glyphosate, which can disrupt brain function and hormone levels had the strongest impacts on fish social behaviours. This raises important questions about how brain function and hormones drive fish social behaviour, which could be tested by scientists in the future.

    For example, scientists could test how much a change in testosterone relates to a change in territory defence. Looking at these relationships between what’s going on inside the body mechanisms and outward behaviour will help us better understand the complex impacts of pesticides.

    We also identified gaps in the current studies. Most existing studies focus on a limited number of easy-to-study “model species” such as zebrafish, medaka and guppies. They also often use pesticide dosages and durations that may not reflect real-world realities.

    Addressing these gaps by including a range of species and environmentally relevant dosages is crucial to understanding how pesticides affect fish in the wild.

    One of the experiments in our study involved convict surgeonfish, which gather in large groups or ‘shoals’.
    Damsea, Shutterstock

    Behaviour is a blind spot in regulation

    Regulatory authorities should begin to recognise behaviour as a reliable and important indicator of pesticide safety. This can help them catch pesticide pollution early, before mass deaths occur.

    Scientists play a crucial role too. By following the same methods, scientists can produce comparable results. A standardised method then provides regulators the evidence needed to confidently assess pesticide risks.

    Together, regulatory authorities and scientists can find a way to use behavioural studies to help inform policy decisions. This will help to prevent mass deaths and catch pesticide impacts early on.

    Leave no stone unturned in restoring our waters

    Rivers, lakes, oceans and reefs are bearing the brunt of an ever-growing human footprint.

    So far, much of the spotlight has focused on reducing carbon emissions and managing overfishing — and rightly so. But there’s another, quieter threat drifting beneath the surface: the chemicals we use.

    Pesticides used on farms and in gardens are being detected everywhere, even iconic ecosystems such as the Great Barrier Reef. As we have shown, these pesticides can have disturbing effects even at low concentrations.

    Now is the time to cut pesticide use and reduce runoff. Through switching to less toxic chemicals and introducing better regulations, we can reduce the damage. If we act with urgency, we can limit the impacts pesticides have on our planet.

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

    – ref. Many fish are social, but pesticides are pushing them apart – https://theconversation.com/many-fish-are-social-but-pesticides-are-pushing-them-apart-256230

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for July 15, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on July 15, 2025.

    A warning from the future: the risk if NZ gets climate adaptation policy wrong today
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tom Logan, Senior Lecturer Above the Bar, Civil and Natural Resources Engineering, University of Canterbury Getty Images New Zealand 2050: On the morning of February 27, the sea surged through the dunes south of the small town of Te Taone, riding on the back of Cyclone Harita’s

    ABC’s and CBS’s settlements with Trump are a dangerous step toward the commander in chief becoming the editor-in-chief
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michael J. Socolow, Professor of Communication and Journalism, University of Maine Will settlements by news companies with President Donald Trump turn journalists into puppets? MARHARYTA MARKO/iStock Getty Images Plus It was a surrender widely foreseen. For months, rumors abounded that Paramount would eventually settle the seemingly frivolous

    Is there any hope for the internet?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Aarushi Bhandari, Assistant Professor of Sociology, Davidson College Hate and mental illness fester online because love and healing seem to be incompatible with profits. Ihor Lukianenko/iStock via Getty Images In 2001, social theorist bell hooks warned about the dangers of a loveless zeitgeist. In “All About Love:

    Hung parliament still likely outcome of Tasmanian election, with Liberals well ahead of Labor in new poll
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne A new Tasmanian DemosAU poll gives the Liberals a 34.9–24.7 statewide vote lead over Labor, implying the Liberals will win the most seats but be short of

    Luxon and Peters to miss Cook Islands’ 60th Constitution Day celebrations
    By Caleb Fotheringham, RNZ Pacific journalist New Zealand will not send top government representation to the Cook Islands for its 60th Constitution Day celebrations in three weeks’ time. Instead, Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro will represent Aotearoa in Rarotonga. On August 4, Cook Islands will mark 60 years of self-governance in free association with New Zealand.

    Keith Rankin Analysis – Reporting International Migration: Less than the Truth
    Analysis by Keith Rankin. Yesterday I listened to RNZ’s political commentators. The principal topic was an aspect of the recently released May 2025 international migration. Kathryn Ryan starts by reminding us of the “old saying, would the last person to leave New Zealand please turn out the lights” (a saying which has been used in

    Antisemitism plan fails on a number of fronts – a contentious definition of hate is just the start
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Louise Chappell, Scientia Professor, UNSW Sydney The antisemitism strategy presented to the Albanese government has attracted considerable – and wholly justifed – criticism. Produced by Jillian Segal, the special envoy to combat antisemitism, the blueprint falls short in a range of areas essential to good public policy.

    Do I have prostate cancer? Why a simple PSA blood test alone won’t give you the answer
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kevin M. Koo, NHMRC Emerging Leadership Fellow, The University of Queensland Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in Australia, with about 26,000 men diagnosed per year. The majority (more than 85%) are aged over 60. Prostate cancer kills around 3,900 Australians a year. Yet most prostate

    Many fish are social, but pesticides are pushing them apart
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kyle Morrison, PhD Candidate in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, UNSW Sydney Kazakov Maksim, Shutterstock Scientists have detected pesticides in rivers, lakes and oceans worldwide. So what are these pesticides doing to the fish? Long before pesticides reach lethal doses, they can disrupt hormones, impair brain function and

    Almost half of young workers expected to work unpaid overtime, while a quarter aren’t paid compulsory super
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Howe, Associate Dean (Research), Melbourne Law School, The University of Melbourne Anna Kraynova/Shutterstock A young person gets a job, excited to earn their first paycheck. Over time, they realise the hours are long and the payslips small. They are told to stay back to clean up

    Israeli settlers shoot, beat to death 2 Palestinians in latest lynchings
    BEARING WITNESS: By Cole Martin in occupied West Bank Two young Palestinians were shot and beaten to death on their land, and 30 injured, by Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank on Saturday. A large group of settlers attacked the rural Palestinian village of Sinjil, in the Ramallah governorate, beating Sayfollah “Saif” Mussalet, 20,

    View from The Hill: Segal’s antisemitism plan gives government controversy, not clarity
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Prime Minister Anthony Albanese may be rueing what seemed a good idea at the time – the appointment of a special envoy to combat antisemitism (as well as an envoy to combat Islamophobia). Or perhaps Jillian Segal, a former president

    David Robie condemns ‘callous’ health legacy of French, US nuclear bomb tests in Pacific
    Report by Dr David Robie – Café Pacific. – A journalist who was on the Rainbow Warrior voyage to Rongelap last night condemned France for its “callous” attack of an environmental ship, saying “we haven’t forgotten, or forgiven this outrage”. David Robie, the author of Eyes of Fire: The Last Voyage and Legacy of the

    Was the Air India crash caused by pilot error or technical fault? None of the theories holds up – yet
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Guido Carim Junior, Senior Lecturer in Aviation, Griffith University Over the weekend, the Indian Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau released a preliminary report on last month’s crash of Air India flight 171, which killed 260 people, 19 of them on the ground. The aim of a preliminary report

    Confusing for doctors, inequitable for patients: why Australia’s medicinal cannabis system needs urgent reform
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Christine Mary Hallinan, Senior Research Fellow, Department of General Practice and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne Vanessa Nunes/Getty Images In 2024 alone, Australia’s medicines regulator, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), authorised at least 979,000 prescription applications for medicinal cannabis

    Treasury warns the government it may not balance the budget or meet its housing targets
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Head, Canberra School of Government, University of Canberra Kokkai Ng/Getty In the runup to each election, federal treasury produces a “blue book” and a “red book”, with advice tailored to the priorities of the two alternative governments. One of these is given to the incoming

    UNESCO grants World Heritage status to Khmer Rouge atrocity sites – paving the way for other sites of conflict
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rachel Hughes, Associate Professor of Geography, The University of Melbourne A series of atrocity sites of the Khmer Rouge regime in Cambodia have been formally entered onto the World Heritage list, as part of the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee. This is not only important

    How do you stop an AI model turning Nazi? What the Grok drama reveals about AI training
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Aaron J. Snoswell, Senior Research Fellow in AI Accountability, Queensland University of Technology Anne Fehres and Luke Conroy & AI4Media, CC BY Grok, the artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot embedded in X (formerly Twitter) and built by Elon Musk’s company xAI, is back in the headlines after calling

    Author condemns ‘callous’ health legacy of French, US nuclear bomb tests in Pacific
    Asia Pacific Report A journalist who was on the Rainbow Warrior voyage to Rongelap last night condemned France for its “callous” attack of an environmental ship, saying “we haven’t forgotten, or forgiven this outrage”. David Robie, the author of Eyes of Fire: The Last Voyage and Legacy of the Rainbow Warrior, said at the launch

    Washington’s war demands – Australia right to refuse committing to a hypothetical conflict with China over Taiwan
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Blaxland, Professor, Strategic and Defence Studies Centre, Australian National University Andy. LIU/Shutterstock The United States can count on Australia as one of its closest allies. Dating back to the shared experiences in the second world war and the ANZUS Treaty signed in 1951, Australia has steadfastly

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for July 15, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on July 15, 2025.

    A warning from the future: the risk if NZ gets climate adaptation policy wrong today
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tom Logan, Senior Lecturer Above the Bar, Civil and Natural Resources Engineering, University of Canterbury Getty Images New Zealand 2050: On the morning of February 27, the sea surged through the dunes south of the small town of Te Taone, riding on the back of Cyclone Harita’s

    ABC’s and CBS’s settlements with Trump are a dangerous step toward the commander in chief becoming the editor-in-chief
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michael J. Socolow, Professor of Communication and Journalism, University of Maine Will settlements by news companies with President Donald Trump turn journalists into puppets? MARHARYTA MARKO/iStock Getty Images Plus It was a surrender widely foreseen. For months, rumors abounded that Paramount would eventually settle the seemingly frivolous

    Is there any hope for the internet?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Aarushi Bhandari, Assistant Professor of Sociology, Davidson College Hate and mental illness fester online because love and healing seem to be incompatible with profits. Ihor Lukianenko/iStock via Getty Images In 2001, social theorist bell hooks warned about the dangers of a loveless zeitgeist. In “All About Love:

    Hung parliament still likely outcome of Tasmanian election, with Liberals well ahead of Labor in new poll
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne A new Tasmanian DemosAU poll gives the Liberals a 34.9–24.7 statewide vote lead over Labor, implying the Liberals will win the most seats but be short of

    Luxon and Peters to miss Cook Islands’ 60th Constitution Day celebrations
    By Caleb Fotheringham, RNZ Pacific journalist New Zealand will not send top government representation to the Cook Islands for its 60th Constitution Day celebrations in three weeks’ time. Instead, Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro will represent Aotearoa in Rarotonga. On August 4, Cook Islands will mark 60 years of self-governance in free association with New Zealand.

    Keith Rankin Analysis – Reporting International Migration: Less than the Truth
    Analysis by Keith Rankin. Yesterday I listened to RNZ’s political commentators. The principal topic was an aspect of the recently released May 2025 international migration. Kathryn Ryan starts by reminding us of the “old saying, would the last person to leave New Zealand please turn out the lights” (a saying which has been used in

    Antisemitism plan fails on a number of fronts – a contentious definition of hate is just the start
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Louise Chappell, Scientia Professor, UNSW Sydney The antisemitism strategy presented to the Albanese government has attracted considerable – and wholly justifed – criticism. Produced by Jillian Segal, the special envoy to combat antisemitism, the blueprint falls short in a range of areas essential to good public policy.

    Do I have prostate cancer? Why a simple PSA blood test alone won’t give you the answer
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kevin M. Koo, NHMRC Emerging Leadership Fellow, The University of Queensland Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in Australia, with about 26,000 men diagnosed per year. The majority (more than 85%) are aged over 60. Prostate cancer kills around 3,900 Australians a year. Yet most prostate

    Many fish are social, but pesticides are pushing them apart
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kyle Morrison, PhD Candidate in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, UNSW Sydney Kazakov Maksim, Shutterstock Scientists have detected pesticides in rivers, lakes and oceans worldwide. So what are these pesticides doing to the fish? Long before pesticides reach lethal doses, they can disrupt hormones, impair brain function and

    Almost half of young workers expected to work unpaid overtime, while a quarter aren’t paid compulsory super
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Howe, Associate Dean (Research), Melbourne Law School, The University of Melbourne Anna Kraynova/Shutterstock A young person gets a job, excited to earn their first paycheck. Over time, they realise the hours are long and the payslips small. They are told to stay back to clean up

    Israeli settlers shoot, beat to death 2 Palestinians in latest lynchings
    BEARING WITNESS: By Cole Martin in occupied West Bank Two young Palestinians were shot and beaten to death on their land, and 30 injured, by Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank on Saturday. A large group of settlers attacked the rural Palestinian village of Sinjil, in the Ramallah governorate, beating Sayfollah “Saif” Mussalet, 20,

    View from The Hill: Segal’s antisemitism plan gives government controversy, not clarity
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Prime Minister Anthony Albanese may be rueing what seemed a good idea at the time – the appointment of a special envoy to combat antisemitism (as well as an envoy to combat Islamophobia). Or perhaps Jillian Segal, a former president

    David Robie condemns ‘callous’ health legacy of French, US nuclear bomb tests in Pacific
    Report by Dr David Robie – Café Pacific. – A journalist who was on the Rainbow Warrior voyage to Rongelap last night condemned France for its “callous” attack of an environmental ship, saying “we haven’t forgotten, or forgiven this outrage”. David Robie, the author of Eyes of Fire: The Last Voyage and Legacy of the

    Was the Air India crash caused by pilot error or technical fault? None of the theories holds up – yet
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Guido Carim Junior, Senior Lecturer in Aviation, Griffith University Over the weekend, the Indian Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau released a preliminary report on last month’s crash of Air India flight 171, which killed 260 people, 19 of them on the ground. The aim of a preliminary report

    Confusing for doctors, inequitable for patients: why Australia’s medicinal cannabis system needs urgent reform
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Christine Mary Hallinan, Senior Research Fellow, Department of General Practice and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne Vanessa Nunes/Getty Images In 2024 alone, Australia’s medicines regulator, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), authorised at least 979,000 prescription applications for medicinal cannabis

    Treasury warns the government it may not balance the budget or meet its housing targets
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Head, Canberra School of Government, University of Canberra Kokkai Ng/Getty In the runup to each election, federal treasury produces a “blue book” and a “red book”, with advice tailored to the priorities of the two alternative governments. One of these is given to the incoming

    UNESCO grants World Heritage status to Khmer Rouge atrocity sites – paving the way for other sites of conflict
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rachel Hughes, Associate Professor of Geography, The University of Melbourne A series of atrocity sites of the Khmer Rouge regime in Cambodia have been formally entered onto the World Heritage list, as part of the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee. This is not only important

    How do you stop an AI model turning Nazi? What the Grok drama reveals about AI training
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Aaron J. Snoswell, Senior Research Fellow in AI Accountability, Queensland University of Technology Anne Fehres and Luke Conroy & AI4Media, CC BY Grok, the artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot embedded in X (formerly Twitter) and built by Elon Musk’s company xAI, is back in the headlines after calling

    Author condemns ‘callous’ health legacy of French, US nuclear bomb tests in Pacific
    Asia Pacific Report A journalist who was on the Rainbow Warrior voyage to Rongelap last night condemned France for its “callous” attack of an environmental ship, saying “we haven’t forgotten, or forgiven this outrage”. David Robie, the author of Eyes of Fire: The Last Voyage and Legacy of the Rainbow Warrior, said at the launch

    Washington’s war demands – Australia right to refuse committing to a hypothetical conflict with China over Taiwan
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Blaxland, Professor, Strategic and Defence Studies Centre, Australian National University Andy. LIU/Shutterstock The United States can count on Australia as one of its closest allies. Dating back to the shared experiences in the second world war and the ANZUS Treaty signed in 1951, Australia has steadfastly

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Taipower Promotes Corporate Energy Conservation Energy-Saving Teams Visit Over 5,000 Companies in 18 Months, Projected to Save Nearly 150 GWh

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    In line with the government’s intensive energy conservation policy launched in 2024, Taipower has been working closely with businesses to help them cut electricity use. To date, Taipower has hosted nearly 50 seminars for major electricity users and promoted advanced energy-saving measures to thousands of companies across Taiwan. Taipower’s energy-saving teams have also gone directly into communities, carrying out on-site visits to over 5,000 companies nationwide. These efforts are expected to yield savings of nearly 150 GWh of electricity. Taipower expressed hope that more businesses will embrace energy conservation and carbon reduction, improve energy efficiency, and contribute to a sustainable environment.

    Taipower explained that to support Taiwanese companies in adopting energy-saving practices, it established three Energy Conservation Diagnostic Centers in northern, central, and southern Taiwan in 2019. These centers provide free energy-saving consultation services for large electricity users with contract capacities ranging from 100 to 800 kW. Since early 2024, Taipower’s energy-saving teams have visited over 5,000 companies across the country, helping them identify potential savings and providing tailored recommendations. If all suggested measures are fully implemented, nearly 150 GWh of electricity could be saved, equivalent to the annual electricity consumption of over 36,000 households, while cutting around 71,000 metric tons of carbon emissions.

    According to Taipower, companies can use its diagnostic services to receive customized energy-saving reports and then work with Energy Service Companies (ESCOs ) to replace old equipment and implement energy management solutions that reduce costs and boost efficiency. For example, after undergoing Taipower’s initial assessment, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital replaced its chilled water units, cooling towers, and indoor lighting, achieving annual savings of 2 GWh, a reduction rate of up to 70%. Likewise, Lung Hsing Refrigerating Works in Kaohsiung followed Taipower’s advice to replace outdated equipment, adopt an energy management system, and lower its contract capacity, resulting in annual electricity savings of 2.2 GWh.

    In addition to equipment like chilled water units and cooling towers, transformers are also a key focus for businesses aiming to save electricity. Taipower reminds businesses to check the service life of their self-owned transformers. If a transformer has been in service for over 30 years, upgrading to a new high-efficiency model can improve power use and reduce electricity bills. For example, after receiving energy-saving guidance from Taipower, the Taiwan Electric Research & Testing Center, an accredited Taiwanese testing institution, replaced old transformers with high-efficiency ones, saving an estimated 140,000 kWh of electricity and cutting annual electricity expenses by approximately NT$700,000.

    Alongside its work with businesses in energy conservation and carbon reduction, Taipower continues to lead by example internally through its own. Power plants across Taiwan are introducing automated modules to better manage electricity usage and are refining unit operating conditions to reduce heat rates. In its offices, Taipower is also fully aligning with the government’s intensive energy-saving initiative. Six facilities, including its headquarters, the Shulin Campus of the Taiwan Power Research Institute, the Linkou Training Center, and the Beinan, Hsinchu, and Taichung district offices, have been designated as demonstration sites for energy upgrades. For instance, the Beinan District Office has upgraded its central air conditioning system with ESCO support, which is expected to save nearly 1 GWh of electricity annually.

    Spokesperson: Vice President Chih-Meng Tsai
    Tel: (02 )2366-6271/0958-749-333
    Email: u910707@taipower.com.tw
    Contact Person: Director of the Business Department Mei-Lien Huang
    Tel: (02 )2366-6650/0922-696-383
    Email: u030573@taipower.com.tw

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: New technology for restoring gas turbine engine blades patented at Novosibirsk State University

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Novosibirsk State University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Employees Competence Center of the National Technology Initiative (NTI) in the direction of “Modeling and development of new functional materials with specified properties” based at NSU developed an innovative method for restoring damaged turbine blades of engines for aviation and energy (gas turbine units). The technology was developed with financial support from the NTI Foundation, successfully patented and is already beginning to be implemented in practice.

    Leading researcher of the NTI Center of Novosibirsk State University, head of the laser technology laboratory of the Institute of Theoretical and Applied Mechanics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Doctor of Engineering Alexander Malikov spoke in detail about the essence of the development and the prospects for its implementation:

    — Our new method allows us to restore heavily worn sections of gas turbine blades, fully preserving the original performance characteristics of the product. To do this, we use a special mode of laser pulse-periodic action, which allows us to form strong protective layers of metal or ceramic composites on the surface.

    According to Alexander Malikov, the task was to restore the thin edges of the blades, which are subject to intense exposure to high temperatures and pressure during engine operation. The advantage of the proposed technology is that using the traditional surfacing method would lead to overheating and destruction of sensitive areas of the parts.

    “We proposed an original solution to the problem by preliminary forming special protective layers before the main stage of surfacing. This approach allowed us to preserve the original geometric shape of the blade and ensure reliable adhesion of the restored layer to the main structure,” the scientist explained.

    The new method significantly reduces the cost of repairs, ensuring high strength and durability of restored elements of gas turbine units.

    The developed technology is in high demand on the Russian energy generation and aircraft manufacturing market. Modern gas turbine engines are used everywhere – from civil aviation to electric power engineering and natural gas transportation.

    Alexander Malikov noted the importance of this area of research:

    — The production of high-quality blades is one of the ten key technologies of the modern world. Their production requires complex solutions due to extreme operating conditions. Only four countries in the world have the necessary competencies: the USA, Great Britain, France and Russia.

    Previously, the energy segment of the Russian market was heavily dependent on foreign suppliers of spare parts and services for the restoration of parts. With the departure of Western companies from the Russian market, there was a need to develop our own technologies and services capable of replacing foreign analogues. The new technology created by Novosibirsk scientists is capable of significantly increasing the reliability and cost-effectiveness of servicing large industrial enterprises and facilities using gas turbine units.

    In the near future, it is planned to introduce the technology into serial production; a number of Russian companies have shown interest in it. Meanwhile, researchers continue to develop technologies for the restoration of various types of blades and other elements of industrial equipment.

    — To solve problems of this type, we first need to carefully study the properties of the material from which the product is made at the atomic level. In our work, we use synchrotron radiation, which provides great opportunities for emitting phase composition at a very high resolution level, and if we know the exact phase states of the material, the structural phases, then we can control it, — explained Alexander Malikov.

    Scientists will have even more opportunities with the launch of the Siberian Ring Photon Source (SKIF), at one of whose workstations a number of studies in this area are already planned.

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese medics treat patients, empower locals in Benin

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

    A doctor of the 27th batch of the Chinese medical team to Benin (C) examines a patient at the Mono and Couffo Departmental Hospital Center in Lokossa, Benin, on July 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    When Yang Ping stepped back into the intensive care unit, a wave of relief washed over her: Beatrice Lawe, a 45-year-old patient once teetering on the brink of death, was breathing on her own, vital signs stable, after an emergency operation performed by Yang and fellow members of the Chinese Medical Team in Benin.

    “She really made it through,” recalled Yang, a surgeon who leads the 27th Chinese medical team.

    Lawe had earlier undergone surgery for peritonitis and appendicitis at another hospital, but developed severe complications shortly after. When her condition suddenly deteriorated, she was rushed to the Mono and Couffo Departmental Hospital Center in Lokossa, southwest Benin.

    Yang still remembers the moment of her initial assessment. “Based on clinical experience, the odds of her survival were almost nil,” she said.

    Despite the grim outlook, Yang and her colleagues pressed on with emergency procedures, fully supported by the patient’s family. Two weeks later, a miracle unfolded: Lawe regained consciousness with her condition stabilized.

    She was eventually discharged in good health and, six months later, underwent a successful second operation for colostomy reversal and digestive tract reconstruction, after which she fully returned to normal life.

    Her recovery became more than just a clinical success. It symbolized the deep trust and friendship between Chinese doctors and Beninese patients.

    The hospital where Lawe was cured has a longstanding bond with China. Built with Chinese aid and inaugurated in April 1997, the Mono and Couffo Departmental Hospital Center serves as a key regional medical center in Benin.

    Since 1978, the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region in northwest China has continuously dispatched medical teams to the West African country, a commitment that has remained unbroken for 47 years.

    The 27th batch of the Chinese medical team arrived in Benin in January 2024, consisting of 22 members, including 18 medical professionals. They are stationed in Lokossa and Natitingou.

    Since their arrival, they have provided medical care to 15,382 patients, performed 2,758 surgeries, and organized 26 visits across Benin to provide locals with free consultation, treatment and, when needed, medication.

    In a country with limited infrastructure, scarce advanced equipment, and a high prevalence of tropical diseases, the Chinese medical team often works under intense pressure.

    “Motorcycle-related trauma cases are especially frequent,” Yang noted. “At peak times, we handle up to seven or eight severe orthopedic injuries a day.”

    To help address these challenges, China and Benin signed a cooperation agreement in 2021, establishing a partnership between the General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University and the Mono and Couffo Departmental Hospital Center.

    Through telemedicine consultations, academic exchanges, talent training, and expert visits, the program aims not just to heal, but to empower.

    “We are not only here to treat patients,” Yang said. “We are here to leave behind skills that will stay on and benefit our Beninese friends for generations.”

    Through case discussions, live demonstrations, and bedside teaching, the Chinese team helps local hospital staff improve their ability to independently manage situations such as emergency trauma, fracture reduction, and postoperative care.

    The resulting effects are evident to the Beninese crew. Head nurse Jacqueline Oussou, who has worked in Lokossa for 15 years, said she has seen an increase in patients coming specifically for Chinese doctors.

    “They are so dedicated, and they did an excellent job in surgery, obstetrics, otolaryngology and ophthalmology,” she said.

    In the anesthesia department, nurse Elsie Tchenagni highlighted the importance of the new equipment and skills brought by the Chinese team.

    “They not only brought in new equipment, but also trained us patiently on how to use them,” she said. “Now our procedures are much more precise. Even with language barriers, we have developed strong working chemistry.”

    From emergency surgeries to daily rounds, from hands-on training to technology transfer, the Chinese medical team in Benin has become more than just a group of doctors. They are trusted partners in health and an embodiment of friendship.

    Over the past 47 years, successive generations of Chinese doctors have traveled from afar to serve in Benin, upholding the principle that “people come first, life comes first.” Their unwavering dedication is reflected in the lives they save and the lasting impact they have on local healthcare.

    In every hospital ward and surgical theater, their presence tells a quiet yet powerful story — one of humanity, perseverance, and a shared hope for a healthier future. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China vows all-round modernization push of dairy industry by 2030

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

    Workers work in the filling workshop of the Global Intelligent Manufacturing Industrial Park of Yili Modern Intelligent Health Valley in Tumd Left Banner in Hohhot, north China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, April 17, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China’s dairy industry will make significant strides toward all-round modernization by 2030, the Dairy Association of China said on Monday.

    By 2030, the country’s milk self-sufficiency rate is expected to be maintained at over 70 percent, with annual milk yield per cow exceeding 10 tonnes, according to a document released by the association at the 16th Dairy Conference held in Xiamen, east China’s Fujian Province.

    The dairy product quality inspection pass rate should remain above 99 percent by 2030, according to the document, which added that the production process should be more environmentally friendly.

    To achieve the goals, an advanced forage production and supply system and a high-efficiency dairy cattle breeding system will need to be established, said the association.

    Efforts should also be made to propel the processing of dairy products to be more digital-savvy, it said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Is there any hope for the internet?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Aarushi Bhandari, Assistant Professor of Sociology, Davidson College

    Hate and mental illness fester online because love and healing seem to be incompatible with profits. Ihor Lukianenko/iStock via Getty Images

    In 2001, social theorist bell hooks warned about the dangers of a loveless zeitgeist. In “All About Love: New Visions,” she lamented “the lack of an ongoing public discussion … about the practice of love in our culture and in our lives.”

    Back then, the internet was at a crossroads. The dot-com crash had bankrupted many early internet companies, and people wondered if the technology was long for this world.

    The doubts were unfounded. In only a few decades, the internet has merged with our bodies as smartphones and mined our personalities via algorithms that know us more intimately than some of our closest friends. It has even constructed a secondary social world.

    Yet as the internet has become more integrated in our daily lives, few would describe it as a place of love, compassion and cooperation. Study after study describe how social media platforms promote alienation and disconnection – in part because many algorithms reward behaviors like trolling, cyberbullying and outrage.

    Is the internet’s place in human history cemented as a harbinger of despair? Or is there still hope for an internet that supports collective flourishing?

    Algorithms and alienation

    I explore these questions in my new book, “Attention and Alienation.”

    In it, I explain how social media companies’ profits depend on users investing their time, creativity and emotions. Whether it’s spending hours filming content for TikTok or a few minutes crafting a thoughtful Reddit comment, participating on these platforms takes work. And it can be exhausting.

    Even passive engagement – like scrolling through feeds and “lurking” in forums – consumes time. It might feel like free entertainment – until people recognize they are the product, with their data being harvested and their emotions being manipulated.

    Blogger, journalist and science fiction writer Cory Doctorow coined the term “enshittification” to describe how experiences on online platforms gradually deteriorate as companies increasingly exploit users’ data and tweak their algorithms to maximize profits.

    For these reasons, much of people’s time spent online involves dealing with toxic interactions or mindlessly doomscrolling, immersed in dopamine-driven feedback loops.

    This cycle is neither an accident nor a novel insight. Hate and mental illness fester in this culture because love and healing seem to be incompatible with profits.

    Care hiding in plain sight

    In his 2009 book “Envisioning Real Utopias,” the late sociologist Erik Olin Wright discusses places in the world that prioritize cooperation, care and egalitarianism.

    Wright mainly focused on offline systems like worker-owned cooperatives. But one of his examples lived on the internet: Wikipedia. He argued that Wikipedia demonstrates the ethos “from each according to ability, to each according to need” – a utopian ideal popularized by Karl Marx.

    Wikipedia still thrives as a nonprofit, volunteer-ran bureaucracy. The website is a form of media that is deeply social, in the literal sense: People voluntarily curate and share knowledge, collectively and democratically, for free. Unlike social media, the rewards are only collective.

    There are no visible likes, comments or rage emojis for participants to hoard and chase. Nobody loses and everyone wins, including the vast majority of people who use Wikipedia without contributing work or money to keep it operational.

    Building a new digital world

    Wikipedia is evidence of care, cooperation and love hiding in plain sight.

    In recent years, there have been more efforts to create nonprofit apps and websites that are committed to protecting user data. Popular examples include Signal, a free and open source instant messaging service, and Proton Mail, an encrypted email service.

    These are all laudable developments. But how can the internet actively promote collective flourishing?

    What if Wikipedia were less the exception, and more the norm?
    Andriy Onufriyenko/Moment via Getty Images

    In “Viral Justice: How We Grow the World We Want,” sociologist Ruha Benjamin points to a way forward. She tells the story of Black TikTok creators who led a successful cultural labor strike in 2021. Many viral TikTok dances had originally been created by Black artists, whose accounts, they claimed, were suppressed by a biased algorithm that favored white influencers.

    TikTok responded to the viral #BlackTikTokStrike movement by formally apologizing and making commitments to better represent and compensate the work of Black creators. These creators demonstrated how social media engagement is work – and that workers have the power to demand equitable conditions and fair pay.

    This landmark strike showed how anyone who uses social media companies that profit off the work, emotions and personal data of their users – whether it’s TikTok, X, Facebook, Instagram or Reddit – can become organized.

    Meanwhile, there are organizations devoted to designing an internet that promotes collective flourishing. Sociologist Firuzeh Shokooh Valle provides examples of worker-owned technology cooperatives in her 2023 book, “In Defense of Solidarity and Pleasure: Feminist Technopolitics in the Global South.” She highlights the Sulá Batsú co-op in Costa Rica, which promotes policies that seek to break the stranglehold that negativity and exploitation have over internet culture.

    “Digital spaces are increasingly powered by hate and discrimination,” the group writes, adding that it hopes to create an online world where “women and people of diverse sexualities and genders are able to access and enjoy a free and open internet to exercise agency and autonomy, build collective power, strengthen movements, and transform power relations.”

    In Los Angeles, there’s Chani, Inc., a technology company that describes itself as “proudly” not funded by venture capitalists. The Chani app blends mindfulness practices and astrology with the goal of simply helping people. The app is not designed for compulsive user engagement, the company never sells user data, and there are no comments sections.

    No comments

    What would social media look like if Wikipedia were the norm instead of an exception?

    To me, a big problem in internet culture is the way people’s humanity is obscured. People are free to speak their minds in text-based public discussion forums, but the words aren’t always attached to someone’s identity. Real people hide behind the anonymity of user names. It isn’t true human interaction.

    In “Attention and Alienation,” I argue that the ability to meet and interact with others online as fully realized, three-dimensional human beings would go a long way toward creating a more empathetic, cooperative internet.

    When I was 8 years old, my parents lived abroad for work. Sometimes we talked on the phone. Often I would cry late into the night, praying for the ability to “see them through the phone.” It felt like a miraculous possibility – like magic.

    I told this story to my students in a moment of shared vulnerability. This was in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, so the class was taking place over videoconferencing. In these online classes, one person talked at a time. Others listened.

    It wasn’t perfect, but I think a better internet would promote this form of discussion – people getting together from across the world to share the fullness of their humanity.

    Efforts like Clubhouse have tapped into this vision by creating voice-based discussion forums. The company, however, has been criticized for predatory data privacy policies.

    What if the next iteration of public social media platforms could build on Clubhouse? What if they brought people together and showcased not just their voices, but also live video feeds of their faces without harvesting their data or promoting conflict and outrage?

    Raised eyebrows. Grins. Frowns. They’re what make humans distinct from increasingly sophisticated large language models and artificial intelligence chatbots like ChatGPT.

    After all, is anything you can’t say while looking at another human being in the eye worth saying in the first place?

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

    – ref. Is there any hope for the internet? – https://theconversation.com/is-there-any-hope-for-the-internet-259251

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Marine Environment – Sea spurge found at Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) Northland

    Source: Northland Regional Council

    A new sea spurge infestation has been found at Kapowairua (Spirits Bay) – the first discovery of the unwanted beach weed east of Cape Reinga and at least 60 kilometres from the closest known site on Te Oneroa-a-Tōhe – Ninety Mile Beach.
    Joanna Barr, Northland Regional Council’s Biosecurity Manager – Pest Plants, says the infestation was discovered by Ngāti Kuri’s Te Haumihi team which has been progressively surveying the coastline in their rohe to check whether sea spurge (Euphorbia paralias) has established.
    The weed is native to Europe, but it is likely to have arrived in New Zealand on ocean currents from Australia, where it has become a major weed on their southern coastline.
    “Having local teams supported to undertake proactive surveillance work has meant that this new site has been detected while it is still relatively small and in a relatively contained area.”
    Te Haumihi Programme Manager Melanie Dalziel says the find included more than 50 plants in a six square metre area including one larger plant that was likely the original plant, 18 smaller mature plants that had seeded, and 32 seedlings.
    While it was very disheartening to find these plants, she acknowledged her team, and the support of NRC, in being able to locate and safely remove the plants before more plants could set seed.
    Ms Dalziel says her team has now prioritised regular surveillance and monitoring to beaches along the eastern ridgeline of the rohe of Ngāti Kuri.
    Ms Barr says the surveillance work behind the latest find was undertaken as part of a management programme, delivered in partnership with iwi and hapū, the Ministry for Primary Industries, the Department of Conservation and the Northland Regional Council.
    She says there are a number of iwi and hapū groups engaged in the surveillance programme, controlling known sites and surveying the coast. Locals and volunteers have also been involved in surveying and reporting sites.
    “Over the past 12 months 175km of Northland’s coastline has been surveyed, focused primarily on the west coast.”
    Ms Barr says there are now sea spurge sites recorded in seven different areas in Northland; Poutō peninsula, the Waipoua River mouth, Mitimiti, Ahipara, Waipapakauri, Hukatere and now Kapowairua, Spirits Bay.
    The plants in all of these areas have been controlled and the sites are searched every four months to detect and remove any new seedlings, which can reach maturity and set seed in less than five months if not controlled.
    Ms Barr says sea spurge is causing major environmental damage at many Australian beaches, displacing native plants and changing natural patterns of sand movements.
    “It has the potential to overrun our native dune species and threaten the habitats of native birds.”
    She says an adult plant can produce between 5000 and 20,000 buoyant and salt-tolerant seeds every year, and these can travel long distances on ocean currents.
    “This means there is an ongoing risk of seeds making their way over and establishing along our long stretch of coastline, with the west coast being the most at risk.”
    She says that makes it vital that any sightings are reported.
    Sea spurge looks like a small shrub and typically grows up to 50 centimetres in height although it can sometimes reach up to one metre.
    “It has tightly packed leaves that are bluish green in colour, with the stem having often a red tinge at the base. Do not touch it as it has a milky sap, which is toxic to people and animals and may cause temporary blindness.”
    Its flowers are composed of yellowish green petal less flowers found in clusters while leaves are stalkless, hairless, alternate, crowded and overlapping along the stems.
    Ms Barr says anyone who thinks they have found sea spurge should report it as soon as possible using the Ministry for Primary Industries Pests-and-Diseases hotline on 0800 80 99 66.
    “Take some clear photos and please do not disturb the plants as the sap is toxic, and you could also spread the seeds via your clothing and equipment.” “Plants can also regrow from root fragments.”
    People should note the location as accurately as possible – GPS coordinates are ideal, or you can open Google Maps and drop a pin on the map (and/or screen shot your location on the map). You can also use the iNaturalist app to mark potential sites.
    Ms Barr says sea spurge looks similar to the rare native spurge, waiūatua / waiū-o-Kahukura (Euphorbia glauca), however, the native spurge has much larger leaves that are 30-80mm long. The New Zealand linen flax (Linum monogynum) and the sand daphne / toroheke (Pimelea villosa) which grow in the coastal environment are also similar.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In Committee, Rosen Helps Advance Bipartisan National Defense Bill with Major Wins for Nevada

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    Senator Rosen Helped Write And Pass the Legislation To Provide A 3.8% Pay Raise for Troops, Deliver For Nevada’s National Security Installations, And Benefit Nevada Servicemembers
    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) announced several major wins for servicemembers in Nevada that she helped secure in the bipartisan national defense bill that advanced out of the Senate Armed Services Committee. The Senate’s bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26 NDAA) contains thirty provisions championed by Senator Rosen, including the core of her FORGOTTEN Veterans Act. This bill classifies the Nevada Test and Training Range (NTTR) as contaminated from nuclear testing and toxic activities, requires the Defense Department to document servicemember exposures to radiation and toxins that happen stateside, and requires the Air Force to identify all those who served at classified locations within the NTTR since 1951 and establish a process for them to provide proof of having served there, so that they can finally have a basis to submit PACT Act claims. 
    The Senate NDAA also authorizes several key military construction projects, including to support the readiness of the Nevada Air National Guard Base in Reno to receive C-130J aircraft to carry out their dangerous fire fighting mission. Additionally, it includes Senator Rosen’s amendment to break down a key barrier for Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) crews who conduct combat operations – such as Creech Air Force Base – to continue to be able to access critical  mental health services through the VA once separated from the military. The NDAA also supports enlisted retention efforts through higher pay, provides a 3.8% pay raise for all troops, and does not authorize any funding for defense nuclear waste storage at Yucca Mountain. 
    “One of my top priorities is working to strengthen our national security and ensure our military has all of the resources it needs to support servicemembers and keep Nevadans safe. I’m proud to have helped shape a strong, bipartisan national defense package that supports our servicemembers in Nevada, strengthens our alliances, and enhances our military readiness,” said Senator Rosen. “This bipartisan legislation includes key provisions I secured to support critical national security installations in Nevada, provide our servicemembers with a deserved pay raise, and eliminate barriers for those who served within the Nevada Test and Training Range to submit PACT Act claims for toxic and radiation exposure. I’ll always work across party lines to keep Nevadans safe.”
    Rosen-led provisions in the FY26 NDAA include:
    Radiation and Toxic Exposure Documentation: Requires DOD to document all servicemember exposures, including those that occur domestically, so it can be seen by the VA after they’ve separated from the military; classifies the NTTR as contaminated; and requires the Secretary of the Air Force to identify all those who served within the NTTR since January 27, 1951 (the date of the first nuclear test), establish a process for veterans to provide proof of their assignment within the NTTR, and make all efforts to identify individuals without requiring them to submit evidence of their stationing. 
    Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) Crew Mental Health Access: Directs the military service secretaries, in consultation with the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to establish a status identifier or equivalent recognition to note the combat participation of remotely piloted aircraft crews, ​in order to allow continued access to combat-related mental health services through the VA once the servicemember separates from the military. This is based on Senator Rosen’s bipartisan CARE for RPA Crews Act.
    Veteran Training Records: Directs the Pentagon to assess the feasibility of providing military training and qualification records to post-9/11 veterans to assist them in obtaining civilian jobs. This builds on Senator Rosen’s bipartisan Translating Military Skills into Civilian Jobs Act, which was signed into law as part of the FY2025 NDAA, which only applied to those currently serving, not veterans.
    Designating Creech Air Force Base as Remote & Isolated: Designates Creech AFB as a remote installation, making it eligible for additional funding for things like morale, welfare, and recreation (MWR) activities, and medical services such as dental. This is to support Creech Airmen and their families, who often have to live an hour’s drive from Creech, because Creech has no on-base housing, limited off-based housing, and few services such as child care.  ​ 
    Nevada Air National Guard Fuel Cell Hangar: Authorizes $5.4 million for a larger fuel cell hangar at the Air National Guard Base in Reno, which is necessary for the base’s candidacy to receive C-130J aircraft, which are larger than the current fleet of C-130Hs. Senator Rosen has been working to secure C-130J aircraft for the Nevada National Guard to provide them with more capable aircraft for their dangerous fire fighting mission. ​
    Nevada Air National Guard Engine Maintenance and Support Facility: Authorizes $3.2 million to expand the facility at the Air National Guard Base in Reno. ​This project is also necessary for the base’s candidacy to receive C-130Js.
    Expansion of Nevada Army National Guard Armory in Henderson: Authorizes over $2.3 million for the expansion of the Nevada Army National Guard Armory in Henderson to help alleviate cramped working conditions.
    Fallon Range Training Complex Improvements: Authorizes $47 million to accelerate modernization of the Fallon Range Training Complex to route the highway and natural gas pipelines around range B-16. ​
    Enlisted Retention Pay: Authorizes the Department of Defense to provide retention incentive pay to enlisted servicemembers that have a college degree in a field related to their military specialty to help improve recruitment and retention.
    Report on Initiatives that Negate the Need for Nuclear Testing: Directs the Administrator of the National Nuclear Security Administration to brief Congress on how technological advancements and ongoing initiatives – including modernization of the underground laboratory at the Nevada National Security Sites (NNSS) –  will provide greater certainty on the safety, reliability, and effectiveness of our nuclear stockpile, which negates the need for nuclear testing.
    Report on Incentive Programs for After-Hours Child Care: Directs the Department of Defense to brief Congress on their efforts to create and implement incentive programs that would encourage Family Child Care providers to expand their services, support military spouses, and provide after-hours childcare, which would support r Creech Airmen and their families, who often work outside of normal business hours due to the global operations they support.
    Report on Integration of Military Service Outcome Data with State Educational Systems: Directs the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of Education, to brief Congress on the feasibility of establishing a data sharing system to assist states in accessing military enlistment data to better inform students about military careers. 
    Hearing Aid Coverage for Children of Retired Servicemembers: Extends hearing aid coverage to children of all retired servicemembers, including retired members of the reserve components.
    Creech Air Force Base Health Assessment: Directs the Secretary of the Air Force, in coordination with the Defense Health Agency, to assess behavioral and social health conditions affecting servicemembers and families stationed at Creech. 
    Cyber Talent Management: Creates a DoD talent management program to support cyber personnel transitioning from active duty to the reserves. The provision  also authorizes U.S. Cyber Command to carry out a pilot program to provide skill incentive pay to help retain the top Cyber talent in the Cyber Mission Force. 
    Tibetan Plateau Strategy: Requires an expanded report on China’s military strategy on the Tibetan Plateau, directing the Department of Defense to analyze the risks related to China’s control of natural resources – particularly water – on the Plateau.
    Report on Department of Defense Paint Facilities for Corrosion Control: Directs the Secretary of Defense to provide a report to Congress on the status of facilities worldwide – including at Nellis Air Force Base – that conduct sanding and blasting operations of paint containing Hexavalent Chromium—a toxic, cancer-causing chemical used in paint on aircraft to prevent them from corroding.
    Rosen-backed provisions included in the FY26 Senate NDAA:
    Prioritize C-130J Recapitalization: Prohibits the Air Force until 2028 from spending funds on C-130J modernization until all Air National Guard units flying legacy C-130Hs, such as the Nevada Air National Guard in Reno, are set to receive C-130Js. 
    SkillBridge Protection: Protects the existing SkillBridge program for all enlisted servicemembers. SkillBridge provides transitioning servicemembers opportunities to participate in training and development with potential post-service employers during their last 180 days of military service, so they can gain invaluable skills, and be more prepared for life after service. Senator Rosen helped introduce bipartisan legislation with Senator Cruz to expand the SkillBridge program. 
    IVF for Military Families: Ensures that In-vitro Fertilization ( IVF) and fertility-related care shall be covered under TRICARE Prime and TRICARE Select for both servicemembers and their spouses for up to three cycles.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: YoCrunch® Products Voluntarily Recalled by Danone U.S. Due to Potential Presence of Plastic Pieces in Dome Topper

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    YOCRUNCH STRAW W/GRANOLA 6OZ(UPC 46675000105)

    2025.07.07, 2025.07.12, 2025.07.26, 2025.08.03, 2025.08.08, 2025.08.19,2025.08.22, 2025.08.30, 2025.09.04

    YOCRUNCH VANILLA W/M&M 6OZ(UPC 46675000792)

    2025.07.11, 2025.07.14, 2025.07.25, 2025.08.07, 2025.08.11, 2025.08.22, 2025.08.26, 2025.09.03

    YOCRUNCH VANILLA W/OREO 6OZ (UPC 46675000808)

    2025.07.11, 2025.07.14, 2025.07.24, 2025.07.25 2025.08.06, 2025.08.11, 2025.08.21, 2025.08.26, 2025.09.03

    YOCRUNCH STRAW W/M&M 6OZ (UPC 46675000839)

    2025.07.12, 2025.07.25, 2025.08.07, 2025.08.22, 2025.09.04

    YOCRUNCH VANILLA W/SNICKERS 6OZ (UPC 46675001126)

    2025.07.10, 2025.07.24, 2025.08.06, 2025.08.21

    YOCRUNCH VANILLA W/TWIX CANDY 6OZ (UPC 46675001133)

    2025.07.24, 2025.08.07, 2025.08.21

    YOCRUNCH STRAW W/M&M MULTI 4X4OZ (UPC 46675013129)

    2025.07.08, 2025.07.12, 2025.07.13, 2025.07.17, 2025.07.18, 2025.07.26, 2025.07.27, 2025.08.02, 2025.08.03, 2025.08.09, 2025.08.11, 2025.08.12, 2025.08.13, 2025.08.15, 2025.08.16, 2025.08.23, 2025.08.24, 2025.08.29, 2025.08.30, 2025.08.31

    YOCRUNCH VAN W/COOKIE DOUGH 4X4OZ (UPC 46675013150)

    2025.07.17, 2025.08.01, 2025.08.13, 2025.08.29

    YOCRUNCH VANI W/SNICKER PCS 4X4OZ (UPC 46675013266)

    2025.07.17, 2025.08.01, 2025.08.13, 2025.09.01

    YOCRUNCH VANI W/TWIX CANDY 4X4OZ (UPC 46675013273)

    2025.07.17, 2025.08.01, 2025.08.14, 2025.08.29

    YOCRUNCH VANILLA OREO 4X4OZ(UPC 46675013501)

    2025.07.13, 2025.07.14, 2025.07.20, 2025.07.21, 2025.07.24, 2025.07.25, 2025.07.26, 2025.07.31, 2025.08.01, 2025.08.02, 2025.08.08, 2025.08.09, 2025.08.10, 2025.08.11, 2025.08.15, 2025.08.16, 2025.08.23, 2025.08.24, 2025.08.25, 2025.08.30, 2025.08.31

    YOCRUNCH VANILLA M&M 4X4OZ (UPC 46675013518)

    2025.07.07, 2025.07.09, 2025.07.14, 2025.07.15, 2025.07.16, 2025.07.17, 2025.07.22, 2025.07.23, 2025.07.26, 2025.07.27, 2025.07.28, 2025.08.02, 2025.08.03, 2025.08.05, 2025.08.06, 2025.08.07, 2025.08.10, 2025.08.13, 2025.08.14, 2025.08.16, 2025.08.17,2025.08.18, 2025.08.19, 2025.08.20, 2025.08.21, 2025.08.22, 2025.08.26, 2025.08.27, 2025.08.28, 2025.08.29, 2025.09.01, 2025.09.02, 2025.09.03, 2025.09.04

    YOCRUNCH VAN OREO & M&M FR PK 8X6OZ(UPC 46675014003)

    2025.07.12, 2025.07.13, 2025.07.14, 2025.07.15, 2025.07.16, 2025.07.20, 2025.07.21, 2025.07.22, 2025.07.23, 2025.07.24, 2025.07.25, 2025.07.28, 2025.08.02, 2025.08.03, 2025.08.04, 2025.08.05, 2025.08.06, 2025.08.07, 2025.08.10, 2025.08.11, 2025.08.12, 2025.08.13, 2025.08.14, 2025.08.17,2025.08.18, 2025.08.19, 2025.08.20, 2025.08.21, 2025.08.22, 2025.08.23, 2025.08.25, 2025.08.26, 2025.08.27, 2025.08.28, 2025.08.29, 2025.09.02

    YOCRUNCH STR/RAS GRNLA FR PK 8X6OZ (UPC 46675014010)

    2025.07.26, 2025.08.23, 2025.08.30

    YOCRUNCH STRW W/M&M&OREO FR PK 8X6OZ (UPC 46675026136)

    2025.07.22, 2025.08.03, 2025.08.19, 2025.08.29

    YOCRUNCH VAN W/SNIC&TWIX FR PK 8X6OZ (UPC 46675026143)

    2025.07.14, 2025.07.28, 2025.08.11, 2025.08.26

    YOCRUNCH VAN OREO/VAN M&M 18X6OZ CLB (UPC 46675027010)

    2025.07.11, 2025.07.19, 2025.07.20,2025.07.26, 2025.07.27, 2025.07.28, 2025.07.31, 2025.08.01, 2025.08.02, 2025.08.08, 2025.08.09, 2025.08.16, 2025.08.17, 2025.08.23, 2025.08.24, 2025.08.25, 2025.08.30, 2025.08.31

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: World Market Recalls Emek Spread Pistachio Cacao Cream with Kadayif Due to Salmonella Contamination

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    July 14, 2025
    FDA Publish Date:
    July 14, 2025
    Product Type:
    Food & BeveragesFoodborne Illness
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description
    Salmonella

    Company Name:
    World Market
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)
    Emek

    Product Description:

    Product Description
    Spread Pistachio Cacao Cream with Kadayif

    Company Announcement
    Alameda, CA, July 14, 2025 – World Market is recalling EMEK SPREAD PISTACHIO CACAO CREAM WITH KADAYIF, 9.7oz, Best Before: April 01, 2027, Batch Number: 250401 due to a potential contamination of Salmonella.
    Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.
    The firm initiated the recall after samples of the product were tested by the FDA and the products tested positive for Salmonella.
    No illnesses have been reported to date.
    See attached photos for ease of identifying the product. Products affected are:

    PRODUCT 

    SIZE 

    LOT/MFG CODES 

    UPC 

    USE BY DATE 

    Emek Spread Pistachio Cacao Cream with Kadayif

    9.7 oz

    BATCH NO: 250401

    8 69652 10130 1

    BEST BEFOREAPRIL 01 2027

    The products were distributed between June 11 to July 9, 2025. The product is packaged in clear glass jar with the date code etched on the top of the lid. The product is sold primarily in World Market retail stores located in the States of: AL, AZ, CA, CO, CT, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, NC, NE, NH, NJ, OH, OK, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, WA & WI.
    Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them and return them to the place of purchase for a full refund or they may discard the product. Consumers with questions may contact Customer Service at 877.967.5362 Sunday – Saturday 7:00 am – 12:00 am EST.
    This recall is being made with the knowledge of the Food and Drug Administration.

    Company Contact Information

    Consumers:
    Customer Service
    877.967.5362

    Product Photos

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom signs legislation 7.14.25

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jul 14, 2025

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that he has signed the following bills:

    • AB 78 by Assemblymember Phillip Chen (R-Yorba Linda) – Attorney’s fees: book accounts.
    • AB 223 by Assemblymember Blanca Pacheco (D-Downey) – Jury selection: acknowledgment and agreement.
    • AB 233 by Assemblymember Mike Gipson (D-Carson) – Alcoholic beverages: licensees.
    • AB 313 by Assemblymember Liz Ortega (D-San Leandro) – Student financial aid: application deadlines: extension.
    • AB 354 by Assemblymember Michelle Rodriguez (D-Chino) – Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training.
    • AB 369 by Assemblymember Michelle Rodriguez (D-Chino) – Emergency services: liability.
    • AB 370 by Assemblymember Juan Carrillo (D-Palmdale) – California Public Records Act: cyberattacks.
    • AB 533 by Assemblymember Heath Flora (R-Modesto) – Health care districts: design-build process.
    • AB 544 by Assemblymember Laurie Davies (R-Laguna Niguel) – Electric bicycles: required equipment.
    • AB 545 by Assemblymember Laurie Davies (R-Laguna Niguel) – Vehicles: electric bicycles.
    • AB 553 by Assemblymember Jessica Caloza (D-Los Angeles) – CalFresh: food access.
    • AB 565 by Assemblymember Diane Dixon (R-Newport Beach) – Representation of trust beneficiaries.
    • AB 584 by Assemblymember Heather Hadwick (R-Redding) – Firearms dealers and manufacturers: secure facilities.
    • AB 655 by Assemblymember David Alvarez (D-San Diego) – California-Mexico Border Relations Council.
    • AB 751 by Assemblymember Mike Gipson (D-Carson) – Rest periods: petroleum facilities: safety-sensitive positions.
    • AB 771 by Assemblymember Alexandra Macedo (R-Visalia) – Financing statements: mortgages.
    • AB 784 by Assemblymember Josh Hoover (R-Folsom) – Special education: specialized deaf and hard-of-hearing services.
    • AB 927 by Assemblymember LaShae Sharp-Collins (D-La Mesa) – County superintendent of schools: inspection of public schools.
    • AB 1034 by Assemblymember Anamarie Ávila Farías (D-Concord) – Teacher credentialing: programs of professional preparation: youth mental health.
    • AB 1177 by Assemblymember Damon Connolly (D-San Rafael) – California Prompt Payment Act: late payment penalties.
    • AB 1297 by Assemblymember Catherine Stefani (D-San Francisco) – Automatic temporary restraining orders.
    • SB 61 by Senator Dave Cortese (D-San Jose) – Private works of improvement: retention payments.
    • SB 66 by Senator Thomas Umberg (D-Santa Ana) – Civil discovery.
    • SB 229 by Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil (R-Jackson) – Peace officers: deputy sheriffs.
    • SB 409 by Senator Bob Archuleta (D-Pico Rivera) – Public contracts: county-owned buildings.
    • SB 558 by Senator Steve Padilla (D-San Diego) – Imperial Valley Healthcare District: voting districts.
    • SB 735 by the Committee on Local Government – Validations.
    • SB 736 by the Committee on Local Government – Validations. 
    • SB 737 by the Committee on Local Government – Validations.
    • SB 846 by Senator Jerry McNerney (D-Stockton) – Liens: harvested crops.

    For full text of the bills, visit: http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov.

    Press releases, Recent news

    Recent news

    Jul 14, 2025

    News What you need to know: Clean energy reliably powered California to levels never seen before – 67% in 2023 – as renewable energy and clean resources continue to advance the state’s world-leading energy transition while fueling the nation’s largest clean energy…

    Jul 11, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement today on the court’s decision in Vasquez Perdomo, et al. v. Noem to temporarily stop federal immigration agents from unlawful suspicionless stops in California:  Justice prevailed today…

    Jul 11, 2025

    News What you need to know: Californians are strongly encouraged to use state and local resources to protect themselves from heat illness as triple digit temperatures move across the state. SACRAMENTO — Governor Gavin Newsom is encouraging Californians to prepare for…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: LEADER JEFFRIES: “REPUBLICANS HAVEN’T DONE A DAMN THING TO MAKE LIFE MORE AFFORDABLE FOR THE AMERICAN PEOPLE”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)

    Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries held a press conference where he emphasized that House Democrats will continue pushing back against Republicans’ One Big Ugly Law which rewards billionaires while stripping food and healthcare from the American people.

    LEADER JEFFRIES: Good afternoon, everyone. Donald Trump and House Republicans have repeatedly betrayed the American people. Donald Trump and House Republicans promised to lower the high cost of living here in the United States of America. In fact, Donald Trump and House Republicans promised to lower costs on day one. Costs aren’t going down in the United States of America. Costs are going up. Life is becoming more expensive under Donald Trump and Republican control of Congress. There is nothing in the One Big Ugly Bill that will meaningfully make life more affordable for the American people. In fact, the One Big Ugly Bill will make life more expensive for everyday Americans, particularly as it relates to utility costs. Utility costs are going to go up in the United States of America as a result of Donald Trump’s One Big Ugly Bill. Costs aren’t going down. Republicans haven’t done a damn thing to make life more affordable for the American people.

    Costs are too high in this country. That’s why Democrats are going to continue to focus our efforts on building an economy that actually is affordable for hardworking American taxpayers. We need to lower housing costs, lower grocery costs, lower utility costs, lower childcare costs and lower insurance costs. America is too expensive, and things aren’t getting better under Donald Trump and House Republican rule, they’re getting worse. On top of that, Donald Trump and House Republicans jammed this extreme budget bill down the throats of the American people. They will hurt millions of Americans who are going to lose their healthcare as a result of the One Big Ugly Bill. Hospitals will close, nursing homes will shut down, community-based health clinics will not be able to operate and everyday Americans in every state in this country are going to die as a result of having healthcare ripped away from them by Republicans in this town. The One Big Ugly Bill rips food out of the mouths of hungry children.

    Who are these people on the other side of the aisle? Who are they? And on top of it all, ripping healthcare away from the American people. The largest cut to Medicaid in American history. Ripping food out of the mouths of children, seniors and veterans, who are going to go hungry as a result of this One Big Ugly Bill. All of this is being done to reward their billionaire donors with massive tax breaks, the largest transfer of wealth from everyday Americans to billionaires in American history. And these so-called fiscal conservatives are going to explode the debt by more than $3 trillion and set this country on a path toward possible bankruptcy. Every single House Republican who voted against the best interests of their constituents and voted to reward billionaires with massive tax breaks will be held accountable.

    Full press conference can be watched here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: $HAREHOLDER ALERT: The M&A Class Action Firm Announces An Investigation of Blueprint Medicines Corporation (NASDAQ: BPMC)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Class Action Attorney Juan Monteverde with Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered millions of dollars for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2024 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. The firm is headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and is investigating Blueprint Medicines Corporation (NASDAQ: BPMC) related to its sale to Sanofi, S.A. Under the terms of the proposed transaction, Sanofi will pay $129.00 per share in cash at closing, and Blueprint shareholders also will receive one non-tradeable contingent value right (“CVR”) entitling the holder to receive two potential milestone payments of $2.00 and $4.00 per CVR for the achievement, respectively, of future development and regulatory milestones for BLU-808. Is it a fair deal?

    Click here for more info https://monteverdelaw.com/case/blueprint-medicines-corporation-2/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE EQUAL. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:

    1. Do you file class actions and go to Court?
    2. When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
    3. What cases did you recover money in and how much?

    About Monteverde & Associates PC

    Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. 

    No one is above the law. If you own common stock in the above listed company and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

    Contact:
    Juan Monteverde, Esq.
    MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
    The Empire State Building
    350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
    New York, NY 10118
    United States of America
    jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
    Tel: (212) 971-1341

    Attorney Advertising. (C) 2025 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (www.monteverdelaw.com).  Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Joe Wicks and government join forces to get children moving

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Joe Wicks and government join forces to get children moving

    New animated series for kids, known as Activate, will get more children across the country moving more and encouraging a healthier lifestyle.

    • Children to be inspired to get physically active over summer as Joe Wicks, MBE, launches Activate, a new animated series for kids
    • Created by Joe and produced by Studio AKA, Activate aims to tackle inactivity among children through fun, five-minute workouts – led by Joe as an animated character
    • Programme backed by government funding as part of Plan for Change to give children the best start in life

    Children across the country are being inspired to move more this summer following the launch of a new series from fitness coach, Joe Wicks MBE, backed by the government as part of a new partnership to reach schools and families across the country.

    The innovative animated Activate series features five-minute episodes which combine animation with upbeat music, courtesy of Universal Music UK, encouraging children to enjoy short bursts of movement that easily fit into their day and can be transformational for their physical and mental health. The government will be backing the programme to fund a further ten episodes.

    The series has been co-created by Joe and BAFTA award-winning Studio AKA (creators of Hey Duggee), bringing the nation’s favourite fitness coach to life through animation for the first time.

    Activate is backed by the government’s 10 Year Health Plan, which is already hitting the ground running with its pledge to work with influencers and changemakers across society to shift the NHS from treating illness to preventing it.

    The new animated series was unveiled at Ripple Primary School in Barking, east London, where Joe Wicks and Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, met teachers and parents to discuss keeping kids moving over the summer holidays and beyond.

    Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said: 

    Childhood obesity robs our young people of their future, and inactivity is one of the biggest culprits. That’s why it’s crucial to start building healthy habits from a young age.

    Our 10 Year Health Plan sets out how we would tackle obesity through prevention and today demonstrates how we’re taking action. In the spirit of mission-driven government, we’re building a coalition of the willing to tackle the obesity epidemic head-on. 

    This initiative directly supports our focus on giving children the best start in life—a cornerstone of our Plan for Change. By investing in prevention today, we’re building a healthier generation for tomorrow.” 

    Being physically active is good for physical and mental health and helps relieve pressure on the NHS, preventing an additional £10.5 billion worth of treatment a year. Despite that, inactivity levels remain stubbornly high for adults and children, with huge inequalities across the country. The Activate programme represents a collaborative approach to tackling this growing health challenge. 

    The first episode is now available on Joe Wicks’ The Body Coach YouTube channel, with further episodes set to be released weekly over the summer holidays. 

    The series is released five years after Wicks united the nation with PE With Joe, which received over 100 million views online. Now, Joe is on a renewed mission to get children moving through this series.

    Joe Wicks said:

    Activate is the natural next step in everything I’ve worked towards over the past decade. From my early YouTube workouts, to ‘PE with Joe’ during the pandemic, my goal has always been to get children moving and feeling good – physically and mentally.

    This project brings together everything I am most passionate about, and everything I’ve learned on my journey – going back to my own childhood where I discovered movement as a way to cope with the challenges of living with parents with drug addiction and mental health issues.

    Activate is designed to make movement fun and inclusive for every child, with short, high-energy workouts that fit into everyday life – these can be enjoyed in the living room, the garden, in the classroom, or anywhere else!

    As a dad, I know how important it is to make movement something kids enjoy, not something they have to do. That’s exactly what Activate is all about so I hope it can be a real support for busy families, this summer and beyond.

    Earlier this month, the government launched its 10 Year Health Plan, which outlined how a shift from sickness to prevention will safeguard the nation’s health and put forward a range of measures to tackle growing rates of childhood obesity. 

    Obesity rates have doubled since the 1990s, including among children. A forthcoming report by the Chief Medical Officer will show that more than 1 in 5 children are living with obesity by the time they leave primary school, rising to almost 1 in 3 in areas with higher levels of poverty and deprivation. 

    Measures included in the 10 Year Health Plan include:

    • Launching a world-first partnership with food retailers and manufacturers to help families make healthier choices
    • Restricting junk food advertising targeted at children
    • Reforming the soft drinks industry levy to drive reformulation 

    This two-pronged approach of encouraging active lifestyles and healthy diets aims to tackle the UK’s most preventable chronic illnesses, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, whilst tackling the £11.4 billion bill that obesity costs the NHS a year.     

    Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy, said:

    I know what a difference sport and physical activity make in shaping a young person’s life. It’s why we’re investing £400 million in grassroots facilities for all, joining up schools with sports clubs across the country and backing major events that inspire.

    For too long, it has felt as if we have hit a ceiling on participation in this country, and for too long the dial on inactivity has gone unmoved. Together, through initiatives like this, we will put that right and deliver on our Plan for Change.

    With Universal Music UK as the exclusive music partner, each episode features upbeat tunes from UK artists, including Becky Hill and Bastille. Each track has been chosen for its appeal to parents and children alike.

    Sue Goffe, Chief Executive at Studio AKA, said:

    We’re thrilled to bring the world of Activate to life through animation. Collaborating with Joe Wicks has been a joy, and we’re proud to be part of this creative project to inspire movement and wellbeing in children.

    Sarah Boorman, General Manager, Youth Strategies at Universal Music UK, said:

    Our shared goal with Joe was to make being active feel like something children genuinely want to do, powered by great music which is appropriate for them and loved by families too.

    Alison Lomax, Managing Director for YouTube UK & Ireland, said:  

    We’re so excited that Joe Wicks is bringing his new kids’ fitness show Activate to YouTube just in time for the holidays. Joe’s fun, energetic approach to getting kids moving has already made a huge impact on our platform, and Activate is set to become a go-to for families looking to keep active over the summer. It’s great to see YouTube being used in such a positive way – bringing free, accessible, and family-friendly fitness to homes everywhere.

    About the programme

    Created by Studio AKA, the BAFTA-winning creators of Hey Duggee, the Activate series sees Joe Wicks brought to life through animation alongside six loveable new characters, ‘The Activators’, accompanied by upbeat music from top UK artists. Together, they make movement feel personal, playful, and inclusive – so every child can find a character to connect with.

    Joe and the Activators lead children through fun, five-minute bursts of movement, that can be easily integrated into their day – whether at home, at summer clubs or on the go.

    With Wicks appearing as an animated character (a first for the family fitness coach), each short episode offers a burst of movement, fun, and energy to get kids’ hearts pumping and minds engaged. These include easy-to-follow exercises like jogging, squats, and burpees, wrapped up in a playful, gamified format that can keep kids active over the summer holidays and beyond.

    But Activate isn’t just for the summer holidays. It will also be available to schools during term time, to help build confidence, support mental wellbeing, and help children develop healthy habits for life.

    Joe added:

    Being turned into an animated character has been a surreal and wonderful experience, and my dream is that it connects with millions of kids and families across the UK and beyond.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to NICE final draft guidance and NHS rollout of Alyftrek for children and adults with some forms of cystic fibrosis

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Scientists comment on NICE final draft guidance and the NHS rollout of Alyftrek for Cystic Fibrosis.

    David Ramsden, Cystic Fibrosis Trust Chief Executive, said:

    “Today’s announcements are a positive step in the journey to better treatments for more people with cystic fibrosis – a lifelong, life-limiting condition without a cure. It’s thanks to the incredible hard work and support of the CF community and everyone we work with that modulator drugs are now a treatment option for many, but not all people with CF.

    “Cystic fibrosis continues to make lives too tough and too short, which is why we will continue funding vital research to work towards a future where everyone can benefit from a life unlimited by CF.”

     

    Prof Kevin Southern, Professor of Child Health, Chair, UK CF Medical Association, said:

    “The CFMA welcome the approval of Alyfrek, which may offer an important alternative for some people with CF who are already treated with Kaftrio, or be an option for a small number of people who are not eligible for current therapies or have not been able to tolerate them. CF remains a condition without a cure and while improvements to therapies is good news, ongoing challenges exist for people with the condition. CF clinical teams will continue to work to achieve excellent health outcomes and quality of life for all, and we hope that in the future, new therapies will become available for people with CF, particularly for those who do not respond to existing therapies.”

    The NICE final draft guidance on Alyftrek was published on the NICE website at 00:01 UK time on Tuesday 15 July. 

    https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/indevelopment/gid-ta11430/documents  

    Declared interests

    No reply to our request for DOIs was received.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study suggesting vapes are more effective for quitting smoking than gum or lozenges including in disadvantaged groups

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine looks at vapes for smoking cessation in disadvantaged groups. 

    Prof Leonie Brose, Professor of Addictions & Public Health at King’s College London, said:

    “This very well-conducted Australian study shows that vaping is more effective than traditional nicotine replacement therapies (NRT) for helping people quit smoking. This is in line with what we know from previous evidence. What makes this study stand out is its focus on less advantaged groups, who are often hit hardest by smoking-related illnesses. And by offering participants a choice of vaping devices and flavours, the researchers created a more realistic scenario. Interestingly, the effectiveness of vaping over NRT was greater than anticipated.

    “These results are particularly relevant for England, where we are currently evaluating ‘Swap to Stop’, the national initiative providing free vapes to get more people from less advantaged groups to stop smoking.”

    Prof Peter Hajek, Professor of Clinical Psychology and Director of the Health and Lifestyle Research Unit, Queen Mary University of London (QMUL), said:

    “Compared to the general population, rates of smoking are much higher and rates of quitting smoking lower among people whose lives are more stressful. In previous studies in unselected groups of smokers, e-cigarettes were up to twice as effective as NRT. In this study looking at a large sample of people on income support, the advantage of vapes over NRT was three-fold!  

    “As vaping poses only a small fraction of risks of smoking, encouraging smokers who find giving up nicotine difficult to use vapes seemed always a logical and sensible thing to do. This high-quality study with rigorous outcome criteria shows that it is also effective.”

    ‘Vaporized Nicotine Products for Smoking Cessation Among People Experiencing Social Disadvantage’ by Ryan J. Courtney et al. was published in Annals of Internal Medicine at 10pm UK time on Monday 14 July.

    DOI: 10.7326/ANNALS-24-03531

    Declared interests

    Leonie Brose: “I have no interests to declare.”

    Peter Hajek: “No COI”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Many fish are social, but pesticides are pushing them apart

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kyle Morrison, PhD Candidate in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, UNSW Sydney

    Kazakov Maksim, Shutterstock

    Scientists have detected pesticides in rivers, lakes and oceans worldwide. So what are these pesticides doing to the fish?

    Long before pesticides reach lethal doses, they can disrupt hormones, impair brain function and change fish behaviour. Many of these behaviours are essential for healthy ecosystems.

    In a new study, my colleagues and I found that pesticides affect many different behaviours in fish. Overall, the chemical pesticides make fish less sociable and interactive. They spend less time gathering in groups, become less protective of their territory, and make fewer attempts to mate.

    Imagine the ocean without the vibrant schools of fish we’ve come to love – only isolated swimmers drifting about. Quietly, ecosystems begin to unravel, long before mass die-offs hit the news.

    Healthy reef ecosystems feature fish swimming together and socialising.
    Mike Workman, Shutterstock

    Fish are living and dying in polluted water

    Australia is a major producer and user of pesticides, with more than 11,000 approved chemical products routinely used in agricultural and domestic settings. Remarkably, some of these chemicals remain approved in Australia despite being banned in other regions such as the European Union due to safety concerns.

    When a tractor or plane sprays pesticides onto crops, it creates a mist of chemicals in the air to kill crop pests. After heavy rain, these chemicals can flow into roadside drains, filter through soil, and slowly move into rivers, lakes and oceans.

    Fish swim in this diluted chemical mixture. They can absorb pesticides through their gills or eat contaminated prey.

    At high concentrations, mass fish deaths can result, such as those repeatedly observed in the Menindee Lakes. However, doses in the wild often aren’t lethal and more subtle effects can occur. Scientists call these “sub-lethal” effects.

    One commonly investigated sub-lethal effect is a change in behaviour – in other words, a change in the way a fish interacts with its surrounding environment.

    Our previous research has found most experiments have looked at the impacts on fish in isolation, measuring things such as how far or how fast they swim when pesticides are present.

    But fish aren’t solitary — they form groups, defend territory and find mates. These behaviours keep aquatic ecosystems stable. So this time we studied how pesticides affect these crucial social behaviours.

    Pesticide exposure makes fish less social

    Our study extracted and analysed data from 37 experiments conducted around the world. Together, these tested the impacts of 31 different pesticides on the social behaviour of 11 different fish species.

    The evidence suggests pesticides make fish less social, and this finding is consistent across species. Courtship was the most severely impacted behaviour – the process fish use to find and attract mates. This is particularly alarming because successful courtship is essential for healthy fish populations and ecosystem stability.

    Next, we found pesticides such as the herbicide glyphosate, which can disrupt brain function and hormone levels had the strongest impacts on fish social behaviours. This raises important questions about how brain function and hormones drive fish social behaviour, which could be tested by scientists in the future.

    For example, scientists could test how much a change in testosterone relates to a change in territory defence. Looking at these relationships between what’s going on inside the body mechanisms and outward behaviour will help us better understand the complex impacts of pesticides.

    We also identified gaps in the current studies. Most existing studies focus on a limited number of easy-to-study “model species” such as zebrafish, medaka and guppies. They also often use pesticide dosages and durations that may not reflect real-world realities.

    Addressing these gaps by including a range of species and environmentally relevant dosages is crucial to understanding how pesticides affect fish in the wild.

    One of the experiments in our study involved convict surgeonfish, which gather in large groups or ‘shoals’.
    Damsea, Shutterstock

    Behaviour is a blind spot in regulation

    Regulatory authorities should begin to recognise behaviour as a reliable and important indicator of pesticide safety. This can help them catch pesticide pollution early, before mass deaths occur.

    Scientists play a crucial role too. By following the same methods, scientists can produce comparable results. A standardised method then provides regulators the evidence needed to confidently assess pesticide risks.

    Together, regulatory authorities and scientists can find a way to use behavioural studies to help inform policy decisions. This will help to prevent mass deaths and catch pesticide impacts early on.

    Leave no stone unturned in restoring our waters

    Rivers, lakes, oceans and reefs are bearing the brunt of an ever-growing human footprint.

    So far, much of the spotlight has focused on reducing carbon emissions and managing overfishing — and rightly so. But there’s another, quieter threat drifting beneath the surface: the chemicals we use.

    Pesticides used on farms and in gardens are being detected everywhere, even iconic ecosystems such as the Great Barrier Reef. As we have shown, these pesticides can have disturbing effects even at low concentrations.

    Now is the time to cut pesticide use and reduce runoff. Through switching to less toxic chemicals and introducing better regulations, we can reduce the damage. If we act with urgency, we can limit the impacts pesticides have on our planet.

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

    – ref. Many fish are social, but pesticides are pushing them apart – https://theconversation.com/many-fish-are-social-but-pesticides-are-pushing-them-apart-256230

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Do I have prostate cancer? Why a simple PSA blood test alone won’t give you the answer

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kevin M. Koo, NHMRC Emerging Leadership Fellow, The University of Queensland

    Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in Australia, with about 26,000 men diagnosed per year. The majority (more than 85%) are aged over 60.

    Prostate cancer kills around 3,900 Australians a year. Yet most prostate cancers progress very slowly and many men die “with” and not “from” prostate cancer.

    Prostate cancer is currently detected with a blood test. This measures the amounts of prostate specific antigen (PSA) in the blood, a protein produced by the prostate gland.

    But while an elevated PSA can indicate prostate cancer, other non-cancerous conditions, such as prostate enlargement or inflammation, can also increase PSA levels.

    New draft guidelines aim to provide clearer recommendations about the role PSA tests should play in detecting prostate cancer.

    Life-saving treatment vs harmful overdiagnosis

    Early detection of prostate cancer by PSA testing is important. It allows for timely treatments such as prostate removal surgery, radiation or hormonal therapy.

    But despite their effectiveness, these treatments can cause problems such as erectile dysfunction. Urinary incontinence issues occur in up to 14% of patients.

    Therefore, if the prostate cancer is considered low-risk and has not spread outside the prostate, the clinician may recommend “active surveillance” to closely monitor the cancer for signs of progression.

    If the low-risk prostate cancer doesn’t progress, treatment and its associated side effects can be delayed or avoided.



    Read more:
    Treatment can do more harm than good for prostate cancer − why active surveillance may be a better option for some

    The controversy around PSA testing is it can over-diagnose low-risk prostate cancers that would never become life-threatening.

    PSA tests may also give false positive results when someone doesn’t have cancer.

    Such scenarios cause harm to men who are over-treated for prostate cancer solely based on elevated PSA levels.

    In a decades-long clinical study involving 182,000 men, PSA testing reduced prostate cancer deaths by 20% compared to men who didn’t undergo testing.

    But a trade-off was having to over-treat around 48 men to prevent one prostate cancer death.

    We need to find the balance between enabling early life-saving detection and preventing harmful over-treatment of men with low-risk prostate cancer.

    Prostate cancer surgery can leave some men with urinary incontinence.
    Jota Buyinch Photo/Shutterstock

    What do the draft guidelines say?

    The Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia has released new draft clinical guidelines for the early detection of prostate cancer for public consultation.

    The following recommended changes aim to reduce over-treatment and minimise harm.

    1. Offer all men a ‘baseline’ PSA test at 40

    All men would be offered an initial PSA test at age 40 to provide a baseline PSA measurement to compare against follow-up tests.

    A baseline PSA measurement would enable the calculation of PSA doubling time: the number of months taken for PSA level to double from baseline.

    Aggressive fast-growing tumors tend to have shorter PSA doubling times, so this would enable early detection of high-risk prostate cancer for prompt treatment.

    Such a change could improve prostate cancer risk classification and spare more men from unnecessary harmful treatment side effects.

    2. GPs offer men aged 50–69 PSA tests every two years

    The draft guidelines recommend GPs offer PSA testing every two years for all men aged 50–69.

    For men over 70, PSA testing would be recommended based on clinical assessment by GPs.

    Men are more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer at an advanced age. So as they get older and have a shorter life expectancy, the harms of treatment are more likely to outweigh the benefits of early detection.

    This recommendation could reduce over-diagnosis by considering individual life expectancy, overall health and potential treatment harms.

    3. Target populations at greater risk

    As with other cancer types, prostate cancer is a disease caused by gene malfunctioning leading to tumour growth. Men with a family history of prostate cancer are around three times more likely to develop and die from prostate cancer due to their genetic susceptibility.

    Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men have a higher risk of dying from prostate cancer compared to non-Indigenous men. This may be due to delayed diagnoses and limited access to prostate cancer treatment options in remote areas.

    For these men with higher prostate cancer risk, the draft guidelines recommend earlier and more frequent PSA testing, starting at age 40.

    This change could prioritise and serve targeted, high-risk populations of men who would benefit most from more regular PSA testing.

    Men with a family history of prostate cancer are more likely to develop the disease.
    Shakirov Albert/Shutterstock

    No more ‘finger up the bum’

    Previously, men with high PSA levels were referred for needle prostate biopsies which involve invasive insertion of needles into different areas of the prostate to remove tissue samples for lab analyses.

    Needle biopsies are painful and come with risks of bleeding or infection. So, it’s helpful to use additional prostate cancer testing approaches to guide who is referred for a biopsy.

    The new draft guidelines no longer recommend the use of digital rectal examination, the dreaded “finger up the bum”, to screen for signs of prostate cancer together with PSA testing. Men find this unpleasant and embarrassing.

    Instead, clinicians can turn to advanced imaging. Medicare rebates have been available for magnetic resonance imaging to diagnose prostate cancer since 2018.

    Medical specialists often order a multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) following elevated PSA levels to determine if biopsies are required. This is a specialised MRI that uses strong magnets and radio waves to construct a detailed three-dimensional image of the prostate from different angles and identify suspicious-looking areas.

    The draft guidelines recommend mpMRI to supplement PSA testing to better determine if a biopsy is needed. This saves men from unnecessary invasive procedures and reduces health-system costs.

    The information gathered from the public consultations will inform the final draft prostate cancer early detection guidelines. The final recommendations will then be sent to the National Health and Medical Research Council for approval, before becoming clinical practice.

    Kevin M. Koo receives funding from the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.

    – ref. Do I have prostate cancer? Why a simple PSA blood test alone won’t give you the answer – https://theconversation.com/do-i-have-prostate-cancer-why-a-simple-psa-blood-test-alone-wont-give-you-the-answer-257240

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: California Man Pleads Guilty in Connection with $16M Hospice Fraud Scheme and Money Laundering Scheme

    Source: US State Government of Utah

    A California man pleaded guilty today in connection with his role in defrauding Medicare of nearly $16 million through sham hospice companies and laundering the fraudulent proceeds.

    According to court documents, Juan Carlos Esparza, 33, of Valley Village, schemed with others, including co-defendants Petros Fichidzhyan and Karpis Srapyan, to bill Medicare for hospice services that were not medically necessary and never provided.  From July 2019 until January 2023, the defendant and his co-defendants operated four sham hospices, one of which, House of Angels Hospice, was owned by Esparza. The defendants controlled the other three hospices, even though the listed owners were foreign nationals. Fichidzhyan, Esparza, and Srapyan concealed the scheme by using foreign nationals’ personal identifying information to open bank accounts, submit information to Medicare, and sign property leases. They also controlled and used cell phones in the names of the foreign nationals in furtherance of the scheme. In total, Medicare paid the sham hospices nearly $16 million.

    Fichidzhyan, Esparza, and Srapyan worked with others, including their co-defendants Susanna Harutyunyan and Mihran Panosyan, to launder the fraudulent proceeds. As part of the money laundering scheme, Esparza and his co-defendants maintained fraudulent identification documents and other documents associated with the sham hospices at the House of Angels office, and bank documents, checkbooks, and credit and debit cards in the names of purported foreign owners in a pair of residential properties. After defrauding Medicare, Esparza and his co-defendants moved the funds between various assets and accounts, including bank accounts in the names of shell companies, to conceal the scheme. Esparza spent $90,000 in fraudulent proceeds to purchase a vehicle.

    Esparza pleaded guilty to health care fraud and transactional money laundering and is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 6. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for healthcare fraud and a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for transactional money laundering. A federal district court judge will determine his sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Co-defendant Petros Fichidzhyan previously pleaded guilty to health care fraud, aggravated identity theft, and money laundering. In May, Fichidzhyan was sentenced to 12 years in prison. Co-defendant Mihran Panosyan pleaded guilty to money laundering last month and is scheduled to be sentenced Sept. 8. Co-defendant Karpis Srapyan pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and money laundering and is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 6. Co-defendant Susanna Harutyunyan pleaded guilty to money laundering and is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 17. Harutyunyan faces deportation.

    The guilty plea today is the most recent conviction in the Justice Department’s ongoing effort to combat hospice fraud in the greater Los Angeles area. Last year, a doctor was convicted at trial for his role in a scheme to bill Medicare for hospice services patients did not need, and two other defendants were sentenced for their roles in a hospice fraud scheme.  

    Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Assistant Director in Charge Akil Davis of the FBI Los Angeles Field Office, and Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) made the announcement.

    The FBI and HHS-OIG are investigating the case.

    Trial Attorneys Sarah E. Edwards, Allison L. McGuire, and Michael Bacharach of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara B. Vavere for the Central District of California is handling asset forfeiture.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: California Man Pleads Guilty in Connection with $16M Hospice Fraud Scheme and Money Laundering Scheme

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    A California man pleaded guilty today in connection with his role in defrauding Medicare of nearly $16 million through sham hospice companies and laundering the fraudulent proceeds.

    According to court documents, Juan Carlos Esparza, 33, of Valley Village, schemed with others, including co-defendants Petros Fichidzhyan and Karpis Srapyan, to bill Medicare for hospice services that were not medically necessary and never provided.  From July 2019 until January 2023, the defendant and his co-defendants operated four sham hospices, one of which, House of Angels Hospice, was owned by Esparza. The defendants controlled the other three hospices, even though the listed owners were foreign nationals. Fichidzhyan, Esparza, and Srapyan concealed the scheme by using foreign nationals’ personal identifying information to open bank accounts, submit information to Medicare, and sign property leases. They also controlled and used cell phones in the names of the foreign nationals in furtherance of the scheme. In total, Medicare paid the sham hospices nearly $16 million.

    Fichidzhyan, Esparza, and Srapyan worked with others, including their co-defendants Susanna Harutyunyan and Mihran Panosyan, to launder the fraudulent proceeds. As part of the money laundering scheme, Esparza and his co-defendants maintained fraudulent identification documents and other documents associated with the sham hospices at the House of Angels office, and bank documents, checkbooks, and credit and debit cards in the names of purported foreign owners in a pair of residential properties. After defrauding Medicare, Esparza and his co-defendants moved the funds between various assets and accounts, including bank accounts in the names of shell companies, to conceal the scheme. Esparza spent $90,000 in fraudulent proceeds to purchase a vehicle.

    Esparza pleaded guilty to health care fraud and transactional money laundering and is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 6. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for healthcare fraud and a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for transactional money laundering. A federal district court judge will determine his sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Co-defendant Petros Fichidzhyan previously pleaded guilty to health care fraud, aggravated identity theft, and money laundering. In May, Fichidzhyan was sentenced to 12 years in prison. Co-defendant Mihran Panosyan pleaded guilty to money laundering last month and is scheduled to be sentenced Sept. 8. Co-defendant Karpis Srapyan pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and money laundering and is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 6. Co-defendant Susanna Harutyunyan pleaded guilty to money laundering and is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 17. Harutyunyan faces deportation.

    The guilty plea today is the most recent conviction in the Justice Department’s ongoing effort to combat hospice fraud in the greater Los Angeles area. Last year, a doctor was convicted at trial for his role in a scheme to bill Medicare for hospice services patients did not need, and two other defendants were sentenced for their roles in a hospice fraud scheme.  

    Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Assistant Director in Charge Akil Davis of the FBI Los Angeles Field Office, and Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) made the announcement.

    The FBI and HHS-OIG are investigating the case.

    Trial Attorneys Sarah E. Edwards, Allison L. McGuire, and Michael Bacharach of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara B. Vavere for the Central District of California is handling asset forfeiture.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: California Man Pleads Guilty in Connection with $16M Hospice Fraud Scheme and Money Laundering Scheme

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    A California man pleaded guilty today in connection with his role in defrauding Medicare of nearly $16 million through sham hospice companies and laundering the fraudulent proceeds.

    According to court documents, Juan Carlos Esparza, 33, of Valley Village, schemed with others, including co-defendants Petros Fichidzhyan and Karpis Srapyan, to bill Medicare for hospice services that were not medically necessary and never provided.  From July 2019 until January 2023, the defendant and his co-defendants operated four sham hospices, one of which, House of Angels Hospice, was owned by Esparza. The defendants controlled the other three hospices, even though the listed owners were foreign nationals. Fichidzhyan, Esparza, and Srapyan concealed the scheme by using foreign nationals’ personal identifying information to open bank accounts, submit information to Medicare, and sign property leases. They also controlled and used cell phones in the names of the foreign nationals in furtherance of the scheme. In total, Medicare paid the sham hospices nearly $16 million.

    Fichidzhyan, Esparza, and Srapyan worked with others, including their co-defendants Susanna Harutyunyan and Mihran Panosyan, to launder the fraudulent proceeds. As part of the money laundering scheme, Esparza and his co-defendants maintained fraudulent identification documents and other documents associated with the sham hospices at the House of Angels office, and bank documents, checkbooks, and credit and debit cards in the names of purported foreign owners in a pair of residential properties. After defrauding Medicare, Esparza and his co-defendants moved the funds between various assets and accounts, including bank accounts in the names of shell companies, to conceal the scheme. Esparza spent $90,000 in fraudulent proceeds to purchase a vehicle.

    Esparza pleaded guilty to health care fraud and transactional money laundering and is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 6. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for healthcare fraud and a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for transactional money laundering. A federal district court judge will determine his sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Co-defendant Petros Fichidzhyan previously pleaded guilty to health care fraud, aggravated identity theft, and money laundering. In May, Fichidzhyan was sentenced to 12 years in prison. Co-defendant Mihran Panosyan pleaded guilty to money laundering last month and is scheduled to be sentenced Sept. 8. Co-defendant Karpis Srapyan pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and money laundering and is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 6. Co-defendant Susanna Harutyunyan pleaded guilty to money laundering and is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 17. Harutyunyan faces deportation.

    The guilty plea today is the most recent conviction in the Justice Department’s ongoing effort to combat hospice fraud in the greater Los Angeles area. Last year, a doctor was convicted at trial for his role in a scheme to bill Medicare for hospice services patients did not need, and two other defendants were sentenced for their roles in a hospice fraud scheme.  

    Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Assistant Director in Charge Akil Davis of the FBI Los Angeles Field Office, and Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) made the announcement.

    The FBI and HHS-OIG are investigating the case.

    Trial Attorneys Sarah E. Edwards, Allison L. McGuire, and Michael Bacharach of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara B. Vavere for the Central District of California is handling asset forfeiture.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CMS Proposes Physician Payment Rule to Significantly Cut Spending Waste, Enhance Quality Measures, and Improve Chronic Disease Management for People with Medicare

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services

    CMS Proposes Physician Payment Rule to Significantly Cut Spending Waste, Enhance Quality Measures, and Improve Chronic Disease Management for People with Medicare 

    The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a proposed rule that would increase quality care for Medicare recipients while significantly reducing unnecessary spending. The calendar year (CY) 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (PFS) proposed rule would advance primary care management through new quality measures, reduce waste and unnecessary use of skin substitutes, and introduce a new payment model focused on improving care for chronic disease management. 

    MIL OSI USA News –