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  • MIL-OSI USA: Feb 03, 2025 Transit Equity Day: Safety on Public Transportation is a Civil Right

    Source: US Amalgamated Transit Union

    Silver Spring, MD – Amalgamated Transit Union International President John Costa released the following statement to mark Transit Equity Day and Rosa Parks’ birthday.

    “Public transportation is not just a service. It is a fundamental right that should be accessible, safe, and equitable for all. The legacy of Rosa Parks, who courageously stood up against racial injustice by refusing to surrender her seat on a bus in Montgomery, Alabama, resonates today more than ever. Her act of defiance in 1955 helped ignite a movement for civil rights that sought to ensure all people could live with dignity, free from discrimination and violence. Rosa Parks, along with Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., believed that every person has the right to a good life—one that includes not only access to public transportation but also to safe housing, quality education, the right to vote, fair employment, and freedom from harm. These ideals form the foundation of the ongoing fight for social justice.

    “Today, as we reflect on this vision of equality, we mark Transit Equity Day by focusing on an urgent issue that is swept under the rug too often: the safety of transit workers and passengers alike. Transportation is integral to our daily lives, yet it should never come at the cost of someone’s well-being or safety. Unfortunately, transit workers across the globe continue to face violence while simply doing their jobs. The ATU family has recently experienced profound loss due to violence that tragically ended the lives of two of our brothers on the job.

    “In Seattle, Washington, we lost Brother Shawn Yim, who was tragically stabbed to death while working his shift. Just weeks later, in Atlanta, Georgia, our Brother Leroy Ramos was senselessly shot and killed over a $2.50 fare. These acts of violence are not isolated incidents—they reflect a systemic issue of safety within the transit industry, one that puts both operators and passengers at risk.

    “This Transit Equity Day, we call for action to address the safety of those who ensure our communities are connected. Transit workers, like every worker, deserve to go home safely at the end of their shifts. The right to safe and equitable public transportation should extend beyond just access. It must also ensure that those who provide the service are protected from harm. The struggle for transit equity is incomplete if those who serve us are not treated with the respect and safety they deserve.

    “We honor the memory of Brother Yim and Brother Ramos and stand in solidarity with all workers who risk their lives to keep our transit systems running. We must work together to make transit safe for everyone and guarantee that public transportation remains a civil right for all.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Washington Field Office Releases Seeking Information Posters for Two Senior Iranian Intelligence Officers Involved in the Abduction of Robert A. Levinson

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI Crime News (b)

    The FBI Washington Field Office today released seeking information posters featuring two senior Iranian intelligence officers who were involved in the abduction of retired FBI Special Agent Robert A. “Bob” Levinson from Kish Island, Iran, on March 9, 2007. The release of the posters is part of the FBI’s ongoing investigation into Bob’s abduction and our commitment to resolving the case for his long-suffering family.

    The two intelligence officers—Mohammad Baseri and Ahmad Khazai—allegedly acted in their capacity as officials of Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS) during Bob’s abduction, detention, and probable death.

    “The FBI remains steadfast in our commitment to return Bob to his family,” said Sanjay Virmani, special agent in charge of the FBI Washington Field Office’s Counterterrorism Division. “Our extensive investigation continues to develop new leads and intelligence, and we will pursue all options to hold every Iranian official involved in his abduction accountable.”

    For nearly 18 years, the Iranian government has denied knowledge of Bob’s whereabouts despite senior intelligence officials authorizing Bob’s abduction and detention and launching a disinformation campaign to deflect blame from the Iranian regime.

    Both Baseri and Khazai are high-ranking MOIS officers. In December 2020, the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control designated Baseri and Khazai for their role in Bob’s abduction.

    AHMAD KHAZAI

    MOHAMMAD BASERI

    According to the designation, Baseri has been involved in counterespionage activities inside and outside Iran, as well as sensitive investigations related to Iranian national security issues. He has worked directly with intelligence officials from other countries to harm U.S. interests.

    Khazai has led MOIS delegations to other countries to assess security situations.

    The FBI continues to offer a reward of up to $5 million for information that leads to Bob’s location, recovery, and return. If you have information about Bob or if you have information about Baseri, Khazai, or others who may have played a role in Bob’s abduction, please email levinsonfbireward@fbi.gov. You can also contact your local FBI office or the nearest American Embassy or Consulate or submit a tip via tips.fbi.gov.

    Additionally, the U.S. State Department’s Rewards for Justice program is offering a reward of up to $20 million for information that leads to Bob’s location, recovery, and return. You can visit RFJ’s website for more information about this reward.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: NANO Nuclear Energy Establishes Specialized Facility in New York State to Demonstrate Key Components of its Nuclear Microreactor Designs

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, N.Y., Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) (“NANO Nuclear” or “the Company”), a leading advanced nuclear energy and technology company focused on developing clean energy solutions, today announced that it is establishing a purpose-built demonstration facility in Westchester County, New York to be used to demonstrate the operation and viability of several non-nuclear parts and components of NANO Nuclear’s four nuclear microreactors in development: ZEUSTM, ODINTM, LOKI MMRTM and KRONOS MMRTM.

    Figure 1 – Image of Exterior of NANO Nuclear’s New Advanced Demonstration Facility for Key Components of its Nuclear Microreactor Designs in Westchester County, NY

    The facility will also support ongoing work on NANO Nuclear’s SBIR Phase III project for its Annular Linear Induction Pump (ALIP) technology. ALIP addresses challenges in high-efficiency thermal fluid management for clean energy and high-temperature industrial processes and is based on electromagnetic (rather than mecha1nical) pumps. A key enabling technology for NANO Nuclear’s suite of nuclear microreactors, ALIP is being further developed under the SBIR Phase III project to accelerate the transition from research to practical products and services.

    “This advanced facility, will play a major role in our development efforts, providing our technical teams with access to key physical data. We plan to announce timely updates throughout the year on certain key research and developmental milestones,” said Jay Yu, Founder and Chairman of NANO Nuclear Energy. “The facility will also be used to advance commercialization efforts surrounding our ALIP technology, which could have a significant impact on the wider nuclear energy sector in addition to being a key enabling technology for our own, proprietary suite of microreactor technologies.”

    Figure 2 – Image of NANO Nuclear’s Management and Technical teams at the Company’s New Advanced Demonstration Facility for Key Components of its Nuclear Microreactor Designs in Westchester County, New York

    The expansion of NANO Nuclear’s operations in New York State follows its December 17, 2024 response to a New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) Request for Information (RFI) concerning the development of advanced nuclear energy technologies in New York State. The demonstration facility will enhance NANO Nuclear’s ability to support the New York’s pursuit of cost-effective alternatives to heavily polluting carbon-based energy sources and intermittent options such as wind or solar. The facility is in the final stages of retrofitting and is expected to be operational this spring.

    “We are excited to announce this additional significant milestone to our journey as a company and the advancement of our technology,” said James Walker, Chief Executive Officer and Head of Reactor Development of NANO Nuclear Energy. “Once operational, the facility will provide our technical teams with invaluable opportunities to gather physical data and optimize designs to integrate non-nuclear components effectively. This is a critical step in accelerating our reactor development and ensuring the seamless integration of all components in the final product.”

    Onsite attendance at NANO Nuclear Energy’s specialized facility in New York State:

    • Jay Yu, Founder and Chairman
    • James Walker, CEO & Head of Reactor Development
    • Professor Ian Farnan, Lead of Nuclear Fuel Cycle, Radiation and Materials
    • Professor Massimiliano Fratoni, Senior Director and Head of Reactor Design
    • Professor Peter Hosemann, Head of Nuclear Reactor Design and Materials
    • Carlos O. Maidana, Ph.D., MBA, Head of Thermal Hydraulics and Space Program
    • John G. Vonglis, Executive Director of Global Government Affairs
    • Michael Norato, Ph.D., Director of Nuclear Facilities and Infrastructure
    • David Tiktinsky, Head of Nuclear Regulatory Licensing
    • Eric R. Oesterle, Head of Microreactor Regulatory Licensing
    • Oscar Leandro, MBA, VP of International Business
    • Ross Mitchell, Nuclear Engineer and Project Manager
    • Michael Lim, Manufacturing and Operations Manager
    • Josey Anna Widhalm, Office Director & Marketing Manager

    About NANO Nuclear Energy, Inc.

    NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) is an advanced technology-driven nuclear energy company seeking to become a commercially focused, diversified, and vertically integrated company across five business lines: (i) cutting edge portable and other microreactor technologies, (ii) nuclear fuel fabrication, (iii) nuclear fuel transportation, (iv) nuclear applications for space and (v) nuclear industry consulting services. NANO Nuclear believes it is the first portable nuclear microreactor company to be listed publicly in the U.S.

    Led by a world-class nuclear engineering team, NANO Nuclear’s reactor products in development include “ZEUS”, a solid core battery reactor, and “ODIN”, a low-pressure coolant reactor, each representing advanced developments in clean energy solutions that are portable, on-demand capable, advanced nuclear microreactors. NANO Nuclear is also developing patented stationary KRONOS MMR™ Energy System and space focused, portable LOKI MMR™.

    Advanced Fuel Transportation Inc. (AFT), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is led by former executives from the largest transportation company in the world aiming to build a North American transportation company that will provide commercial quantities of HALEU fuel to small modular reactors, microreactor companies, national laboratories, military, and DOE programs. Through NANO Nuclear, AFT is the exclusive licensee of a patented high-capacity HALEU fuel transportation basket developed by three major U.S. national nuclear laboratories and funded by the Department of Energy. Assuming development and commercialization, AFT is expected to form part of the only vertically integrated nuclear fuel business of its kind in North America.

    HALEU Energy Fuel Inc. (HEF), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is focusing on the future development of a domestic source for a High-Assay, Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) fuel fabrication pipeline for NANO Nuclear’s own microreactors as well as the broader advanced nuclear reactor industry.

    NANO Nuclear Space Inc. (NNS), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is exploring the potential commercial applications of NANO Nuclear’s developing micronuclear reactor technology in space. NNS is focusing on applications such as the LOKI MMR™ system and other power systems for extraterrestrial projects and human sustaining environments, and potentially propulsion technology for long haul space missions. NNS’ initial focus will be on cis-lunar applications, referring to uses in the space region extending from Earth to the area surrounding the Moon’s surface.

    For more corporate information please visit: https://NanoNuclearEnergy.com/

    For further NANO Nuclear information, please contact:
    Email: IR@NANONuclearEnergy.com
    Business Tel: (212) 634-9206

    PLEASE FOLLOW OUR SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES HERE:

    NANO Nuclear Energy LINKEDIN
    NANO Nuclear Energy YOUTUBE
    NANO Nuclear Energy X PLATFORM

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

    This news release and statements of NANO Nuclear’s management in connection with this news release contain or may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this context, forward-looking statements mean statements related to future events, which may impact our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “plans”, “believes”, “potential”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “would” or “may” and other words of similar meaning. In this press release, forward-looking statements include those relating to the anticipated benefits and the timing for commencement of operations at the Company’s new demonstration facility as described herein. These and other forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this news release and represent management’s current views and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, events or results and involve significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control. For NANO Nuclear, particular risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include but are not limited to the following: (i) risks related to our U.S. Department of Energy (“DOE”) or related state or non-U.S. nuclear fuel licensing submissions, (ii) risks related the development of new or advanced technology and the acquisition of complimentary technology or businesses, including difficulties with design and testing, cost overruns, regulatory delays, integration issues and the development of competitive technology, (iii) our ability to obtain contracts and funding to be able to continue operations, (iv) risks related to uncertainty regarding our ability to technologically develop and commercially deploy a competitive advanced nuclear reactor or other technology in the timelines we anticipate, if ever, (v) risks related to the impact of U.S. and non-U.S. government regulation, policies and licensing requirements, including by the DOE and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, including those associated with the recently enacted ADVANCE Act, and (vi) similar risks and uncertainties associated with the operating an early stage business a highly regulated and rapidly evolving industry. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release. These factors may not constitute all factors that could cause actual results to differ from those discussed in any forward-looking statement, and NANO Nuclear therefore encourages investors to review other factors that may affect future results in its filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov and at https://ir.nanonuclearenergy.com/financial-information/sec-filings. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a predictor of actual results. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this news release, except as required by law.

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Data443 Acquires Breezemail.ai, Accelerating AI-Powered Email Privacy Capabilities for Microsoft Office and Google GMail

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C., Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Data443 Risk Mitigation, Inc. (OTCPK: ATDS) (“Data443” or the “Company”), a data security and privacy software company for “All Things Data Security,” today announced the acquisition of intellectual property and operational assets of Breezemail.ai, an innovative provider of AI-powered email management technology. This acquisition marks a significant expansion of Data443’s capabilities in intelligent threat detection and leverages its leadership at the forefront of the rapidly evolving AI security landscape.

    Breezemail.ai leverages proprietary implementations of machine-learning algorithms that manage end-user mailboxes for both Microsoft Office365 and Google GSuite GMail. This capability is the industry’s first implementation, giving end users direct management of their inboxes from outside the service provider – creating private implementations of email organization, detection, and visibility for important information. Managing this privately ensures that the mail provider does not have access to the rulesets that the end user designs, ensuring ongoing privacy of private rulesets for the customer. Email providers do not see the rules that the end user creates.

    “AI privacy continues to be a major issue the industry continues to tackle. End users should be able to keep their mailbox organization rules private, change them at will, and have a simple interface for managing this. Breezemail.ai enables this capability in a few mouse clicks and gives the user ultimate control. Even more importantly, the users’ private rules and decisions are not shared with any service provider,” stated Jason Remillard, CEO and Founder of Data443.

    Integrating this technology into Data443’s award-winning product suites increases the adoption of these capabilities in other segments, such as healthcare, national defense, and government organizations.

    The acquisition coincides with significant market validation of AI-powered email security solutions, evidenced by Abnormal Security’s anticipated IPO and growing enterprise demand for intelligent security platforms. This strategic move positions Data443 to capture an expanding share of the email security market, which is experiencing rapid growth driven by the increasing sophistication of cyber threats.

    The integration of Breezemail.ai’s technology will deliver immediate benefits to Data443’s customers:

    • Seamless integration with existing Cyren by Data443 deployments
    • Enhanced protection against sophisticated social engineering attacks
    • Real-time threat intelligence sharing across the customer base
    • A rich implementation for selective decision-making driven by the end-user without IT assistance
    • Complete privacy on how the users’ internal mindset works with data

    “Combining Breezemail.ai’s innovative AI implementations with our existing security capabilities, we’re building on our compounding advantages with our Cyren by Data443 email and threat intelligence product stack,” added Remillard. “This integration will provide our customers with unprecedented AI privacy enablement protection while significantly simplifying management tools for end users.”

    “This acquisition transcends mere technological expansion, marking a pivotal shift in email privacy protection. As artificial intelligence continues to automate more aspects of our digital lives, safeguarding user privacy has emerged as one of the industry’s most pressing challenges. This enables millions of users to self-manage their data with complete privacy,” concluded Mr.Remillard.

    About Data443 Risk Mitigation, Inc.

    Data443 Risk Mitigation, Inc. (OTCPK: ATDS) provides software and services to enable secure data across devices and databases, at rest and in flight/in transit, locally, on a network or in the cloud. We are All Things Data Security™. With over 10,000 customers in over 100 countries, Data443 provides a modern approach to data governance and security by identifying and protecting all sensitive data regardless of location, platform or format. Data443’s framework helps customers prioritize risk, identify security gaps and implement effective data protection and privacy management strategies.

    Forward-Looking Statements 

    This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may be identified by use of terms such as “expect,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “may,” “could,” “will,” “should,” “plan,” “project,” “intend,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “pursuant,” “target,” “continue” or the negative of these words or other comparable terminology. Statements in this press release that are not historical statements, including statements regarding Data443’s plans, objectives, future opportunities for Data443’s services, future financial performance and operating results, and any other statements regarding Data443’s future expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, financial conditions, assumptions or future events or performance, or regarding the anticipated consummation of any transaction, are forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to numerous risks, uncertainties and assumptions, many of which are difficult to predict or are beyond Data443’s control. These risks, uncertainties and assumptions could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed or implied by the statements. They may relate to the outcome of litigation, settlements and investigations; actions by third parties, including governmental agencies; volatility in customer spending; global economic conditions; inability to hire and retain personnel; loss of, or reduction in business with, key customers; difficulty with growth and integration of acquisitions; product liability; cybersecurity risk; anti-takeover measures in the Company’s charter documents; and the uncertainties created by global health issues, such as the ongoing outbreak of COVID, and political unrest and conflict, such as the invasion of Ukraine by Russia. These and other important risk factors are described more fully in the Company’s reports and other documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“the SEC”), including in Part I, Item 1A of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on April 17, 2024, and subsequent filings with the SEC. Undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements in this press release, which are based on information available to the Company on the date hereof. Except as otherwise required by applicable law, Data443 undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise.

    “DATA443” is a registered trademark of Data443 Risk Mitigation, Inc.

    All product names, trademarks and registered trademarks are property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this press release are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks and brands does not imply endorsement.

    For further information:

    Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/data443-risk-mitigation-inc/
    Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZXDhJcx-XgMBhvE9aFHRdA
    Sign up for our Investor Newsletter: https://data443.com/investor-email-alerts/
    To learn more about Data443, please watch the Company’s video introduction on its YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/1Fp93jOxFSg

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Matthew Abenante
    ir@data443.com
    919.858.6542

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: CVR Energy to Release Fourth Quarter and Full-Year 2024 Earnings Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SUGAR LAND, Texas, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CVR Energy, Inc. (NYSE: CVI) plans to release its fourth quarter and full-year 2024 earnings results on Tuesday, Feb. 18, after the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange. The Company also will host a teleconference call on Wednesday, Feb. 19, at 1 p.m. Eastern to discuss these results.

    This call, which will contain forward-looking information, will be webcast live and can be accessed on the Investor Relations section of CVR Energy’s website at www.CVREnergy.com. For investors or analysts who want to participate during the call, the dial-in number is (877) 407-8291. The webcast will be archived and available for 14 days at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/4a2maqba. A repeat of the call also can be accessed for 14 days by dialing (877) 660-6853, conference ID 13751234.

    CVR Energy’s fourth quarter and full-year 2024 earnings news release will be distributed via GlobeNewswire and posted at www.CVREnergy.com.

    About CVR Energy, Inc.
    Headquartered in Sugar Land, Texas, CVR Energy is a diversified holding company primarily engaged in the renewables, petroleum refining and marketing businesses as well as in the nitrogen fertilizer manufacturing business through its interest in CVR Partners, LP. CVR Energy subsidiaries serve as the general partner and own 37 percent of the common units of CVR Partners, LP.

    For further information, please contact:

    Investor Relations:
    Richard Roberts
    CVR Energy, Inc.
    (281) 207-3205
    InvestorRelations@CVREnergy.com

    Media Relations:
    Brandee Stephens                        
    CVR Energy, Inc.
    (281) 207-3516
    MediaRelations@CVREnergy.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: EZCORP to Release First Quarter Fiscal 2025 Results After Market Close on Wednesday, February 5th, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EZCORP, Inc. (“EZCORP” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: EZPW), a leading provider of pawn transactions in the United States and Latin America, will issue first quarter fiscal 2025 results (period ended December 31, 2024) on Wednesday, February 5th, 2025, after the market close.

    The Company will host a webcast and conference call at 9:00 a.m. Eastern time on Thursday, February 6th, 2025, to discuss its results. The presentation slides will be posted to the Investor Relations section of its website after the market close on Wednesday, February 5th, 2025.

    Date Thursday, February 6th, 2025
    Time: 9:00 a.m. Eastern time
    Dial-in registration link: https://register.vevent.com/register/BI86f9072cf4c447ae86954e0a22daa957
    Live webcast registration link: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/j568nkgu

    A replay of the conference call will be available online at http://investors.ezcorp.com shortly after the live call concludes. If you have any difficulty accessing the conference call, please contact Elevate IR at EZPW@elevate-ir.com.

    About EZCORP
    Formed in 1989, EZCORP has grown into a leading provider of pawn transactions in the United States and Latin America. We also sell pre-owned and recycled merchandise, primarily collateral forfeited from pawn lending operations and merchandise purchased from customers. We are dedicated to satisfying the short-term cash needs of consumers who are both cash and credit constrained, focusing on an industry-leading customer experience. EZCORP is traded on NASDAQ under the symbol EZPW and is a member of the S&P 1000 Index and Nasdaq Composite Index.

    Follow EZCORP on social media:
    Facebook EZPAWN Official https://www.facebook.com/EZPAWN/
    EZCORP Instagram Official https://www.instagram.com/ezcorp_official/
    EZPAWN Instagram Official https://www.instagram.com/ezpawnofficial/
    EZCORP LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/ezcorp/

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Sean Mansouri, CFA
    Elevate IR
    EZPW@elevate-ir.com
    (720) 330-2829

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: FE International Reports: 2025 Primed to be a Busy Year For M&A

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FE International, the leading firm in lower and middle market tech M&A, is proud to announce their semi-annual industry reports. This full suite of industry research reports includes sweeping analysis of global markets as well as detailed snapshots of industry-specific M&A activity.

    Global economic outlook overall is more hopeful for 2025. Cabinet changes across several of the G20 and accommodative monetary policies signal greater potential for growth across markets and industries.

    The incoming US Presidential Administration heavily influences the global macroeconomic outlook for 2025. The election of Donald Trump is set to bring profound changes to the economic and regulatory landscape of the United States and beyond. In the international arena, President-elect Trump’s trade policies will likely focus on ensuring U.S. dominance in areas such as digital technology and artificial intelligence.

    Overall, tax cuts and promises of deregulation, particularly for corporations and high-income earners, should stimulate increased investment and economic activity. Financial markets especially are poised for a potentially transformative period, despite the unusual possibility of across-the-board tariffs announced by the US President-Elect. While the impacts of the proposed tariffs would be considerable for the global economy, the potential imposition of tariffs is more likely the starting point of political negotiations.

    Learn how changes in government administrations will impact the global economy with industry insights from:

    With decades of experience, FE International can provide the expertise and guidance founders and investors need to achieve their financial goals. The firm helps businesses prepare for a successful exit by conducting a thorough valuation, suggesting optimizations for operations and profitability, identifying areas for potential growth, and crafting a compelling story for investors.

    About FE International

    Founded in 2010, FE International is an award-winning strategic advisor for technology businesses. FE’s team has completed over 1,500 transactions with a combined value of over $50 billion. FE International was named one of The Americas’ Fastest Growing Companies from 2020 to 2024 by the Financial Times and is also a four-time Inc. 5000 company.

    Media Contact:
    Gaj Tanwar
    Marketing Coordinate, FE International
    Email: gaj.tanwar@feinternational.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Exodus Movement, Inc. Announces Offer to Acquire Banxa Holdings Inc.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OMAHA, Neb., Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Exodus Movement, Inc. (NYSE American: EXOD) (“Exodus”), a leading self-custodial cryptocurrency platform, today announced that it has submitted a proposal (the “Exodus Offer”) for the acquisition of all of the issued and outstanding common shares of Banxa Holdings Inc. (TSXV: BNXA) (“Banxa”), a globally recognized financial technology platform specializing in digital asset on-and-off ramp solutions. Banxa today announced that its Board of Directors, after consultation with its financial and legal advisors, and after consideration of a recommendation from its Special Committee of the Board of Directors, has unanimously determined that the Exodus Offer constitutes a “Superior Proposal” under the terms of the arrangement agreement between Banxa and 1493819 B.C. Ltd. (“1493819”). Banxa also announced that it provided notice of such determination to 1493819 and that, under its arrangement agreement with 1493819, 1493819 now has the right, until 5:00 p.m. (Vancouver time) on February 10, 2025, to propose to amend the terms of the arrangement agreement in order to make the Exodus Offer no longer a Superior Proposal.

    Pursuant to the terms of the Exodus Offer, Exodus has offered to acquire all of the issued and outstanding common shares of Banxa (“Banxa Shares”) for consideration per Banxa Share comprised of (i) CDN$1.10 in cash; and (ii) 0.0079 of class A common stock of Exodus (“Exodus Shares”). Based on the closing price of the Exodus Shares on NYSE American on February 3, 2025 of US$59.59 and the U.S./Canada daily exchange rate on February 3, 2025 of US$1.00/CDN$1.4603, the value of the share consideration to be paid to Banxa shareholders is US$0.47 or approximately CDN$0.69 per Banxa Share, bringing the total consideration to be received by Banxa shareholders to approximately CDN$1.79 per Banxa Share.

    At this time, there can be no assurance that the Exodus Offer will lead to a termination of the arrangement agreement between Banxa and 1493819 and the execution of a definitive arrangement agreement between Banxa and Exodus in respect of the Exodus Offer, or that the proposed transaction contemplated by the Exodus Offer will be consummated.

    About Exodus

    Exodus is a financial technology leader empowering individuals and businesses with secure, user-friendly crypto software solutions. Since 2015, Exodus has made digital assets accessible to everyone through its multi-asset crypto wallets prioritizing design and ease of use.

    With self-custodial wallets, Exodus puts customers in full control of their funds, enabling them to swap, buy, and sell crypto. Its business solutions include Passkeys Wallet and XO Swap, industry-leading tools for embedded crypto wallets and swap aggregation.

    Exodus is committed to driving the future of accessible and secure finance. Learn more at exodus.com or follow us on X at x.com/exodus_io.

    Investor Contact
    investors@exodus.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” as that term is defined by the federal securities laws. All forward-looking statements are based upon our current expectations and various assumptions and apply only as of the date made. Our expectations, beliefs, and projections are expressed in good faith, and we believe there is a reasonable basis for them. However, there can be no assurance that our expectations, beliefs and projections will be achieved. Forward-looking statements are generally identified by the words “may,” “will,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “project,” “potential,” “continue,” “ongoing,” “forecast,” as well as variations of such words or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements in this document include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Exodus Offer, including the consideration to be issued pursuant to the Exodus Offer, the possibility that 1493819 submits a revised offer during the matching period, the possibility that Banxa and 1493819 amend the terms of their arrangement agreement that results in the Exodus Offer no longer being a Superior Proposal and the ability of Exodus and Banxa to consummate the transaction on the terms and in the manner contemplated by the Exodus Offer. Such forward-looking statements involve a number of risks, uncertainties and other important factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by our forward-looking statements. Such factors include the possible actions by or on behalf of 1493819; the possibility that Exodus withdraws the Exodus Offer; or the possibility of a third party submitting a proposal or a revised proposal which leads to a new Superior Proposal, as well as those set forth in “Item 1. Business” and “Item 1A. Risk Factors” of Amendment No. 6 to our Registration Statement on Form 10 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on November 27, 2024, as well as in our other reports filed with the SEC from time to time. All forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by such cautionary statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements that have been made to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

    No Offer or Solicitation

    The Exodus Offer contemplates that the Exodus Shares will be issued in a transaction exempt from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act”), pursuant to Section 3(a)(10) of the U.S. Securities Act. Consequently, the Exodus Shares will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act or under any U.S. state securities laws. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy Exodus Shares or any other securities, and shall not constitute an offer, solicitation or sale in any jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

    Source: Exodus Movement, Inc.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: NEXE Innovations to Present at the Small Cap Growth Virtual Investor Conference on February 6th

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO and NEW YORK, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NEXE Innovations Inc. (“NEXE” or the “Company”) (TSX.V: NEXE) (Frankfurt: NX5) (OTC: NEXNF), a compostable and innovative materials company, today announced that Kam Mangat, Vice President, Investor Relations & Corporate Strategy, will present live at the Small Cap Growth Virtual Investor Conference hosted by VirtualInvestorConferences.com, on February 6th, 2025.

    DATE: February 6th
    TIME: 1:30 pm ET
    LINK: https://bit.ly/40HJNUC
    Available for 1:1 meetings

    This will be a live, interactive online event where investors are invited to ask the Company questions in real-time. If attendees are not able to join the event live on the day of the conference, an archived webcast will also be made available after the event.

    It is recommended that investors pre-register and run the online system check to expedite participation and receive event updates.  

    Learn more about the event at www.virtualinvestorconferences.com.

    Why NEXE?

    Targeting the multi-billion dollar single-use plastics industry through its:

    • Vertically integrated facility and economies of scale: NEXE utilizes a vertically integrated manufacturing process, including compounding its proprietary resin, extrusion, and injection molding. We believe this end-to-end manufacturing process increases supply chain efficiency, reduces its carbon footprint, and safeguards its intellectual property.
    • Comprehensive IP Portfolio: We developed a pod structure for the compostable coffee pod designed to accommodate higher volumes and still provide a high-quality brewing experience. NEXE accomplished this feat through its innovative technology that increases the filter area (U.S. Pat. No. 12,004,678 issued on June 11, 2024) allowing for more volume per pod and increased coffee extraction, which in our view improves taste and richness. The Company believes that, given these key competitive features, it is well-positioned to offer a compelling “pour-over” coffee experience that appeals to premium coffee brands seeking a sustainable solution. For more details on our IP: NEXE Expands IP Portfolio to Drive Sustainability and Growth Across Different Markets
    • Proprietary Resin: The development of our coffee pod was not without challenges. K-Cup* compatible coffee pods face unique obstacles during the brewing process, including exposure to heat, high pressure, and water flow. Achieving a consistent and satisfying coffee extraction in a K-Cup* compatible machine requires precise engineering to balance these variables. Addressing these complexities demanded significant R&D efforts to create a capsule capable of meeting these rigorous demands while ensuring a premium coffee experience. However, addressing these challenges led to an incredible breakthrough for us in our proprietary resin. We believe this material now forms the foundation of our competitive edge and has positioned NEXE as an innovator that can target low-hanging fruit with higher margins across various industries.
    • Cost Competitive: Compostability often entails higher costs, but at NEXE Innovations, our solution is designed to be environmentally friendly and competitively priced compared to plastics and other alternative material solutions.

    Recent Company Highlights

    Announced three different partnerships:

    • ecoBeans: This West Coast brand is available in retail locations and distributed in the office coffee services (OCS) space.
    • Bridgehead Coffee: An established premium coffee company in Ontario with over 40 years of history, Bridgehead transitioned from another compostable pod to our NEXE pod. Bridgehead works with well-known retail and grocery chains, including Costco, Whole Foods, Sobey’s, and Farm Boy.
    • EKOCUPS: A high-volume online seller and Amazon retailer. This partnership will allow us to expand in the U.S. and build a strong foothold in the largest single-serve market. ~40 million U.S. households own a K-Cup* compatible single-serve brewing system.

    Future Products:

    • NEXE is working with two customers to test compostable pods for the Nespresso** OriginalLine. We expect to launch these pods later in 2025.
    • NEXE continues to invest in R&D and is working on additional sustainable products targeting various industries. Our proprietary resin may be an ideal fit in these industries, and the total addressable market for these industries is larger than that of the coffee pod market.

    Financial Position:

    • NEXE has a strong cash position to execute its strategy, work with large-scale coffee companies, and start building on opportunities outside the coffee space. At the end of fiscal Q2 2025, our total cash position was $14.5 million. 
    • NEXE has minimal debt. The current debt outstanding is $0.5 million, related to an interest-free government loan. NEXE’s commitments at the end of the quarter were $1.3 million, with minimal capex expected over the next two years.

    About NEXE Innovations Inc.
    NEXE Innovations is focused on providing innovative compostable material solutions and packaging to the B2B segment to help businesses achieve their sustainability goals. NEXE Innovations has developed a proprietary and patented compostable material that can withstand heat, pressure, and water. Our flagship product, the NEXE Pod, a BPI-certified compostable coffee pod, showcases our material’s durability and is an ideal substitute for plastic.  The NEXE pod is compatible with major coffee brewing machines and is manufactured at NEXE’s vertically integrated facility based in North America. Discover our innovative approach to sustainability at www.nexeinnovations.com and join our journey on social media @nexeinnovations. #compostablecoffeepods #sustainability #greentech

    About Virtual Investor Conferences®
    Virtual Investor Conferences (VIC) is the leading proprietary investor conference series that provides an interactive forum for publicly traded companies to seamlessly present directly to investors.

    Providing a real-time investor engagement solution, VIC is specifically designed to offer companies more efficient investor access.  Replicating the components of an on-site investor conference, VIC offers companies enhanced capabilities to connect with investors, schedule targeted one-on-one meetings and enhance their presentations with dynamic video content. Accelerating the next level of investor engagement, Virtual Investor Conferences delivers leading investor communications to a global network of retail and institutional investors.

    CONTACTS:

    NEXE Innovations

    On behalf of the Company:
    Ash Guglani
    President & Director

    For investor relations, contact:
    Kam Mangat
    VP, Investor Relations & Corporate Strategy
    invest@nexeinnovations.com
    Office +1-604-359-4725
    Mobile +1-604-359-4742
    For media relations, contact: media@nexeinnovations.com

    Virtual Investor Conferences
    John M. Viglotti
    SVP Corporate Services, Investor Access
    OTC Markets Group
    (212) 220-2221
    johnv@otcmarkets.com

    *NEXE Innovations Inc. is not affiliated with, endorsed, or sponsored by Keurig®. Keurig® is a registered trademark of Keurig Dr Pepper Inc.

    **NEXE Innovations Inc. is not affiliated with, endorsed, or sponsored by Nespresso®. Nespresso® is a registered trademark of Société des Produits Nestlé S.A.

    Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    Certain statements in this release are forward-looking statements or information, which include, but are not limited to, statements in respect of the potential benefits of the Nexe Pod including for premium coffee brands, potential launch of new coffee pods, continued investment in R&D, potential applications of proprietary resin to other industries and benefits of proprietary resin to Nexe’s business overall, the Company’s overall business strategy, increases in production and revenue, and the Company’s long-term growth and development plans. Forward-looking statements consist of statements that are not purely historical, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. Such information can generally be identified by the use of forwarding-looking wording such as “may”, “expect”, “estimate”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “believe” and “continue” or the negative thereof or similar variations. The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking information may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted, as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including but not limited to, the Company’s ability to execute on its business strategy, the adoption of Nexe’s proprietary resin in other industries, and those risks set out in the Company’s management’s discussion and analysis for year ended May 31, 2024 under the headings “Risk and Uncertainties”. Such statements and information are based on numerous assumptions regarding present and future business strategies and the environment in which the Company will operate in the future, including the demand for its products, anticipated costs, and the ability to achieve goals. Factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include receipt of necessary approvals and general economic, market or business conditions. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information.

    The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Small Cap Growth Virtual Investor Conference Agenda Announced for February 6th

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Virtual Investor Conferences, the leading proprietary investor conference series announced the agenda for the Small Cap Growth Virtual Investor Conference to be held February 6th.

    Individual investors, institutional investors, advisors, and analysts are invited to attend.

    REGISTER NOW AT: https://bit.ly/3PUIzQM

    It is recommended that investors pre-register and run the online system check to expedite participation and receive event updates. There is no cost to log-in, attend live presentations, or schedule 1×1 meetings with management.

    “We’re looking forward to hosting the Small Cap Growth Virtual Investor Conference this week, which will feature innovative companies across the OTC markets and major exchanges elaborating on their strategies and connecting directly with investors,” said Jason Paltrowitz, Executive Vice President at OTC Markets Group. “Many thanks to these companies and their great teams for their collaboration on this event.”

    February 6th

    To facilitate investor relations scheduling and to view a complete calendar of Virtual Investor Conferences, please visit www.virtualinvestorconferences.com.

    About Virtual Investor Conferences®

    Virtual Investor Conferences (VIC) is the leading proprietary investor conference series that provides an interactive forum for publicly traded companies to seamlessly present directly to investors.

    Providing a real-time investor engagement solution, VIC is specifically designed to offer companies more efficient investor access. Replicating the components of an on-site investor conference, VIC offers companies enhanced capabilities to connect with investors, schedule targeted one-on-one meetings and enhance their presentations with dynamic video content. Accelerating the next level of investor engagement, Virtual Investor Conferences delivers leading investor communications to a global network of retail and institutional investors.

    Media Contact: 
    OTC Markets Group Inc. +1 (212) 896-4428, media@otcmarkets.com

    Virtual Investor Conferences Contact:
    John M. Viglotti
    SVP Corporate Services, Investor Access
    OTC Markets Group
    (212) 220-2221
    johnv@otcmarkets.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Edge Total Intelligence to Present at the Small Cap Growth Virtual Investor Conference February 6th

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ARLINGTON, Va., Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Edge Total Intelligence Inc. (“edgeTI”, “Company”) (TSXV: CTRL) (OTCQB: UNFYF) (FSE: Q5i), based in DC Metro Area, focused on real-time digital twin software, today announced that Jim Barrett, CEO of edgeTI™, will present live at the Small Cap Growth Virtual Investor Conference hosted by VirtualInvestorConferences.com, on February 6th, 2025

    DATE: February 6th
    TIME: 12:30PM EST
    LINK: https://bit.ly/3PZaKOG
    Available for 1×1 meetings: February 7th and afternoon February 10 and 11th

    This will be a live, interactive online event where investors are invited to ask the company questions in real-time. If attendees are not able to join the event live on the day of the conference, an archived webcast will also be made available after the event.

    It is recommended that online investors pre-register and run the online system check to expedite participation and receive event updates.  

    Learn more about the event at www.virtualinvestorconferences.com.

    Recent Company Highlights

    About edgeTI

    edgeTI helps customers sustain situational awareness and accelerate action with its real-time digital operations software, edgeCore™ that unites multiple software applications and data sources into one immersive experience called a Digital Twin. Global enterprises, service providers, and governments are more profitable when insight and action are united to deliver fluid journeys via the platform’s low-code development capability and composable operations. With edgeCore, customers can improve their margins and agility by rapidly transforming siloed systems and data across continuously evolving situations in business, technology, and cross-domain operations — helping them achieve the impossible.

    About Virtual Investor Conferences®
    Virtual Investor Conferences (VIC) is the leading proprietary investor conference series that provides an interactive forum for publicly traded companies to seamlessly present directly to investors.

    Providing a real-time investor engagement solution, VIC is specifically designed to offer companies more efficient investor access.  Replicating the components of an on-site investor conference, VIC offers companies enhanced capabilities to connect with investors, schedule targeted one-on-one meetings and enhance their presentations with dynamic video content. Accelerating the next level of investor engagement, Virtual Investor Conferences delivers leading investor communications to a global network of retail and institutional investors.

    CONTACTS:

    edgeTI
    Nick Brigman
    Analyst and Press Relations
    Phone: 888-771-3343
    Email: ir@edgeti.com

    Virtual Investor Conferences
    John M. Viglotti
    SVP Corporate Services, Investor Access
    OTC Markets Group
    (212) 220-2221
    johnv@otcmarkets.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The Greenland ice sheet is falling apart – new study

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Tom Chudley, Leverhulme Early Career Fellow, Department of Geography, Durham University

    Tom Chudley

    Observing Greenland from a helicopter, the main problem is one of comprehending scale. I have thought we were skimming low over the waves of a fjord, before noticing the tiny shadow of a seabird far below and realising what I suspected were floating shards of ice were in fact icebergs the size of office blocks. I have thought we were hovering high in the sky over a featureless icy plane below, before bumping down gently onto ice only a few metres below us.

    Crevasses – cracks in the surface of glaciers – are the epitome of this baffling range of scales. Formed by stresses at the surface, their direction and size tell us how the ice sheet is flowing towards the ocean. Inland, far away from the fast-flowing glaciers that discharge hundreds of gigatonnes of icebergs a year into fjords, crevasses can be tiny cracks only millimetres wide.

    As the ice speeds up, they can be metres in diameter, sometimes covered by deceptive snow bridges that require suitable safety equipment and rescue training to traverse. Finally, where the ice meets the ocean and no scientist would ever dare to stand, they can be monsters over 100 metres from wall to wall. And across Greenland, they are growing.

    Cracks you could fly a helicopter through.
    Tom Chudley

    It shouldn’t be particularly surprising to scientists that crevasses are getting larger across Greenland. As the ocean warms, the ice sheet has sped up in response, increasing the stresses acting upon its surface. However, observations from satellites and in-person fieldwork are so poor that to date, we had no idea how extensively or quickly this process has been occurring.

    Mapping cracks

    In a new study, my colleagues and I mapped crevasses across the entirety of the Greenland ice sheet in 2016 and 2021. To do this, we used the “ArcticDEM”: three-dimensional surface maps of the polar regions based on high resolution satellite images. By applying image-processing techniques to over 8,000 maps, we could estimate how much water, snow or air would be needed to “fill” each crevasse across the ice sheet. This enabled us to calculate their depth and volume, and examine how they evolved.

    We found that from 2016 to 2021, there were significant increases in crevasse volume across fast-flowing sectors of the Greenland ice sheet. In the southeast of the ice sheet, an area that has been particularly vulnerable to ocean-induced acceleration and retreat in the past few years, crevasse volume increased by over 25%.

    In most Greenland glaciers that flow into the ocean, scientists found crevasses are increasing in size and depth.
    Chudley et al / Nature Geoscience

    However, against our expectations, crevasse volume across the whole ice sheet increased by only 4.3%. That’s much closer to an overall balance than the extremes observed in certain sectors. What had happened? In fact, the significant increases elsewhere were being offset by a single source: an outlet glacier known as Sermeq Kujalleq (Danish: Jakobshavn Isbræ).

    Sermeq Kujalleq is the fastest-flowing glacier on the planet, reaching speeds of nearly 50 metres a day and providing an outsized proportion of Greenland’s total sea-level rise contribution. In 2016, responding to an influx of cold water from the north Atlantic ocean, the glacier slowed and thickened. As it did this, the crevasses on the surface began to close – offsetting increases across the rest of the ice sheet.

    This slowdown was short-lived. Since 2018, Sermeq Kujalleq has once again reverted to acceleration and thinning in response to ongoing warming. We won’t be able to rely on it to offset ice-sheet-wide increases in crevassing in the future.

    Cracks grow into icebergs

    Crevasses play an integral part in the life cycle of glaciers, and as they grow they hold the potential to further accelerate ice-sheet loss. They deliver surface meltwater into the belly of the ice sheet: once inside, water can act to warm the ice or lubricate the bed that the glacier slides over, both of which can make the ice sheet flow faster into the ocean. Meanwhile, where the ice meets the sea, crevasses form the initial fractures from which icebergs can break off, increasing the output of icebergs into the ocean.

    Where Sermeq Kujalleq, or Jakobshavn Glacier, meets the sea. That iceberg filled fjord is several miles wide.
    Copernicus Sentinel / lavizzara / shutterstock

    In short, crevasses underpin the dynamic processes that occur across Greenland and Antarctica. However, these processes are very poorly understood, and their future evolution is the single largest uncertainty in our predictions of sea-level rise. Together, the increased discharge of ice holds the potential to add up to 10 metres of additional sea-level rise by 2300 (75% of all cities with more than 5 million inhabitants exist less than 10m above sea level). We need to better understand these processes – including crevasses – so that informed sea-level projections can form the basis of our responses to the global challenges that climate change presents.

    Since 2023, an international coalition of polar scientists has been urging the world to limit warming to 1.5˚C to avoid the most catastrophic melt scenarios for global glaciers and ice sheets. Last month, the EU’s Copernicus Climate Change Service confirmed that 2024 was the first year in which average global temperatures exceeded this threshold.

    Every fraction of a degree matters. We may still be able to save ourselves from the worst of the damage the climate change will bring – but we are desperately running out of time.

    Tom Chudley received funding from the Leverhulme Trust.

    – ref. The Greenland ice sheet is falling apart – new study – https://theconversation.com/the-greenland-ice-sheet-is-falling-apart-new-study-248926

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Restless legs syndrome is incurable – here’s how to manage the symptoms

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Adam Taylor, Professor of Anatomy, Lancaster University

    Andrey_Popov/Shutterstock

    Restless legs syndrome (RLS), also known as Willis-Ekbom Disease, is a neurological condition that affects about 7% of people.

    Typical symptoms include an irresistible urge to move your legs, alongside sensations of aching, crawling, creeping, itching, pulling or throbbing. Until the age of 35, the condition is equally common in men and women, but after that age, RLS affects twice the number of women than men.

    Each person’s condition is categorised as mild, moderate, severe or very severe according to the international rating scale, which measures the effects of RLS on limb discomfort and sleep disruption, as well as frequency of symptoms.

    RLS symptoms have a 24-hour cycle known as a circadian rhythm. Symptoms tend to peak at night, coinciding with the body’s increase in melatonin release. Melatonin reduces dopamine – the brain chemical that affects movement and mood – to help us sleep but, because dopamine helps control muscles, low dopamine levels can cause involuntary movements.

    There is no test for RLS. Diagnosis is based on symptoms and medical history. Primary RLS runs in families – there are genetic links to a number of chromosomes. RLS has an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern, meaning you only need one “defective” copy to present with symptoms. Some cases, however, develop with no known cause.

    Other people may develop “secondary” RLS as a result of other conditions, such as iron deficiency anaemia, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, underactive thyroid gland, and fibromyalgia. While primary RLS is more common than secondary, the latter is usually more severe and progresses more rapidly.

    Risk factors

    Age seems to be a risk factor for RLS. In 2000, a study found that 10% of adults aged 30 to 79 have RLS, increasing to 19% of those over the age of 80. However, understanding of the condition has improved since that study was conducted, so it’s likely these figures are higher – particularly in children, where some RLS symptoms have been confused with “growing pains” or ADHD in the past.

    Women have an increased chance of developing RLS. Approximately one in five women will suffer from restless legs at some point, and some studies suggest as many as one in three women are affected. Women are more likely to suffer from other comorbidities that affect the central nervous system, such as anxiety, depression and migraine, which may be linked to the development of RLS.

    Pregnancy is another risk factor. The further you are through the trimesters, the higher your chance of being affected BY RLS – with 8%, 16% and 22% of women suffering through their respective first, second and third trimesters. Multiple pregnancies increase the risk of pregnancy-related RLS, and research has found that women who’ve given birth may have a higher incidence of RLS in later life, compared with women of the same age who haven’t given birth.

    Obesity is also considered a risk factor for RLS. One study showed that each 5kg/m² increase in body mass index increased the likelihood of developing RLS by 31%.

    Triggers and treatments

    Research has shown smoking and alcohol consumption seem to make RLS worse, so lifestyle changes such as stopping smoking and drinking alcohol can help manage symptoms.

    Research has also found that exercise and stretching is beneficial for symptom relief or reduction – although study participants suggest that morning exercise is more effective for improving symptoms, while evening exercise can make restless legs worse. Patients with secondary forms of RLS, lower BMI and less severe cases of the condition may benefit the most from lifestyle changes to manage symptoms.

    Also, treatment of underlying issues can also alleviate or reduce some of the symptoms. For instance, iron deficiency anaemia reduces dopamine levels, which can lead to restless legs. Iron supplements may benefit some sufferers – but the evidence is mixed so supplements won’t help everyone.

    In terms of medication, research has found that neurological therapies, such as the anticonvulsant Gabapentin – usually prescribed as a treatment for epilepsy – can improve symptoms and overall quality of life for those suffering with restless legs. These therapies target nerve cells in the brain, reducing their activity.

    Other medicines – known as dopamine agonists – activate dopamine receptors in the brain to control movement. They are primarily used as a treatment for Parkinson’s disease and are effective in managing symptoms of RLS. However, they can disturb your sleep pattern and may increase impulse control disorders, and are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding as they can inhibit lactation.

    While there may not be a cure for RLS, there is hope for sufferers – and options for managing and reducing symptoms.

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

    – ref. Restless legs syndrome is incurable – here’s how to manage the symptoms – https://theconversation.com/restless-legs-syndrome-is-incurable-heres-how-to-manage-the-symptoms-248169

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Just Stop Oil’s protest during The Tempest is an extension of theatre’s radical tradition

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Gemma Cutler-Colclough, Lecturer in Theatre and Performance, University of Reading

    The theatre has long staged and debated society’s most pressing concerns. But when protest moves beyond the script and into the theatre itself, the reaction can shift from applause to confusion, and even outrage.

    Such was the case last week, when a Just Stop Oil demonstration interrupted a performance of The Tempest at The Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. Actor Sigourney Weaver sat aghast as protesters walked on stage and fired a confetti cannon, holding placards and announcing politely: “We’ll have to stop the show, ladies and gentlemen, sorry.”

    Audience-members can be heard both booing and cheering in footage of the moment. But despite the shock of the crowd and actors, protest at the theatre has a long history.

    The moment Just Stop Oil protestors invaded the stage during a performance of The Tempest.

    Rather than interlopers like Just Stop Oil, these protests have often come from theatregoers themselves. In 1809, for example, riots erupted when the new theatre at Covent Garden in London raised its ticket prices, making theatre less accessible to working-class patrons.

    For over two months, theatregoers disrupted performances with whistles, horns and placards, ultimately forcing a reversal of the price hikes. The message was clear: the theatre belonged to the people, not just the elite.

    In more recent history, the feminist play The Vagina Monologues, has been the subject of protest and the vehicle for it in almost equal measure. Various groups have stood against its empowerment of women, and others have used it to fight for the very same thing.

    And in 2004, the play Behzti (Dishonour) was shut down after just two days of performances at Birmingham Rep, following violent protests by members of the Sikh community.

    The play, which depicted sexual abuse and murder inside a Sikh place of worship, sparked fierce opposition, with critics arguing it was deeply offensive to their faith. While the theatre was intended as a space for difficult conversations, protesters saw it as a site that needed to be defended from perceived harm.

    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    Political theatre

    Protest is not only something that happens at the theatre but an integral part of the art-form itself. Performance holds a mirror to society and asks us to look at ourselves.

    As a result, political theatre has long shaped public discourse in England. Agitprop, for example, a highly politicised theatre movement that originated in 1920s Europe and aimed to educate and mobilise audiences.

    More recently in 2018, participatory London theatre company Coney staged an intervention with their youth arm, Young Coneys at the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) annual dinner, blurring the line between activism and performance.

    In a production called Codename Violet, young performers took on the role of activist agitators, posing as “very junior doctors”, informing guests of the health impact of diesel emission air pollution. “Is your event more important than a man’s life?” asked an actor calling out the industry’s role in the climate crisis.

    Like the Just Stop Oil’s action at The Tempest, this protest captured attention. Yet, while political theatre is often praised for its boldness, real-world disruptions are usually met with hostility.

    Perhaps the key difference is control. Audiences willingly engage with radical ideas when framed within a performance, but an uninvited protest strips them of choice. This is likely where the bewilderment arises over Just Stop Oil’s recent intervention. While theatre remains a space for political engagement, many still see it as a controlled environment, where the audience decides when and how to confront difficult and complicated truths.

    The tension between theatre as protest and protest at the theatre reveals an ongoing struggle over who gets to dictate the terms of political discourse.

    As long as theatre remains a mirror to society, the stage – and the spaces around it – will continue to be contested. Whether we see protest at the theatre as an intrusion or an extension of its radical tradition may depend on how willing we are to let performance spill into real life.

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

    – ref. Just Stop Oil’s protest during The Tempest is an extension of theatre’s radical tradition – https://theconversation.com/just-stop-oils-protest-during-the-tempest-is-an-extension-of-theatres-radical-tradition-248688

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How the ‘year of the wood snake’ could play out for China’s economy

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Karen Jackson, Reader in Economics, University of Westminster

    Rimma Bondarenko/Shutterstock

    Chinese people around the world have just celebrated lunar new year, which this year has run from January 28 to February 4. It is the biggest festival of the year in China, signalling the start of spring, and this is the year of the wood snake. According to Chinese astrology, the characteristics of the snake – renewal, potential, opportunity and wisdom – will affect the year ahead.

    As we start the new lunar year, it feels like a good time to look ahead to look at the prospects for the Chinese economy through the prism of these characteristics.

    Renewal of traditional economic drivers

    China dominates global manufacturing – its manufacturing production is as large as the next seven largest competitors combined. This has earned China the title of the world’s manufacturing superpower – but it has come at a cost. The latest data shows that China is among the top 20 most polluted countries across the world.

    Therefore, it’s likely that over the next 12 months, there will be a continued drive towards the renewal, or upgrading, of traditional industrial sectors that have historically driven growth in China but are also heavy polluters.

    This is part of a broader push by China to improve its climate footprint and reduce emissions. These are goals outlined in the national climate action plan, referred to by the Paris climate agreement as the nationally determined contributions.

    Potential for a surge into AI

    China has identified the potential for adopting AI, robotics and 3D printing in transforming its manufacturing base. Meanwhile, the country’s next generation AI development plan sets out clear objectives to make AI the main driver of Chinese economic change and industrial development. Expect to see more progress towards this goal in 2025.

    China’s machine-learning sector has experienced considerable growth, and is predicted to grow by an average of 34.8% a year over the next five years. While the US is the major competitor and commands the largest market size, the recent release of the R1 chatbot by DeepSeek has created a stir.

    DeepSeek claims to have developed its latest R1 model at a cost of around US$6 million (£4.8 million), which is considerably less than its US competitors such as Open AI’s ChatGPT-4, which is reported to have cost more than US$100 million. It’s an indication of the strength of innovation which underlines the potential growth of China’s AI sector, and is likely to help narrow the gap with the US.

    Opportunities for foreign investment

    In addition to upgrading traditional industries, we can expect to see opportunities around new areas of growth in advanced technology sectors such as fintech and green tech. China will continue shifting its focus to industries in which its firms can add lots of value, such as in technology-related manufacturing.

    Major investment is needed to fund these industries and two major changes have occurred in recent months, recognising that this cannot come only from domestic sources.

    First, the changes to China’s A-share market, which went into effect in December 2024, will make it easier for a wider range of overseas investors to enter. For example, smaller amounts of capital are required, and foreign capital can now come from unlisted companies.

    Second, in November 2024, China opened up its manufacturing sector to foreign capital by removing all access restrictions.

    Over the next year, we can expect to see these changes increase the amount of foreign capital in China, and help realise these new areas of growth.

    The wisdom of opening up

    China continues to see the wisdom of opening its economy in terms of investment – and therefore that it is critically important to remain well-connected to the rest of the world.

    The geopolitical tensions with the US are a challenge: the US president, Donald Trump, has said he will impose tariffs of 10% on imports from China. But on a more positive note, breaking protocol last month, Chinese vice-president Han Zheng was invited to, and attended, Trump’s inauguration ceremony.

    It’s an indication of the current US administration’s view of the importance of America’s relationship with China.

    The year ahead is also likely to bring opportunities for the UK to continue its efforts to reset its relationship with China. During the recent visit to Beijing by the chancellor of the exchequer, Rachel Reeves, there was a discussion of a “stable and balanced UK-China relationship”.

    Few expect, or desire, a return to the “golden era” rhetoric of the likes of former UK chancellor George Osborne, who in a speech at the Shanghai Stock Exchange in September 2015 called for Britain and China to work together to ensure mutual prosperity: “Let’s stick together to make Britain China’s best partner in the west. Let’s stick together and create a golden decade for both of our countries.”

    However, greater dialogue with China may be possible, while at the same time carefully managing the UK’s relationship with the new US administration.

    China watchers will be keeping their eyes peeled for other economic developments over the year ahead – for example, the progress of Chinese fiscal reforms and their impact on local and regional finances and income distribution. Also, there is the matter of the real estate market. After significant falls in housing sales and investment during 2024, house prices are showing signs of stabilising.

    China’s economy will face challenges in the year ahead. But there are also some clear opportunities for this manufacturing giant, particularly in the tech sector as it starts to narrow the gap with the US.

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

    – ref. How the ‘year of the wood snake’ could play out for China’s economy – https://theconversation.com/how-the-year-of-the-wood-snake-could-play-out-for-chinas-economy-248779

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: DRC rebels take eastern city of Goma – why it matters and what could happen next

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Dale Pankhurst, PhD Candidate, School of History, Anthropology, Philosophy and Politics, Queen’s University Belfast

    In a major escalation in the conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), rebels from the March 23 Movement – or M23 – have seized Goma, the capital city of North Kivu province. At least 773 people have been killed there since the M23 claimed to have won control on January 27, while rebels have also seized several other towns in North Kivu including Sake and Minova.

    The rebels are now reportedly advancing towards Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province. And Corneille Nangaa, who leads a rebel alliance of which M23 is the largest member, has vowed to march on the DRC’s capital in Kinshasa. Located 1,000 miles west of Goma, the capture of Kinshasa is unlikely. But the conflict still looks set to spread deeper into the DRC.

    The speed of the M23 advance has taken many by surprise. The rebels captured Goma, a city of 2 million people, within just three days. But the conflict between the DRC and the M23, which takes its name from the 2009 date on which a deal was reached to end a revolt by members of the ethnic Tutsi group, has been grinding on intermittently for years.

    Beginning in April 2012, when the M23 was formally created, the conflict has its roots in the same deep ethnic divisions that led to the Rwandan genocide in 1994. Following the genocide, where radical ethnic Hutus killed roughly 800,000 minority Tutsis, many Hutu extremists fled over the border into the DRC and settled in areas including North Kivu.

    The M23 seeks to act as a self-defence force for Congolese Tutsis against discrimination both by the DRC and non-state actors. This includes targeting by the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda, a Hutu-dominated rebel group that seeks to overthrow the Rwandan government. The group has in the past committed egregious acts of violence against civilians in North Kivu, including mass killings and sexual violence.

    The M23 rebel group seized the city of Goma on January 27.
    The Critical Threats Project at the American Enterprise Institute

    The seizure of Goma is crucial for several reasons. First, it means that a sizeable and strategically important border province of the DRC is now in rebel hands. North Kivu is an active volcanic region that is rich in various minerals such as coltan, which is used in electronic equipment and the aerospace industry.

    In May 2024 the M23 seized Rubaya, a key mining town that produces 15% of the world’s coltan. Since then, the group has generated considerable income from controlling mineral production and trade. Indeed, the Global Initiative against Transnational Organized Crime labels the agendas of armed groups in the eastern DRC as “profit-driven”.

    Second, the capture of Goma has exacerbated inter-state tension between the DRC and Rwanda, raising the prospect of another inter-state war. News of the prized seizure came hours after the DRC’s foreign minister, Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, accused Rwandan troops of invading Congolese territory.

    A UN report from 2013 found that Rwanda not only supports the M23 group, but actively commands its troops. UN experts now estimate that there are up to 4,000 Rwandan troops fighting alongside the M23 in the DRC. Rwanda has denied backing the M23 despite ample evidence to the contrary.

    The Congolese government says Rwanda’s involvement is part of a ploy to exploit North Kivu’s vast mineral resources. In a report from December 2024, a panel of UN experts wrote that “fraudulent [mineral] extraction, trade and export to Rwanda” benefited both the M23 “and the Rwandan economy”. According to the Rwandan government’s own figures, the country exports far more gold than it mines.

    And third, the escalating conflict will deepen an already grave humanitarian crisis in the region. In March 2024, the UN reported that the number of internally displaced people in the DRC had reached 7.2 million – one of the largest such crises in the world. It is estimated that over 6 million civilians in the east of the DRC are now facing high levels of food insecurity.

    What next

    The DRC and Rwandan governments have already gone to war on two previous occasions, once in 1996 and then again in 1998 in what turned into a more protracted five-year conflict. The first war was triggered by Rwanda’s invasion of the DRC to target anti-Rwandan rebel groups seeking refuge there. The war soon drew in other states and became known as Africa’s first world war. Since 1996, conflict in the eastern DRC has killed approximately 6 million people.

    Yet despite this increased tension, there are hopes that a diplomatic solution can be reached. In the past, warring factions in the eastern DRC have agreed to temporary ceasefires following intensive mediation by international institutions such as the East African Community and the African Union, as well as neighbouring countries like Angola.

    However, previous ceasefires have also been violated by both sides. And the stakes are arguably higher this time, with the DRC losing further territory and control over strategic cities to the rebels.

    The Congolese government may be reluctant to accept peace conditions until it regains control over lost portions of territory. Indeed, the Congolese president, Félix Tshisekedi, has already snubbed prospective peace talks to establish a ceasefire.

    Western powers hold key leverage, and may be able to subdue the M23 insurgency. France has given its backing to the DRC government and has warned of the catastrophic humanitarian consequences should the situation deteriorate further.

    The US and other major powers like the UK have also withdrawn state funding for Rwanda in the past over its support for the M23 insurgency. In 2013, for example, cuts to foreign aid forced Rwanda to scale back its support for the rebels, both through reduced military training and supply runs. The UK government has threatened to withdraw funding to Rwanda again following the M23’s capture of Goma.

    Belgium, on the other hand, is leading calls for the EU to suspend a controversial minerals deal with Rwanda that boosts the bloc’s access to several elements in exchange for funding to help Kigali develop its mineral extraction infrastructure. When the deal was signed in 2024, Tshisekedi described it as “a provocation in very bad taste”.

    In any case, a ceasefire between the DRC and the M23 is not enough. What is needed is a long-term, durable solution that addresses the root causes and fears that are driving the armed conflict.

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

    – ref. DRC rebels take eastern city of Goma – why it matters and what could happen next – https://theconversation.com/drc-rebels-take-eastern-city-of-goma-why-it-matters-and-what-could-happen-next-248393

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Sanders, Hawley Introduce Bill Capping Credit Card Interest Rates at 10%

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders
    WASHINGTON, Feb. 4 – As millions of working class families struggle to afford the high prices of groceries, gas, rent and other basic necessities, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) introduced bipartisan legislation to cap credit card interest rates at ten percent.
    “During the campaign, President Trump pledged to cap credit card interest rates at ten percent,” Sanders said. “Today, I am proud to be introducing bipartisan legislation with Senator Hawley to do just that. When large financial institutions charge over 25 percent interest on credit cards, they are not engaged in the business of making credit available. They are engaged in extortion and loan sharking. We cannot continue to allow big banks to make huge profits ripping off the American people. This legislation will provide working families struggling to pay their bills with desperately needed financial relief.”
    “Working Americans are drowning in record credit card debt while the biggest credit card issuers get richer and richer by hiking their interest rates to the moon. It’s not just wrong, it’s exploitative. And it needs to end,” said Hawley. “Capping credit card interest rates at 10%, just like President Trump campaigned on, is a simple way to provide meaningful relief to working people. Let’s do it.”
    In September, the Trump campaign said, “President Trump has promised to cap interest rates at 10% to provide temporary and immediate relief for hardworking Americans who are struggling to make ends meet and cannot afford hefty interest payments on top of the skyrocketing costs of mortgages, rent, groceries and gas.”
    The Sanders-Hawley bill would immediately cap credit card interest rates at 10 percent. The legislation would be in effect for five years.
    This bipartisan bill comes after a recent Forbes report found that the average credit card interest rate is 28.6%, even though banks are able to borrow money from the Federal Reserve at less than 4.5%.
    In 2022, credit card companies generated an incredible $130 billion in interest and fees. Today, the American people hold a record-breaking $1.17 trillion in credit card debt. As of 2023, the average household with credit card debt has over $21,000 in credit card debt. The delinquency rate of credit cards issued by commercial banks is around 3.23%, the highest rate since 2011 in the wake of the Global Financial Crisis.
    If a consumer has a $5,000 credit card balance with a 28% interest rate and can only afford to make the minimum payment of $166 a month it would take that person over 24 years to pay off and would cost nearly $11,000 in interest. If credit card interest rates were capped to 10%, that same consumer would save over $7,000 in interest.
    Usurious credit card interest rates and sky-high fees have allowed credit card companies to make enormous profits and pay their executives exorbitant compensation packages. Over the past five years:
    Visa made $67.5 billion in profits and paid its Executive Chair and former CEO, Alfred F. Kelly, Jr., nearly $140 million in total compensation.
    Mastercard made $44.3 billion in profits and paid its CEO Michael Miebach $77.7 million in total compensation.
    American Express made $33.8 billion in profits, and paid its CEO Stephen Squeri $157.2 million in total compensation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Guilty pleas secured from illegal waste site owners

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Environment Agency has attained guilty pleas from two men from Preston, in connection with illegal waste activities.

    Waste at the Skeffington Road site.

    At Blackburn Magistrates’ Court on 29 January, Jamil Hanif, 49 years old of Garstang Road, Preston, pleaded guilty to operating a regulated waste facility without the necessary environmental permit between 1 November 2021 and 6 December 2023.

    Richard Allen, 39 years old of Pope Lane, Preston, also pleaded guilty to illegally depositing controlled waste on the same site between 1 August 2022 and 31 January 2023, in violation of environmental regulations.

    Both defendants received 12-month Community Orders, requiring them to complete 120 hours of unpaid work. 

    • Richard Allen was ordered to pay a £300 contribution to prosecution costs and a £114 government surcharge.  

    • Jamil Hanif was ordered to pay a £1,000 contribution to prosecution costs and a £114 government surcharge.  

    Work continues to tackle waste crime

    A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said: 

    This case highlights our commitment to tackling environmental crime. Illegal waste operations pose significant risks to the environment and legitimate businesses.  

    We are pleased that the defendants have accepted responsibility for their actions, and we will continue to work with partners to ensure compliance with environmental regulations. 

    The case concerns a site owned by Preston City Council, which was initially leased to Finney Skeffington Ltd (FSL), a company directed by Hanif.

    Despite the company’s official dormant status, Hanif used the site for waste storage and sorting activities related to house clearances linked to his wife’s property rental business.

    Allen, acting under Hanif’s instructions, was responsible for tipping waste at the site. 

    Illegal waste activities at the site first came to light in November 2021, when a surveyor appointed by Preston City Council documented significant waste accumulation, including household and commercial waste, construction debris, and car parts.

    As a result, the council terminated FSL’s lease; however, Hanif continued to use the site under a temporary agreement with the council. 

    Further reports from local residents, including photographic and video evidence, showed waste being regularly delivered and dumped on the site, with Allen visibly involved in tipping waste.

    This evidence, along with Environment Agency investigations, led to the prosecution. 

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Major groyne refurbishment project announced for Lake and Colwell 4 February 2025 Major groyne refurbishment project announced for Lake Cliffs and Colwell Bay

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    Timber groynes at Lake and Colwell Bay are set to be restored as part of a major Isle of Wight Council scheme to strengthen coastal defences.

    Ten groynes at Lake Cliffs, between Small Hope Beach and Littlestairs Steps, and six at Colwell Bay will undergo refurbishment over the coming months.

    Councillor Paul Fuller, Cabinet member for coastal protection, explained: “The refurbished groynes will help build beach material levels, offering better protection and improving safety for nearby properties and businesses.

    “This project will also save money on future repairs and enhance the appeal of our beaches, which is essential for tourism and local businesses.”

    An Island-based contractor will carry out the work, with minor disruptions expected due to plant and vehicle movements and material storage.

    Natasha Dix, service director for waste, environment and planning, said: “This refurbishment project demonstrates the council’s dedication to maintaining and improving the Island’s coastal infrastructure, ensuring lasting benefits for the community and local economy.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Marine Corps Passes FY24 Financial Audit

    Source: United States Marines

    WASHINGTON, D.C. —

    For the second year in a row, independent auditors verified that the Marine Corps’ financial records are materially accurate, complete, and compliant with federal regulations and issued an unmodified opinion for Fiscal Year 2024.

    This repeat achievement reinforces the service’s reputation for accountability, discipline, and leadership; and this is only the second time such success has been achieved for a military service in Department of Defense history and twice attributed to the Marines.

    The findings produced by the audit help the service to more efficiently and accurately plan, program, budget, and spend funds appropriated by Congress.

    The Marine Corps’ audit process enabled accurate global tracking and reporting of financial transactions, inventory of facilities, equipment and assets, and accounting for taxpayer dollars spent during the last fiscal year. The auditors also tested the Marines Corps’ network, key business systems, and internal controls.

    “I am immensely proud of this historic achievement and the hard work done by the thousands of Marines, sailors, and civilians across the Marine Corps that made this happen,” said Gen. Eric M. Smith, Commandant of the Marine Corps. “Their efforts tell the American people that a dollar invested in the Marine Corps is a dollar well spent. Passing a second annual audit demonstrates our commitment to being good stewards of our nation’s tax dollars and is part of how we distinguish ourselves as a professional warfighting organization. Make no mistake, passing an audit makes us more ready to fight when our nation calls.”

    Since becoming the first service to pass an annual financial audit, the Marine Corps took additional steps to stabilize its new accounting system and procedures. Independent public accountants contracted by the Department of Defense Inspector General audited all records. Financial management personnel also gained more hands-on experience, which set conditions for a smoother audit this year.

    “The Marine Corps culture has always emphasized accountability to yourself, your fellow Marines, your unit, down to the lowest tactical levels,” said LtGen. James Adams III, Deputy Commandant for Programs and Resources. “But financial reporting for $49 billion in financial assets requires a holistic view from the ground level up to the highest service levels. The audit process demonstrates Marines’ inherent integrity – opening up and illuminating potential audit mistakes and inventory miscounts across the entire chain of command. That can be an uncomfortable experience for Marine leaders of all ranks. Now magnify that across an entire service. By educating all Marines on the importance of accurate counts, and through our use of independent audit and inspection teams, we were able to gain an accurate accounting of the resources entrusted to the Corps.”

    The auditor’s final report, enclosed in the Marine Corps’ Fiscal Year 2024 Agency Financial Report, highlights seven areas for the Marine Corps to improve upon, referred to as material weaknesses.

    The Marine Corps will continue to drive to eliminate these weaknesses through systems improvement and internal controls. While doing this, the Corps will still prioritize the accurate counting and management of its global assets, a challenging task given the vast scope of its operations. By repeating and refining this process, the Corps aims to develop a more fluid and efficient enterprise resource planning system, ultimately positioning itself for long-term mission success and accountability.

    The Agency Financial Report for Fiscal Year 2024 is available at: https://www.pandr.marines.mil/

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: The Pula depreciated by 0.8 percent against the South African rand.

    Source: Bank of Botswana

    Over the twelve months period to January 2025, the nominal Pula exchange rate depreciated by 3.2 percent against the South African rand, while it appreciated by 0.1 percent against the IMF Special Drawing Rights (SDR). With respect to the SDR constituent currencies, the Pula appreciated by 2.8 percent against the Japanese yen, 2.3 percent against the euro and 0.2 percent against the British pound, while it depreciated by 1.8 percent against the US dollar and 0.2 percent against the Chinese renminbi.

    The Pula depreciated by 0.8 percent against the South African rand, while it appreciated by 0.5 percent against the SDR over the one-month period to January 2025. It appreciated by 1.5 percent against the British pound, 0.6 percent against the euro, 0.5 percent against the US dollar and 0.2 percent against the Chinese renminbi, while it depreciated by 0.4 percent against the Japanese yen.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: BoBC Auction Results – 4 February 2025

    Source: Bank of Botswana

    The Monetary Policy Rate (MoPR) was unchanged at 1.9 percent of the previous week, for a paper maturing on 12 February 2025.   For the 1-month BoBC paper maturing on 5 March 2025, the stop-out yield increased from 2.23 percent to 2.25 percent. The summarised results of the auction held on 4 February 2025, are attached below:

    BOBC Results 4 February 2025.pdf

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Transparency International warns: the Corruption Perceptions Index should not be used to mask democratic decline

    Source: Transparency International

    The Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) serves as a global benchmark for assessing perceptions of corruption in the public sector. However, no single measure can fully capture the complexity of corruption or the nuances of governance quality. Due to its limited scope, issues like democratic backsliding and restrictions on civil liberties are not accounted for in the scores. Despite this, some governments have leveraged their CPI rankings – or even stagnant scores – to present a misleading image of their governance.

    Effectively curbing corruption requires governments to act on multiple fronts, including building strong, independent institutions and checks and balances mechanisms; ensuring transparency and open governance; enforcing robust legal frameworks to uphold the rule of law; and empowering civil society and a free press to expose and challenge corruption. Integrity in both public and private sectors, underpinned by ethical standards and transparent processes, is essential, alongside public participation. Without a comprehensive and sustained response, efforts to address corruption may falter over time.

    Although the CPI does not assess all pillars of anti-corruption efforts, some governments have misused the results to create a distorted narrative. In Georgia, for example, the government has failed to improve its CPI score since 2012 but continues to tout the country’s performance to obscure serious attacks on democratic processes, rule of law and civil liberties.

    Transparency International’s highlighted state capture and the rise of kleptocratic practices as key corruption-related challenges in the country, and , over the past five years, Georgia has faced notable setbacks in freedom of association and assembly as well as freedom of expression. These challenges are driven by the harsh suppression of anti-government demonstrations, mounting restrictions on civil society, and an increasingly adversarial climate for the media. Our own chapter has not been immune from this expanding repression, with a member of our chapter in Georgia recently being attacked by people linked to the ruling Georgian Dream party. We have before that restricting is a popular tactic to weaken societal checks on corruption, reducing the chances of being denounced for engaging in corruption and facing consequences.

    No existing index or corruption measure fully captures all aspects of corruption, particularly state capture. This highlights the need for further discussions and additional resources to develop additional assessment tools.

    François Valerian, Chair of Transparency International, said:

    “We condemn the misuse of the Corruption Perceptions Index to disguise poor governance, especially when it masks the dismantling of democratic institutions and attacks on activists. The erosion of civil liberties and checks and balances mechanisms, alongside attacks on press freedom, often goes hand in hand with covert forms of corruption like grand corruption and state capture. Those truly committed to fighting corruption should have nothing to hide – transparency, strong institutions, and an empowered civil society are essential, or efforts will fall short.”

    NOTE TO EDITORS

    Transparency International will launch the 2024 CPI on Tuesday, 11 February 2025.

    See also:

    • The Corruption Perceptions Index Explained (video) here
    • The ABCs of the CPI: How the Corruption Perceptions Index is calculated (CPI FAQs) here.
    • The 2024 CPI media advisory here

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – Intelligent Ultrasound Group Plc

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: Rathbones Group Plc
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		  
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 Intelligent Ultrasound Group Plc
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:  
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 03/02/2025
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 No

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: 1p Ord
      Interests Short positions
      Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 9,427,443 2.84%    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:        
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        

            TOTAL:

    		 9,427,443 2.84%    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    1p Ordinary Shares Sale 35,000 12.77p

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
             

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.    		 Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
                   

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option    		 Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit
             

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion    		 Details Price per unit (if applicable)
           

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
    None

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
    None

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? No
    Date of disclosure: 04/02/2025
    Contact name: Chinwe Enyi – Compliance Department
    Telephone number: 0151 243 7053

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Leading figures to help build NHS fit for the future

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Baroness Camilla Cavendish, Naomi Eisenstadt CB and Phil Jordan become non-executive directors on the board of the Department of Health and Social Care.

    • Baroness Camilla Cavendish, Naomi Eisenstadt CB and Phil Jordan join the Department of Health and Social Care’s board
    • They bring cross-party and wide ranging experience and will provide strategic guidance to support health and care reforms
    • The appointments come as part of the government’s call for the country’s best talent to join its mission to fix the NHS

    Experts from across the public and private sector have been appointed to the DHSC board to drive forward health and social care reform plans.

    Baroness Camilla Cavendish, Naomi Eisenstadt CB and Phil Jordan’s wealth of experience and expertise across the political divide and both the public and private sector will be vital in supporting the government’s key missions to drive down waiting lists and reform the NHS as part of the 10 Year Health Plan, shifting the focus from hospital to community, from sickness to prevention, and from analogue to digital.

    Baroness Cavendish is best known for her time as head of the No.10 Policy Unit under Prime Minister David Cameron, Ms Eisenstadt was the first Director of Sure Start, widely regarded as one of the most important policy initiatives in recent history, while Mr Jordan has held a long and distinguished career in the private sector, including top roles at Sainsbury’s, Telefonica and Vodafone.

    They will join Lead Non-Executive Director Alan Milburn, former Health Secretary under Tony Blair’s government, on the board of DHSC.

    It comes as part of the Government’s call for the best and brightest to join its mission to fix the broken NHS and reflects DHSC’s commitment to drawing on diverse skills and perspectives to ensure it is fit for the future. 

    Wes Streeting, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, said:

    I am drawing on people of different political persuasions, with public and private sector experience, to help us turn around the NHS, make it fit for the future, and reform social care.

    The NHS is one of the biggest organisations in the world, and building a National Care Service is a generational ambition. We should be competing with global businesses to recruit the best and the brightest to our cause.

    I am delighted to welcome Camilla, Naomi and Phil to their new roles. Their combined expertise in social policy and technology, deep understanding of healthcare and commitment to pragmatism over ideology will be invaluable as we fix our broken NHS.

    If there are other people out there with the skills, experience, and drive to transform the treatment and care of millions of people, then we want your help building our 10 Year Health Plan.

    As Non-Executive Directors, Camilla, Naomi, and Phil will provide independent oversight, constructive challenge, and strategic advice to the department. Their expertise will help shape the DHSC’s mission to ensure the best possible health and care outcomes for everyone across England. 

    The NHS is broken and through the Plan for Change, it is the mission of this government to fix it and make the health service fit for the future. As part of this national mission, experts are being brought in to help develop policy, and NHS staff and patients have been invited to share their experience and ideas to change the NHS at change.nhs.gov.uk.

    Baroness Camilla Cavendish 

    Former head of the No.10 Policy Unit under Prime Minister David Cameron, Baroness Cavendish brings a wealth of experience across public policy, healthcare, and journalism and will draw on her expertise in social care while working at DHSC.

    The vocal advocate for health and social care reform has led significant reviews that have shaped social care policy and practice. Notably, the Cavendish Review (2013) examined the training and development of health and social care support workers. 

    The review highlighted the need for improved standards of training, greater recognition for care workers, and more robust safeguards for those in vulnerable situations. Her recommendations continue to influence workforce development across the sector.

    Naomi Eisenstadt CB

    Naomi Eisenstadt CB has a distinguished career in public policy and social welfare, including serving as the first Director of the Sure Start Unit, where she spearheaded transformative early years programs aimed at reducing inequality, and will bring her expertise on health inequalities to DHSC. 

    The scheme is one of the most successful social policy interventions in the past 30 years, demonstrating the importance of early intervention and prevention — one of the three big shifts this Government is committed to in our 10-Year Plan for Health.

    Currently serving as Chair of the NHS Northamptonshire Integrated Care Board, Naomi’s extensive experience and commitment to improving outcomes for vulnerable communities make her an invaluable addition to the department. 

    Phil Jordan

    Phil Jordan will focus on data and digital capability at DHSC, drawing on his impressive background having led major initiatives across both the public and private sector. 

    With a proven track record in strategic leadership, including as Chief Information Officer at Sainsbury’s, Telefonica and Vodafone UK & Ireland, Phil has been instrumental in driving innovation and efficiency in complex organisations. 

    His expertise will support the department’s ongoing efforts to modernise healthcare delivery and enhance digital infrastructure, as part of the vital shift from analogue to digital, equipping the health service with the cutting-edge technology it needs to tackle waiting lists, improve patient experience and speed up diagnosis.

    Background information

    • These appointments are made in accordance with the Cabinet Office Code of Governance for Public Appointments. The regulation of public appointments against the requirements of this Code is carried out by the Commissioner for Public Appointments.
    • In line with the Governance Code on Public Appointments, political activity is not a bar to appointment but political activity during the last 5 years should be declared. Camilla Cavendish and Phil Jordan have not declared any political activity. Naomi Eisenstadt is a member of the Labour Party.
    • Government non-executives provide advice and bring an external perspective to the business of government departments by sitting on departmental boards. They do not have decision-making powers.
    • See DHSC public appointments: 2024 to 2025 for further information.
    • NHSE is currently advertising non-executive vacancies. For further information, please see: Non-executive opportunities in the NHS » Public appointments

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Get creative with Large Props Workshops at the Alley

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Get creative with Large Props Workshops at the Alley

    4 February 2025

    Anyone with an interest in creating eye-catching festival props is encouraged to get involved with a series of workshops due to begin at the Alley Theatre shortly. 
    Every Saturday from 15th February-8th March, these hand-ons, free workshops are open to both students and adults. The Large Prop Workshops, which run from 12-3pm, offer a unique opportunity to explore the art of crafting props for the Alley Theatre and Strabane Festivals such as St Patrick’s Day, Summer Jamm and Strabane Halloween.
    Led by experienced facilitator Sheila Byrne, participants will learn the ins and outs of designing, creating, and working with large props that bring productions and festivals to life. Whether you’re an aspiring artist, a student with an interest in theatre design, or simply someone looking to explore your creative side, these workshops will guide you through the process of designing, crafting, and manipulating large props. Participants will gain practical skills in prop-making, materials, and techniques – helping bring larger-than-life creations to reality.
    The Alley Theatre is proud to offer this exciting opportunity, encouraging both local talent and those new to theatre, events and festivals to get involved in the magic of stagecraft. Known for its dedication to community arts, the Alley Theatre is the perfect setting for this creative journey.
    Don’t miss out on this fantastic, free opportunity to get hands-on with theatre magic! 
    Places are filling up fast, so don’t miss out.  Book your place on the Alley Theatre website or call the Alley Theatre Box Office on 028 71 3844444.
     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council responds to Deloitte’s Annual Crane Survey

    Source: City of Manchester

    Council Leader Cllr Bev Craig and Chief Executive Tom Stannard react to the survey that provides a commentary on the construction sector in the UK’s major cities.

    Leader of Manchester City Council Bev Craig said:

    “The annual crane survey shows that Manchester continues to have a strong and growing economy, and our city and region remains one of the most important engines of growth in the UK – and one of the fastest growing places in Europe.

    “The survey is a useful litmus test that makes sure that our city continues to thrive, and despite a challenging economic backdrop for much of the country, we are building record numbers of homes – including more affordable housing than at any other point in the last decade – we saw more than 1m sq ft of much-needed office space delivered to market last year alone, with more than 1.5m sq ft under construction, alongside a range of commercial space opportunities. 

    “Manchester is leading the way in construction, but this isn’t just about buildings. This is about driving investor confidence to create a long-term supply of development. This is about creating high quality employment opportunities that help our residents to prosper. And it’s about creating a global city that is attractive, welcoming and future proof. 

    “The pandemic presented a range of economic challenges for the UK’s towns and cities, and building has broadly slowed. Thankfully Manchester is bucking that trend and we are continuing to attract major business, investment and residential opportunities that will help meet demand and support our city’s ongoing growth.”

    Tom Stannard, Chief Executive of Manchester City Council, said: 

    “The annual Crane Survey shows some very encouraging signs that Manchester is continuing to weather a very challenging period for the UK’s town and cities. Sustainable economic growth is good for Manchester and our region, and it’s good for the country. 

    “We are seeing high demand for premium office space met with major investment in our city centre, which in turn supports new employment opportunities – vital to help our residents succeed. We are also seeing tourism bounce back to pre-pandemic levels, and we are meeting the targets set out in our ambitious housing strategy. 

    “This tells a story of a city that is weathering the economic storm, despite very real and ongoing challenges.  Manchester is a place that is attracting new business and quality development, we are at the forefront of the UK’s growing tech sector, and we are a place where our residents are supported to thrive and share in the success of the city.

    “We of course stand ready to continue to support the Government on their economic growth mission, which puts our city and region as a key engine of growth for both the North and the UK at large.”

    Find out more about the Deloitte Crane Survey findings

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The “Lines Scorched by War” project has opened access to a digitized newspaper archive

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    On the 80th anniversary of the opening of the Yalta Conference in 1945, we inform all employees and students of the State University of Management that a digitized archive of newspapers published during the Great Patriotic War has been opened to us.

    Access is open until June 30, 2025, as part of the project “Lines Scorched by War”, dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory. The project is aimed at popularizing historical knowledge and countering the falsification of past events. War newspapers are an important document of the era, reflecting the resilience and unity of people in the fight for Victory. This is an opportunity to touch living history, preserve the memory of the heroism of the people and convey it to new generations.

    What’s available? Key publication numbers from the war years:

    Newspaper “Pravda”; Newspaper “Izvestia”; Newspaper “Literary Gazette”; Newspaper “Red Star”; Weekly “Ogonyok”. Collection of underground newspapers of the partisans of Belarus.

    Please note: You may read, save, print articles (subject to copyright restrictions), and use the moderate text search function for research purposes.

    Address for work: https://eivis.ru/

    For remote access: login – Univerupr, password – Univerupr

    On this same platform you will find magazines and newspapers by subscription.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 02/04/2025

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Olympiad “Future of the EAEU”: enroll in a master’s program for free

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    The State University of Management invites citizens of the EAEU and friendly states to take part in the international Olympiad “The Future of the EAEU”.

    Foreign participants of the Olympiad who demonstrate the best achievements can apply for budget places within the quota approved by the Government of the Russian Federation.

    The University offers the opportunity to study in the field of Management in Master’s degree programs in English: International Business Management (in English) or Hotel and Tourism Business. International English-language Master’s degree.

    Students of the State University of Management have the opportunity to use all digital resources and online interaction opportunities: lectures, educational materials, cases, individual consultations, etc.

    All international students are provided with dormitory accommodation for the duration of their studies. The State University of Management provides comfortable conditions on its own campus on a well-kept territory just a stone’s throw from the metro with a swimming pool, sports grounds, coworking spaces, a modern library and cozy cafes.

    Registration will be open until February 20, 2025 at the link: https://my.guu.ru/competitions/auth/login.

    For questions and advice on participation and admission, please send us an email to: future.of.eaeu@mail.ru.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 02/04/2025

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Mikhail Piotrovsky became an Honorary Doctor of SPbPU

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    A ceremony of presenting the mantle and diploma of Honorary Doctor of SPbPU to the General Director of the State Hermitage Museum Mikhail Piotrovsky took place at Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University.

    The decision to award this high title to the head of the country’s main museum was made unanimously by the members of the Academic Council on December 2, 2024.

    It is a great honor and happiness for us that such a legendary person as Mikhail Borisovich Piotrovsky has appeared in the ranks of the Polytechnics, without exaggeration, – SPbPU Rector, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Andrei Rudskoy opened the ceremony and asked the Scientific Secretary of the Polytechnic Dmitry Karpov to present the new Honorary Doctor in accordance with protocol.

    It would seem that there is no person not only in St. Petersburg, but also far beyond its borders, who would not know the historian-orientalist, doctor of historical sciences, professor, academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences and the Russian Academy of Arts, Honorary Citizen of St. Petersburg Mikhail Borisovich Piotrovsky. However, Dmitry Karpov found such words and such an unusual presentation for the presentation of Mikhail Piotrovsky that the personality of the Hermitage director was revealed in a new and vivid way. The book “Good Tone. Conversations Without Courage, Recorded by Irina Klenskaya” helped with this. Thus, based on quotes from Mikhail Borisovich himself, Dmitry Anatolyevich composed a lively and figurative essay.

    Quote: Only culture is capable of transforming chaos into strict order, and the chaos of the world into harmony. That is why the Hermitage is becoming an important and powerful player in the public life of not only the country, but the entire world.

    Dmitry Karpov recalled the “Great Hermitage” program, which is based on the idea of making the collections of the country’s main museum accessible through a complex of open storage facilities and satellite museums. Cultural and educational centers have already been built: “Hermitage-Kazan”, “Hermitage-Ural”, “Hermitage-Vyborg”, “Hermitage-Siberia” in Omsk and “Hermitage-Eurasia” in Orenburg. They are being built in Kaluga, Nalchik, Vladivostok.

    Polytechnic students are well aware of the long-term and fruitful joint work of the university and the Hermitage: since 2016, an agreement on cooperation in the development and improvement of engineering systems and security systems for Hermitage facilities, in the field of 3D modeling, has been in force. During the year of the pandemic, Polytechnic students made about 11 thousand protective screens and masks for the museum. At the end of 2023, the agreement was updated and expanded. Within the framework of cooperation, the following are carried out: excursions for students Polytechnic University in the Restoration and Storage Center of the Hermitage “Staraya Derevnya”, thanks to which future specialists become familiar with modern engineering technologies, automation systems and support for the climate parameters of the storage facility, as well as the functioning of alternative energy.

    Dmitry Anatolyevich cited an excerpt from a story about the Atlanteans of the New Hermitage, work on which began in 1845: “Never in Europe has any sculptor produced such figures from granite as the ancient Egyptians and Greeks did. Now this fantastic art, this great skill has become Russian” – this is how contemporaries spoke about the creation of Alexander Ivanovich Terebenev.”

    The St. Petersburg Polytechnic University also has a special feeling for the Hermitage Atlanteans – in 2022, the team of the NTI Center of SPbPU completed laser scanning of the portico of the New Hermitage and the sculptures of the Atlanteans and processing of the obtained data. Based on the results of the work together with the Hermitage art historians, a large two-part article was published: “Information modeling for the preservation of cultural heritage: the portico of the new Hermitage building and the sculptures of the Atlanteans.”

    Laser scanning and data processing of the interior of the New Hermitage building was also carried out to create three-dimensional models as part of the “Virtual Tour of the Hermitage” project, and scanning of the Alexander Column on Palace Square.

    “It is a great honor and responsibility for the university to make a feasible contribution to the preservation of truly priceless symbols of our city, our common cultural heritage,” Dmitry Karpov emphasized, concluding the presentation. “Deeply respected Mikhail Borisovich, we are proud of our country, our culture and our Hermitage. And the fact that together with you we do everything possible so that our country is strong, rich, glorious and respected.”

    After this, the rector of the Polytechnic announced: “Bring in the Honorary Doctorate diploma, the mantle and the medal!”

    According to tradition, the doctoral gown and cap were brought into the hall of the Academic Council by students dressed in the uniform of polytechnics of the early 20th century. The ceremony was accompanied by the Gaudeamus anthem performed by the Polyhymnia choir. Mikhail Borisovich was presented with a book about the Honorary Doctors of the Polytechnic University – his page is in it.

    In his response, Mikhail Piotrovsky thanked for the honor bestowed upon him and noted that the tradition of conferring Honorary Doctors of the Polytechnic University is an important element of St. Petersburg culture. Mikhail Borisovich emphasized that he is connected with the Polytechnic University not only by long-term cooperation, but now by joint work in the St. Petersburg branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, headed by Andrei Rudskoy.

    “We have many different connections,” noted Mikhail Piotrovsky. “My deputy, Alexey Valentinovich Bogdanov, associate professor, teaches at the Polytechnic University, 49 graduates of the university work at the Hermitage, you give us wonderful personnel. What we are doing together is the most important topic today for society: the combination of science and art. We have many opportunities for further joint work, entire programs that are very important both for us and for the development of science. We would like students, under the guidance of teachers, to participate in our digitalization processes, primarily in the field of big data. Together we could make an exhibition of beautiful exhibits of technical progress preserved in the Hermitage – wonderful astrolabes, spheres, globes, clocks. We have them, they all function, but it would be good to tell about them beautifully, developing the experience of the multimedia Hermitage. Today, the “Great Hermitage” was mentioned, our next project is “Heavenly Hermitage”, a cloud-based one, it is a backup copy in which everything that is not done in the earthly Hermitage can take place. And here we would like your intellectual and expert help.”

    Mikhail Piotrovsky said that the Hermitage has many advisory councils, and it would be possible to create a separate student council, under the leadership of teachers. As ideas for cooperation with students, Mikhail Piotrovsky also suggested thinking about forecasting the condition of museum objects and “taming technology.”

    In closing the ceremony, Andrey Rudskoy thanked Mikhail Piotrovsky for his businesslike approach and outlook on the future and promised that all ideas and proposals were accepted, would be discussed and implemented.

    Photo archive

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News –