Category: Health

MIL-Evening Report: Draft guidelines for ‘forever chemicals’ have been released. Here’s what it means for drinking water safety in Australia

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ian Musgrave, Senior lecturer in Pharmacology, University of Adelaide

Alexander_Safonov/Shutterstock

The Australian National Health and Medical research Council (NHMRC) has today released draft guidelines for acceptable levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, in drinking water.

PFAS chemicals are also known as “forever chemicals”, because they don’t break down easily and can persist in the environment, including drinking water supplies.

The new guidelines – which are not mandatory but will inform state and territory policy – are expected to be finalised in April 2025. They propose a reduction in the maximum levels previously considered safe for four key PFAS chemicals: PFOS, PFOA, PFHxS and PFBS.

Continually scrutinising and updating our PFAS regulations is important to ensure Australians’ safety. However, these updated guidelines are unlikely to have a significant impact on Australia’s drinking water. The majority of potable water supplies in Australia either have no detectable PFAS, or have levels already below the new limits.

What are PFAS chemicals?

PFAS are highly fat-soluble compounds that are very slow to break down. They are basically long chains of carbon atoms studded with fluorine molecules.

PFAS chemicals are inert, water-repellent and heat-resistant. These properties make them ideal for industrial usage and they have been used in firefighting foams and fire-retardant material. They have also been used in common household items such as nonstick pans and stain-resistant fabrics.

PFAS chemicals are very slow to break down.
Gorodenkoff/Shutterstock

Unfortunately, their useful industrial stability means they persist in the environment and can accumulate in the human body. It can take five years for half an ingested dose of PFAS to be removed.

Given PFAS chemicals have the potential to mimic the body’s own fats, there has been concern they could harm our health if sufficient amounts accumulated in the body.

What sorts of health effects are they linked to?

The buildup of a chemical that’s hard to remove from our bodies is always of concern. Despite this, the potential health risks appear to be low. In 2018 the Australian Expert Health Panel for PFAS looked in detail at the evidence.

One of the largest concerns was PFAS chemicals’ ability to increase levels of cholesterol in the blood, potentially increasing heart disease risk. However, studies of people who have been chronically exposed to significant levels of PFOA have not shown statistically significant increases in heart disease.

In 2018, the report from Australia’s expert health panel stated:

Evidence to date does not establish whether PFAS at exposure levels seen in Australia might increase risks of cardiovascular disease… Established risk factors … are likely to be of a much greater magnitude than those potentially caused by PFAS.

Cancer has also been a concern. However the expert panel found no consistent evidence that PFAS chemicals are associated with cancer. One study even found exposure to PFOA decreased the incidence of bowel cancer.

However, the impact of PFAS on human health is continuously reviewed as new evidence comes to light.

Why has Australia revised its drinking water guidelines?

Australia began to phase out PFAS chemicals in the early 2000s. Since then, the levels of PFAS detected in the Australian population have steadily dropped.

Now that industrial use is being phased out, the main way we are exposed to PFAS is through things like persistent environmental contamination. While drinking water is not a major source of PFAS, water can be contaminated from environmental sources, for example, if contaminated dust or ground water makes its way into reservoirs.

Most drinking water levels in Australia either have no detectable PFAS or are already below the new levels.
Juergen_Wallstabe/Shutterstock

The Australian Drinking Water Guidelines provide limits for how much PFAS is allowed to be in our drinking water.

The NHMRC periodically reviews the health evidence around PFAS used to develop these guidelines, which were last updated in 2018. The latest review looks at additional evidence available since then.

A few developments were of particular interest in this review: studies about the influence of PFAS on thyroid function. Altering thyroid function can be problematic because thyroid hormones regulate our metabolism, growth and development.

The International Agency for Cancer Research’s (IARC) recent ruling on PFAS and cancer also needed to be investigated. The IARC has classified PFOS – one of the four key chemicals Australia is regulating – as “possibly carcinogenic to humans”. However the IARC noted there was “inadequate” evidence PFOS directly causes any type of cancer in people.

This agency can rule on the probability that a chemical can cause cancer under any possible exposure, no matter how extreme. But it doesn’t evaluate the risk of cancer from ordinary exposure.

This means the NHMRC needed to reevaluate the evidence that the levels present in drinking water would constitute a risk.

What are the new PFAS limits?

The NHRMC considered evidence about PFAS exposure in animal studies, and by looking at human epidemiology.

In studies involving animals, the NHMRC review paid particular attention to what concentration of PFAS exposure had no effect on their health. This threshold is used to determine limits for humans, by adding a safety buffer usually a hundred times lower than the level that was safe for animals.

The limits are set are carefully considering the evidence about impact on human health, as well as evaluating how much PFAS exposure is likely from sources beyond drinking water, such as food and inhaled dust.

The proposed limits are:

Note: PFOS and PFHxS are now regulated separately.
NHMRC

These guidelines are unlikely to have a significant impact on health. As the NHMRC report shows, majority of potable water supplies in Australia have no detectable PFAS, or levels are already below these new limits.

For example, drinking water sampling for WaterNSW found PFOS levels were between 1.2ng/L and undectable. Similar results were found for PFHxS (between 1.4 and 0.1ng/L) and PFOA (basically undetectable).

While the concentration of PFAS in bores near contamination sites are higher, these are typically not used as sources of drinking water.

The Australian guidelines differ from some international guidelines. The draft guidelines note that different jurisdictions place different weighting on animal and human evidence, and this will affect these regulatory levels.

The draft guidelines are now open to public consultation, with submissions closing on November 22 2024. Final guidelines are expected to be released in April 2025.

Ian Musgrave has received funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council to study adverse reactions to herbal medicines and has previously been funded by the Australian Research Council to study potential natural product treatments for Alzheimer’s disease. He has collaborated with SA Water on studies of cyanobacterial toxins and their implication for drinking water quality.

– ref. Draft guidelines for ‘forever chemicals’ have been released. Here’s what it means for drinking water safety in Australia – https://theconversation.com/draft-guidelines-for-forever-chemicals-have-been-released-heres-what-it-means-for-drinking-water-safety-in-australia-241773

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: The Higher School of Business and Technology of the State University of Management invites you to Vladimir Tarasov’s business camp

MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

On November 7-10, 2024, a large business game will be held at the PSB Patriot Hotel on the territory of the Patriot Park – Vladimir Tarasov’s business camp “Skills of Unpredictability”, where the heads of the Higher School of Business and Technology of the State University of Management Sergey Vagin and Dmitry Ovodenko will act as experts.

Vladimir Tarasov’s Business Camp is a large business game that has no analogues in the world, which simulates the life of several game states, immerses more than a hundred people in it and in a few days significantly expands the business picture of the world and the strength of the personality of each participant.

The author of the program Vladimir Tarasov is an outstanding social technologist of our time, the creator of the foundations of management of the Soviet and Russian mentality, the developer of the system of selection and training of managers, which is used in Russia as an alternative to the Western school. The author of the popular trainings “Managerial Duel”, “Communication Spinner”, the business game “Organizer” and many others.

Experts from the Higher School of Business and Technology of the State University of Management: Advisor to the Rector’s Office, expert in knowledge management and organizational development, entrepreneur, Doctor of Economics, Professor Sergey Vagin and Director of the Higher School of Business and Technology, consultant in the field of effective communications, negotiations in marketing and sales, vice-champion of the Russian Championship in management fights Dmitry Ovodenko.

As a result of training under the program “Skills of Unpredictability” you will learn: – to negotiate, multiplying your interests; – to foresee the consequences of decisions in advance; – to build a structure and technology of production; – to delegate authority in conditions of acute time shortage.

From the first minute, a business camp participant lives in accelerated game time under a new name. Someone will be a minister, someone will be an owner of an enterprise. Everyone will have to manage something, make decisions quickly, conflict with and cooperate with other participants in the game. Production will be real, done by hand, management errors will lead to poverty, and the right decisions will create wealth. After the business camp, all its participants will see their activities in real life as if they had returned from a trip to the future.

Daily time for gaming and educational activities from 9:00 to 00:00 with partial possibility of individual time schedule.

The author of the program, Vladimir Tarasov, will be an honorary guest of the business camp.

You can find out more detailed information and register on the official website of the business camp or in Vladimir Tarasov’s Telegram channel.

Subscribe to the tg channel “Our State University” Announcement date: 10/21/2024

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

Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

The Higher School of Business and Technology of the State University of Management invites you to Vladimir Tarasov’s business camp

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MIL OSI Russia News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: HSE scientists presented developments related to the use of AI in medicine

MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

Artificial intelligence will not replace a doctor, but it can be a great assistant. At the same time, healthcare needs high-tech products that can quickly analyze and monitor the condition of patients. HSE scientists have used AI for preoperative planning and postoperative evaluation of results in spinal surgery and developed an automatic intelligent system for assessing the biomechanics of the arms and legs.

At the joint scientific seminar of the strategic project “AI technologies for humans” (as part of the Priority 2030 program), HSE scientists presented two developments related to the use of artificial intelligence in medical practice. This area is not new for the Higher School of Economics, noted HSE Vice-Rector Elena Odoevskaya in her opening remarks. Despite the fact that the university does not have educational programs in medicine, it still deals with medical products and plans to enter this market.

“In terms of goals and objectives, we must understand that this is a product, not just research. This means that we must have partners, including external ones, including industrial ones, and we must understand how this product will continue to live with us or without us. This is a question of how we implement it,” she emphasized.

Spine Marking App

The first report was devoted to the use of AI for preoperative planning and postoperative outcome assessment in spinal surgery. Chief Scientific Officer International Laboratory of Dynamic Systems and Applications (NRU HSE – Nizhny Novgorod) Vladimir Klinshov spoke about how computer vision technologies can improve the speed and quality of spinal X-ray analysis, helping to optimize the routine work of neurosurgeons. The working title of the product is VerteScan (from the word vertebra – vertebra). This is a service for viewing and analyzing X-ray images of the human spine, including an automatic marking system based on artificial intelligence. “We are making a specific and very utilitarian tool for automatic marking and analysis of spinal X-ray images. We want to relieve the doctor of a fairly routine part of his work, leaving him with the most important decisions. This product is made by surgeons for surgeons. This means that it will be intuitively understandable to doctors, it will be comfortable for them to use, and doctors will need it,” he said.

Spinal pathology accounts for 76% of patient visits to the neurological service, and 72% of visits result in temporary disability. Every year, more than a thousand surgical interventions on the spine are performed at the University Clinic of the Privolzhsky Research Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (PIMU — project partner).

VerteScan will help to determine the patient’s anatomy, the course of his disease, select the minimum permissible volume of surgical intervention, carry out a personalized selection of implants and surgical techniques to achieve the optimal result, and also predict the behavior of intact sections of the spine taking into account the change in biomechanics as a result of the intervention.

“There are many options for performing surgical interventions for spinal diseases. And each of the possible approaches must be carefully planned. Adequate preparation will lead to an adequate result, when we can not only perform the tasks that we set before the operation, but also evaluate and prevent negative changes in adjacent segments of the spine. Using the basic tools of the service that are already working, we can evaluate the parameters unique to each person – for example, the sagittal balance of the spine. It will be possible to plan the installation of implants so as not to disturb these parameters if they are normal, or we will be able to predict how much we will correct these parameters, how much we will change the local anatomy in order to bring these values u200bu200bto normal and ensure a good quality of life for the patient,” explained the team’s neurosurgeon Anatoly Bulkin.

Key partners for the project may include medical institutions, manufacturers of medical implants, and professional associations of orthopedic and spinal surgeons. A free trial version of the software is planned to attract initial users and collect feedback, while premium features will be available by subscription or one-time payment.

If the surgical intervention on the spine is performed suboptimally, it will lead to rapid wear of the intact spinal motor segments, and the treatment result will be worse than the disease itself, said Andrey Bokov, head of the neurosurgery department at PMU.

“If you do not take into account all possible parameters, the patient feels well after the operation for the first few years at most, and then decompensation sets in. This person is on sick leave for a long time, he is excluded from social life. This burden is sometimes even heavier than a life-threatening disease. Relatives who care for a patient with limited mobility are also involved. If we manage to reduce the percentage of such cases, the social effect will be very high,” he emphasized.

Physiotherapy under AI control

The second report was devoted to an automatic intelligent system designed to assess the biomechanics of the arms and legs. This system uses machine learning algorithms to analyze biomechanical data, which can significantly improve the diagnosis and rehabilitation of patients. It was presented by the project leader, research fellow Laboratory of Theory and Practice of Decision Support Systems of the Faculty of Informatics, Mathematics and Computer Science of the National Research University Higher School of Economics in Nizhny Novgorod Andrey Kovalchuk. He emphasized that diseases of the musculoskeletal system are called the non-infectious epidemic of the 21st century. A promising direction for the rehabilitation of patients with such pathologies is remote rehabilitation using digital technologies. This requires the presence of hardware and software systems (HSS) for video motion capture.

The PACs developed to date for remote motor rehabilitation have common drawbacks: high cost, complexity of operation, and the need for a doctor to be present at all times. This makes them inaccessible for mass use.

Remote rehabilitation will increase the number of patients per doctor by reducing the time of face-to-face interaction, but at the same time will improve the quality of service by transferring some of the doctor’s functionality to AI.

The patient will no longer need to visit a hospital, while maintaining a personalized approach and a flexible rehabilitation plan based on objectively measurable parameters.

“Within the framework of this project, it is planned to create a prototype of an automated system (mobile application) based on computer vision technology and designed for remote controlled rehabilitation of patients with musculoskeletal pathology, including after endoprosthetic surgery. With the help of this application, the doctor will be able to create an individual training program for the patient, and will also be able to control the following indicators: the ratio of correctly/incorrectly performed repetitions per session, the maximum, minimum and median joint flexion angles,” said Andrey Kovalchuk.

He emphasized that currently there are no domestic analogues of the mobile solution, and Western ones cannot be used in rehabilitation on the territory of the Russian Federation. The competitiveness of the system will be determined by its autonomy, efficiency and accessibility for a wide range of users, regardless of their location and financial status.

The application will not only collect and analyze video data of movement scenarios and transmit them to the doctor for monitoring and correction, but also interact with the user in real time through voice commands, voicing the mistakes and events made by the user.

Most neurological and orthopedic diseases are accompanied by movement disorders, said Anna Belova, head of the department of medical rehabilitation at PIMU, chief neurologist of the Ministry of Health of the Nizhny Novgorod Region. A patient discharged from the hospital should be regularly monitored by a doctor at home, do gymnastics for many months. But in reality, this does not happen due to a shortage of personnel. Therefore, the emphasis is placed on remote rehabilitation all over the world.

“The basis of recovery is not medication, it is not even surgery, it is therapeutic exercise. Movement is the basis of recovery, and not only for patients, but also for healthy people as they age. But these movements must be performed regularly and correctly – this is very important. For example, those who have undergone endoprosthetics should not perform a number of movements – for example, they cannot cross their legs, bend their knee more than 90 degrees, otherwise this will lead to dislocation of the joint. Therefore, this feedback for independent exercises is extremely important,” she explained.

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

Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

http://vvv.hse.ru/nevs/scene/977872653.html

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Richard Judge appointed new Chair of the VCA
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

New Chair has a strong track record of leading organisational transformation while embracing innovation and collaboration.
Today (21 October 2024) the Department for Transport has confirmed that Richard Judge has been appointed as the new Chair of the Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA).

Richard has extensive experience as a non-executive director, chair and former CEO of government agencies including the Health and Safety Executive and at the Insolvency Service. He has also worked with UK regulators and private sector businesses, delivering high value commercial and public services.

Operating at senior levels in government, Richard brings a strong track record of leading organisational transformation while embracing innovation and collaboration to improve how the Civil Service works.

Richard will be replacing Clive Scrivener, who has been Non-Executive Chair of the VCA since August 2018.

Transport Secretary Louise Haigh said:

As a former CEO of several government agencies, Richard brings a wealth of experience to ensure the VCA continues to improve vehicle safety and sustainability across our roads. I would like to congratulate him on his appointment and I’m looking forward to working with him.

I would also like to thank our outgoing Non-Executive Chair, Clive Scrivener, for all his excellent work in championing road safety at the VCA over the past 6 years.

New Non-Executive Chair of the VCA Richard Judge said:

I am delighted to have been appointed Non-Executive Chair of the VCA. I am excited by the opportunity to support this agency at such an interesting and pivotal time in the evolution of the automotive technologies.

I look forward to us all working collectively to ensure that the VCA continues to develop as a progressive and forward-thinking approval authority and certification body that is respected globally, using its extensive experience to help inform the future of transport.

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Published 21 October 2024
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Students from 22 countries and 24 universities united at the “Golden Autumn”

MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

On October 17, the final of the interethnic student festival “Golden Autumn – 2024” took place. The culture of 22 countries and republics was represented by 24 higher and secondary specialized educational institutions of St. Petersburg. The festival of creativity and diversity of cultures, organized by the Committee on Science and Higher Education of the city government, was hosted by Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University.

27 years ago, “Golden Autumn” was born in the Polytechnic University, the largest university in the city in terms of the number of foreign students. This year, the festival opened its doors to talented children from Russia, China, Angola, Indonesia, Belarus, Latvia, Gabon, Tanzania, Serbia, Slovakia, Vietnam, Zimbabwe, Lebanon, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Abkhazia, Mongolia, Moldova.

“Every year new and varied competitions appear, they are born and disappear, and the festival “Golden Autumn” with its 27-year history already has a quality mark! Our task, as a university of the wonderful city of St. Petersburg, is to preserve traditions and continuity through such competitions,” said Maxim Pasholikov, Vice-Rector for Youth Policy and Communication Technologies at SPbPU, at the opening. “”Golden Autumn” is a vivid confirmation of the fact that culture and creativity will always unite people, helping them find a common language and build harmonious relationships.”

Children from all over the world presented their talents on the stage of the White Hall of SPbPU, gave the audience the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of traditions and customs of different nations, introduced them to the amazing beauty and diversity of the cultural heritage of their countries. The jury members were representatives of national public organizations of St. Petersburg and higher educational institutions. They assessed the performances from the point of view of bright national color, originality of performance and artistry.

A song in the language of the African Shona people was performed by ITMO student from Zimbabwe Sauramba Yvonne Pamela, the national anthem of Angola was performed by Jose Santo Antonio Manuel, a student of the N. G. Kuznetsov Naval Academy. The fiery lezginka of the North Caucasus region was presented by the Drive ensemble from the St. Petersburg University of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and a male group of students from the Russian Customs Academy performed a Kyrgyz folk dance. Performers on the piano, clarinet, and accordion presented the musical culture of their countries in the Instrumental Music nomination. The jury highly appreciated the performance of the participant from Moldova, a student of the N. A. Rimsky-Korsakov St. Petersburg State Conservatory Lev Solomonovich.

“Thank you to the jury for the high rating! I received a sea of pleasure and emotions on the stage of the White Hall of the Polytechnic, performing the native music of my beloved Moldova,” Lev shared.

The best in the “Dance nomination” was recognized as the “Backshotcrew” team from the St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering. The guys presented modern choreography with folk and ethnic motifs. First place in the vocal nomination, which has the largest number of participants, was taken by Artem Stoyanov, a student of the P. F. Lesgaft National State University of Physical Education, Sports and Health. His baritone and the song “How Young We Were” captivated the jury.

“I have the most sincere words of gratitude to the organizers of “Golden Autumn” for the wonderful creative atmosphere. I am amazed by the level and scale of the festival, I am grateful for the opportunity to take part in the event, and thank you to the jury for the high rating,” said Artem.

The Polytechnic was represented by vocalist Ilham Maulana from Indonesia, as well as a group of students from Vietnam, who received the audience award for their dance. The multinational rock group “Secret Scarlet” opened the non-competitive program of the festival.

The winners and prize-winners of the “Golden Autumn” were presented with memorable gifts from the Committee on Science and Higher Education of the Government of St. Petersburg. These were statuettes in the form of gold, silver and bronze maple leaves and certificates for visiting cultural events. The festival finale ended with a joint performance of the song “Closing the Circle”. All participants once again proved that music is a universal language that transcends borders and national barriers, making the world brighter and kinder.

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

Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

http://www.spbstu.ru/media/nevs/culture/students-22-countries-from-24-universities-united-golden-autumn/

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Ignored, blamed, and sometimes left to die – a leading expert in ME explains the origins of a modern medical ‘scandal’
Source: The Conversation – UK – By Chris Ponting, Chair of Medical Bioinformatics, University of Edinburgh

Lea Aring/German Association for ME/CFS

There is a city nearby that we hide from view. Its people are of all ages, ethnicities and classes. What unites them is a disease: all are diagnosed with myalgic encephalomyelitis, or ME.

We hide them there because we don’t know where else to put them. Like a plague village, we have no plans to treat them, to study their disease or to trial possible drugs for them. We could choose to draw up such plans, to give the residents hope for their future health. But our country’s choice is to turn away and forget about these 250,000-plus inhabitants altogether. A city the size of Brighton that we deliberately ignore.

Worse, when we don’t ignore them, we blame them, telling them that they are all free to rise from their beds and wheelchairs, to walk away from the city. Doctors tell them they can free themselves of the disease by changing their belief systems. Make the effort, they say, and you will regain your health and previous lives.

This article is part of Conversation Insights.

Our co-editors commission long-form journalism, working with academics from many different backgrounds who are engaged in projects aimed at tackling societal and scientific challenges.

Outwardly, the city is quiet: its clocks have stopped, the streets are empty and house blinds are drawn. Inwardly, some lie still in their darkened rooms, masks on to protect them from their light sensitivity, keeping within their limited energy level, unable to tolerate sound, food and touch – lives spent in the shadows, barely lived. Inside, they feel like they have life-sapping toxins coursing through their veins. They say it feels like being on the verge of death; some even call it a “pseudo dying syndrome”.

A brief conversation with a friend, or washing their hair, or a sudden movement causes their symptoms to flare. This intensifies a fatigue that sleep cannot alleviate, and heightens their muscle or joint pain, headaches, or sensitivities to food, light or sound.

Simon McGrath, a close friend of mine who has lived with ME and written about it for 20 years, tells me:

I never know how much it is safe for me to do. It’s like I’m surrounded by an electric fence that will trigger a bad day if I touch it. But the fence is invisible, and moves every day.

A ‘scandal’ so much more than chronic fatigue

Fatigue does not begin to describe this disease, despite its other name being chronic fatigue syndrome, or CFS. “A bad day is like a very bad hangover lasting 24 hours or more: the morning after, without the night before,” Simon explains. “But with much more pain, much more fatigue and very bad brain fog. I feel as if all the neurons in my skull have collapsed and disconnected from each other.” By spotlighting fatigue, ME’s other name fails to convey its many debilitating symptoms.

Simon – or, rather, his illness – is why I am a ME researcher. At university, where we met, he graduated with a biochemistry degree, fizzing with energy and talent. His ME soon dimmed his bright future but would not stop him making a difference to the ME community through his writing, and in helping me understand this horrible disease.

Treatment of ME has been called “the greatest medical scandal of the 21st century” by Guardian journalist George Monbiot. It is difficult to disagree when there is not a single bed anywhere in the UK set aside for treating people with severe ME.

The Times journalist, Sean O’Neill, says that ME is “routinely stigmatised and ignored by the NHS” and calls it “a scandal waiting for its Post Office moment”. O’Neill and his family had to endure the inquest into the death of his daughter, Maeve Boothby O’Neill, who died from natural causes because of severe ME.

Maeve’s ME left her unable to move, communicate or tolerate light, sound or touch. She did not want to go to hospital because, according to her GP, she “always gets worse when [she] goes in”.

Why is it that we give the least or worst treatments to those who are most in need?

Exile and misogyny

ME exiles people from their family, friends, and hoped-for futures. For most, this banishment is for life because nine in ten will never recover, and also because we expend too little effort to end this wicked disease.

That’s the irony – it’s society’s lack of effort to understand this illness and its treatment; our societal inertia; our failure to accept patients’ symptoms that perpetuate their exile.

So let’s attempt to diagnose what causes our apathy towards this cruel disease. The chief cause is misogyny, an ingrained prejudice born of the disease’s strong female bias: for every five women living with ME, there is only one man. It also has a strong age bias – young men are ten times less likely to be diagnosed with it than older women.

Another female-dominant disease is endometriosis. Like ME, the medical establishment is only just starting to appreciate the full nature of this debilitating condition.

In her memoir, Giving up the Ghost, the prize-winning novelist Hilary Mantel said of her endometriosis: “The more I said that I had a physical illness, the more they said I had a mental illness. The more I questioned the nature, the reality of the mental illness, the more I was found to be in denial, deluded.”

ME patients also report feeling that their concerns and symptoms are all too often dismissed.

Women with ME have spoken about their experiences of medical misogyny. For example, I talked to the Vikings actress Jennie Jacques who has spoken openly about her experiences of ME. She said that “Medical misogyny [is] at the heart of it. ME was psychologised when it most definitely shouldn’t have been”.

Soon after the World Health Organization recognised ME as a disease in 1969, the Royal Free Hospital ME outbreak of 1955 was re-evaluated by two psychiatrists, Colin McEvedy and William Beard. They reassessed this outbreak as “an epidemic of hysteria” principally because there was a “high attack rate in females compared with males”.

When later asked by ME specialist Byron Hyde MD “why had he written up the Free Hospital epidemics as hysteria without any careful exploration of the basis of his thesis?”, McEvedy responded devastatingly, saying: “It was an easy PhD, why not?”

This explains in part why the state invests a mere £3 per ME patient each year on researching this disease.

In the US, female-biased conditions attract less funding than male-biased ones. Funding for ME is 400-times less than for HIV/Aids, a male-biased disease, once their different disease burdens are accounted for.

In 2021, the previous UK government acknowledged the problem stating: “Studies suggest gender biases in clinical trials and research are contributing to worse health outcomes for women.”

COVID empathy?

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic should have woken us up from our collective lethargy, and should have turned apathy into empathy. For then there were times when we all became housebound, often sick with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, and moreover so many of us – a million people, more than Liverpool and Manchester combined – came down with Long COVID.

Long COVID and ME share so many symptoms: post-exertional malaise, fatigue, widespread pain, disordered sleep, and brain fog. This overlap should never have surprised us – after all, two-thirds of people with ME report having had a triggering infection, such as glandular fever, just prior to their initial symptoms. Around 10% of people with glandular fever go on to develop ME symptoms.

It is as if we have our own brain fog, obscuring everyone with ME, forgetting how we – if fortune had been different – might have been them.

If we do not act to reduce the spread of infection, through immunisation and better ventilation, then numbers of people with long COVID – and other ME-like illnesses – will continue to rise, as infections so often trigger these conditions.

Read more:
Long COVID: effects on fatigue and quality of life can be comparable to some cancers – new research

Harmful treatments

Going back to Simon, ME made him housebound, then bedbound. The NHS treated him with therapies based on increasing activity levels (Graded Exercise Therapy, or GET). This involves “gradually increasing physical activity to improve fitness and get the body used to activity again”.

The other NHS treatment approach, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), is about changing “illness beliefs”. Here, patients are asked to examine “how thoughts, behaviour and CFS/ME symptoms interact with each other”.

But these treatments are ineffective as cures. And worse still, for the majority of 11,000 people with ME on one survey, GET did more harm then good.

In a different online survey, of 542 ME patients, 81% responded that their symptoms worsened because of GET treatment. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines, revised in 2021, say that CBT is not curative and that GET should not be offered to people with ME. Yet this new guidance has been implemented by only 28% of English NHS Trusts and Integrated Care Boards.

So, despite GET being described by patients as causing harm, and CBT as being ineffective as a cure, they are still being offered as a treatment. Over decades, very little has changed for Simon and hundreds of thousands of others with ME.

As we grew older together, Simon watched as I changed scientific career from physics into biology. I watched as his health might begin to rebuild, before suddenly collapsing, setting him back months or years. His ME has cost so much, he told me:

It’s so isolating and there’s so much loss. I got ill in the prime of life. It cost me relationships, my social life, my career, the chance of a family, the chance to contribute. Everything. Plenty of people seem to think it’s a lifestyle choice. Nobody would choose this.

As if his ME burden was not heavy enough, he started to carry other long-term health conditions, which each alone would bring me to my knees. Even though he does not feel it, I see his strength and resolution in adversity. At a time when biomedical evidence was rarely championed, he began his ME blog, and together with co-authors re-analysed clinical trial data. They concluded that the “recovery rates in the CBT and GET groups were not significantly higher than those in the control, no-therapy group”.

His own experience of ME, and his scientific eye-for-detail, make him a go-to person for people in the ME community.

In contrast, by 2013, and despite my decades of scientific training and academic privileges, I had done nothing for ME research. Why did I hesitate? “It’s not my scientific area,” I told myself. I trusted other researchers to identify effective and potentially curative treatments soon.

I was unprepared for the shock of my first ME research meetings. When studying other diseases, I had become used to vast conference halls brimming with celebrated scientists, enthusiastic PhD students, science prize winners, funders, and journal editors, all on the hunt for the next big breakthrough, grant or career opportunity.

For ME, however, the rooms were small and half-empty, funders and journal editors were nowhere to be seen, and researchers were talking at cross-purposes, showing sparse data from small-scale studies. These meetings were also empty of robust evidence for what physiologically had gone wrong for so many. At each meeting, a single word came to my mind: “forsaken” – those who others shun, neglect and abandon, whose existence is denied. I could not then, in all conscience, turn my back and walk away.

Not once have I regretted this decision. Its professional cost – measured in traditional markers of esteem, such as “glamour” publications, international conference and seminar invitations – has been more than offset by the fulfilment from working in this long-neglected field.

The extent of scientific disinterest in ME is clear: so far this year, there have been 17-times more publications mentioning “multiple sclerosis” than those mentioning ME or CFS, despite MS being rarer.

New study

My privilege now is to walk ME’s city of stolen futures alongside many people – like Simon – whose lost decades have been spent searching for their disease’s root causes. Together, for two-and-a-half years our team went back-and-forth with the Medical Research Council MRC and the National Institute for Health and Care Research NIHR. Eventually, we managed to secure a £3.2m award for DecodeME, a hunt for ME’s genetic causes.

DecodeME is not just the world’s largest study of the genetic causes of ME, but it was the first to place people with experience of ME at its heart. A total of 27,000 people with ME in the UK took part. We will report the study’s results as soon as we can. When we do, we will give them back first to the ME community whose data and samples we hold in trust.

The UK government has pledged to publish its delivery plan on ME in 2025. Andrew Gwynne MP, parliamentary under-secretary of state at the Department of Health and Social Care, has said that it “will focus on boosting research, improving attitudes and education and bettering the lives of people with this debilitating disease”.

This delivery plan will need to be radical.

Today, we urgently need more people to move through this city of lost hope to hear and to listen.

We need scientists to develop new vaccines against infections that trigger ME.

We need researchers, clinical specialists, hospital managers, and politicians to give deserved priority to this long-forsaken community and help lead these long-lost inhabitants back into the land of the well.

For you: more from our Insights series:
To hear about new Insights articles, join the hundreds of thousands of people who value The Conversation’s evidence-based news. Subscribe to our newsletter.

Chris Ponting’s research has been funded by MRC, NIHR, Action for M.E. and ME Research UK.

– ref. Ignored, blamed, and sometimes left to die – a leading expert in ME explains the origins of a modern medical ‘scandal’ – https://theconversation.com/ignored-blamed-and-sometimes-left-to-die-a-leading-expert-in-me-explains-the-origins-of-a-modern-medical-scandal-241149
MIL OSI – Global Reports –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Microsoft and NVIDIA empower AI startups for health and life sciences breakthroughs
Source: Microsoft

Headline: Microsoft and NVIDIA empower AI startups for health and life sciences breakthroughs

AI isn’t just changing the game- it’s rewriting the rules of innovation. With advanced machine learning models and data-driven insights, we’re on the brink of breakthroughs in health and life sciences that once seemed impossible. Imagine accelerating drug discovery, connecting care experiences, and personalizing medicine like never before. AI is our chance to tackle some of the biggest health challenges facing humanity.

But health and life science startups can run into roadblocks when it comes to driving innovation. Building AI solutions isn’t something you can do in isolation. Founders often hit walls with limited access to GPUs and the high costs of training models, tweaking them, running tests, and everything else it takes to get a solution off the ground. Today, we’re excited to announce that Microsoft for Startups and NVIDIA Inception are joining forces to fuel AI-driven health and life sciences startups.

Empowering Health and Life Sciences Startups to Make a Difference

Microsoft for Startups and NVIDIA Inception exist to empower early-stage companies by providing them with the resources, technology, and expertise needed to build and scale their businesses. Microsoft for Startups focuses on helping startups leverage Microsoft’s cloud infrastructure, AI tools, and go-to-market support, enabling founders to overcome challenges like scaling their solutions globally and accessing enterprise customers. NVIDIA Inception offers startups in AI, data science, and deep learning access to cutting-edge GPU technology and mentorship, helping them address complex technical hurdles in product development and achieve breakthroughs in high-impact industries such as healthcare, robotics, and autonomous driving. Both programs have been instrumental in removing barriers to innovation, accelerating time-to-market, and helping tens of thousands of startups. This collaboration combines Microsoft’s cloud and enterprise expertise with NVIDIA’s pioneering advancements in AI hardware and software. Together, we are introducing a new reciprocal program to provide health and life sciences startups with the tools, resources, and support they need to fast track their ideas and deliver life-changing outcomes.

Accepted startups will have access to the following suite of benefits:

Microsoft for Startups:
- Up to $150,000 in Azure Credits for Four Years: Startups can apply these credits towards leading AI models, including Azure OpenAI Service, Meta’s Llama, and Microsoft’s own small language model, Phi—enabling rapid and efficient scaling using cloud services tailored for AI, big data, and healthcare applications.
- Access to Microsoft Business Tools: Including productivity and development tools such as Microsoft 365, Visual Studio, and GitHub, along with dozens of discounts to startup-friendly offerings from our trusted partners like LinkedIn.
- High-Touch Technical Support: Startups will receive personalized guidance from a Microsoft technical expert, who will work directly with a corresponding NVIDIA technical expert to build optimized Azure templates for leveraging the full NVIDIA technology stack.
- GTM and Pegasus Program Access: Microsoft will provide prioritized access to its Pegasus program, which offers go-to-market support, access to Microsoft’s global sales teams, and strategic co-selling opportunities.
NVIDIA Inception:
- 10,000 ai.nvidia.com Credits: Startups will have access to a wealth of GPU resources and AI models, enabling them to train and optimize complex models more cost-effectively.
- 75% Discount on NVIDIA AI Enterprise Stack: This ensures that startups can leverage the complete NVIDIA suite for developing, deploying, and managing AI models.
- Dedicated Technical Support: A specialized technical resource will collaborate closely with Microsoft to evangelize the NVIDIA AI Enterprise stack and co-develop Azure templates for NVIDIA technology.
- Exclusive Early Access: Startups will gain private access to new NVIDIA Healthcare products before general release, allowing them to incorporate the latest advancements in their solutions.
Unleashing the Potential of AI in Health and Life Sciences

The collaboration between Microsoft for Startups and NVIDIA Inception is a launchpad for startups eager to harness AI’s potential in health and life sciences. We’re not just supporting growth; we’re igniting a movement where startups can redefine healthcare’s future.

What Health and Life Sciences Startups Are Saying

“Working with both Microsoft for Startups and NVIDIA Inception has been transformative for Pangaea Data. By combining their resources and access to cutting-edge AI models, we are able to accelerate development and deliver real-world value to our joint customers. Leveraging AI tools from Microsoft and NVIDIA, we apply clinical guidelines to find previously overlooked patients at the point of care who need treatment or access to clinical trials, ultimately improving patient outcomes.” — Dr. Vibhor Gupta, Founder & CEO, Pangaea Data.

“Collaborating with Microsoft for Startups and NVIDIA Inception represents an incredible opportunity for Artisight to elevate healthcare delivery. By leveraging their combined resources and cutting-edge AI capabilities, we can transform productivity for healthcare providers and deliver meaningful outcomes to our customers. This partnership enables us to scale our smart hospital solutions more rapidly, from operating rooms to patient rooms, ultimately creating a future where technology empowers clinicians to focus more on patient care and less on operational hurdles.” — Andrew Gostine, Co-founder & CEO, Artisight.

Ready to join us?

If you’re a health and life sciences startup looking to harness the full potential of AI to shape the future of health innovation, we invite you to explore this reciprocal program, available to eligible startups in either Microsoft for Startups or NVIDIA Inception. Learn more about our collaboration and apply today to be part of the AI revolution with Microsoft and NVIDIA.

Apply today:

NVIDIA Inception

Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub

Tags: Health and Life Sciences, Healthcare, HLTH, HLTH 2024, NVIDIA Inception
MIL OSI Economics –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: NCDHHS Provides Free Well Disinfection, Well Water Collection Kits to Communities Impacted by Hurricane Helene
Source: US State of North Carolina

Headline: NCDHHS Provides Free Well Disinfection, Well Water Collection Kits to Communities Impacted by Hurricane Helene

NCDHHS Provides Free Well Disinfection, Well Water Collection Kits to Communities Impacted by Hurricane Helene
hejones1
Tue, 10/22/2024 – 11:23
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services today announced free well disinfection and well water collection kits are available for communities impacted by Hurricane Helene. Local health departments in western North Carolina will distribute kits for households with private wells that were flooded or damaged by the storm.

Excessive rain and flooding can cause water in private wells to become contaminated, meaning the water can make people sick if it is consumed. After a flood, private wells must be assessed for damage, repaired, disinfected and tested before use to ensure the water is safe. It is critical people do not drink or use water from a private well that has been damaged or flooded until it has been properly disinfected and tested after the storm.

The NCDHHS Division of Public Health has assembled well disinfection and well water collection kits for distribution through select local health departments. Private well owners living in the communities served by the following local health departments who have flooded or damaged wells can pick up free kits beginning Tuesday, Oct. 22. Participating local health departments include:
- AppHealthCare – Alleghany location: 157 Health Services Road, Sparta, NC 28675
- AppHealthCare – Ashe Environmental Health Building: 626 Ashe Central School Road, Jefferson, NC 28640
- AppHealthCare – Watauga location: 126 Poplar Grove Connector, Boone, NC 28607
- Burke County Health Department: 700 E. Parker Road, Morganton, NC 28655
- Buncombe County Health Department – Environmental Health Building: 30 Valley St., Asheville, NC 28801
- Caldwell County Health Department: 2345 Morganton Blvd., Lenoir, NC, 28645
- Cherokee County Health Department: 228 Hilton St., Murphy, NC 28906
- Haywood County Environmental Health: 157 Paragon Parkway, Suite 200, Clyde, NC 28721
- Henderson County Health Department: 1200 Spartanburg Highway, Suite 100, Hendersonville NC 28792
- Madison – Environmental Health Building: 5707 US-25, Marshall, NC 28753
- Toe River Health District – Mitchell location: 130 Forest Service Drive, Bakersville, NC 28705
- Toe River Health District – Avery location: 545 Schultz Circle, Newland, NC 28657
- Yancey County Health Department: 202 Medical Campus Drive, Burnsville, NC 28714
Each well kit includes the necessary supplies to disinfect and collect a well water sample for testing, including step-by-step instructions. Flooded or damaged wells must be disinfected first before collecting a sample for testing. Private well owners should return the sample back to their local health department for testing. The local health department or testing lab will provide results back as quickly as possible. Private well owners who live in an impacted area not listed above should contact their local health department for well disinfection and testing assistance.

For help understanding test results, use the online Be Well Informed tool (select North Carolina) or contact the NCDHHS-DPH Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch at 919-707-5900 or oeeb@dhhs.nc.gov.

Well disinfection and well water collection kits can be picked up at the following dates and times:
- Oct. 22-24, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Oct. 28-31, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Additional dates and times will be provided by the local health departments.

For information regarding Hurricane Helene including additional resources and flexibilities in place, please go to www.ncdps.gov/Helene and www.ncdhhs.gov/helene.

El Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte (NCDHHS, por sus siglas en inglés) anunció hoy que hay kits gratuitos de desinfección y recolección de agua de pozo disponibles para las comunidades afectadas por el huracán Helene. Los departamentos de salud locales en el oeste de Carolina del Norte distribuirán kits para hogares con pozos privados que fueron inundados o dañados por la tormenta.

El exceso de lluvia y las inundaciones pueden contaminar el agua de los pozos privados, lo que significa que el agua puede enfermar a las personas si se consume. Después de una inundación, los pozos privados deben ser evaluados para detectar daños, reparados, desinfectados y analizados antes de su uso para garantizar que el agua sea segura. Es fundamental que las personas no beban ni usen agua de un pozo privado que haya sido dañado o inundado hasta que haya sido desinfectado y analizado adecuadamente después de la tormenta.

La División de Salud Pública del NCDHHS ha reunido kits de desinfección y recolección de agua de pozo para su distribución a través de departamentos de salud locales seleccionados. Los propietarios de pozos privados que viven en las comunidades atendidas por los siguientes departamentos de salud locales con pozos dañados o inundados pueden recoger kits gratuitos a partir del martes 22 de octubre. Los departamentos de salud locales participantes incluyen:
- AppHealthCare – Ubicación en Alleghany: 157 Health Services Road, Sparta, NC 28675
- AppHealthCare – Edificio de Salud Ambiental de Ashe: 626 Ashe Central School Road, Jefferson, NC 28640
- AppHealthCare – Ubicación en Watauga: 126 Poplar Grove Connector, Boone, NC 28607
- Departamento de Salud del condado de Burke: 700 E. Parker Road, Morganton, NC 28655
- Departamento de Salud del condado de Buncombe – Edificio de Salud Ambiental: 30 Valley St., Asheville, NC 28801
- Departamento de Salud del condado de Caldwell: 2345 Morganton Blvd., Lenoir, NC, 28645
- Departamento de Salud del condado de Cherokee: 228 Hilton St., Murphy, NC 28906
- Salud Ambiental del condado de Haywood: 157 Paragon Parkway, Suite 200, Clyde, NC 28721
- Departamento de Salud del condado de Henderson: 1200 Spartanburg Highway, Suite 100, Hendersonville NC 28792
- Madison – Edificio de Salud Ambiental: 5707 US-25, Marshall, NC 28753
- Distrito de Salud Toe River – Ubicación en Mitchell: 130 Forest Service Drive, Bakersville, NC 28705
- Distrito de Salud Toe River– Ubicación en Avery: 545 Schultz Circle, Newland, NC 28657
- Departamento de Salud del condado de Yancey: 202 Medical Campus Drive, Burnsville, NC 28714
Cada kit de pozo incluye los suministros necesarios para desinfectar y recolectar una muestra de agua de pozo para su análisis, incluidas las instrucciones paso a paso. Los pozos inundados o dañados deben desinfectarse primero antes de recoger una muestra para su análisis. Los propietarios de pozos privados deben devolver la muestra a su departamento de salud local para su análisis. El departamento de salud local o el laboratorio de pruebas proporcionarán los resultados lo más rápido posible. Los propietarios de pozos privados que viven en una zona afectada no mencionada anteriormente deben ponerse en contacto con su departamento de salud local para obtener asistencia con la desinfección y las pruebas de los pozos.

Para obtener ayuda para comprender los resultados de las pruebas, use la herramienta en línea Be Well Informed (seleccione Carolina del Norte) o comuníquese con la Sección de Epidemiología Ocupacional y Ambiental del NCDHHS-DPH al 919-707-5900 o oeeb@dhhs.nc.gov.

Los kits de desinfección y recolección de agua de pozo se pueden recoger en las siguientes fechas y horas:
- Octubre 22-24, 9 a.m. a 3 p.m.
- Octubre 28-31, 9 a.m. a 3 p.m.
Los departamentos de salud locales proporcionarán fechas y horas adicionales.

Para obtener información sobre el huracán Helene, incluidos los recursos adicionales y las flexibilidades vigentes, visite http://www.ncdps.gov/Helene y http://www.ncdhhs.gov/helene.
Oct 22, 2024

MIL OSI USA News –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: San Diego Physician and Medical Practice Pay $3.8 Million to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations

Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

SAN DIEGO – Dr. Janette J. Gray of San Diego and her former medical practice, The Center for Health & Wellbeing in San Diego, have agreed to pay $3.8 million to settle allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by knowingly submitting false claims to the Medicare and TRICARE programs.

Dr. Gray and The Center claimed to operate an “alternative,” “integrative,” and “holistic” clinic, which was staffed by medical doctors, nurse practitioners, naturopathic doctors, chiropractors, acupuncturists, and mental health professionals, along with ancillary medical and administrative staff. Dr. Gray and The Center promoted IV infusion therapy, hormone/supplement therapy, and a variety of other alternative treatments.

The settlement resolves allegations that from 2012 to 2022, Dr. Gray and her practice billed Medicare and TRICARE for services that were not covered under either program by disguising the rendering provider, misrepresenting the services provided, “unbundling” services (by billing for a procedure or service in separate parts instead of a single code), or billing for services not medically necessary. In addition to paying $3.8 million to resolve the allegations, Dr. Gray will now be excluded from participating in Medicare, Medicaid, and all other Federal health care programs for five years.

“There’s no price tag on the integrity of our healthcare system,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “When a doctor engages in billing fraud, we will protect patients and taxpayers from deceit.”

“The civil settlement holds Dr. Gray and her former medical practice accountable for questionable actions that circumvented the TRICARE billing guidelines and allowed them to receive payments for services that should not have been reimbursed by TRICARE, costing American taxpayers millions of dollars,” said Bryan D. Denny, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Western Field Office. “DCIS and its partners will always aggressively investigate those who defraud TRICARE, because those deceptive actions ultimately harm those defending our country and their families.”

“This investigation is proof that the FBI and its law enforcement partners remain committed to investigating and bringing to justice anyone who tries to violate the American health care system,” said FBI San Diego Acting Special Agent in Charge Houtan Moshrefi.

The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California; the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General; DCIS; and the FBI. This matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maritsa A. Flaherty.

The resolution of this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).

The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI: NNIT A/S: NNIT adjusts 2024 financial outlook
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NNIT adjusts the 2024 financial outlook and now expects organic revenue growth to be around 6-7% (previously around 10%) and the Group operating profit margin to reach 6-7% before special items (previously 8-9%) on the back of unsatisfactory performance in Q3. An uplift in Q4 is expected based on improved transparency and a solid backlog for the remainder of the year following recent important contract wins.

Based on preliminary and unaudited financial figures, NNIT generated Q3 2024 Group revenue of DKK 445 million (2023: DKK 453 million) and Group operating profit of DKK 17 million before special items (2023: DKK 26 million) corresponding to organic growth of -1.6% (2023: 11.1%) and a Group operating profit margin of 3.9% before special items (2023: 5.8%) in the quarter. For the first nine months of 2024, Group revenue was DKK 1,382 million (2023: DKK 1,290 million) with Group operating profit of DKK 73 million before special items (2023: DKK 72 million) for organic growth of 5.6% (2023: 11.3%) and a Group operating profit margin of 5.3% before special items (2023: 5.6%).

The outlook adjustment follows an unexpected revenue decline in Region Europe and Region US in Q3, which was impacted by a moderate market slowdown resulting in projects being postponed or put on hold, combined with prolonged challenges in the data migration business. As one of several levers to accelerate profitability in the second half of 2024, NNIT recalibrated capacity in both Europe and the US in Q3, and additional adjustments are made to align internal capacity with market demand. NNIT is executing as planned on the remaining initiatives already taken to accelerate profitability, which include securing important wins in the US and Europe, leveraging the full effect of the turnaround in Asia, completing crucial internal projects and benefiting from a lower cost run-rate after relocation of offices. These key levers are contributing positively to profitability in 2024 and beyond.

NNIT will publish the Q3 2024 trading statement on November 5, 2024 as planned.

Contact for further information
Carsten Ringius
EVP & CFO
Tel: +45 3077 8888
carr@nnit.com

Media relations
Tina Joanne Hindsbo
Media Relations Manager
Tel: +45 3077 9578
tnjh@nnit.com

NNIT is a leading provider of IT solutions to life sciences internationally, and to the public and enterprise sectors in Denmark

We focus on high complexity industries and thrive in environments where regulatory demands and complexity are high.

We advise and build sustainable digital solutions that work for the patients, citizens, employees, end users or customers.

We strive to build unmatched excellence in the industries we serve, and we use our domain expertise to represent a business first approach – strongly supported by a selection of partner technologies, but always driven by business needs rather than technology.

NNIT consists of group company NNIT A/S and subsidiaries SCALES, Excellis Health Solutions and SL Controls. Together, these companies employ more than 1,700 people in Europe, Asia and USA.

Read more at http://www.nnit.com

Attachment
- 7_2024 Company Announcement 22Oct24
The MIL Network –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Brooklyn Man Admits Conspiracy to Commit Child Sex Trafficking

Source: United States Department of Justice (Human Trafficking)

NEWARK, N.J. – A Brooklyn, New York, man today admitted his role in a conspiracy to commit child sex trafficking, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.

Soauib Butcher, 30, of Brooklyn, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Michael E. Farbiarz in Newark federal court to one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of a minor.

According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

In August 2019, Butcher brought the victim by train to New York City, where he instructed the victim to perform oral sex for money on a rooftop in Brooklyn. Several days later, Butcher brought the victim to Elizabeth, New Jersey, where, from August 2019 to January 2020, the victim stayed with Butcher and a conspirator in a series of motel rooms. The conspirator posted advertisements depicting the victim on escort websites and, together with Butcher, arranged for customers to come to the motels to have sex with the victim in exchange for money.

Conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of a minor carries a maximum term of life in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 19, 2025.

U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Nelson I. Delgado in Newark, with the investigation.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Katherine M. Romano of the Health Care Fraud Unit and Aaron L. Webman of the Economic Crimes Unit in Newark.

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Top comedian highlights the work of foster carers

Source: City of York

Published Tuesday, 22 October 2024

A top stand-up comedian highlighted the life-changing work that foster carers do in a gig in York earlier this month (13 October).

Kiri Pritchard McLean has spoken about her own experience as a foster carer for the first time during her current show, Peacock.

Better known nationally as the Star of 8 out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, Have I Got News For You and QI, as well as hosting Live at the Apollo and fronting the Radio 4 panel show Best Medicine, Kiri hasn’t even told the children in her care that she’s a comedian.

Cllr Bob Webb, the council’s Executive Member for Children and Young People, said:

It’s fantastic to see such a well-known and loved comedian like Kiri highlighting the life changing work foster carers do.

Fostering can be such a rewarding experience and we’d always welcome more foster carers in York to provide safe, loving homes for local children and young people. We welcome people from all backgrounds and we’d love to hear from anyone who thinks fostering might be for them.”

A York foster carer who attended the performance, said:

It’s great to see someone combining a high-profile role as a stand-up comedian with fostering, sharing their experiences with audiences across the country.

“Fostering certainly has its challenges, but the rewards from helping children and young people are life changing.”

For more information in fostering in York visit our fostering page, or call 01904 555678.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Expanding cardiac services in southern Alberta
Source: Government of Canada regional news

Alberta’s government is working to ensure Albertans living in southern Alberta have access to the cardiac services and care they need close to home. The planning work for a cardiac catheterization laboratory in Lethbridge has been underway since 2022 and is now complete. Alberta Health is moving the project forward to the next stage, which will define the project’s scope, schedule, budget and associated impacts.

“Residents in southern Alberta should not have to travel for comprehensive cardiac care. Expanding services and building a new cardiac catheterization lab will help residents access the services and treatments they need close to home.”

Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Health

Earlier this year, Alberta Health Services submitted a needs assessment for cardiac services in southern Alberta. Typically, the next step in the process would be to develop a business case to assess options to address the identified needs and gaps; however, the needs assessment for this project identified solutions within existing facilities and it was determined the project could advance to functional programming. This will expedite the project timelines by up to one year.

To date, government has approved $2 million to support project planning.

“Alberta Infrastructure is proud to work with our partner ministries to streamline project planning. We are looking forward to delivering the new cardiac catheterization lab at the Chinook Regional Hospital in a timely and cost-effective manner to improve access to vital cardiac services for residents in southern Alberta.”

Pete Guthrie, Minister of Infrastructure

The completed functional program will be used to inform capital funding discussions and decisions for future budget preparations.

Quick facts
- Compared with the provincial average, residents of southern Alberta are 30 per cent more likely to die from cardiac-related disease.
- The submitted needs assessment recommended the construction of new intensive care units at Chinook Regional Hospital and Medicine Hat Regional Hospital, and the development of interventional cardiac services in Lethbridge.
- The Health Facilities Capital Program Manual provides an overview of the provincial health capital planning process.
  - Project stages include clinical services plan, needs assessment, business case, functional program, and design and construction.
Related information
- Health Facilities Capital Program Manual
Related news
- Expanding cardiac care at Chinook Regional Hospital (April 12, 2023)
MIL OSI Canada News –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Leads Senators In Demanding Answers From Pfizer, Eli Lilly On New Telehealth Platforms Amid Concerns Of Inappropriate Prescribing

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
10.22.24
In Letters to Pfizer and Eli Lilly, Durbin, Sanders, Welch, and Warren request details about whether the companies’ new advertising & telehealth schemes create conflicts of interest that steer patients toward particular medications
CHICAGO – U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) sent a letter to the CEOs of Pfizer Inc. and Eli Lilly demanding answers about the pharmaceutical companies’ recent move to establish new direct-to-consumer (DTC) telehealth platforms. These new arrangements steer patients toward particular medications and create the potential for inappropriate prescribing that can increase spending for federal health care programs.
As Durbin notes in his letters, federal law, specifically the Anti-Kickback Statute, prohibits the willful payment of remuneration to induce patient referrals for Medicare or Medicaid-covered services or goods. Durbin requested additional information about the nature of Pfizer and Eli Lilly’s contracts with their chosen telehealth platforms, including the characteristics of the medical evaluation and whether the telehealth providers are pressured to prescribe Pfizer or Eli Lilly medications.
Along with Durbin, the letters were also signed by U.S. Senators Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) .
“Pfizer recently launched a new telehealth platform, PfizerForAll, that links patients interested in receiving specific medications with a health care provider who can virtually prescribe that medication… We write to learn more about the financial relationship between Pfizer and its chosen telehealth prescribers, given the potential implications for the federal Anti-Kickback Statute (AKS),” the Senators began their letter to Pfizer.
The United States is one of only two countries in the world that permit DTC advertising of prescription drugs, in part because this practice has been shown to increase patient demand for advertised drugs and the likelihood of a patient receiving a prescription for that drug. Pharmaceutical companies, including Pfizer, spend an estimated $6 billion annually on DTC advertising to boost patient demand for medications. As a result, a small number of prescription drugs advertised on television accounted for 58 percent of Medicare’s overall spending on prescription drugs between 2016 and 2018.
The Senators continued their letter, expressing his concern that Pfizer and Eli Lilly’s new telehealth platforms may be pressuring health care providers into prescribing their medications, which could violate federal law.
“The launch of Pfizer’s new telehealth platform, similar to an existing platform for the virtual prescribing of Nurtec, raises questions about the nature of Pfizer’s relationship with its hired telehealth prescribers and the potential for inducement of prescriptions payable by federal health care programs,” the Senators wrote in their letter to Pfizer.
“After describing Pfizer’s medications and the benefit they can have for patients, Pfizer’s telehealth platform provides a link for patients to ‘talk to a doctor now’ and fill prescriptions via an online pharmacy. This creates the impression that any patient interested in a particular medication can indeed receive it with just a few clicks, and the appearance of Pfizer’s approval that these chosen telehealth providers can ensure a patient receives the given medication,” the Senators wrote.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of the Inspector General (HHS OIG) has been wary of telehealth platforms, issuing a Special Fraud Alert in 2022 to warn health care practitioners of specific risks of schemes involving telehealth platforms that “intentionally paid physicians … kickbacks to generate … prescriptions for medically unnecessary … medications, resulting in submission of fraudulent claims to Medicare [and] Medicaid.” HHS OIG listed limited interaction with the purported patient, limited opportunity to review the patient’s medical records, and/or a directive to prescribe a preselected item, regardless of clinical appropriateness as potential fraudulent aspects of telehealth platforms’ arrangements with prescribers.
In their letter to Pfizer, the Senators points to a specific example of PfizerForAll engaging in behavior that HHS OIG warned about.
“The nature of the PfizerForAll platform appears to reflect many aspects of the HHS OIG warning for potential fraud. Unsurprisingly, a patient coming straight from Pfizer’s website to a telehealth appointment with a prescriber chosen by Pfizer is overwhelmingly more likely to ask for Pfizer’s medication. Further, that prescriber may have an incentive to prescribe such medication, whether or not it is medically necessary or clinically appropriate. Payments by Pfizer hold the potential to induce specific actions of the prescribing pen,” the Senators wrote.
The Senators continued, “These concerns are underscored by statements by Pfizer’s chosen prescribing contractor—Populus—for its Nurtec migraine medication. Populus’ co-founder claimed in reporting by STAT News that more than 90 percent of eligible patients receive a prescription for the brand of drug whose marketing they clicked on, further adding, ‘We’re driving prescriptions.’ Similarly, UpScriptHealth has advertised job openings to prescribers with the statement, ‘on average, providers can complete 6-10 visits an hour’ and by defining ‘a completed visit is either an approval or denial of prescription request,’ which raises concerns about the adequacy of the provider’s patient engagement, quality of medical review, and expected outcomes.”
The Senators concluded their letters to both Pfizer and Eli Lilly by requesting details about how the companies run their telehealth platforms and if patients are receiving adequate care rather than a hastily written prescription to a heavily-advertised medication produced by the pharmaceutical company.
Today’s letters are Durbin’s latest action in cracking down on excessive prescription drug advertising that can harm patients and increase prescription drug costs. Last November, Durbin took to the Senate floor to request unanimous consent for his bipartisan Drug-price Transparency for Consumers (DTC) Act, a bill that would require price disclosures on advertisements for prescription drugs in order to empower patients and reduce excessive spending on medications. Durbin also introduced the Protecting Patients from Deceptive Drug Ads Online Act, bipartisan legislation that would protect public health and close regulatory loopholes by having the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) address false and misleading prescription drug promotions by social media influencers and telehealth companies.
In May, Durbin chaired a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing entitled “Ensuring Affordable & Accessible Medications: Examining Competition in the Prescription Drug Market.” The hearing examined prescription drug prices, competition, and innovation, and how to ensure medications are accessible and affordable for American families.
In his role as Chair of the Judiciary Committee, Durbin also supported the advancement of a package of bills, which were reported unanimously out of Committee in February 2023, to lower prescription drug prices. The package included Durbin’s Interagency Patent Coordination and Improvement Act, which establishes an interagency task force between the United States Patent and Trademark Office and FDA for purposes of sharing information and providing technical assistance with respect to patents.
A copy of the letter to Eli Lilly is available here.
A copy of the letter to Pfizer is available here and below:
October 21, 2024
Dear Mr. Bourla:
            Pfizer recently launched a new telehealth platform, PfizerForAll, that links patients interested in receiving specific medications with a health care provider who can virtually prescribe that medication. This manufacturer-sponsored arrangement appears intended to steer patients toward particular medications and creates the potential for inappropriate prescribing that can increase spending for federal health care programs. We write to learn more about the financial relationship between Pfizer and its chosen telehealth prescribers, given the potential implications for the federal Anti-Kickback Statute (AKS).
            Direct-to-consumer (DTC) advertising of prescription drugs has been shown to increase both patient demand for specific medications and the likelihood of a patient receiving a prescription for that drug. Pharmaceutical manufacturers like Pfizer spend an estimated $6 billion annually in DTC advertising to boost patient awareness and demand for advertised medications. The U.S. is one of only two developed countries in the world that permits such health claims. The American Medical Association has stated, “direct-to-consumer advertising inflates demand for new and expensive drugs, even when these drugs may not be appropriate.”
            A recent study found that more than two-thirds of drugs advertised on television were considered “low added value.” This creates concern for taxpayers, as a review by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that the small number of prescription drugs advertised on television accounted for 58 percent of Medicare’s overall spending on prescription drugs between 2016-2018. For example, these DTC advertisements helped to balloon Medicare spending on Pfizer’s Xeljanz to more than $886 million in 2022.
            Telehealth can help to address barriers to care, including by expanding access for patients facing transportation barriers, helping to overcome stigma, and identifying providers when there may be workforce shortages. But those important aspects of care can be undermined without comprehensive services that ensure a thorough patient evaluation and follow-up, especially if there is any appearance of a conflict of interest for the treatment provider.
The launch of Pfizer’s telehealth platform, similar to an existing one for the virtual prescribing of Nurtec, raises questions about the nature of Pfizer’s relationship with its contracted telehealth prescribers and the potential for inducement of prescriptions payable by federal health programs. The Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of the Inspector General (HHS OIG) warns, “as a physician, you are an attractive target for kickback schemes because you can be a source of referrals for … health care … suppliers.” OIG adds, “many … companies want your patients’ business and would pay you to send that business their way.”
          After describing Pfizer’s medications and the benefit they can have for patients, Pfizer’s telehealth platform provides a link for patients to “talk to a doctor now” and fill prescriptions via an online pharmacy. This creates the impression that any patient interested in a particular medication can indeed receive it with just a few clicks, and the appearance of Pfizer’s approval that these chosen telehealth providers can ensure a patient receives the given medication.
In 2022, the HHS OIG issued a Special Fraud Alert to notify health care practitioners of the specific risks of schemes involving telehealth platforms that “intentionally paid physicians … kickbacks to generate … prescriptions for medically unnecessary … medications, resulting in submission of fraudulent claims to Medicare [and] Medicaid.” According to the HHS OIG, fraudulent aspects of these arrangements for prescribers may include: limited interaction with the purported patient, limited opportunity to review the patient’s medical records, and/or a directive to prescribe a preselected item, regardless of clinical appropriateness.
The nature of the PfizerForAll platform appears to reflect many aspects of the HHS OIG warning for potential fraud. Unsurprisingly, a patient coming straight from Pfizer’s website to a telehealth appointment with a prescriber chosen by Pfizer is overwhelmingly more likely to ask for Pfizer’s medication. Further, that prescriber may have an incentive to prescribe such medication, whether or not it is medically necessary or clinically appropriate. Payments by Pfizer hold the potential to induce specific actions of the prescribing pen.
These concerns are underscored by statements from Pfizer’s chosen prescribing contractor—Populus—for its Nurtec migraine medication. Populus’ co-founder claimed in reporting by STAT News that more than 90 percent of eligible patients receive a prescription for the brand of drug whose marketing they clicked on, further adding, “We’re driving prescriptions.” Similarly, UpScriptHealth has advertised job openings to prescribers with the statement, “on average, providers can complete 6-10 visits an hour” and by defining “a completed visit is either an approval or denial of prescription request,” which raises concerns about the adequacy of the provider’s patient engagement, quality of medical review, and expected outcomes.
To better understand the nature of Pfizer’s relationship with contracted telehealth prescribers, we request written responses to the following questions by November 25, 2024:
1.       Do Pfizer’s DTC advertisements for certain medications, including commercials on television or promotions on social media, direct consumers to PfizerForAll or the Nurtec/Populus page?
1.       How much has Pfizer spent on such advertisements in the most recent six-month period for which data is available?
2.       How much has Pfizer spent on disease awareness, continuing medical education activities, medical publications, patient advocacy/engagement, or other health promotion directed at prescribers or consumers for diseases related to medications listed on PfizerForAll or the Nurtec/Populus page in the most recent six-month period for which data is available?
2.       Are any forms of insurance excluded from eligibility or participation with PfizerForAll or the Nurtec/Populus page? Please list which types of insurance are not eligible to participate.
3.       Does Pfizer direct, encourage, or educate UpScriptHealth- or Populus-affiliated health care providers to prescribe Pfizer’s medications?
4.       Did Pfizer share, consult, or communicate with UpScriptHealth or Populus in creating the “discussion guide” for patients to speak with their Pfizer-linked telehealth provider?
5.       What is the average duration of the virtual health care visit between an UpScriptHealth- or Populus-affiliated health care provider and a patient who is connected to them via Pfizer’s website?
1.       After initially filling out information, are such visits always conducted via a video platform, or are there other options available?
6.       Do UpScriptHealth- or Populus-affiliated health care providers always review the medical history and records of a patient who is connected to them via Pfizer’s website? If so, please describe in detail how those records are accessed.
7.       How does Pfizer set the compensation paid to its telehealth partners? Please provide a copy of the terms of agreement between Pfizer and UpScriptHealth, and between Pfizer and Populus.
1.       Is Pfizer paying fair market value for the services of UpScriptHealth or Populus?
2.       Does Pfizer make a bonus payment to UpScriptHealth or Populus based on the number of prescriptions written, including refills?
3.       Does Pfizer contract with UpScriptHealth or Populus to furnish a certain number of prescriptions for certain medications?
4.       Would the UpScriptHealth- or Populus-affiliated health care provider have actual or constructive knowledge that a patient was referred to them via Pfizer’s telehealth platform?
5.       What metrics does Pfizer use to evaluate the performance of its contracts with UpScriptHealth and Populus and affiliated health care providers?
8.       What data is being provided by UpScriptHealth or Populus to Pfizer as part of these agreements? Please list all fields or categories of data being provided to Pfizer, including patient information, consumer behavior information, and marketing outcomes information.
9.       What role, if any, does Pfizer play in collecting, defraying, or otherwise interacting with the co-pay that is associated with the provider consultation on Pfizer’s telehealth platforms?
10.   Based upon prescribing or claims data that Pfizer has access to, how many prescriptions for a Pfizer medication have UpScriptHealth- or Populus-affiliated health care providers written in the most recent 30-day period for which Pfizer has available information?
11.   What percentage of consumers who meet virtually with an UpScriptHealth- or Populus-affiliated health care provider receive a prescription for a Pfizer medication?
1.       What percentage of such consumers receive a prescription for a medication manufactured by another brand-name company?
2.       What percentage of such consumers receive a prescription for a generic medication?
3.       What percentage of such consumers receive no prescription?
12.   How much revenue has Pfizer generated from these telehealth platforms in the most recent 30-day period for which Pfizer has available information?
13.   Outside of the contract terms with UpScriptHealth or Populus, please provide a list of all payments by Pfizer to each health care provider that is linked to via PfizerForAll over the past 12-month period, including for “speaking,” “consulting,” or other goods, fees, or services.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. We look forward to your response.
-30-

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Microsoft healthcare ransomware report highlights need for industry action
Source: Microsoft

Headline: Microsoft healthcare ransomware report highlights need for industry action

Healthcare organizations are an increasingly attractive target for threat actors. In a new Microsoft Threat Intelligence report, US healthcare at risk: strengthening resiliency against ransomware attacks, our researchers identified that ransomware continues to be among the most common and impactful cyberthreats targeting organizations. The report offers a holistic view of the healthcare threat landscape with a particular focus on ransomware attacks observed in recent years. By reading the report, healthcare organizations will gain insights that will help navigate these cyberthreats and understand how collective defense strategies can help improve protection and increase access to relevant threat intelligence.

Read Microsoft’s new report on healthcare security trends

Prior to 2020, there was an unspoken rule of threat actors to not launch attacks against schools and children, infrastructure, and healthcare organizations.¹ However, that “rule” no longer applies, and in the past four years the healthcare threat landscape has seen tremendous shifts for the worse.

To put this shift into context, consider these trends from the Microsoft Threat Intelligence report showing healthcare cybersecurity challenges:
- Healthcare is one of the top 10 most targeted industries in the second quarter of 2024²—and has been for the past four quarters.
- Ransomware attacks are costly, with healthcare organizations losing an average of $900,000 per day on downtime alone.³
- In a recent study, out of the 99 healthcare organizations that admitted to paying a ransom and disclosed the ransom paid, the average payment was $4.4 million.⁴
The serious impact of ransomware on healthcare

While the potential financial risk for healthcare organizations is high, lives are at stake because ransomware attacks impact patient outcomes. If healthcare providers are not able to use diagnostic equipment or access patient medical records because it’s under ransom, care will be disrupted.

Healthcare facilities located near hospitals that are impacted by ransomware are also affected because they experience a surge of patients needing care and are unable to support them in an urgent manner. As a result, patients can experience longer wait times, which studies show could lead to more severe stroke cases and heart attack cases.⁵

These attacks don’t just impact facilities in large cities; in fact, rural health clinics are also a target for cyberattacks. They are particularly vulnerable to ransomware incidents because they often have limited means to prevent and remediate security risks. This can be devastating for a community as these hospitals are often the only healthcare option for many miles in the communities they serve.

Why healthcare is an appealing target for threat actors

Healthcare organizations collect and store extremely sensitive data, which likely contributes to threat actors targeting them in ransomware attacks. However, a more significant reason these facilities are at risk is the potential for huge financial payouts. As referenced earlier, lives are at stake and healthcare facilities committed to patient care can’t risk poor patient outcomes if their systems are taken down. They also can’t risk their patients’ data being exposed if they don’t pay the ransom. That reputation for paying ransoms—for understandable reasons—makes them a target.

Healthcare facilities are also targeted because of their limited security resources and cybersecurity investments to defend against these threats compared to other sectors. Facilities often lack staff dedicated to cybersecurity and in fact, some facilities don’t have a chief information security officer (CISO) or dedicated security operations center at all. Instead, their IT department may be tasked with managing cybersecurity. Doctors, nurses, and healthcare staff may not have received any cybersecurity training or know the signs to look for to identify a phishing email.

Explore healthcare security trends in new Microsoft report

How cyber criminals target healthcare organizations

Financially motivated cyber criminals are using an evolving set of ransomware tactics on healthcare organizations. One common approach involves two steps. First, they gain access to an organization’s network, often using social engineering tactics through a phishing email or text. Then, they use that access to deploy ransomware to encrypt and lock healthcare systems and data so they can seek a ransom for their release.

“Once ransomware is deployed, attackers typically move quickly to encrypt critical systems and data, often within a matter of hours,” said Jack Mott of Microsoft Threat Intelligence in the Microsoft ransomware report. “They target essential infrastructure, such as patient records, diagnostic systems, and even billing operations, to maximize the impact and pressure on healthcare organizations to pay the ransom.”

Social engineering tactics often involve convincing the email recipient to act in ways they normally wouldn’t, such as clicking on an unknown link, and using the tactics of urgency, emotion, and habit. Social engineering fraud is a serious problem. In just this fiscal year, a staggering 389 healthcare institutions across the United States fell victim to ransomware attacks, according to the 2024 Microsoft Digital Defense Report.⁶ The aftermath was severe, resulting in network closures, offline systems, delays in critical medical operations, and rescheduled appointments.

Another common approach is ransomware as a service (RaaS), a cybercrime business model growing in popularity. The RaaS model is an agreement between an operator, who develops extortion tools, and an affiliate, who deploys the ransomware. Both parties benefit from a successful ransomware and extortion attack, and it’s “democratized access to sophisticated ransomware tools,” Mott said. This model enables cyber criminals without the means of developing their own tools to launch their nefarious activities. Sometimes, they may simply purchase network access from a cybercrime group that has already breached a network. RaaS severely widens the risk to healthcare organizations, making ransomware more accessible and frequent.

Cybercrime tactics continue to grow in sophistication. Microsoft is continually tracking the latest cybercrime threats to support our customers and increase the knowledge of the entire global community. These threats include actions by threat actor groups Vanilla Tempest and Sangria Tempest, which are known for their financially motivated criminal activities.

US healthcare at risk: Read the report

Take a collective defense approach to boost your cyber resilience and visibility

We recognize that not all organizations have a robust cybersecurity team or even the resources to enable a cybersecurity resilience strategy. This is why it is important for us as a community to come together and share best practices, tools, and guidance. We encourage your organization to collaborate with regional, national, and global healthcare organizations such as Health-ISAC (Information Sharing and Analysis Centers). The Health-ISAC provides healthcare organizations with platforms to exchange threat intelligence. Health-ISAC Chief Security Officer Errol Weiss says these organizations are like “virtual neighborhood watch programs,” sharing threat experiences and defense strategies.

It’s also important to foster a security-first mindset among healthcare staff. Dr. Christian Dameff and Dr. Jeff Tully, Co-directors of the University of California San Diego Center for Healthcare Cybersecurity, emphasize that breaking down silos between IT security teams, emergency managers, and clinical staff to develop cohesive incident response plans is key. They also recommend running high-fidelity clinical simulations that expose doctors and nurses to real-world cyberattack scenarios.

For rural hospitals that provide critical services to the communities they serve across the US, Microsoft created the Microsoft Cybersecurity Program for Rural Hospitals, which provides affordable access to Microsoft security solutions, builds cybersecurity capacity, and helps solve root challenges through innovation.

For healthcare organizations that have the resources, as part of this report we provide guidance on how to:
- Establish a robust governance framework.
- Create an incident response and detection plan. Then be prepared to execute it efficiently during an actual attack to minimize damage and ensure a quick recovery.
- Implement continuous monitoring and real-time detection capabilities.
- Educate your organization using our cybersecurity awareness and education #BeCyberSmart Kit.
- Harness more resilience strategies found in the report.
Given the serious cyberthreats against healthcare organizations, it’s critical to protect your assets by understanding the situation and taking steps to prevent it. For more details on the current healthcare cyberthreat landscape and ransomware threats, and for more in-depth guidance on boosting resilience, read the “US healthcare at risk: Strengthening resiliency against ransomware attacks” report and watch our healthcare threat intelligence briefing video, which is included in the report. To stay up-to-date on the latest threat intelligence insights and get actionable guidance for your security efforts, bookmark Microsoft Security Insider.

Learn more

To learn more about Microsoft Security solutions, visit our website. Bookmark the Security blog to keep up with our expert coverage on security matters. Also, follow us on LinkedIn (Microsoft Security) and X (@MSFTSecurity) for the latest news and updates on cybersecurity.

¹How to protect your networks from ransomware, justice.gov.

²Threat Landscape: Healthcare and Public Health Sector, April 2024. Microsoft Threat Intelligence.

³On average, healthcare organizations lose $900,000 per day to downtime from ransomware attacks, Comparitech. March 6, 2024.

⁴Healthcare Ransomware Attacks Continue to Increase in Number and Severity, The HIPAA Journal. September 2024.

⁵Ransomware Attack Associated With Disruptions at Adjacent Emergency Departments in the US, JAMA Network. May 8, 2023.

⁶Microsoft Digital Defense Report 2024.
MIL OSI Economics –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Social Security Administration Commissioner Martin O’Malley and NC Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley Celebrate 70th Anniversary of the NC Disability Determination Services Program

Source: US State of North Carolina

Headline: Social Security Administration Commissioner Martin O’Malley and NC Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley Celebrate 70th Anniversary of the NC Disability Determination Services Program

Social Security Administration Commissioner Martin O’Malley and NC Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley Celebrate 70th Anniversary of the NC Disability Determination Services Program
hejones1
Tue, 10/22/2024 – 10:59

North Carolina Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley will join state and federal leaders to celebrate the 70^th anniversary of the North Carolina Disability Determination Services Program on Wednesday, Oct. 23, at 4 p.m. at the Governor’s Mansion in Raleigh. The group will highlight the 70 years of teamwork in supporting North Carolinians who are applying for disability benefits. The North Carolina Disability Determination Services (NC DDS) is the seventh largest DDS in the nation and since 2002 NC DDS staff have assisted with more than 3.3 million disability applications for people in North Carolina.

North Carolina’s Disability Determination Services provides a safety net for people whose disabilities have left them unable to work. Staff receive applications from Social Security offices across the state and determine eligibility for Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income payments. Staff also determine eligibility for Medicaid disability benefits received from the state’s county departments of social services.

Credentialed media are invited to join Social Security Administration Commissioner Martin O’Malley and NC Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley along with other federal and state leaders for an event in honor of this 70^th anniversary. The year carries particular significance for the Social Security Administration Disability Program as the Social Security Amendment of 1954 established the first SSA definition of disability and that state agencies, in partnership with SSA, would make disability determinations.

What: 70^th Anniversary of the North Carolina Disability Determination Services Program

Who: Martin O’Malley, Commissioner, Social Security Administration
Kody H. Kinsley, Secretary, North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services
Deborah Ross, Congresswoman NC-District 02
Valerie Foushee, Congresswoman NC-District 04
Jacqueline Russell, Director, NC Disability Determination Services

Where: North Carolina Executive Mansion
200 N. Blount St.
Raleigh, NC 27601

When: Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2024
4 – 6 p.m.

Media: Officials will have an opportunity to answer questions from credentialed media on-site. Please RSVP to news@dhhs.nc.gov if you plan to attend.

Oct 22, 2024

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Moscow scientists have assessed diagnostic accuracy indicators for Russian and international artificial intelligence services

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Center for Diagnostics and Telemedicine

Moscow scientists have assessed the diagnostic accuracy of various artificial intelligence (AI) services for radiology. The recent study evaluated five AI algorithms, including three developed in Russia and two from India and South Korea. The study found that the Russian AI service demonstrated the highest accuracy in detecting pulmonary nodules, outperforming its foreign counterparts. Research results were published in the Chinese Journal of Quantitative Imaging in Medicine and Surgery.

Yuri Vasiliev, CEO of the Diagnostics and Telemedicine Center of the Moscow City Health Department, noted the importance of this achievement. “In a recent study involving Russian and foreign artificial intelligence (AI) services, our own AI solution demonstrated the highest accuracy in detecting lung nodules, ahead of similar solutions from India and South Korea. This achievement is a significant advance in our efforts to improve the quality of medical care.” Currently, radiologists use more than 50 AI services to interpret medical images, and in Moscow, more than 13 million studies have been analyzed using neural networks. The growing AI services market is constantly evolving with solutions that optimize the workload of medical workers while maintaining high standards of work,” Vasiliev said.

“We aim to provide doctors with tools that will not only make their work easier, but also improve the overall quality of medical care. To do this, we have developed a maturity matrix – a comprehensive tool designed to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of various artificial intelligence services. Since the end of 2022, our AI service has consistently occupied a leading position in the field of chest X-ray,” said Yuri Vasiliev.

The AI service, designed for automatic analysis of chest X-rays, currently identifies 14 signs of various pathologies. In addition, it calculates the cardiothoracic ratio and forms a comprehensive X-ray report.

“We have prepared a unique data set consisting of 100 radiographs, including 50 with confirmed pulmonary nodules and 50 without pulmonary nodules. Of these, 25 cases were found to have nodules that were initially questioned by radiologists, but were confirmed using computed tomography. At the same time, the presence of pulmonary nodules in all 50 studies was confirmed by computed tomography,” explained Kirill Arzamasov, head of the Department of Medical Informatics, Radiomics and Radiogenomics at the Center for Diagnostics and Telemedicine.

“The evaluation of AI services was carried out in three stages, at each stage the results were compared with the reference standard confirmed by CT studies. The results showed that the Russian AI service outperforms international analogues in all indicators of diagnostic accuracy.” The dataset is open source access on the website, which allows developers to independently assess the quality of AI services,” said Kirill Arzamasov, head of the Department of Medical Informatics, Radiomics and Radiogenomics at the Center for Diagnostics and Telemedicine of the Moscow Department of Healthcare.

This study is part of a larger experiment to introduce computer vision technologies into the Moscow healthcare system, which will start in 2020. With the support of the Moscow Social Development Complex and the Department of Information Technology, the project aims to promote innovation in the field of artificial intelligence, in particular by supporting developers.

The Diagnostics and Telemedicine Center, established in 1996, plays a leading role in the implementation of AI technologies in medicine in Russia. Its activities are aimed at the development of AI in medicine, the development of diagnostic images, the management of medical units, research and training of medical workers.

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI: Global Cancer Antibody Drug Conjugates Market Size Forecast 2030
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Delhi, Oct. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Global Cancer Antibody Drug Conjugates Market Size, Drugs Approval, Price, Sales & Clinical Trials Insight 2030 Report Finding & Inclusions:
- Global Cancer Antibody Drug Conjugates Market: 2020 – 2030
- Global Cancer Antibody Drug Conjugates Market Opportunity > US$ 50 Billion By 2030
- Approved Cancer Antibody Drug Conjugates: 16 Drugs
- Approved Cancer Antibody Drug Conjugates Sales Insights, Patent, Dosage & Price Analysis
- Cancer Antibody Drug Conjugates In Clinical Trials: > 500 Drugs
- Cancer Antibody Drug Conjugates Clinical Trials Insight By Company, Country, Indication & Phase
- Insight On Commercially Approved Antibody Drug Conjugates By Brand Name, Company & Indication
Download Report: https://www.kuickresearch.com/report-cancer-drug-conjugates-market-size

Combining the strong cytotoxic effects of chemotherapy drugs with the specificity of monoclonal antibodies, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) have become an innovative class of medicines. In 2001, Brentuximab vedotin (Adcetris) became the first ADC to be approved, primarily for the treatment of lymphoma. This signaled the start of a new era in oncology, one in which drugs could be delivered directly to cancer cells through targeted therapy, minimizing harm to surrounding healthy tissue. Since then, the field has developed rapidly, resulting in the regulatory approval of 16 ADCs, the most recent being Elahere for multiple gynecological tumors in 2022.

With an estimated value around USD 10 Billion in 2023, witnessing 35% rise from the previous year, the global cancer ADC market has experienced substantial growth in recent years. The market had already surpassed US$ 7 Billion in the first half of 2024 alone, demonstrating the rapid rate of development and uptake of these drugs. Due to its ability to target specific antigens that are overexpressed on cancer cells, ADCs have predominantly been used in the treatment of solid tumors and hematological malignancies. This has improved efficacy while lowering systemic toxicity. In addition to improving patient outcomes, this specificity makes ADCs an attractive option in the crowded oncology market.

Even though the majority of ADCs have been developed and approved for therapeutic use, there is increasing interest in the potential applications of ADCs in diagnostics and theranostics, an integrated approach that combines therapeutic and diagnostic capabilities. Even if they are still primarily in the research and preclinical stages, these applications open opportunities for a potential future that could improve personalized treatment. Researchers hope to develop dual-function drugs that diagnose and treat cancer, potentially altering the way doctors approach cancer management, as well as imaging agents that can identify tumors more accurately by using the targeting capabilities of ADCs.

The global cancer ADC market is distinguished by a number of strategic alliances and partnerships meant to improve development capacities and market penetration. The exclusive licensing deal that Day One and MabCare Therapeutics have for the development and commercialization of MTX-13 in June 2024 is one such example. These partnerships enable companies to leverage one another’s expertise in technology, clinical knowledge, or market access, which speeds up the time it takes to create new ADCs. The competitive environment is further characterized by significant investments for ADC development. In July 2024, for example, Myricx Bio announced the completion of a successful funding round of US$ 120.42 Million, demonstrating investor confidence in ADCs’ ability to offer revolutionary cancer therapeutics.

It is anticipated that the ADC market would supass US$ 13 Billion in 2024 and continue to expand after that. Antibody engineering, linker technology, and the identification of novel tumor-specific antigens are driving this expected expansion, which are anticipated to expand the applications of ADC applications to hard-to-treat cancers. ADCs are anticipated to grow in versatility and efficacy with further scientific research, not only in oncology but also in treating other diseases where therapeutic benefits of targeted administration of cytotoxic drugs may be realized.

In conclusion, antibody-drug conjugates, with a strong base of clinical approvals and a rapidly growing market, offer a substantial leap in cancer therapy. Their distinct mode of action minimizes side effects while providing hope for better outcomes in the treatment of cancer. ADC technology is always evolving, and this market is well-positioned for continued growth and innovation in the years to come thanks to smart partnerships, significant investment, and teamwork. The standards of care in oncology and other fields may be redefined by ADCs as research develops and new uses are investigated.

The MIL Network –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Scientists in Moscow conducted an assessment of the diagnostic accuracy metrics for both Russian and International AI services

Source: Center of Diagnostics and Telemedicine

Moscow scientists have assessed the diagnostic accuracy of various artificial intelligence (AI) services for radiology. In a recent study, five AI algorithms were evaluated, including three developed in Russia and two from India and South Korea. The study revealed that the Russian AI service demonstrated the highest accuracy in detecting pulmonary nodules, outperforming its foreign counterparts. The results were published in the Chinese journal “Quantitative Imaging in Medicine and Surgery.”

Yuri Vasiliev, CEO of the Center for Diagnostics and Telemedicine of the Moscow City Health Department, highlighted the importance of this achievement. “In a recent study involving both Russian and international artificial intelligence (AI) services, our in-house AI solution demonstrated the highest accuracy in identifying lung nodules, outperforming similar solutions from India and South Korea. This achievement marks a significant advancement in our efforts to enhance medical care quality. Radiologists currently utilize over 50 AI services to interpret medical image studies, and more than 13 million studies in Moscow have been analyzed using neural networks. The growing market for AI services is continuously introducing solutions that streamline the workload of healthcare professionals while maintaining high standards of performance.” said Vasiliev.

“We aim to provide physicians with tools that not only facilitate their work but also enhance the overall quality of medical care. To achieve this, we have developed a maturity matrix—a comprehensive tool designed to assess and benchmark the performance of various AI services. Since the end of 2022, our AI service has consistently ranked as a leader in the field of chest organ radiography,” as stated by Yuri Vasilev.

The AI service, designed for the automatic analysis of chest X-rays, currently identifies 14 signs of various pathologies. Additionally, it calculates the cardiothoracic ratio and generates a comprehensive radiology report.

“We prepared a unique dataset consisting of 100 X-ray studies, including 50 with confirmed pulmonary nodules and 50 without pulmonary nodules. Of those, 25 cases involved nodules that were initially doubted by radiologists, but confirmed by CT scans. However, the presence of pulmonary nodules in all 50 studies was confirmed by CT scans,” explained Kirill Arzamasov, Head of the Department of Health Informatics, Radiomics, and Radiogenomics at the Center for Diagnostics and Telemedicine.

“The evaluation of AI services was conducted in three stages, with results at each stage compared against a reference standard confirmed by CT studies. The findings demonstrated that the Russian AI service outperformed its international counterparts across all diagnostic accuracy metrics. The dataset is publicly accessible on the website, allowing developers to independently assess the quality of AI services,” said Kirill Arzamasov, Head of the Department of Health Informatics, Radiomics, and Radiogenomics at the Center for Diagnostics and Telemedicine, Moscow Healthcare Department.”

This study is part of a broader experiment launched in 2020 to integrate computer vision technologies into Moscow’s healthcare system. Supported by the Moscow Social Development Complex and the Department of Information Technologies, the project is designed to foster innovation in AI, particularly by supporting developers.

The Diagnostics and Telemedicine Centre, established in 1996, plays a leading role in introducing AI technology to medicine in Russia. It focuses on advancing AI in medicine, developing diagnostic imaging, management of medical departments, conducting research, and the training of healthcare professionals.

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: FEMA is Hiring in Houston and Austin to Help Storm Survivors

Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: FEMA is Hiring in Houston and Austin to Help Storm Survivors

FEMA is Hiring in Houston and Austin to Help Storm Survivors

AUSTIN — FEMA is hiring local residents to support the recovery of Texans affected by Hurricane Beryl and the storms and flooding this spring. Opportunities are available in Houston and Austin.Positions open in Houston include:Manufactured Housing Specialists Recovery Coordination Group Managers Positions open in Houston and Austin include:Public Assistance Program Delivery ManagersTraining Specialists To apply: USAJobs.gov has a detailed description of open positions at Local Hires-TX. You can apply there online.FEMA jobs are available to local residents who wish to aid in the recovery of their community and help their fellow citizens in the recovery process. A Local Hire’s term of employment is 120 days. Local Hire appointments may be extended, in 120-day increments, based on the needs of the disaster. Some local hires have become permanent employees. FEMA Local Hire employees are eligible for the following benefits:Health insurance for individual or family Flexible spending accountsFederal long-term care insurancePaid sick leave based on hours worked.Holiday payWorker’s compensationApplicants must be U.S. citizens, 18 years of age or older, and must possess a high school diploma or GED. Individuals will be required to pass a background investigation that includes fingerprinting and credit check, be able to provide their own transportation to and from work and live within 50 miles of the employing office. Employees are also required to participate in mandatory direct deposit/electronic funds transfer for salary payment.For more information about Texas disaster recovery, visit: fema.gov/disaster/4798. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.
alexa.brown
Tue, 10/22/2024 – 18:30

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Cell & Gene Therapy Innovation Hub Coming to Long Island

Source: US State of New York

Governor Kathy Hochul today unveiled plans for New York BioGenesis Park, a groundbreaking $430 million Cell and Gene Therapy Innovation Hub in Nassau County, Long Island. To be developed by The Albanese Organization, Inc., this state-of-the-art facility would catalyze CGT research, development, clinical manufacturing, and commercialization across New York State. With a historic $150 million state investment—the largest nationwide for a cell and gene therapy hub—NYBGP would accelerate the delivery of new therapies from lab to patient in New York’s diverse communities. This transformative hub aims to establish New York as the leading global destination for CGT innovation, driving economic growth, attracting top talent, and revolutionizing patient care statewide and beyond.

“With this groundbreaking hub, New York has the opportunity to stake its claim as the epicenter of cell and gene therapy innovation,” Governor Hochul said. “We’re not just advancing medical science; we’re creating a powerhouse that will drive our economy, generate thousands of high-skilled jobs, and bring hope to millions facing life-threatening diseases. This investment reaffirms our commitment to leading the future of healthcare and ensuring that the next medical breakthrough happens right here in New York.”

[embedded content]

[embedded content]

Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The selection of a developer with proven expertise ensures the Long Island CGT Center would be a beacon of excellence from inception to operation. ESD’s landmark investment not only underscores New York’s commitment to leadership in life sciences but also catalyzes a transformative shift in our biotechnology landscape. By creating high-quality jobs, attracting world-class talent, and fostering groundbreaking innovation, New York BioGenesis Park would cement New York’s position at the forefront of cell and gene therapy globally, driving economic growth and scientific advancement in equal measure.”

New York State Department of Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “This groundbreaking and transformative investment puts New York State at the forefront of emerging gene and cell therapy sciences, creating a centralized hub of innovation and advancement in patient care. I thank Governor Hochul for her commitment to investing in the future of medical research and therapeutic technologies that will give hope to patients fighting cancer and other devastating diseases.”

The Cell and Gene Therapy Innovation Hub is a critical component of the statewide Cell and Gene Therapy initiative announced in Governor Hochul’s 2023 State of the State address. With the $430 million New York BioGenesis Park on Long Island and the $98 million expansion at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center in Buffalo, these projects represent a combined total investment of over half a billion dollars in Cell and Gene Therapy innovation across New York.

The Albanese Organization, Inc., a Long Island-based developer with more than 70 years of experience in managing successful public-private partnerships, was selected following a Request for Proposals issued in December 2023. Albanese is conditionally selected to lead the comprehensive process to design, finance, build, market, tenant, and operate the Long Island Cell and Gene Therapy Center. This selection ensures that the project will be executed from conception to operation with an experienced development team, leveraging Albanese’s extensive expertise in developing large life science innovation campuses.

Albanese Organization Chairman Russell Albanese, said, “The Albanese Organization and our development team are honored and excited to be designated by Empire State Development to enter into this public private partnership that will realize the Governor’s vision to create a ‘Hub of the Future’ for Cell and Gene Therapy in Lake Success, Long Island. This transformative development will serve as a significant catalyst for advancing cell therapy research, development, clinical manufacturing, and commercialization across the State that will lead to increased access to transformative, life-saving treatments. The Hub will also further amplify and expand the economic engine that is the life sciences industry within New York State, and specifically Long Island.”

With this groundbreaking hub, New York has the opportunity to stake its claim as the epicenter of cell and gene therapy innovation.”

Governor Hochul

Cell and gene therapies are revolutionary treatments that modify a patient’s cells or genes to combat diseases at their source. Offering hope for previously incurable conditions—including cancers, genetic disorders, and autoimmune diseases—these approaches target illnesses at the cellular and genetic levels. They have the potential to provide more effective, longer-lasting treatments with fewer side effects than traditional methods. Advancements in these therapies could revolutionize healthcare, paving the way for personalized medicine and new possibilities for patients who have exhausted other treatment options.

New York BioGenesis Park is envisioned as a cutting-edge, full-service campus dedicated to advancing cell and gene therapies and accelerating their commercialization. At full build-out, the 700,000-square-foot park would create an end-to-end Cell and Gene Therapy innovation and supply center, featuring interconnected areas for public engagement, research, manufacturing, and collaboration. The project would be developed in multiple phases, with Phase One comprising a 331,000-square-foot facility on Northwell Health’s campus in Lake Success, including the first Cell and Gene Therapy Tower and Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations (CDMO) Tower. Phase One is already poised to advance, with conditional commitments from two anchor tenants; one would operate the CDMO, the other would operate the incubator.

A cornerstone of New York BioGenesis Park is its incubator, supported by a $50 million investment from ESD’s Long Island Investment Fund. This facility will empower early-stage therapeutic developers by offering state-of-the-art wet lab space, shared equipment, office space, and other essential resources. This nurturing environment would provide Cell and Gene Therapy companies with access to specialized equipment, mentoring, and stage-appropriate financial guidance. As a critical component of New York BioGenesis Park, the incubator is poised to catalyze the growth of promising Cell and Gene Therapy companies by providing them with resources and support, unlocking their potential for innovation and success.

This initial phase is expected to create approximately 830 full time union construction jobs and a combined estimate of 700 jobs related to Cell and Gene Therapy development and provision of services and technologies required by Cell and Gene Therapy developers, such as Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations, vector developers, and advanced diagnostic providers, as well as staff required for operation of the Center. Phase Two would further expand lab and office space, enhancing the park’s capabilities for Cell and Gene Therapy companies and service providers.

Empire State Development Board Chairman Kevin Law said, “New York BioGenesis Park represents a transformative investment in Long Island’s future and New York State’s position as a global leader in biotechnology advancements. This project not only promises to create hundreds of high-skilled jobs but also establishes a world-class ecosystem for cell and gene therapy innovation. By leveraging Long Island’s exceptional talent pool and research institutions, we’re laying the foundation for breakthroughs that will save lives and drive economic growth for decades to come.”

LIREDC Co-Chairs Linda Armyn and Dr. Kimberly R. Cline said, “The New York BioGenesis Park represents a transformative investment in Long Island’s future and solidifies our region’s position at the forefront of biotechnology innovation. This visionary project not only promises to create high-quality jobs and drive economic growth, but it also establishes Long Island as a global hub for cell and gene therapy research and development. By leveraging our region’s world-class academic institutions, skilled workforce, and entrepreneurial spirit, New York BioGenesis Park will catalyze breakthroughs that will save lives and shape the future of healthcare.”

Assemblywoman Gina Sillitti said, “New York State’s $150 million investment in a gene therapy research hub at Lake Success is a transformative step in developing Long Island’s biotechnology sector. I thank Governor Hochul for championing this initiative, which will create hundreds of jobs and further solidify Long Island’s place as a national leader in cutting-edge medical research and treatments.”

Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center President and CEO Candace S. Johnson, PhD said, “New York is already a leader in the science of making ‘living cures’ from our own cells. With these historic investments in the Roswell Park GMP Engineering & Cell Manufacturing Facility and New York BioGenesis Park, Governor Kathy Hochul and Empire State Development are making sure our teams are supported by an innovation infrastructure powerful enough to transform their curiosity into cures”

New York Blood Center Enterprises President and CEO Christopher D. Hillyer, MD said, “The creation of the Long Island Center for Cell and Gene Therapy represents a critical investment in the future of medicine. New York Blood Center Enterprises and Comprehensive Cell Solutions are extremely proud to be part of the team that will position New York as a global leader in life sciences, particularly in cell and gene therapy, offering new hope to patients facing diseases once thought untreatable.”

Northwell Health President and CEO Michael J. Dowling said, “We are committed to supporting New York State in establishing this innovative cell and gene therapy hub on Long Island. The facility will be a game changer for physician-scientists, researchers and innovative companies, some of which are already working together in the region to advance novel biomedical treatments in the fight against cancer and other devastating diseases, offering new hope for our diverse communities across the state.”

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory President and CEO Bruce Stillman, PhD said, “The New York State cell and gene therapy initiative on Long Island will be a most welcome addition to the region’s biomedical research enterprise, and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory looks forward to partnering with the CGT initiative. We thank Governor Hochul and Empire State Development for pioneering this exciting research expansion.”

New York BioGenesis Park would foster strong ties with academic and medical institutions throughout New York, creating a robust ecosystem for Cell and Gene Therapy innovation. Collaborating with the Empire State Cellular Therapy Consortium and world-class institutions like Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, the Feinstein Institutes, Northwell Health, Roswell Park, Stony Brook University, Weill Cornell, Columbia University and others around the state. New York BioGenesis Park would enhance research synergies and accelerate medical breakthroughs. This ecosystem would bring together experts in advanced Cell and Gene Therapy therapies, offering specialized facilities, services, and resources to both tenants and collaborating institutions. By facilitating cutting-edge science, innovative technology development and novel approaches to clinical trials, New York BioGenesis Park would ensure New York’s institutions remain globally competitive in groundbreaking Cell and Gene Therapy research and commercialization.

The New York BioGenesis Park and the Cell and Gene Therapy manufacturing expansion at Roswell Park would create a powerful, interconnected network that leverages complementary resources and capabilities at both ends of the state. By fostering a comprehensive ecosystem that spans from basic research to clinical application and commercialization, New York is positioning itself as the nation’s leading destination for Cell and Gene Therapy research, development, and manufacturing.

The Long Island Cell and Gene Therapy Innovation Hub stands to serve as a cornerstone of New York’s $620 million Life Science Initiative. Aimed at establishing the state as a national leader in the broader life sciences industry—including biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and medical technology—the initiative allocates $320 million for strategic programs to attract new technologies, promote investment in emerging fields, and stimulate life science business growth and employment statewide. This multifaceted approach seeks to spur the development of a world-class research cluster, enhance the state’s ability to commercialize groundbreaking research, and drive economic growth. By solidifying New York’s position in life sciences innovation, the initiative advances Cell and Gene Therapy development and strengthens the state’s global competitiveness. Read New York State’s Life Science Initiative Strategic Plan here.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Cell & Gene Therapy Innovation Hub Coming to Long Island

Source: US State of New York

Governor Kathy Hochul today unveiled plans for New York BioGenesis Park, a groundbreaking $430 million Cell and Gene Therapy Innovation Hub in Nassau County, Long Island. To be developed by The Albanese Organization, Inc., this state-of-the-art facility would catalyze CGT research, development, clinical manufacturing, and commercialization across New York State. With a historic $150 million state investment—the largest nationwide for a cell and gene therapy hub—NYBGP would accelerate the delivery of new therapies from lab to patient in New York’s diverse communities. This transformative hub aims to establish New York as the leading global destination for CGT innovation, driving economic growth, attracting top talent, and revolutionizing patient care statewide and beyond.

“With this groundbreaking hub, New York has the opportunity to stake its claim as the epicenter of cell and gene therapy innovation,” Governor Hochul said. “We’re not just advancing medical science; we’re creating a powerhouse that will drive our economy, generate thousands of high-skilled jobs, and bring hope to millions facing life-threatening diseases. This investment reaffirms our commitment to leading the future of healthcare and ensuring that the next medical breakthrough happens right here in New York.”

[embedded content]

[embedded content]

Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The selection of a developer with proven expertise ensures the Long Island CGT Center would be a beacon of excellence from inception to operation. ESD’s landmark investment not only underscores New York’s commitment to leadership in life sciences but also catalyzes a transformative shift in our biotechnology landscape. By creating high-quality jobs, attracting world-class talent, and fostering groundbreaking innovation, New York BioGenesis Park would cement New York’s position at the forefront of cell and gene therapy globally, driving economic growth and scientific advancement in equal measure.”

New York State Department of Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “This groundbreaking and transformative investment puts New York State at the forefront of emerging gene and cell therapy sciences, creating a centralized hub of innovation and advancement in patient care. I thank Governor Hochul for her commitment to investing in the future of medical research and therapeutic technologies that will give hope to patients fighting cancer and other devastating diseases.”

The Cell and Gene Therapy Innovation Hub is a critical component of the statewide Cell and Gene Therapy initiative announced in Governor Hochul’s 2023 State of the State address. With the $430 million New York BioGenesis Park on Long Island and the $98 million expansion at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center in Buffalo, these projects represent a combined total investment of over half a billion dollars in Cell and Gene Therapy innovation across New York.

The Albanese Organization, Inc., a Long Island-based developer with more than 70 years of experience in managing successful public-private partnerships, was selected following a Request for Proposals issued in December 2023. Albanese is conditionally selected to lead the comprehensive process to design, finance, build, market, tenant, and operate the Long Island Cell and Gene Therapy Center. This selection ensures that the project will be executed from conception to operation with an experienced development team, leveraging Albanese’s extensive expertise in developing large life science innovation campuses.

Albanese Organization Chairman Russell Albanese, said, “The Albanese Organization and our development team are honored and excited to be designated by Empire State Development to enter into this public private partnership that will realize the Governor’s vision to create a ‘Hub of the Future’ for Cell and Gene Therapy in Lake Success, Long Island. This transformative development will serve as a significant catalyst for advancing cell therapy research, development, clinical manufacturing, and commercialization across the State that will lead to increased access to transformative, life-saving treatments. The Hub will also further amplify and expand the economic engine that is the life sciences industry within New York State, and specifically Long Island.”

With this groundbreaking hub, New York has the opportunity to stake its claim as the epicenter of cell and gene therapy innovation.”

Governor Hochul

Cell and gene therapies are revolutionary treatments that modify a patient’s cells or genes to combat diseases at their source. Offering hope for previously incurable conditions—including cancers, genetic disorders, and autoimmune diseases—these approaches target illnesses at the cellular and genetic levels. They have the potential to provide more effective, longer-lasting treatments with fewer side effects than traditional methods. Advancements in these therapies could revolutionize healthcare, paving the way for personalized medicine and new possibilities for patients who have exhausted other treatment options.

New York BioGenesis Park is envisioned as a cutting-edge, full-service campus dedicated to advancing cell and gene therapies and accelerating their commercialization. At full build-out, the 700,000-square-foot park would create an end-to-end Cell and Gene Therapy innovation and supply center, featuring interconnected areas for public engagement, research, manufacturing, and collaboration. The project would be developed in multiple phases, with Phase One comprising a 331,000-square-foot facility on Northwell Health’s campus in Lake Success, including the first Cell and Gene Therapy Tower and Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations (CDMO) Tower. Phase One is already poised to advance, with conditional commitments from two anchor tenants; one would operate the CDMO, the other would operate the incubator.

A cornerstone of New York BioGenesis Park is its incubator, supported by a $50 million investment from ESD’s Long Island Investment Fund. This facility will empower early-stage therapeutic developers by offering state-of-the-art wet lab space, shared equipment, office space, and other essential resources. This nurturing environment would provide Cell and Gene Therapy companies with access to specialized equipment, mentoring, and stage-appropriate financial guidance. As a critical component of New York BioGenesis Park, the incubator is poised to catalyze the growth of promising Cell and Gene Therapy companies by providing them with resources and support, unlocking their potential for innovation and success.

This initial phase is expected to create approximately 830 full time union construction jobs and a combined estimate of 700 jobs related to Cell and Gene Therapy development and provision of services and technologies required by Cell and Gene Therapy developers, such as Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations, vector developers, and advanced diagnostic providers, as well as staff required for operation of the Center. Phase Two would further expand lab and office space, enhancing the park’s capabilities for Cell and Gene Therapy companies and service providers.

Empire State Development Board Chairman Kevin Law said, “New York BioGenesis Park represents a transformative investment in Long Island’s future and New York State’s position as a global leader in biotechnology advancements. This project not only promises to create hundreds of high-skilled jobs but also establishes a world-class ecosystem for cell and gene therapy innovation. By leveraging Long Island’s exceptional talent pool and research institutions, we’re laying the foundation for breakthroughs that will save lives and drive economic growth for decades to come.”

LIREDC Co-Chairs Linda Armyn and Dr. Kimberly R. Cline said, “The New York BioGenesis Park represents a transformative investment in Long Island’s future and solidifies our region’s position at the forefront of biotechnology innovation. This visionary project not only promises to create high-quality jobs and drive economic growth, but it also establishes Long Island as a global hub for cell and gene therapy research and development. By leveraging our region’s world-class academic institutions, skilled workforce, and entrepreneurial spirit, New York BioGenesis Park will catalyze breakthroughs that will save lives and shape the future of healthcare.”

Assemblywoman Gina Sillitti said, “New York State’s $150 million investment in a gene therapy research hub at Lake Success is a transformative step in developing Long Island’s biotechnology sector. I thank Governor Hochul for championing this initiative, which will create hundreds of jobs and further solidify Long Island’s place as a national leader in cutting-edge medical research and treatments.”

Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center President and CEO Candace S. Johnson, PhD said, “New York is already a leader in the science of making ‘living cures’ from our own cells. With these historic investments in the Roswell Park GMP Engineering & Cell Manufacturing Facility and New York BioGenesis Park, Governor Kathy Hochul and Empire State Development are making sure our teams are supported by an innovation infrastructure powerful enough to transform their curiosity into cures”

New York Blood Center Enterprises President and CEO Christopher D. Hillyer, MD said, “The creation of the Long Island Center for Cell and Gene Therapy represents a critical investment in the future of medicine. New York Blood Center Enterprises and Comprehensive Cell Solutions are extremely proud to be part of the team that will position New York as a global leader in life sciences, particularly in cell and gene therapy, offering new hope to patients facing diseases once thought untreatable.”

Northwell Health President and CEO Michael J. Dowling said, “We are committed to supporting New York State in establishing this innovative cell and gene therapy hub on Long Island. The facility will be a game changer for physician-scientists, researchers and innovative companies, some of which are already working together in the region to advance novel biomedical treatments in the fight against cancer and other devastating diseases, offering new hope for our diverse communities across the state.”

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory President and CEO Bruce Stillman, PhD said, “The New York State cell and gene therapy initiative on Long Island will be a most welcome addition to the region’s biomedical research enterprise, and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory looks forward to partnering with the CGT initiative. We thank Governor Hochul and Empire State Development for pioneering this exciting research expansion.”

New York BioGenesis Park would foster strong ties with academic and medical institutions throughout New York, creating a robust ecosystem for Cell and Gene Therapy innovation. Collaborating with the Empire State Cellular Therapy Consortium and world-class institutions like Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, the Feinstein Institutes, Northwell Health, Roswell Park, Stony Brook University, Weill Cornell, Columbia University and others around the state. New York BioGenesis Park would enhance research synergies and accelerate medical breakthroughs. This ecosystem would bring together experts in advanced Cell and Gene Therapy therapies, offering specialized facilities, services, and resources to both tenants and collaborating institutions. By facilitating cutting-edge science, innovative technology development and novel approaches to clinical trials, New York BioGenesis Park would ensure New York’s institutions remain globally competitive in groundbreaking Cell and Gene Therapy research and commercialization.

The New York BioGenesis Park and the Cell and Gene Therapy manufacturing expansion at Roswell Park would create a powerful, interconnected network that leverages complementary resources and capabilities at both ends of the state. By fostering a comprehensive ecosystem that spans from basic research to clinical application and commercialization, New York is positioning itself as the nation’s leading destination for Cell and Gene Therapy research, development, and manufacturing.

The Long Island Cell and Gene Therapy Innovation Hub stands to serve as a cornerstone of New York’s $620 million Life Science Initiative. Aimed at establishing the state as a national leader in the broader life sciences industry—including biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and medical technology—the initiative allocates $320 million for strategic programs to attract new technologies, promote investment in emerging fields, and stimulate life science business growth and employment statewide. This multifaceted approach seeks to spur the development of a world-class research cluster, enhance the state’s ability to commercialize groundbreaking research, and drive economic growth. By solidifying New York’s position in life sciences innovation, the initiative advances Cell and Gene Therapy development and strengthens the state’s global competitiveness. Read New York State’s Life Science Initiative Strategic Plan here.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Enhancing Coverage of Preventive Services Under the Affordable Care Act Proposed Rules

Source: US Department of Health and Human Services

Introduction

On October 21, 2024, the Departments of Health and Human Services, Labor, and of the Treasury (collectively, the Departments) released proposed rules with comment period entitled “Enhancing Coverage of Preventive Services Under the Affordable Care Act.” These proposed rules would expand access to coverage of recommended preventive services without cost sharing in the commercial market, with a particular focus on reducing barriers to coverage of contraceptive services, including over-the-counter (OTC) contraceptives.

Background

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of UN Resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan – B10-0134/2024

Source: European Parliament

Markéta Gregorová, Ville Niinistö, Maria Ohisalo, Hannah Neumann, Diana Riba i Giner, Nicolae Ştefănuță, Erik Marquardt
on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

B10‑0134/2024

European Parliament resolution on the People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of UN Resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan

(2024/2891(RSP))

The European Parliament,

– having regard to its recommendation of 21 October 2021 to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy on EU-Taiwan political relations and cooperation [1],

– having regard to its resolution of 7 June 2022 on the EU and the security challenges in the Indo-Pacific [2],

– having regard to its resolution of 15 September 2022 on the situation in the Strait of Taiwan [3],

– having regard to its resolution of 13 December 2023 on EU-Taiwan trade and investment relations [4],

– having regard to its recommendation of 13 December 2023 to the Council and the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy concerning EU-China relations [5],

– having regard to the joint communication of the Commission and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy of 16 September 2021 on the EU strategy for cooperation in the Indo-Pacific (JOIN(2021)0024),

– having regard to the Strategic Compass for Security and Defence – For a European Union that protects its citizens, values and interests and contributes to international peace and security, approved by the Council on 21 March 2022 and endorsed by the European Council on 24 March 2022,

– having regard to NATO’s 2022 Strategic Concept,

– having regard to the statement by the spokesperson of the European External Action Service of 14 October 2024 on China’s latest military drills,

– having regard to the G7 Foreign Ministers’ statement of 3 August 2022 on preserving peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait,

– having regard to United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 (XXVI) of 25 October 1971 on the restoration of the lawful rights of the People’s Republic of China in the United Nations,

– having regard to Article 7 of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) of 9 May 1992,

– having regard to Rule 5 of the Standing Rules of Procedure of the Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO),

– having regard to Article 4 of the Constitution of the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol),

– having regard to Article 8 and Article 18, paragraph (h), of the Constitution of the World Health Organization (WHO),

– having regard to Rule 136(2) of its Rules of Procedure,

A. whereas the statutes of most international organisations tasked with addressing global issues including climate change, the preservation of human health and the suppression of transnational crime, such as the WHO, the UNFCCC, Interpol and the ICAO, provide opportunities for non-state entities to participate without infringing on the rights of member states;

B. whereas the People’s Republic of China (PRC) has made instrumental use of UN Resolution 2758 as a legal basis for its position that Taiwan is part of the PRC and a foundational element of its One China principle; whereas UN Resolution 2758 does not include the words ‘Republic of China’ or ‘Taiwan’, but only states that the PRC will represent ‘China’ at the UN, and does not make any determination regarding the status of Taiwan; whereas, however, the PRC continues to misinterpret UN Resolution 2758 to block Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organisations;

C. whereas the EU and Taiwan are like-minded partners that share the common values of freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law; whereas the EU remains decisively committed to its One China policy;

D. whereas following the Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te’s annual speech on 10 October 2024, the PRC, on 14 October 2024, conducted a comprehensive military exercise across the Taiwan Strait, amounting to the fourth round of large-scale war games in just over two years;

E. whereas the median line, which was set up in a decades-old tacit agreement between both sides of the Taiwan Strait, was designed to reduce the risk of conflict by keeping the military aircraft from both sides of the Strait at a safe distance and thus prevent fatal miscalculations; whereas the PRC’s People’s Liberation Army violated the median line only four times between 1954 and 2020, but now routine incursions reflect Beijing’s intent to irreversibly reset long-standing benchmarks;

F. whereas on 14 October 2024, China also deployed 17 vessels from its coast guard, which was a larger deployment than in a previous exercise held in May this year, when coast guard vessels had been deployed for the first time; whereas four formations of Chinese coast guard ships patrolled the island and briefly entered its restricted waters; whereas the very frequent deployment of coast guard ships by the PRC in the Taiwan Strait, in what they consider ‘law enforcement’ missions, sends a clear message of sovereignty from the PCR, keeps constant pressure on Taiwanese authorities and causes a dangerous increase in the risk of collisions, in what is one of the most concrete indications of China’s intention to erode the status quo;

G. whereas full-scale military exercises by the PRC have also been coupled with cyberattacks against Taiwanese authorities and other grey-zone activities such as cognitive and legal warfare and disinformation, aimed at discouraging the Taiwanese population, eroding Taiwanese legitimate sovereign rights and, ultimately, instilling the belief that reunification is inevitable;

H. whereas on 16 October 2024, the authorities of the PRC stated ‘We are willing to strive for the prospect of peaceful reunification with the utmost sincerity and endeavour, but we will never commit ourselves to renouncing the use of force,’ reiterating Xi Jinping’s landmark speech at the opening of the Chinese Communist Party’s 20th Party Congress in October 2022; whereas Xi Jinping also referred to permanent military pressure in the Taiwan Strait as ‘new normality’; whereas Chinese diplomats even threatened ‘re-education’ of Taiwanese people after reunification;

I. whereas the PRC has been behaving aggressively across a vast area of the Indo-Pacific and exerting varying degrees of military or economic coercion, which has led to disputes with neighbours such as Japan, India, the Philippines and Australia;

1. Strongly reiterates its commitment to the EU’s One China policy and to maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, in the whole Indo-Pacific region and beyond;

2. Expresses the view that UN Resolution 2758 does not establish the PRC’s sovereignty over Taiwan; underlines how Taiwan has proven to be a very reliable partner in dealing with the many challenges of our time and supports Taiwan’s participation in meetings, mechanisms and activities of relevant international organisations, particularly the WHO, the UNFCCC, Interpol and the ICAO; calls on the Commission and the Member States to promote Taiwan’s inclusion in such international forums in accordance with their statutory rules;

3. Strongly condemns the PRC’s practice of regularly resorting to comprehensive military exercises in the Taiwan Strait; is very concerned by the increasing, unwarranted mobilisation of the PRC coast guard, which confirms that the PRC considers the waters around Taiwan as its own and increases the risks of accidents; considers this to be yet another worrying confirmation that China is deliberately jeopardising the status quo in the Taiwan Strait;

4. Is very concerned at the adoption of guidelines for punishing ‘diehard “Taiwan independence” separatists for conducting or inciting secession’ jointly announced by the Supreme People’s Court, the Supreme People’s Procuratorate, the ministries for public security and state security and the justice ministry in June 2024, which could lead to harsh punishments for the crime of secession, up to and including the death penalty; strongly condemns the sentencing of one Taiwanese activist to nine years in prison in September this year, after his arrest while in the PRC in 2022, as well as the constant harassment of Taiwanese people working and living in the PRC;

5. Expresses concern at the expectation that China will become more aggressive militarily in the Taiwan Strait, as well as in the Indo-Pacific region more broadly;

6. Urges the PRC authorities to restore full respect for the Taiwan’s Strait median line and to put a stop to all other grey-zone actions against Taiwan;

7. Remains resolutely opposed to any unilateral change in the Taiwan Strait and against the will of Taiwanese citizens; remains equally strongly opposed to the threat or use of force, and stresses that any attempt by Beijing to subjugate Taiwan would come at an extraordinarily high price for the PRC;

8. Commends Taiwan for the remarkable democratic journey it has undertaken over the last 30 years, solidly anchored upon freedoms, the rule of law, democratic institutions and free and fair elections; highlights the recognition of same-sex marriage by Taiwan in 2019, the first such recognition in Asia; strongly encourages Taiwan to keep working towards the abolition of the death penalty;

9. Welcomes the very responsible reactions by the Taiwanese political elite to provocations by the PRC and expresses its great respect for the whole of Taiwanese society for its extraordinary resilience and strength;

10. Welcomes the latest annual speech by President Lai Ching-te, who also appealed to China to work with him for peace; considers this to be an encouraging sign of movement towards stronger unity within the Taiwanese political spectrum; highlights that Taiwanese sovereignty is supported across the whole political spectrum and finds its best expression in the conducting of free and fair elections and in the maturity of Taiwanese democracy;

11. Stresses that the EU and Taiwan are like-minded partners and share common values of freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law, thereby making Taiwan a strategically important partner for the EU in the Indo-Pacific region;

12. Acknowledges that the ‘One Country, Two Systems’ principle does not provide any credible prospect for the preservation of the status quo in the Taiwan Strait; stresses the need to further develop EU-Taiwan relations with the preservation of peace and democracy at their core;

13. Highlights the importance of coupling dialogue with deterrence; stresses the need, hence, to identify a fully-fledged and multidimensional strategy that would ensure that any unilateral change in the status quo in the Taiwan Strait would come at a prohibitively high cost to the PRC;

14. Welcomes the posting of a liaison officer at the European Economic and Trade Office in Taiwan to coordinate joint efforts to tackle disinformation and interference as a first important step towards deeper EU-Taiwan cooperation, and calls for the EU to further deepen cooperation with Taiwan in this key area;

15. Stresses the need to strengthen the focus on the PRC’s grey-zone activities against Taiwan and to renew EU support for the resilience of Taiwanese society and democracy as a whole; encourages, with this in mind, increased scientific, cultural and political interaction at the highest level possible, as well as the deepening of parliamentary diplomacy and visits; prioritises the creation of a common civic space with Taiwan by fostering exchanges and common activities with Taiwanese civil society and media organisations; underlines the importance of the people-to-people dimension of this cooperation;

16. Stresses the crucial role of Taiwan in the global supply chain of key high-tech sectors, notably semiconductors; welcomes the recent investment projects by Taiwanese companies in some Member States and underlines the importance for Taiwan’s security of continuing to deepen its investments in the EU; calls on the Commission and the Member States to start working on a resilient supply chain agreement with Taiwan or other bilateral agreements to deepen the economic relationship; highlights the potential for cooperation on foreign direct investment screening policy and on tackling economic coercion and retaliation;

17. Reiterates the importance of respecting international law, in particular the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea with its provisions on the obligation to settle disputes by peaceful means, and on maintaining freedom of navigation and overflight;

18. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the governments and parliaments of the member states of the United Nations, and the Government and Legislative Yuan of Taiwan.

MIL OSI Europe News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Nursing students meet MOS Dr L. Murugan in New Delhi: A call to emphasize their crucial role in shaping the future of healthcare

Source: Government of India (2)

Nursing students meet MOS Dr L. Murugan in New Delhi: A call to emphasize their crucial role in shaping the future of healthcare

Dr. Murugan highlights PM Modi’s vision for a medical college in every district

MoS Dr. Murugan inspires students to commit to progressive growth and learn new languages for global careers

Posted On: 22 OCT 2024 7:07PM by PIB Delhi

91 students and six teachers from the Vellalar College of Nursing in Erode, Tamil Nadu today visited Delh. During their visit to New Delhi, the Minister of State (MoS) Dr. L. Murugan interacted with the B.Sc. nursing students, emphasizing the nobility of the nursing profession. He highlighted the urgent need for more human resources in this vital field, inspiring the students to recognize their important role in shaping the future of healthcare.

The event commenced with each student being introduced to the MoS, Dr. Murugan, with great enthusiasm. In his address, Dr. Murugan highlighted the remarkable progress India has made in healthcare under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He mentioned that number of AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences) in the country has increased to 23 and Medical seats has increased to more than 1,07,000, as part of Hon’ble PM vision.

Dr. Murugan further highlighted Prime Minister Modi’s vision of establishing a medical college in every district of India, aiming to position India’s healthcare sector as a global leader.

He highlighted that the new Parliament building, constructed under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, showcases the craftsmanship of local artisans from across the country, reflecting the government’s commitment to the “Vocal for Local” initiative. He further stressed that, young generation will play leading role in journey towards Vikasit Bharat in 2047.

During his interaction, Dr. Murugan stressed that the youth are the future of the nation and encouraged the students to pledge for progressive growth. He also emphasized the importance of learning new languages both foreign languages and Indian languages since this would prepare them for job opportunities not only across India but also globally.

The event concluded on an inspiring note, with Dr. Murugan urging the students to play an active role in shaping the future of India’s healthcare system and contribute to the country’s broader developmental goals.

****

Dharmendra Tewari/Kshitij Singha

(Release ID: 2067131) Visitor Counter : 49

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah addresses 14th All India Home Guards and Civil Defence Conference in Gandhinagar, Gujarat today

Source: Government of India

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah addresses 14th All India Home Guards and Civil Defence Conference in Gandhinagar, Gujarat today

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, all dimensions of service and security for building a developed India can be achieved with the support of Home Guards and Civil Defence

Civil Defence and Home Guards play a crucial role in empowering and securing the nation through service and protection

Modi government will make the Home Guards and Civil Defence charter more relevant and useful by incorporating several new aspects and timely changes

Modi government will also engage youth from all segments in Home Guards and Civil Defence, similar to the NCC and NSS

Home Guards and Civil Defence volunteers made invaluable contributions during the 1965 and 1971 wars as well

Home Guards and Civil Defence must be integrated with awareness programs such as a drug-free India, clean India, tree planting, water conservation campaigns, women’s safety, TB-free India, the fight against malnutrition, and nutrition campaigns

A roadmap should be developed to assist in law and order, facilitating coordination between local law enforcement and Home Guards and Civil Defence

There is a need for institutional arrangements for training and traffic management to enhance the contribution of these organizations to emergency services

Posted On: 22 OCT 2024 9:25PM by PIB Delhi

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah addressed the 14^th All India Home Guards and Civil Defence Conference in Gandhinagar, Gujarat today. On this occasion, several dignitaries were present, including Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel and Union Home Secretary Shri Govind Mohan.

In his address, Shri Amit Shah mentioned that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has set a resolved to make India a fully developed nation by 2047. He said that in this vision, we must become a fully developed nation while preserving our values, traditions, culture, and languages alongside development in every sector. Shri Shah emphasized that service and security are two very important points in realizing this commitment. He mentioned that security encompasses every individual, property, future, rights, along with our core values of service. He noted that civil defence and home guards are institutions linked with security and service, working to connect a segment of society with the protection and service of the community. He added that the commitment to building a developed India, as envisioned by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, can be achieved through the dimensions of service and security provided by Home Guards and Civil Defence.

Union Home Minister noted that during this two-day conference, there will be extensive discussions on various points regarding the strengthening of Home Guards and Civil Defence, capacity building, and their roles in disaster management across five sessions. He mentioned that this conference will also serve as a medium for dialogue between states, facilitating the exchange of good practices and boosting their capabilities in resolve emerging challenges.

Shri Amit Shah said that former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri played a significant role in giving importance to Home Guards and Civil Defence since 1962. He noted that the Civil Defence Directorate was established in 1962, and the Civil Defence Act was passed in 1968. Shri Shah mentioned the invaluable contribution of Home Guards and Civil Defence volunteers during the wars of 1965 and 1971. He highlighted that during the 1965 India-Pakistan war, Home Guards and Civil Defence organizations played a crucial role in protecting essential infrastructure, providing general training to citizens, and assisting in relocating them to safer places, in collaboration with the armed forces and local administration.

Union Home Minister stated that the efforts will be made by Modi government to make the Home Guards and Civil Defence charter relevant and useful by adding several new aspects and timely changes over the next four months. He mentioned that this step aims to bring a new awareness and vitality to both organizations. Shri Shah explained that the current charter includes preparing people for war emergencies, protecting citizens, training them to avoid the effects of war, fostering a mindset of non-violent civil resistance, organizing communities, assisting in the repair of infrastructure damaged in war, and boosting morale. He noted that if an organization’s charter does not undergo changes for 50 years, both the organization and the charter become obsolete. He emphasized that there have been radical changes in the country over the past 50 years, and technological advancements have altered needs, leading the country to progress significantly.

Shri Amit Shah stated that the role played by Home Guards and Civil Defence volunteers during the COVID-19 pandemic, along with their dedication to serving people, is commendable. He mentioned that during the pandemic, 27 personnel from Home Guards and Civil Defence lost their lives while serving the public.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that training for contribution in emergency services for Home Guards and Civil Defence should be systematic and should have a place in their charter. He said that there is a need to make institutional arrangements for Home Guards and Civil Defence in traffic management as well. He said that similarly they should join other awareness programmes, such as Drug Free India, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Tree Plantation Campaigns, Water Conservation, Awareness against social evils, Women Safety, Community Health Care, TB Free India, War against Malnutrition, Poshan Abhiyaan etc. Shri Shah said that there should be a constructive role in spreading awareness for cyber security and against digital fraud, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Plastic Free India and Tree Plantation Campaign for environmental protection. He said that a roadmap should be made for assistance in law and order so that there is coordination between the local law and order handling officials and Home Guards and Civil Defence. He added that their roles in education, such as reducing drop out ratio, 100 percent enrollment and improvement in the quality of education, should also be given a place in the new charter. He said that there is a need to include Home Guards and Civil Defence in the charter to link them with many government programmes for employment and Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Shri Amit Shah said that keeping in mind the needs of the country today, there is a need to think afresh about the role of these two organisations to make them more relevant. He said that in the next 4 months, there is a need to infuse new life into both these organisations. Shri Shah said that there is also a need to focus on training and bringing forward new and young faces. The Home Minister said that till now only those people are associated with Home Guards and Civil Defence who want to come forward for the society. He said that the government will try that just like all sections of the society are represented in NCC, NSS, in the same way, youth from every section of the society should also be associated with these organisations. He said that towards achieving the goal of building a developed India in 2047, we need to strengthen every aspect related to it.

***

RK/VV/PR/PS

(Release ID: 2067195) Visitor Counter : 66

Read this release in: Hindi

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: Thriving Together: Stories of Sickle Cell Strength | Oct 2024 | Episode 3

Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

In this episode, Dr. Debra Houry, Chief Medical Officer and Deputy Director for Program and Science at the CDC, joins CDC Public Health Analyst, former professor, and Sickle Cell warrior Harry Williams to discuss his journey through his diagnosis and the critical importance of quality of life.

—

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) | http://www.hhs.gov | HHS Privacy Policy | http://www.hhs.gov/Privacy.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ns5HBxW1EdQ

MIL OSI Video –

January 24, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Labor looks set for a resounding defeat in Queensland. But the state’s elections have long thrown up surprises
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Pandanus Petter, Research Fellow School of Politics and International Relations, Australian National University

On Saturday October 26, Queensland Premier Steven Miles’ Labor is vying for a fourth consecutive term in government, up against David Crisafulli’s Liberal National Party (LNP).

Although Labor won the previous election in 2020 comfortably, opinion polls in the lead up to this election have consistently pointed to an LNP win.

Recent Queensland history shows voters can produce dramatic election results, such as the 2012 wipeout of Labor, and its equally dramatic return to government in 2015. With no upper house to provide a check on government power, whoever wins will likely have a relatively free hand to enact their policy agenda.

A continuing trend of increased early voting means many Queenslanders have already made their judgement. But what have been the big issues dominating the campaign, and what priorities will the next government be working toward?

The usual suspects

The big issues of concern to voters in Queensland are likely familiar to people in other states:
- cost of living
- housing
- crime
- health
- to a lesser extent, economic management.
However, the two main parties have different emphases and approaches.

A campaign on crime and crises

The LNP is focused on attacking Labor’s record. Crisafulli has largely tried to keep the party firmly on-message, highlighting what they describe as “crises” in housing, youth crime, cost of living, health and government integrity for at least the last year.

The extent of youth crime, what causes it and what solves it are a matter of debate.

But the LNP has been keen to present themselves as proposing tougher solutions than their opponents. They’ve made promises to change youth sentencing laws to deter offenders under the slogan “adult crime, adult time”.

They’ve also promised to provide “tough love” to at-risk youth with mandatory re-training camps.

On other issues, they’ve been promising more efficient health services, incentives to home ownership and greater government transparency.

However, they’ve been careful to try to avoid more controversial issues and present a “small target” on economic management. Interestingly, the LNP has largely confirmed they’ll adopt many of Labor’s budgetary priorities on cost of living relief.

Despite this, a last minute emphasis on the possible reversal of legislation decriminalising abortion and voluntary assisted dying has threatened to derail their careful messaging.

Reverting to old ways, the LNP is backing an “indefinite” commitment to coal fired power plants and dumping a controversial proposed hydroelectric dam.

Crisafulli has walked back earlier support for Treaty with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

If they win government, the LNP would also likely shut down the freshly minted Truth Telling and Healing Inquiry, claiming they will focus on “practical” help for Indigenous communities instead.

They’re also promising electoral reform with a longstanding commitment to remove “corrupt” compulsory preferential voting and the reversal of laws that banned property developer donations.

Progressive balancing act

Steven Miles took over from Annastacia Palaszczuk as Labor leader and premier less than a year ago.

Labor has also been focused on using incumbency to address key issues, while trying to stake out a position as a force for progressive change.

They have warned of the potential “hidden” dangers of the LNP, pointing to unpopular cuts to the civil service last time the LNP governed.

On cost of living, they’ve given direct relief to households, with 50 cent fares for public transport, $1000 household energy rebates and promised free lunches for public school students.

They have been keen to say this is a dividend from increased royalties charged to coal mining companies.

On housing, they have continued their focus on addressing the undersupply of social and affordable housing alongside modest reforms to renters’ rights (although ruling out any caps on prices).

They’re promising a new era of state intervention to improve competition in petrol and energy retail.

On crime, Labor has followed the LNP’s lead in some matters, such as investing in extra police resources. They’ve also controversially ignored the Human Rights Act to keep youth imprisoned while emphasising diversion over punishment.

Of more comfort to progressive voters, they have positioned themselves as firmly committed to keeping their abortion and voluntary assisted dying legislation intact. Labor will also continue the transition to renewable energy.

Disenchantment with the major parties

Despite their efforts, or perhaps because of Crisafulli’s disciplined messaging, it doesn’t look as if voters have been swayed to keep the government. There’s a clear mood for change.

However, it should be noted this isn’t exactly a ringing endorsement of Crisafulli or the LNP’s whole agenda, as opinion polls show neither is particularly popular.

After trailing for most of the campaign, Miles is still behind, but has made up a lot of ground in the past week.

Whoever wins, they will have to govern in an era when more people are disenchanted with the mainstream parties.

Among those vying to hold or increase their crossbench seats in regional Queensland are the socially conservative Katter’s Australian Party, as well as some popular local mayors running as independents.

Meanwhile, the Greens are pushing to claim more Brisbane seats.

The minor parties are campaigning hard on persistent problems in housing, cost of living, health and crime. These are all hard to solve quickly and not necessarily helped by rushed responses.

The next parliament will have to find a way to represent a state divided in public opinion between those in the city and those in regional areas across all of the key issues.

Pandanus Petter receives funding from the Australian Research Council to study public opinion polling, democratic responsiveness and the idea of ‘the Fair Go’ in public policy.

– ref. Labor looks set for a resounding defeat in Queensland. But the state’s elections have long thrown up surprises – https://theconversation.com/labor-looks-set-for-a-resounding-defeat-in-queensland-but-the-states-elections-have-long-thrown-up-surprises-241774
MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan – B10-0138/2024

Source: European Parliament

to wind up the debate on the statement by the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy

Adam Bielan, Charlie Weimers, Bert‑Jan Ruissen, Mariusz Kamiński, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Michał Dworczyk, Carlo Fidanza, Alexandr Vondra, Alberico Gambino, Rihards Kols, Reinis Pozņaks, Ondřej Krutílek, Veronika Vrecionová, Assita Kanko, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński
on behalf of the ECR Group

B10‑0138/2024

European Parliament resolution on People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan

(2024/2891(RSP))

The European Parliament,

– having regard to its previous reports, recommendations and resolutions on the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and Taiwan,

– having regard to the urgency motion on Taiwan, passed by the Australian Senate on 21 August 2024,

– having regard to the motion of 12 September 2024 passed in the Second Chamber of the Dutch Parliament on UN resolution 2758,

– having regard to the statement by the spokesperson of the European External Action Service of 14 October on China’s latest military drills around Taiwan,

– having regard to the UN Charter,

– having regard to UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 (XXVI) of 25 October 1971,

– having regard to Rule 136(2) of its Rules of Procedure,

A. whereas, in the 1970s, in the hope of enhancing prosperity, stability and peace, the PRC was offered a place in the UN; whereas Beijing seized this opportunity, benefiting from close ties with the West, joining the World Trade Organization, enjoying freedom of navigation and experiencing stabilisation in the seas and straits of South-East Asia, all of which opened the door to the country’s unprecedented economic and technological development;

B. whereas, in recent years, through its actions – such as supporting Russia’s barbaric aggression and assertively expanding in the region, particularly with the threat of invading Taiwan – Beijing is failing to uphold the commitments expected of UN Security Council members and the commitments enshrined in the UN Charter; whereas UN resolution 2758 does not establish the PRC’s sovereignty over Taiwan and does not determine the future status of Taiwan in the United Nations, nor of Taiwanese participation in UN agencies or international organisations;

C. whereas the PRC has falsely leveraged some interpretations of UN Resolution 2758 to advance its ‘One China’ narrative globally and put pressure on Taiwan, limiting its voice on the international stage and influencing its diplomatic relationships;

D. whereas the Australian and Dutch Parliaments have already decided not to go along with the PRC’s interpretation of UN Resolution 2758;

E. whereas the PRC is perpetuating its overly aggressive actions, and trying to erode the status quo in the Taiwan Strait; whereas since 2019 the PRC has violated the Taiwanese air defence identification zone (ADIZ) with increasing regularity; whereas the PRC has been behaving aggressively across vast areas of the Indo-Pacific and exerting varying degrees of military or economic coercion, which has led to disputes with neighbours such as Japan, India, the Philippines and Australia;

F. whereas on 14 October 2024 the PRC launched, without prior warning, a large-scale military drill named Joint Sword 2024-B that simulated a blockade of Taiwan; whereas the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) deployed 153 aircraft and 36 naval and coastguard ships around Taiwan, setting single-day records;

G. whereas the PLA’s air manoeuvres have increased from under 20 incursions into Taiwan’s ADIZ in 2019 to 2 459 so far in 2024; whereas the threat is exacerbated by Beijing’s announcement that it was practising for a blockade of Taiwan’s key ports and military bases; whereas the PLA’s primary locus for ADIZ operations has shifted over time from the South China Sea to the Taiwan Strait; whereas the PLA’s flight activity to the east of Taiwan has increased, demonstrating a shift from training and navigation operations to testing likely combat concepts in the event of a blockade or military invasion of Taiwan;

H. whereas, besides military pressure, the PRC has for years pursued a sophisticated strategy of targeting Taiwan with foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI), including hybrid and cyberattacks, with the goal of undermining Taiwan’s democratic society;

I. whereas the PRC under the leadership of Xi Jinping has said that it will not renounce the use of force to seek unification with Taiwan;

J. whereas on 25 September 2024 the PRC fired an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) into the Pacific Ocean for the first time since 1980;

K. whereas the PRC’s increasingly aggressive posture, in particular in its own neighbourhood, such as the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea, poses a risk to regional and global security;

L. whereas Beijing’s active support of the Russian Federation’s aggressive actions against Ukraine contradicts the PRC’s claim to be a ‘stabilising power’; whereas the Russian war of aggression is being closely watched by the PRC as a test bed for the possible future invasion of Taiwan and to gauge the likely reaction of the international community;

M. whereas the EU and Taiwan are like-minded partners that share the common values of freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law;

N. whereas the PRC is a one-party state controlled and ruled entirely by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP); whereas the CCP has used its growing influence in international organisations to reshape the open, rules-based international order to protect and advance its own interests;

O. whereas Taiwan is located in a strategic position in terms of trade; whereas the Taiwan Strait is the primary route for ships travelling from the PRC, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan towards Europe; whereas the EU remains the largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Taiwan; whereas there is considerable potential for increasing Taiwan’s FDI in the EU; whereas Taiwan dominates semiconductor manufacturing markets, as its producers manufacture around 50 % of the world’s semiconductor output; whereas the EU’s Indo-Pacific strategy argues for increasing trade and investment cooperation with Taiwan and advocates stabilising tensions in the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait;

1. Reiterates that Taiwan is an important EU partner and a like-minded democratic ally in the Indo-Pacific region;

2. Condemns the sustained efforts made by representatives of the PRC to distort the meaning of UN resolution 2758, historical documents and international rules;

3. Remains deeply committed to the EU’s ‘One China’ policy, which does not equate with the PRC’s ‘One China’ principle’;

4. Stresses that nothing in resolution 2758 prevents Taiwan’s participation in international organisations and that it has no bearing on the sovereign choices of other countries with respect to their relationship with Taiwan;

5. Regrets the PRC’s efforts to block Taiwan’s participation in multilateral organisations; calls for the EU and its Member States to support Taiwan’s meaningful participation, in line with the key UN principles of universal representation, in relevant international organisations such as the World Health Organization, the International Civil Aviation Organization, the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change in order to better protect global interests and address the serious challenges facing humanity, such as pandemics, climate change and human rights;

6. Strongly condemns the PRC’s provocative, irresponsible, disproportionate and destabilising military exercises, including the recent exercises of 14 October, as well as its continued military provocations against Taiwan and its aggressive posture in the wider region; expresses its concern about the PRC’s recent launch of an ICBM into the Pacific Ocean, which has contributed to further tensions across the Indo-Pacific region;

7. Reaffirms its strong commitment to the status quo in the Taiwan Strait; calls for the EU and its Member States to ensure that any attempt to unilaterally change the status quo in the Taiwan Strait, particularly by means of force or coercion, will not be accepted and will be met with a decisive and firm reaction;

8. Highlights that the PRC’s increasingly aggressive posture poses a threat to the freedom of navigation and jeopardises the stability which is vital for global trade; emphasises that this situation is being watched with concern by a growing number of like-minded partners committed to peace and stability in the region, including across the Taiwan Strait; underlines the need to shore up deterrence against destabilising behaviour, including through regular operations to assert freedom of navigation over the PRC’s attempts to impose control over international waters and airspace;

9. Reiterates its strong condemnation of statements by President Xi Jinping that the PRC will never renounce the right to use force with respect to Taiwan;

10. Urges the PRC to immediately cease all actions and intrusions into the Taiwanese ADIZ and the airspace violations above Taiwan’s outer islands, and to restore the full respect of the Taiwan Strait’s median line, all of which also poses a risk to international aviation, and stop all other grey-zone military actions, including cyber and disinformation campaigns;

11. Recalls that maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific is a core interest for the free world, including the EU and its Member States; stresses that a military conflict in the Taiwan Strait would not only cause significant economic disruption affecting European interests and prosperity, but would also seriously undermine the rules-based order in the region, as well as democratic governance with human rights, democracy and the rule of law at its core;

12. Recalls Taiwan’s help and assistance during both the COVID-19 pandemic and the humanitarian crises caused by Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, as well as its continuous involvement and support for the Ukrainian government and countries hosting Ukrainian refugees;

13. Reiterates the importance of respecting international law, in particular the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and its provisions on the obligation to settle disputes by peaceful means and on maintaining the freedom of navigation and overflight;

14. Reiterates its call for the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs to change the name of the European Economic and Trade Office in Taiwan to ‘European Union Office in Taiwan’ to reflect the broad scope of our ties;

15. Reiterates its previous call for the Commission to launch, without delay, an impact assessment, public consultation and scoping exercise on a bilateral investment agreement with the Taiwanese authorities in preparation for negotiations on deepening bilateral economic ties;

16. Recommends further deepening cooperation between the EU and Taiwan to enhance structural cooperation on countering disinformation and foreign interference; recommends posting a liaison officer at the European Economic and Trade Office to coordinate joint efforts on tackling disinformation and interference; condemns any form of pressure and threats of reprisals, including economic coercion, with regard to the independent right of the EU and its Member States to develop relations with Taiwan in line with their interests and shared values of democracy and human rights, without foreign interference;

17. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and the Governments of the PRC and Taiwan.

MIL OSI Europe News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: UNI-494 trial results highlight Unicycive’s potential to differentiate in AKI space, says GlobalData

Source: GlobalData

UNI-494 trial results highlight Unicycive’s potential to differentiate in AKI space, says GlobalData

Posted in Pharma

Unicycive Therapeutics recently announced positive results from its Phase I trial of UNI-494, showing that the drug’s use was observed to be safe and well-tolerated in both single ascending and multiple ascending doses. The trial results also showed that UNI-494 absorption was fast, rapidly metabolized, and plasma concentration increases when dose increases. The drug potentially fills an unmet need in the acute kidney injury (AKI) space as it has an alternate mechanism of action to current marketed therapies, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

AKI can cause a buildup of waste products in the blood and make it difficult to maintain the right balance of fluid and minerals in the body. It can also cause permanent kidney damage, leading to chronic kidney disease (CKD).

According to GlobalData’s latest report “Chronic Kidney Disease: Epidemiology Forecast to 2033,” the total prevalent cases of CKD are expected to increase from 110,299,913 cases in 2023 to 121,072,673 cases in 2033, across the seven major markets (7MM*).

Kajal Jaddoo, Senior Pharma Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The aging global population will lead to an increase in the prevalence of AKI, leading to an expansion of the market as well as a growing need for more therapeutic options.”

UNI-494 exhibits therapeutic intervention activating SUR2 subunit of the mitochondrial ATP-sensitive potassium channel (KATP channel) and thus reduces oxidative stress and restores mitochondrial function.

The Phase I study was a randomized, open-label, double-blind, placebo-controlled, single ascending dose, multiple ascending dose, and single centered study to assess the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of UNI-494. The single ascending dose from 10mg to 160mg was well-tolerated. The multiple ascending dose of 40mg twice daily for five days was also safe and well-tolerated.

Jaddoo concludes: “Key opinion leaders interviewed by GlobalData have emphasized that a drug that specifically shows enhanced efficacy in kidney disease patients will most likely receive breakthrough or fast track designations and gain market share.”

MIL OSI Economics –

January 24, 2025