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Category: United States of America

  • MIL-OSI: Abuse Deterrent Formulations Market Exploding While Estimated to Reach $39 Million In 2025 and $54 Million By 2030

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALM BEACH, Fla., June 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – The market for abuse-deterrent opioids is still developing, but it’s estimated that replacing extended-release opioids with abuse-deterrent formulations could lead to significant cost savings and a reduction in abuse-related medical events. While specific revenue figures for the abuse-deterrent opioid market are not readily available, the potential impact on the broader opioid market is substantial. One such report from Roots Analysis, however, did project revenues, saying: “The abuse deterrent formulations market is estimated to grow from USD 25.7 million in 2024 to reach USD 39.8 million in 2025 and USD 54.8 million by 2030, representing a higher CAGR of 6.6% during the forecast period. Although the healthcare industry relies on patient to take medications responsibly, in 2017, close to 18 million individuals were reported to have misused prescription drugs, in the US. In fact, data from a National Survey on Drug Use and Health conducted in the same year, showed that an estimated 2 million Americans misused prescription pain relievers for the first time in the previous year. Moreover, the same study reported 1.5 million people abusing tranquilizers, over 1 million abusing prescription stimulants and more than 270,000 abusing sedatives, for the first time, in the same time period. Owing to a rapid onset of medicinal effect, which offers immediate relief (with high efficacy), opioids are still considered to be one of the most widely used pharmacological interventions for pain management. However, these drugs are known to induce a euphoric state upon consumption, often causing patients to abuse them; increased recreational use of opioids is known to lead to addiction. Moreover, over-prescription of such medicinal products, which promotes their misuse, is considered as one of the root causes of the opioid crisis (increasing number of deaths involving misuse and addiction to opioids), in the US. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 72,000 overdose-related deaths were reported in 2017, of which close to 50,000 involved the use of an opioid.”   Active healthcare/tech companies active in the markets include: Nutriband Inc. (NASDAQ: NTRB) (NASDAQ: NTRBW), Pfizer Inc. (NYSE: PFE), Collegium Pharmaceutical, Inc. (NASDAQ: COLL), Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (NYSE: TEVA), Emergent BioSolutions Inc. (NYSE: EBS).

    Moreover, opioid abuse was estimated to have been responsible for an economic deficit of over USD 500 billion, related to loss of productivity and healthcare costs, in the US. Other drug classes that are prone to abuse include antidepressants and central nervous system (CNS) stimulants such as fentanyl and klonopin. In 2017, close to 17,000 deaths were reported to have been the result of an overdose of prescription antidepressants. Most of these deaths (~11,500) involved the misuse of benzodiazepines, such as VALIUM® (diazepam) and XANAX® (alprazolam). CNS stimulants are usually indicated for the treatment of patients suffering from attention-deficit / hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Among the various overdose-related deaths which took place in 2017, it is worth highlighting that over 12% involved the use of psychostimulants. Prescription drug abuse has prompted pharmaceutical developers to devise various strategies to prevent misuse. Some of the commonly used approaches to abuse deterrence include limiting use of opioids post-surgery, implementing stringent medicine prescribing guidelines and conducting prescription drug monitoring programs, and creating abuse deterrent formulations (ADFs) of drugs that are likely to be misused. Drug formulations that are designed to prevent an active pharmacological substance from being abused have been identified as a viable and sustainable alternative to limiting recreational / off-prescription use of the abovementioned drug classes and its consequences.”

    NUTRIBAND INC. (NASDAQ: NTRB) AND KINDEVA COMPLETE COMMERCIAL MANUFACTURING PROCESS SCALE-UP FOR AVERSA™ FENTANYL ABUSE DETERRENT FENTANYL PATCH

    • Nutriband and Kindeva have completed commercial manufacturing process scale-up for its lead product Aversa™ Fentanyl, an abuse-deterrent fentanyl patch
    • Nutriband is partnering with Kindeva to develop Aversa™ Fentanyl which combines Nutriband’s Aversa™ abuse-deterrent technology with Kindeva’s FDA-approved fentanyl patch

    Nutriband Inc. (NASDAQ:NTRB) (NASDAQ:NTRBW), a company engaged in the development of prescription transdermal pharmaceutical products, today announced that it has completed commercial manufacturing process scale-up for its lead product, Aversa™ Fentanyl, with Kindeva, a leading global contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) focused on drug-device combination products.

    Nutriband is partnering with Kindeva to develop Aversa™ Fentanyl which combines Nutriband’s Aversa™ abuse-deterrent technology with Kindeva’s FDA-approved fentanyl patch. Aversa Fentanyl is manufactured at Kindeva’s state-of-the-art transdermal manufacturing facility located in the United States. The next step is to manufacture clinical supplies and file an Investigational New Drug (IND) application with the FDA to initiate a human abuse liability clinical study.

    “We are excited to achieve this commercial development milestone with our partner, Kindeva. Completing the commercial manufacturing scale-up is an important step towards development of a commercially viable product and eventual NDA filing. This achievement demonstrates the compatibility of the Aversa™ abuse deterrent platform technology with established transdermal patch manufacturing processes. Aversa Fentanyl has the potential to be the first abuse deterrent pain patch on the market,” said Gareth Sheridan, CEO, Nutriband.

    Nutriband’s AVERSA™ abuse-deterrent technology can be utilized to incorporate aversive agents into transdermal patches to prevent the abuse, diversion, misuse, and accidental exposure of drugs with abuse potential including opioids and stimulants. The AVERSA™ abuse-deterrent technology has the potential to improve the safety profile of transdermal drugs susceptible to abuse, such as fentanyl, while making sure that these drugs remain accessible to those patients who really need them.

    AVERSA Fentanyl has the potential to be the world’s first abuse-deterrent opioid patch designed to deter the abuse and misuse and reduce the risk of accidental exposure of transdermal fentanyl patches. CONTINUED… Read this full press release and more news for NTRB at:   https://www.financialnewsmedia.com/news-ntrb  

    In other developments and happenings in the biotech market recently include:

    Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) announced involvement in the Abuse Deterrent Market stating that the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had approved an updated label for EMBEDA® (morphine sulfate and naltrexone hydrochloride) extended-release (ER) capsules, for oral use, CII, to include abuse-deterrence studies. The updated label states that EMBEDA has properties that are expected to reduce abuse via the oral and intranasal (i.e., snorting) routes when crushed. However, abuse of EMBEDA by these routes is still possible. The updated label also includes data from a human abuse potential study of intravenous (IV) morphine and naltrexone to simulate crushed EMBEDA. However, it is unknown whether the results with simulated crushed EMBEDA predict a reduction in abuse by the IV route until additional postmarketing data are available. EMBEDA is indicated for the management of pain severe enough to require daily, around-the-clock, long-term opioid treatment and for which alternative treatment options are inadequate. Pfizer expects EMBEDA will be available in the U.S. in early 2015.

    “Prescription opioids are an important treatment option for people with chronic pain. However, misuse and abuse of opioids in the U.S. is a serious societal concern, which is why the development of abuse-deterrent formulations of these medicines is a high priority,” said Bob Twillman, Ph.D., Director of Policy and Advocacy, American Academy of Pain Management. “All opioid medications, including morphine products, have the potential for abuse. We believe that anything that can be done to reduce this risk is a significant development for healthcare providers and their patients.”

    Collegium Pharmaceutical, Inc. (NASDAQ:COLL) also announced involvement in the Abuse Deterrent Market by stating that U.S. Patent No. 9,044,398 was issued by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) for its patent application entitled, “Abuse-deterrent Pharmaceutical Compositions of Opioids and Other Drugs”. The issued patent covers the DETERx technology platform and Collegium’s lead product candidate, Xtampza ER (oxycodone extended-release capsules). The claims provide additional coverage for multiple opioid molecules, as well as non-opioid drugs prone to abuse that are developed with the DETERx technology platform. This is the seventh issued U.S. patent related to the DETERx technology platform.

    “This newly issued patent expands our patent coverage for our lead product candidate, Xtampza ER, and the DETERx technology platform. We have a number of additional patent applications currently undergoing the patent prosecution process that, if issued, would continue to protect Xtampza ER, the DETERx technology platform, and additional product candidates in the U.S. and internationally,” said Michael Heffernan, Chairman and CEO of Collegium.

    Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (NYSE:TEVA) announced the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved VANTRELATM ER (hydrocodone bitartrate) extended-release tablets [CII] formulated with Teva’s proprietary abuse deterrence technology. VANTRELA ER is indicated for the management of pain severe enough to require daily, around-the-clock, long-term opioid treatment and for which alternative treatment options are inadequate. The product’s approval is supported by a clinical program that evaluated the safety and efficacy of VANTRELA ER, as well as its abuse potential in laboratory-based in vitro manipulation and extraction studies, pharmacokinetic studies, and clinical abuse potential (CAP) studies.

    “Teva understands the risk of prescription drug abuse is a challenge healthcare professionals face when treating millions of Americans affected by chronic pain,” said Rob Koremans, MD, President and CEO of Global Specialty Medicines at Teva. “Abuse-deterrent treatments provide options for prescribers that may help deter or mitigate abuse while still preserving access to pain medications for the patients that need them most.”

    Emergent BioSolutions Inc. (NYSE: EBS) is teaming up with Victoria’s Voice Foundation to rally Americans to help save lives from the opioid epidemic on National Naloxone Awareness Day, which honors the late Victoria Siegel and others who have succumbed to overdose. As part of the effort, Victoria’s Voice has launched the “Shine. Wear. Share. Care” campaign to raise awareness and provide educational resources to individuals, organizations and businesses that includes a purple light bulb (Shine), a wearable promotional item (Wear), a QR code encouraging participation in the #sharenaloxone social media campaign (Share) and a box of NARCAN® Nasal Spray (Care) provided by Emergent.

    “It’s been 10 years since our Victoria lost her life to an accidental opioid overdose and we remain fiercely committed to honoring her memory and the memory of others who have succumbed to this same tragedy by fostering open dialogue about the dangers of opioids and precautionary safety measures, so other families don’t have to experience the same tragedy,” said Jackie Siegel, of Victoria’s Voice Foundation. “We’re pleased that Emergent is our sponsor for this year’s National Naloxone Awareness Day to further our shared mission of saving as many lives as possible through naloxone education and distribution.”

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Smartphones are once again setting the agenda for justice as the Latino community documents ICE actions

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Allissa V. Richardson, Associate Professor of Journalism, USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism

    Smartphone witnessing helped spur the anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles. AP Photo/Ethan Swope

    It has been five years since May 25, 2020, when George Floyd gasped for air beneath the knee of a Minneapolis police officer at the corner of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue. Five years since 17-year-old Darnella Frazier stood outside Cup Foods, raised her phone and bore witness to nine minutes and 29 seconds that would galvanize a global movement against racial injustice.

    Frazier’s video didn’t just show what happened. It insisted the world stop and see.

    Today, that legacy continues in the hands of a different community, facing different threats but wielding the same tools. Across the United States, Latino organizers are raising their phones, not to go viral but to go on record. They livestream Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids, film family separations and document protests outside detention centers. Their footage is not merely content. It is evidence, warning – and resistance.

    Here in Los Angeles where I teach journalism, for example, several images have seared themselves into public memory. One viral video shows a shackled father stepping into a white, unmarked van as his daughter sobs behind the camera, pleading with him not to sign any official documents. He turns, gestures for her to calm down, and blows her a kiss. In another video, filmed across town, Los Angeles Police Department officers on horseback charge into crowds of peaceful protesters, swinging wooden batons with chilling precision.

    In Spokane, Washington, residents form a spontaneous human chain around their neighbors mid-raid, their bodies and cameras erecting a barricade of defiance. In San Diego, a video shows white allies yelling “Shame!” as they chase a car full of National Guard troops from their neighborhood.

    The impact of smartphone witnessing has been immediate and unmistakable – visceral at street level, seismic in statehouses. On the ground, the videos helped inspire a “No Kings” movement, which organized protests in all 50 states on June 14, 2025.

    Lawmakers are intensifying their focus on immigration policy as well. As the Trump administration escalates enforcement, Democratic-led states are expanding laws that limit cooperation with federal agents. On June 12, the House Oversight Committee questioned Democratic governors about these measures, with Republican lawmakers citing public safety concerns. The hearing underscored deep divisions between federal and state approaches to immigration enforcement.

    The legacy of Black witnessing

    What’s unfolding now is not new – it is newly visible. As my research shows, Latino organizers are drawing from a playbook that was sharpened in 2020 and rooted in a much older lineage of Black media survival strategies that were forged under extreme oppression.

    In my 2020 book “Bearing Witness While Black: African Americans, Smartphones and the New Protest Journalism,” I document how Black Americans have used media – slave narratives, pamphlets, newspapers, radio and now smartphones – to fight for justice. From Frederick Douglass to Ida B. Wells to Darnella Frazier, Black witnesses have long used journalism as a tool for survival and transformation.

    Latino mobile journalists are building on that blueprint in 2025, filming state power in moments of overreach, archiving injustice in real time, and expanding the impact of this radical tradition.

    Their work also echoes the spatial tactics of Black resistance. Just as enslaved Black people once mapped escape routes during slavery and Jim Crow, Latino communities today are engaging in digital cartography to chart ICE-free zones, mutual aid hubs and sanctuary spaces. The People Over Papers map channels the logic of the Black maroons – communities of self-liberated Africans who escaped plantations to track patrols, share intelligence and build networks of survival. Now, the hideouts are digital. The maps are crowdsourced. The danger remains.

    Likewise, the Stop ICE Raids Alerts Network revives a civil rights-era tactic. In the 1960s, organizers used wide area telephone service lines and radio to circulate safety updates. Black DJs cloaked dispatches in traffic and weather reports – “congestion on the south side” signaled police blockades; “storm warnings” meant violence ahead. Today, the medium is WhatsApp. The signal is encrypted. But the message – protect each other – has not changed.

    Layered across both systems is the DNA of the “Negro Motorist Green Book,” the guide that once helped Black travelers navigate Jim Crow America by identifying safe towns, gas stations and lodging. People Over Papers and Stop ICE Raids are digital descendants of that legacy. Where the Green Book used printed pages, today’s tools use digital pins. But the mission remains: survival through shared knowledge, protection through mapped resistance.

    The People Over Papers map is a crowdsourced collection of reports of ICE activity across the U.S.
    Screenshot by The Conversation U.S.

    Dangerous necessity

    Five years after George Floyd’s death, the power of visual evidence remains undeniable. Black witnessing laid the groundwork. In 2025, that tradition continues through the lens of Latino mobile journalists, who draw clear parallels between their own community’s experiences and those of Black Americans. Their footage exposes powerful echoes: ICE raids and overpolicing, border cages and city jails, a door kicked in at dawn and a knee on a neck.

    Like Black Americans before them, Latino communities are using smartphones to protect, to document and to respond. In cities such as Chicago, Los Angeles and El Paso, whispers of “ICE is in the neighborhood” now flash across Telegram, WhatsApp and Instagram. For undocumented families, pressing record can mean risking retaliation or arrest. But many keep filming – because what goes unrecorded can be erased.

    What they capture are not isolated incidents. They are part of a broader, shared struggle against state violence. And as long as the cameras keep rolling, the stories keep surfacing – illuminated by the glow of smartphone screens that refuse to look away.

    Allissa V. Richardson receives funding from the Ford Foundation and the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation.

    – ref. Smartphones are once again setting the agenda for justice as the Latino community documents ICE actions – https://theconversation.com/smartphones-are-once-again-setting-the-agenda-for-justice-as-the-latino-community-documents-ice-actions-258980

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Expansion of marriage rights to same-sex couples also expanded access to the psychological benefits that come with tying the knot

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Alana L. Riso, Ph.D. Student in Clinical Psychology, Binghamton University, State University of New York

    Marriage and the ability to start a family are human rights. Ten years ago, on June 26, 2015, the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in the Obergefell v. Hodges case extended the right to marry to same-sex couples.

    With 7.6% of Americans identifying as LGBTQ+, this decision continues to have an impact beyond legal benefits.

    Marriage provides unique advantages – a reality we have come to know as psychology researchers who focus on couples. The right to marry allowed same-sex couples the opportunity to experience these advantages.

    Benefits of a healthy marriage

    Although evidence largely comes from different-sex couples, psychology research documents the numerous benefits healthy marriage confers on well-being. Married people experience more positive emotions. They also have many physical health advantages, such as being more likely to survive cancer or major surgery. Children of married couples seem to benefit as well.

    A healthy marriage brings benefits that are distinct even from what couples in long-term relationships experience. Those who are married have better psychological well-being, such as less depression and better physical health than people in nonmarital romantic relationships, even those who live with their partner.

    Not surprisingly, the benefits of being married do not extend to unhappy marriages. The effects of marriage on physical well-being, life satisfaction, depression and mental health more broadly depend on marital quality, and so do outcomes for children.

    What’s so special about marriage?

    What makes a happy marriage different from a happy cohabiting, stable relationship when it comes to well-being? Social scientists don’t know, but there are a few theories.

    The one with the most empirical support involves a concept from physics called inertia. Applied in relationship science, inertia describes the idea that a relationship will remain the same or continue moving along the same trajectory unless some outside force acts upon it.

    As relationships progress, they naturally gain momentum. Partners invest more into their relationship over time. They exchange gifts, meet each others’ friends, and start staying at each others’ homes. Eventually, a natural step in this progression is either cohabitation or marriage.

    Marriage is a milestone, marking a new stage in life. Deciding to get married is a long-term commitment that often takes years of planning. Cohabitation, on the other hand, is easy to slide into due to the forward trajectory of a relationship. Cohabitors tend to stay together less as an intentional choice but for convenience.

    The intentional lifelong commitment of marriage may explain why it offers more benefits than cohabitation.

    Same-sex marriage has been legal nationwide in the U.S. since June 26, 2015.
    Justin Sullivan via Getty Images

    10 years of same-sex marriage

    As more same-sex couples have married, are they seeing the same marriage benefits that other-sex couples always had? Research on the topic is only just beginning. Still, there is some preliminary evidence that they are.

    In a 2024 survey, respondents with same-sex spouses largely felt closer to their partner and more satisfied with life in general after getting married. Findings from one research study indicate that married same-sex couples see greater benefits to psychological well-being than do same-sex couples in registered domestic partnerships. Another study on same-sex relationships found that marriage was linked to greater happiness and fewer depression symptoms than cohabitation.

    As for children of same-sex parents, they do just as well as those with other-sex parents. There’s not much data yet on the impact on kids of same-sex parents divorcing.

    Do marriage benefits differ for same-sex couples?

    The happiness of same- and other-sex relationships is largely determined by the same factors, but there are two key differences: gender composition of the couple and stress from discrimination.

    In other-sex relationships, women tend to fall into subordinate positions. Same-sex couples are free from traditional male-female gender dynamics, allowing more of a balance of power. For instance, they have a more even division of household chores, and partners have a more equal say when resolving conflicts. Greater equality may improve the quality of same-sex relationships.

    The other distinguishing feature of same-sex couples is that their relationships are negatively affected by discrimination, a known stressor. In research done mostly on different-sex couples, even support from a partner does not ameliorate the downstream effects of discrimination and – as is the case with other stressors – can make relationship problems seem worse.

    Societal disapproval may lead someone to internalize negative ideas about their own sexuality and relationship. In other words, buying into society’s message that one’s relationship is morally wrong harms their own mental health and consequently their relationship. Psychology researchers theorize that societal disapproval is a key factor standing in the way of same-sex couples experiencing the full benefits of marriage.

    More societal acceptance post-Obergefell

    As an increasing number of U.S. states, and eventually the federal government, legalized same-sex marriage, greater societal acceptance has followed. In 2025, 67% of LGBTQ+ adults agree that the country has become more accepting of same-sex couples due to the legalization of same-sex marriage.

    This trend is not unique to the U.S. Around the world, countries where same-sex marriage is legal tend to have a higher percentage of the population say they favor same-sex marriage. Although the causal direction is opaque, evidence from multiple countries indicates that same-sex marriage bans reinforce nonacceptance of LGBTQ+ people, while legal recognition fosters societal approval. Acceptance lowers stress for same-sex couples, allowing them to enjoy the benefits of marriage.

    Although societal acceptance in the United States has improved dramatically over the past couple of decades, it is important to note that 19% of Americans still strongly oppose same-sex marriage. Legalization was a major step, but it has by no means eliminated discrimination altogether.

    Matthew D. Johnson was an unpaid consultant on an amicus brief in support of the petitioners in Obergefell v Hodges that was submitted by Owen C. Pell of White & Case LLP.

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

    – ref. Expansion of marriage rights to same-sex couples also expanded access to the psychological benefits that come with tying the knot – https://theconversation.com/expansion-of-marriage-rights-to-same-sex-couples-also-expanded-access-to-the-psychological-benefits-that-come-with-tying-the-knot-257950

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Iran’s Supreme Leader Says Iran Will Not Surrender

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    TEHRAN, June 18 (Xinhua) — Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said on Wednesday that the country remains steadfast in the conflict with Israel and will not give in to pressure, Iran’s Tasnim news agency reported.

    In a televised address, he praised the Iranian people’s “steadfast, courageous and timely” response to what he called Israel’s “stupid and malicious aggression.” He said the nation’s resilience reflected “the growth of rationality and spirituality” in the country.

    “The Iranian people will firmly resist the imposed war, just as they will firmly resist the imposed peace. This nation will not surrender to anyone’s pressure,” Tasnim quotes A. Khamenei as saying.

    He also warned that the United States would suffer “irreparable damage” as a result of any military intervention. “Those who know Iran and its history understand that threatening its people is futile,” he said.

    Iran’s supreme leader made the remarks after US President Donald Trump made several social media posts on Tuesday demanding Tehran’s “immediate surrender,” fueling speculation that the US was getting militarily involved in the conflict.

    The conflict between Israel and Iran is continuing for a sixth day. During this time, about 600 people have died in Iran and 24 in Israel. The escalation began after Israel launched surprise airstrikes on Iranian territory on June 13. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: EIA forecasts new export licensing requirements will reduce U.S. ethane exports

    Source: US Energy Information Administration

    In-brief analysis

    June 18, 2025

    We forecast U.S. ethane exports will decrease by 80,000 barrels per day (b/d) this year and by 177,000 b/d in 2026 in our June Short-Term Energy Outlook because of new licensing requirements for U.S. exports of ethane to China. Any policy changes that relax licensing requirements, such as the outcome of trade negotiations between the United States and China, would lead us to increase our forecasts for U.S. ethane exports again.

    China is the largest destination for U.S. ethane exports, accounting for 47% of U.S. ethane exports in 2024. All U.S. ethane exports to China come from two terminals on the U.S. Gulf Coast. Enterprise operates the Orbit terminal in Morgan’s Point, Texas, and Energy Transfer operates a terminal in Nederland, Texas. These terminals have long-term contracts with ethane cracking facilities in China. Both companies announced they received notice from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) that they need to apply for a special license to export ethane to China. Both Enterprise and Energy Transfer report that BIS said ethane exports to China pose an “unacceptable risk” that the material could be used for military purposes.

    According to Vortexa data, as of June 16, seven Very Large Ethane Carriers (VLECs), nearly a quarter of the VLEC fleet, are stalled along the U.S. Gulf Coast. Two stalled VLECs are laden with nearly 1 million barrels of ethane each. Typically, these loaded VLECs would be headed to China through the Panama Canal, indicating that they were likely loaded before the export licenses were denied. Three VLECs that typically go to China are ballast (empty) and moored off the U.S. Gulf Coast. Two vessels that typically carry ethane from the U.S. Gulf Coast to China on long-term agreements have been diverted to ethane crackers in Dahej, India. The last shipment of U.S. ethane to China left May 23 from Energy Transfer’s terminal on the U.S. Gulf Coast.

    Ethane is a natural gas liquid extracted from wet natural gas during processing and is primarily used to produce ethylene. Ethylene is a crucial component in the petrochemical industry and a building block for plastics, resins, and synthetic rubber.

    Average annual U.S. ethane exports have increased every year since 2014 except 2020, when exports fell slightly due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Growing U.S. ethane exports have been supported by rising global petrochemical demand, ethane’s cost advantage in ethylene production over other feedstocks such as naphtha and propane, and increased ethane tanker fleet shipping capacity.

    Crackers in China that can only use ethane as a feedstock, such as Satellite Petrochemical, have already shut down, according to Argus, because no alternative sources for ethane imports exist. Other crackers in China can switch feedstock to naphtha or liquified petroleum gas (propane and butane), such as SP Chemical’s Taixing cracker.

    Principal contributor: Josh Eiermann

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Tokio Marine HCC Appoints Elizabeth Geary to Lead North America P&C Businesses

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, June 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tokio Marine HCC (TMHCC), based in Houston, Texas, today announced the appointment of Elizabeth Geary to the newly created role of President & CEO of North America P&C. She will be responsible for the growth and leadership of TMHCC’s North America P&C business units. Ms. Geary assumes her new role on June 30, 2025, reporting to Susan Rivera, TMHCC’s CEO, and will be based in New York City.

    Ms. Geary brings more than two decades of underwriting and senior leadership experience to TMHCC. She joins from Liberty Mutual, where, as President of Insurance Solutions, she was responsible for the launch and development of a new organization, focused on proactively managing brokers’ and clients’ evolving risk needs with a focus on cyber, energy transition, and alternative risk solutions. Ms. Geary began her career at TransRe, gaining underwriting experience across the spectrum of specialty classes, starting with US Property and Healthcare, progressing to Global Head of Cyber, and ultimately serving in a dual role as Chief Underwriting Officer, North America, and President, Global Portfolio Management.

    This announcement is the latest in a series of key executive appointments at TMHCC, with Barry Cook promoted to the role of Deputy CEO in April 2025, as the business evolves and expands its leadership structure to maintain its growth momentum.

    Ms. Rivera said, “Appointing Liz to the new role of President & CEO of our North America P&C business units is a statement of intent for our business. Her talent and track record of underwriting acumen, product strategy, and leadership are exceptional. As TMHCC continues to expand and evolve, driven by our commitment to enhancing our offerings to reflect the needs of insureds in a rapidly changing risk environment, we will need to attract the leading talent in the market who share our specialized focus and approach. Liz is an example of this approach in action, and I look forward to working with her to successfully harness the opportunities present in this expansive sector of the insurance market.”

    Ms. Geary added, “Tokio Marine HCC’s North American business has become a market leader in its chosen sectors, and its specialty insurance reputation is second to none. TMHCC is known for its long-term commitment to markets, underwriting excellence, and top-notch financial strength. I am delighted to be joining Susan and her team and look forward to helping the business realize its profitable growth ambitions in North America while providing market-leading solutions for our brokers and insureds.”

    About Tokio Marine HCC
    Tokio Marine HCC is a member of the Tokio Marine Group, a premier global company founded in 1879 with a market capitalization of $74 billion as of March 31, 2025. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, Tokio Marine HCC is a leading specialty insurance group with offices in the United States, Mexico, the United Kingdom and Continental Europe. Tokio Marine HCC’s major domestic insurance companies have financial strength ratings of ‘A+’ (Strong) from S&P Global Ratings, ‘A++’ (Superior) from AM Best, and ‘AA-’ (Very Strong) from Fitch Ratings; its major international insurance companies have financial strength ratings of ‘A+’ (Strong) from S&P Global Ratings. Tokio Marine HCC is the marketing name used to describe the affiliated companies under the common ownership of HCC Insurance Holdings, Inc., a Delaware-incorporated insurance holding company. For more information about Tokio Marine HCC, please visit www.tokiomarinehcc.com.

    Contact:
    Doug Busker, Vice President – Public Relations
    Tokio Marine HCC
    713-996-1192

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Tokio Marine HCC Appoints Elizabeth Geary to Lead North America P&C Businesses

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, June 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tokio Marine HCC (TMHCC), based in Houston, Texas, today announced the appointment of Elizabeth Geary to the newly created role of President & CEO of North America P&C. She will be responsible for the growth and leadership of TMHCC’s North America P&C business units. Ms. Geary assumes her new role on June 30, 2025, reporting to Susan Rivera, TMHCC’s CEO, and will be based in New York City.

    Ms. Geary brings more than two decades of underwriting and senior leadership experience to TMHCC. She joins from Liberty Mutual, where, as President of Insurance Solutions, she was responsible for the launch and development of a new organization, focused on proactively managing brokers’ and clients’ evolving risk needs with a focus on cyber, energy transition, and alternative risk solutions. Ms. Geary began her career at TransRe, gaining underwriting experience across the spectrum of specialty classes, starting with US Property and Healthcare, progressing to Global Head of Cyber, and ultimately serving in a dual role as Chief Underwriting Officer, North America, and President, Global Portfolio Management.

    This announcement is the latest in a series of key executive appointments at TMHCC, with Barry Cook promoted to the role of Deputy CEO in April 2025, as the business evolves and expands its leadership structure to maintain its growth momentum.

    Ms. Rivera said, “Appointing Liz to the new role of President & CEO of our North America P&C business units is a statement of intent for our business. Her talent and track record of underwriting acumen, product strategy, and leadership are exceptional. As TMHCC continues to expand and evolve, driven by our commitment to enhancing our offerings to reflect the needs of insureds in a rapidly changing risk environment, we will need to attract the leading talent in the market who share our specialized focus and approach. Liz is an example of this approach in action, and I look forward to working with her to successfully harness the opportunities present in this expansive sector of the insurance market.”

    Ms. Geary added, “Tokio Marine HCC’s North American business has become a market leader in its chosen sectors, and its specialty insurance reputation is second to none. TMHCC is known for its long-term commitment to markets, underwriting excellence, and top-notch financial strength. I am delighted to be joining Susan and her team and look forward to helping the business realize its profitable growth ambitions in North America while providing market-leading solutions for our brokers and insureds.”

    About Tokio Marine HCC
    Tokio Marine HCC is a member of the Tokio Marine Group, a premier global company founded in 1879 with a market capitalization of $74 billion as of March 31, 2025. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, Tokio Marine HCC is a leading specialty insurance group with offices in the United States, Mexico, the United Kingdom and Continental Europe. Tokio Marine HCC’s major domestic insurance companies have financial strength ratings of ‘A+’ (Strong) from S&P Global Ratings, ‘A++’ (Superior) from AM Best, and ‘AA-’ (Very Strong) from Fitch Ratings; its major international insurance companies have financial strength ratings of ‘A+’ (Strong) from S&P Global Ratings. Tokio Marine HCC is the marketing name used to describe the affiliated companies under the common ownership of HCC Insurance Holdings, Inc., a Delaware-incorporated insurance holding company. For more information about Tokio Marine HCC, please visit www.tokiomarinehcc.com.

    Contact:
    Doug Busker, Vice President – Public Relations
    Tokio Marine HCC
    713-996-1192

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: ACNB Corporation Announces Common Stock Repurchase Program

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GETTYSBURG, Pa., June 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ACNB Corporation (“ACNB”) (NASDAQ: ACNB), financial holding company for ACNB Bank and ACNB Insurance Services, Inc., announced today that the Board of Directors approved a new plan to repurchase, in open market transactions at prevailing market prices, up to 314,000, or approximately 3.0%, of the outstanding shares of ACNB’s common stock. The amount and timing of any shares repurchased will be evaluated and determined by management in its discretion and will depend upon a number of factors, including ACNB’s capital position, liquidity, financial performance and alternate uses of capital, the market price of ACNB’s securities, general market and economic conditions, and applicable legal and regulatory requirements, with no guarantee as to the exact number of shares that will be repurchased. The common stock repurchases are expected to be funded by using available capital. Further, this new common stock repurchase program replaces and supersedes any and all earlier announced repurchase plans.

    ACNB Corporation, headquartered in Gettysburg, PA, is the independent $3.27 billion financial holding company for the wholly-owned subsidiaries of ACNB Bank, Gettysburg, PA, including its operating divisions Traditions Bank and Traditions Mortgage, and ACNB Insurance Services, Inc., Westminster, MD. Originally founded in 1857, ACNB Bank serves its marketplace with banking and wealth management services, including trust and retail brokerage, via a network of 33 community banking offices and one loan offices located in the Pennsylvania counties of Adams, Cumberland, Franklin, Lancaster and York and the Maryland counties of Baltimore, Carroll and Frederick. ACNB Insurance Services, Inc. is a full-service insurance agency with licenses in 46 states. The agency offers a broad range of property, casualty, health, life and disability insurance serving personal and commercial clients through office locations in Westminster, MD, and Gettysburg, PA. For more information regarding ACNB Corporation and its subsidiaries, please visit investor.acnb.com.

    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS – In addition to historical information, this press release may contain forward-looking statements. Examples of forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, (a) projections or statements regarding future earnings, expenses, net interest income, other income, earnings or loss per share, asset mix and quality, growth prospects, capital structure, and other financial terms, (b) statements of plans and objectives of Management or the Board of Directors, and (c) statements of assumptions, such as economic conditions in the Corporation’s market areas. Such forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “believes”, “expects”, “may”, “intends”, “will”, “should”, “anticipates”, or the negative of any of the foregoing or other variations thereon or comparable terminology, or by discussion of strategy. Forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties such as national, regional and local economic conditions, competitive factors, and regulatory limitations. Actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Such risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause actual results and experience to differ from those projected include, but are not limited to, the following: short-term and long-term effects of inflation and rising costs on the Corporation, customers and economy; effects of governmental and fiscal policies, as well as legislative and regulatory changes; effects of new laws and regulations (including laws and regulations concerning taxes, banking, securities and insurance) and their application with which the Corporation and its subsidiaries must comply; impacts of the capital and liquidity requirements of the Basel III standards; effects of changes in accounting policies and practices, as may be adopted by the regulatory agencies, as well as the Financial Accounting Standards Board and other accounting standard setters; ineffectiveness of the business strategy due to changes in current or future market conditions; future actions or inactions of the United States government, including the effects of short-term and long-term federal budget and tax negotiations and a failure to increase the government debt limit or a prolonged shutdown of the federal government; effects of economic conditions particularly with regard to the negative impact of any pandemic, epidemic or health-related crisis and the responses thereto on the operations of the Corporation and current customers, specifically the effect of the economy on loan customers’ ability to repay loans; effects of competition, and of changes in laws and regulations on competition, including industry consolidation and development of competing financial products and services; inflation, securities market and monetary fluctuations; risks of changes in interest rates on the level and composition of deposits, loan demand, and the values of loan collateral, securities, and interest rate protection agreements, as well as interest rate risks; difficulties in acquisitions and integrating and operating acquired business operations, including information technology difficulties; challenges in establishing and maintaining operations in new markets; effects of technology changes; effects of general economic conditions and more specifically in the Corporation’s market areas; failure of assumptions underlying the establishment of reserves for loan losses and estimations of values of collateral and various financial assets and liabilities; acts of war or terrorism or geopolitical instability; disruption of credit and equity markets; ability to manage current levels of impaired assets; loss of certain key officers; ability to maintain the value and image of the Corporation’s brand and protect the Corporation’s intellectual property rights; continued relationships with major customers; and, potential impacts to the Corporation from continually evolving cybersecurity and other technological risks and attacks, including additional costs, reputational damage, regulatory penalties, and financial losses. We caution readers not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. They only reflect Management’s analysis as of this date. The Corporation does not revise or update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or changed circumstances. Please carefully review the risk factors described in other documents the Corporation files from time to time with the SEC, including the Annual Reports on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Please also carefully review any Current Reports on Form 8-K filed by the Corporation with the SEC.

    ACNB #2025-11
    June 18, 2025

    Contact: Kevin J. Hayes
      SVP/General Counsel,
      Secretary & Chief
      Governance Officer
      717.339.5161
      khayes@acnb.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Wix Further Expands into Vibe Coding with Acquisition of Base44, a Hyper-Growth Startup that Simplifies Web and App Creation with AI

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Base44 delivers effortless, code-free digital creation through an intuitive, conversational AI experience, which is expected to expand Wix’s reach to new audiences worldwide

    NEW YORK— Today Wix.com Ltd. (Nasdaq: WIX), the leading SaaS website builder platform globally1, announced its acquisition of Base44, an AI-powered platform that enables anyone to create fully-functional, custom software solutions and applications using natural language, without the need for traditional coding. The acquisition adds a powerful new arm to Wix’s AI portfolio, expanding its suite of intelligent solutions that empower anyone to build and grow online. 

    The tech landscape is undergoing a major transformation as vibe coding gains momentum, shifting creation from manual development to intent-driven software development. This new approach allows people to simply express what they want to build, while intelligent agents do the heavy lifting. As demand grows for tools that turn ideas into reality through conversation and intuition rather than code, Wix is working to make the digital world more accessible and creative than ever before. Read CEO Avishai Abrahami’s blog about his vision and the way Wix is shaping this future here.

    Base44’s unique approach offers a fully automated, chat-based interface that manages technical details behind the scenes, from databases and authentication to deployment – removing the need for third-party integrations or manual setup. This groundbreaking approach opens the door for anyone, regardless of technical expertise, to create production-ready, scalable applications quickly and effortlessly. With proven traction in the market, including B2B partnerships with leaders like eToro and SimilarWeb, Base44 is a powerful addition to the Wix AI portfolio – furthering the company’s mission to make innovation accessible to creators and businesses worldwide.

    “This acquisition marks a pivotal milestone in Wix’s commitment to transforming creation online,” said Avishai Abrahami, CEO and Co-founder of Wix. “Maor and his team at Base44 bring cutting-edge technology, strong market penetration, and visionary leadership that seamlessly align with Wix’s dedication to enabling users at all levels of expertise to express their intent while intelligent agents manage execution. Maor’s exceptional talent and innovative mindset will reinforce Wix’s mission to push the boundaries of AI-driven creation and  accelerate the evolution of intuitive, intelligent tools that redefine how digital experiences are built and enjoyed.”

    “I honestly can’t think of a better fit. Wix is probably the only company that can help Base44 achieve the scale and distribution it needs while maintaining, if not accelerating, our product velocity,” said Maor Shlomo, CEO of Base44. “Our market is massive. It has the potential to replace entire software categories by enabling people to create software instead of buying it. Wix’s DNA – its customer obsession, innovation, and speed – perfectly aligns with ours, and its scale will catapult Base44 forward at exactly the right time.”

    Base44 will continue to operate as a distinct product and business, maintaining its unique identity and momentum while benefiting from the scale and support of Wix.

    Transaction Terms

    Under the terms of the agreement, Wix acquired Base44 for initial consideration of approximately $80 million plus additional earn-out payments paid through 2029 predicated upon certain performance metrics.

    We expect this transaction to have an inconsequential contribution to 2025 bookings and revenue. We expect to incur approximately $25 million in retention bonus payments paid to Base44 employees in 2025 as part of the above initial consideration paid on the transaction, which will be excluded from non-GAAP and free cash flow (FCF) results.

    About Wix.com Ltd.

    Wix is the leading SaaS website builder platform1 to create, manage and grow a digital presence. Founded  in 2006, Wix is a comprehensive platform providing users – self-creators, agencies, enterprises, and more – with industry-leading performance, security, AI capabilities and a reliable infrastructure. Offering a wide range of commerce and business solutions, advanced SEO and marketing tools, the platform enables users to take full ownership of their brand, their data and their relationships with their customers. With a focus on continuous innovation and delivery of new features and products, users can seamlessly build a powerful and high-end digital presence for themselves or their clients. 

    For more about Wix, please visit our Press Room
    Media Relations Contact:  PR@wix.com  

    1 Based on number of active live sites as reported by competitors’ figures, independent third-party data and internal data as of Q1 2025.

    About Base44
    Base44 is an innovative AI-powered platform that enables users to build custom software applications effortlessly using natural language, eliminating the need for traditional coding. Founded with a vision to democratize software creation, Base44 combines cutting-edge AI technologies—including code generation and multi-agent orchestration—to empower self-creators, developers, and businesses to rapidly design, deploy, and scale tailored digital solutions. With a growing user base and a focus on seamless, intuitive experiences, Base44 drives the future of no-code development by unlocking new levels of creativity and efficiency for a diverse range of users.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This document contains forward-looking statements, within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that involve risks and uncertainties. Such forward-looking statements may be identified by words like “anticipate,” “assume,” “believe,” “aim,” “forecast,” “indication,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “subject,” “project,” “outlook,” “future,” “will,” “seek” and similar terms or phrases. The forward-looking statements contained in this document are based on management’s current expectations, which are subject to uncertainty, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Important factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, among others, our ability to achieve the expected benefits from the acquisition of Base44, our ability to attract and retain registered users and partners, and generate new premium subscriptions and additional business solutions as we continuously adjust our marketing strategy and customer care; maintenance of our brand and reputation, and generation of revenue from sources other than premium subscriptions; risks associated with international operations and the use of platform in various countries; risks related to the macroeconomic environment and ongoing global conflicts; security risks and payment risks and fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates; failures of third-party hardware, software and infrastructure on which we rely, or failure to manage the operation of our infrastructure; adverse market conditions, including inflation, interest rates and other adverse developments that may adversely affect our cash balances and investment portfolio; our history of operating losses and inability to achieve sustained profitability; downturns or upturns in sales are not immediately reflected in full in our operating results; our ability to repurchase our ordinary shares and/or 0.00% Convertible Senior Notes due 2025 pursuant to our repurchase program; our ability to raise capital when needed or on acceptable terms; risks related to acquisitions and investments, pricing decisions, pandemics, natural disasters and other catastrophic events; our ability to develop and introduce new products and services, as well as maintain third-party products and our ability to keep up with rapid changes in design and technology; our ability to attract and retain qualified employees and key personnel; our ability to attract a diversified customer base and increased competition; our ability to maintain compatibility of our platform and solutions with changes in third-party applications and changes to technologies used in our solutions; our ability to acquire and service small business users; risks related to security breaches and unauthorized access to data or cyberattacks; our expectation regarding the uncertain future relationship between the United States and other countries with respect to trade policies, taxes, government regulations, and tariffs; our ability to comply with the regulations applicable to our operations, including new governmental regulations regarding the internet, consumer protection, artificial intelligence (“AI”), privacy and data protection laws and regulations, as well as contractual privacy and data protection obligations; risks relating to intellectual property, including infringements, litigation and claims, and our ability to maintain and protect our intellectual property rights and proprietary information; our expectations regarding the outcome of any regulatory investigation or litigation, including class actions; risks related to the development and integration of AI, generative AI, agentic AI, machine learning, and similar tools into our offerings, and compliance with the regulatory environment impacting AI and AI-related activities; risks related to activities of registered users or content of their websites, and risks related to domain names and industry regulations; risks related to compliance with laws and regulations, including those related to economic sanctions, tariffs, export controls, anti-corruption and anti-money laundering, antitrust, and consumer protection, and changes in these laws and regulations; risks related to tax, including application of indirect taxes, tax laws, changes in tax laws or changes in provision for income tax and examination of income tax returns; risks related to ordinary shares, activist shareholders, and our status as a foreign private issuer; risks related to our incorporation and location in Israel, including conflicts in the area; our expectations regarding future changes in our cost of revenues and our operating expenses on an absolute basis and as a percentage of our revenues; our planned level of capital expenditures and our belief that our existing cash and cash from operations will be sufficient to fund our operations for at least the next 12 months and for the foreseeable future; and our ability to enter into new markets and attract new customer demographics, including our ability to successfully attract new partners and large enterprise-level users and to grow our activities, including through the adoption of our Wix Studio product, with these customer types as anticipated and other factors discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Company’s annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2024 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 21, 2025. The preceding list is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all of the risks that may impact our forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement made by us in this press release speaks only as of the date hereof. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: NexQloud Closes $2.3M Pre-Seed Round, Surpasses 1,850 NanoServers Deployed, Outpaces Traditional Data Centers in Efficiency—and Pursues FedRAMP for Public Sector Expansion

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALO ALTO, Calif., June 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NexQloud, a startup in decentralized cloud computing infrastructure, today announced the successful close of its $2.3 million Pre-Seed funding round under a Reg CF exemption. The raise, completed with fully audited financials, marks a significant milestone and confirms market appetite for decentralized computing solutions that reward individuals and organizations for contributing their hardware to the cloud.

    The company now enters a new phase of growth, backed by a 12-month runway and plans to launch a $5 million Seed Round to accelerate proof of market fit for its Distributed Kubernetes Service (DKS) and expand into three additional cloud service verticals designed to serve the growing demand from AI organizations, SaaS providers, and DevOps teams.

    “This funding validates what we’ve always believed — that the future of cloud computing is decentralized, energy efficient, and eco-friendly,” said Mauro Terrinoni, CEO of NexQloud. “With over 1,850 NanoServers live, we’ve demonstrated not only demand but global scalability. Now, we’re focused on unlocking enterprise and federal adoption with even greater ambition.”

    1,850+ NanoServers Now Deployed Across 10 Countries

    Since its last milestone announcement of 1,250 units, NexQloud has rapidly expanded to over 1,850 NanoServers across ten countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Belgium, Australia, Vietnam, Switzerland, Germany, India, and Jamaica. This marks a 48% growth since its last update, demonstrating strong contributor momentum and global adoption.

    Built on mobile CPU architecture, each NanoServer operates with just 12% of the energy consumed by traditional rackmount servers. The result: 88% energy savings with identical computational performance. These energy-efficient devices operate 24/7 with minimal cooling or infrastructure overhead, creating a sustainable, community-powered alternative to centralized data centers.

    To date NexQloud’s Distributed Compute Platform (DCP) now comprises:

    • 54,820 virtual CPUs (vCPUs) — powering compute-intensive enterprise workloads
    • 158.83 terabytes of RAM — supporting large-scale, memory-driven applications
    • 849 AI-capable GPUs — enabling real-time machine learning, inference, and analytics

    NexQloud’s DCP Matches Enterprise Data Center Power—Without the Real Estate

    To contextualize the scale of its current infrastructure, NexQloud’s DCP now delivers the performance equivalent of a mid-sized enterprise-grade data center, comprising approximately 70 traditional server racks. The platform can support between 500,000 and 750,000 concurrent users for web-based applications, while simultaneously powering tens of thousands of containerized workloads across its Distributed Kubernetes Service (DKS).

    In addition, NexQloud’s GPU infrastructure can support hundreds of parallel AI inference, training, and rendering tasks, enabling enterprise-scale AI computing at a fraction of typical cost. Remarkably, this level of compute was achieved without building a single data center— and with new devices coming online daily, NexQloud’s DCP will continue to grow in scale and resilience.

    Eliminating Infrastructure Costs, Saving Energy, Reducing Emissions

    If built traditionally, this infrastructure would require an estimated $7.5 million in capital expenditures. NexQloud eliminates these costs entirely by leveraging decentralized ownership and contributor-operated devices, with the potential to deliver:

    • Annual electricity savings: Over 6.94 million kWh, equal to $832,550 in avoided energy costs
    • CO₂ emissions avoided: Approximately 2,895 metric tons per year, equivalent to removing 640 cars from the road
    • Environmental impact: Comparable to planting 133,000 mature trees annually

    “This is more than cloud infrastructure — it’s a major shift in how compute is produced, powered, and rewarded,” added Terrinoni. “With the theoretical ability to add millions of devices, we are poised to do for computing what the internet did for information —decentralize it, distribute it, and redefine it.”

    Pursuing FedRAMP to Unlock Government Cloud Contracts

    Lastly, the company announces its intent to pursue FedRAMP certification to unlock opportunities with U.S. government agencies. As one of the largest consumers of traditional cloud infrastructure, the U.S. government represents a high-value target. NexQloud’s pursuit of FedRAMP is a strategic move to access public sector contracts and expand into one of the most regulated and defensible segments of the cloud market.

    About NexQloud

    NexQloud is redefining cloud infrastructure by combining blockchain, AI, and a global network of energy-efficient NanoServers into a scalable, secure, and environmentally responsible computing platform. Through its NXQ token economy and Distributed Kubernetes Service (DKS), NexQloud offers individuals and enterprises an inclusive alternative to centralized hyperscale providers.

    Media Contact:
    Mauro Terrinoni, CEO
    Email: mterrinoni@nexqloud.io
    Phone: +1 669 241 0916
    Website: www.nexqloud.io

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: From Puddles to Pollinators: Rain Gardens are Transforming Connecticut Landscapes

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Rain can dampen summer activities, but it’s also vital to the health of our landscapes – from replenishing groundwater to sustaining plants and crops.

    Modern infrastructure and excess water from rain don’t always work perfectly in sync. Our homes, roads, parking lots, and buildings block water from soaking into the ground, leading to more flooding and erosion.

    Mike Dietz ’94 (CLAS), ’01 MS, ’05 Ph.D., a senior extension educator and director of the Connecticut Institute of Water Resources, offers Connecticut residents some ideas to better handle Mother Nature’s wet presence.

    Rain gardens offer a natural, beautiful solution, helping to manage stormwater while supporting cleaner water across Connecticut. UConn Extension is leading efforts to expand rain gardens statewide through resources including an app, a free online course, workshops, and hands-on support.

    A rain garden is a shallow, landscaped area that captures and filters stormwater using plants, mulch, and ground covers. In residential neighborhoods, this reduces the amount of runoff that leaves the property in stormwater pipes, where it is sent untreated to local streams.

    Because Connecticut is part of the Long Island Sound watershed, every rain garden also helps protect the Sound, restore local waterways, and strengthen ecosystems. These gardens filter pollutants from stormwater before it reaches rivers and the Sound, using nature’s own cleaning processes.

    Dietz has spent years working with team members, developing rain garden resources for homeowners and communities.

    “I like the hands-on aspect of Extension water programs where I can see tangible things happening,” Dietz says. “The research advances the science, but I find the greatest impact working with people to get practices implemented.”

    Dietz remembers when UConn installed its first rain garden at the Towers dorms in 2004. Today, there are 30 rain gardens and 70 green infrastructure systems, including permeable pavements, across campus.

    Last year, Dietz worked with students to install a rain garden near the UConn Dairy Bar. Amanda Stowe ’26 (CAHNR) and Grace Wright Goodison ’27 (CLAS, Neag) were part of that team that applied for and won a UConn Change grant for the project.

    Mike Dietz, senior extension educator, with students planting a rain garden near the UConn Dairy Bar (Contributed photo)

    “I researched land management at UConn, especially with all our rain and having to walk through a huge puddle every time I left my dorm,” Wright Goodison says. “Native plants are important for our soil.”

    “This is important. People are concerned with flooding, and rain gardens help,” says Stowe.

    Both students began the project during class and used the undergraduate Change Grant to install the new garden.

    The site already had a catch basin, but they disconnected stormwater drains from part of a nearby building so the runoff now flows into the rain garden instead. Both students called it a great learning opportunity in water quality, pollinators, and native plants. A sign now helps Dairy Bar visitors learn about rain gardens and the specific plants growing there.

    “The goal was to take rainwater from the building and parking lots and disconnect it from Roberts Brook, which is already impaired,” Dietz says. “The rain garden is functioning as designed. And for pollinators, it’s a huge benefit – this was a barren landscape for them otherwise.”

    This summer, UConn Extension’s CLEAR program is partnering with towns across Connecticut to install more rain gardens as part of municipal stormwater efforts. Step-by-step training and resources are available for anyone interested in creating one. The Rain Garden Design, Installation, and Maintenance Course offers six hours of free online learning across seven modules. While geared toward landscapers, contractors, and municipal staff, homeowners can take the course too.

    Likewise, UConn CLEAR’s Rain Garden app puts helpful tools at your fingertips, including video tutorials, a sizing calculator, soil drainage tips, and plant recommendations. It’s designed for residents but works just as well for businesses and municipalities.

    “Rain gardens are about more than just water,” Dietz says. “They’re pollinator habitats too. And if you pick the right spot, the only real cost is your time, labor, and the plants. It’s not a lot of work to implement.”

    Planting a rain garden is a small step that makes a big impact on Connecticut’s water and communities. Easy to install and low maintenance, rain gardens are an ideal way to replace puddles with pollinators and beauty.

    This work relates to CAHNR’s Strategic Vision area focused on Fostering Sustainable Landscapes at the Urban-Rural Interface.

    Follow UConn CAHNR on social media

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Houston American Energy Corp. Announces $2.37 Million Registered Direct Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, TX, June 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Houston American Energy Corp. (NYSE American: HUSA) (the “Company”) today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement with an institutional investor (the “SPA”) for the purchase and sale of an aggregate of 223,762 shares of common stock (or pre-funded warrants in lieu thereof) at a purchase price of $10.60 per share (or pre-funded warrant in lieu thereof) in a registered direct offering (the “Offering”). 

    The aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of this offering are expected to be approximately $2.37 million, before deducting the placement agent’s fees and other offering expenses payable by the Company. The Company currently intends to use the net proceeds of approximately $2.1 million from the offering for general corporate purposes. The transaction is expected to close on or about June 20, 2025, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

    The registered direct offering is being made pursuant to a shelf registration statement on Form S-3 (File No. 333-282778) previously filed by the Company and declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on November 4, 2024. A final prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus describing the terms of the proposed offering will be filed with the SEC and will be available on the SEC’s website located at http://www.sec.gov. Electronic copies of the final prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus may be obtained, when available, by contacting Univest Securities, LLC at info@univest.us, or by calling +1 (212) 343-8888.

    Placement Agent Agreement

    On June 17, 2025, in conjunction with the SPA, the Company entered into a Placement Agency Agreement (the “Placement Agency Agreement”) with Univest Securities, LLC to act as the sole placement agent (the “Placement Agent”) in connection with the Offering. Pursuant to the Placement Agency Agreement, the Placement Agent is entitled to a fee equal to an aggregate of 8.0% of the proceeds received by the Company in the Offering and reimbursement of the Placement’s reasonable travel and other out-of-pocket expenses, including reasonable fees, costs and disbursement of its legal counsel, in an amount not to exceed an aggregate of $10,000.

    Equity Purchase Agreement Deferral

    The Company and the purchaser named in the SPA (the “Purchaser”) had previously had ongoing discussions about entering into an equity purchase agreement (the “ELOC Agreement”), which they have decided not to execute at this time. However, if the Company reconsiders the ELOC Agreement and enters into it with the Purchaser, it would likely provide that, upon the terms and subject to the conditions and limitations set forth therein, (particularly the closing of the previously announced Share Exchange Agreement dated February 20, 2025, between the Company and the members of Abundia Financial, LLC (“Abundia”)), the Company would have the right, but not the obligation, to sell to the Purchaser up to $30,000,000 of shares (the “Purchaser Shares”) of the Company’s common stock (the “Common Stock”) from time to time over the 24-month term of the ELOC Agreement. When last discussed by the parties, the price paid by the Purchaser for each share of Common Stock at each closing (each, a “Closing”) was expected to be approximately 96% of the lowest daily volume-weighted average price of the Common Stock during the three trading days following a purchase notice. Based upon market conditions at that time, the Company and the Purchaser also discussed that upon closing under the ELOC Agreement, which was expected to occur after the Company’s closing of the previously described transaction with Abundia, the Company would potentially issue a number of shares of restricted Common Stock commensurate with the size of the ELOC Agreement as a commitment fee upon filing a New York Stock Exchange Supplemental Listing Application, and an additional number of shares of Common Stock commensurate with the size of the ELOC Agreement upon the earlier of (i) a prepayment advance against a commitment or (ii) the effectiveness of a registration statement as declared by the Commission. The foregoing terms of the ELOC Agreement, including the number of Purchaser Shares and the number of commitment shares, would be subject to any resumed negotiations between the Company and the Purchaser and are subject to change based upon market conditions.

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor will there be any sales of such securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such jurisdiction. Copies of the prospectus supplement relating to the registered direct offering, together with the accompanying base prospectus will be filed by the Company and, upon filing, can be obtained at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information:

    This news release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” (collectively, “forward-looking information”) within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information is based on management’s current expectations and beliefs and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information in this news release includes, but not limited to, statements about the gross proceeds to the Company from the offering and the anticipated closing of the offering.

    With respect to the forward-looking information contained in this news release, the Company has made numerous assumptions. While the Company considers these assumptions to be reasonable, these assumptions are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, market and social uncertainties and contingencies. Additionally, there are known and unknown risk factors which could cause the Company’s actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information contained herein. A complete discussion of the risks and uncertainties facing our business is disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and other filings with the SEC on www.sec.gov.

    All forward-looking information herein is qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement, and the Company disclaims any obligation to revise or update any such forward-looking information or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to any of the forward-looking information contained herein to reflect future results, events or developments, except as required by law.

    For additional information, view the company’s website at www.houstonamerican.com or contact Houston American Energy Corp. at (713) 222-6966.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Houston American Energy Corp. Announces $2.37 Million Registered Direct Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, TX, June 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Houston American Energy Corp. (NYSE American: HUSA) (the “Company”) today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement with an institutional investor (the “SPA”) for the purchase and sale of an aggregate of 223,762 shares of common stock (or pre-funded warrants in lieu thereof) at a purchase price of $10.60 per share (or pre-funded warrant in lieu thereof) in a registered direct offering (the “Offering”). 

    The aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of this offering are expected to be approximately $2.37 million, before deducting the placement agent’s fees and other offering expenses payable by the Company. The Company currently intends to use the net proceeds of approximately $2.1 million from the offering for general corporate purposes. The transaction is expected to close on or about June 20, 2025, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

    The registered direct offering is being made pursuant to a shelf registration statement on Form S-3 (File No. 333-282778) previously filed by the Company and declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on November 4, 2024. A final prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus describing the terms of the proposed offering will be filed with the SEC and will be available on the SEC’s website located at http://www.sec.gov. Electronic copies of the final prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus may be obtained, when available, by contacting Univest Securities, LLC at info@univest.us, or by calling +1 (212) 343-8888.

    Placement Agent Agreement

    On June 17, 2025, in conjunction with the SPA, the Company entered into a Placement Agency Agreement (the “Placement Agency Agreement”) with Univest Securities, LLC to act as the sole placement agent (the “Placement Agent”) in connection with the Offering. Pursuant to the Placement Agency Agreement, the Placement Agent is entitled to a fee equal to an aggregate of 8.0% of the proceeds received by the Company in the Offering and reimbursement of the Placement’s reasonable travel and other out-of-pocket expenses, including reasonable fees, costs and disbursement of its legal counsel, in an amount not to exceed an aggregate of $10,000.

    Equity Purchase Agreement Deferral

    The Company and the purchaser named in the SPA (the “Purchaser”) had previously had ongoing discussions about entering into an equity purchase agreement (the “ELOC Agreement”), which they have decided not to execute at this time. However, if the Company reconsiders the ELOC Agreement and enters into it with the Purchaser, it would likely provide that, upon the terms and subject to the conditions and limitations set forth therein, (particularly the closing of the previously announced Share Exchange Agreement dated February 20, 2025, between the Company and the members of Abundia Financial, LLC (“Abundia”)), the Company would have the right, but not the obligation, to sell to the Purchaser up to $30,000,000 of shares (the “Purchaser Shares”) of the Company’s common stock (the “Common Stock”) from time to time over the 24-month term of the ELOC Agreement. When last discussed by the parties, the price paid by the Purchaser for each share of Common Stock at each closing (each, a “Closing”) was expected to be approximately 96% of the lowest daily volume-weighted average price of the Common Stock during the three trading days following a purchase notice. Based upon market conditions at that time, the Company and the Purchaser also discussed that upon closing under the ELOC Agreement, which was expected to occur after the Company’s closing of the previously described transaction with Abundia, the Company would potentially issue a number of shares of restricted Common Stock commensurate with the size of the ELOC Agreement as a commitment fee upon filing a New York Stock Exchange Supplemental Listing Application, and an additional number of shares of Common Stock commensurate with the size of the ELOC Agreement upon the earlier of (i) a prepayment advance against a commitment or (ii) the effectiveness of a registration statement as declared by the Commission. The foregoing terms of the ELOC Agreement, including the number of Purchaser Shares and the number of commitment shares, would be subject to any resumed negotiations between the Company and the Purchaser and are subject to change based upon market conditions.

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor will there be any sales of such securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such jurisdiction. Copies of the prospectus supplement relating to the registered direct offering, together with the accompanying base prospectus will be filed by the Company and, upon filing, can be obtained at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information:

    This news release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” (collectively, “forward-looking information”) within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information is based on management’s current expectations and beliefs and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information in this news release includes, but not limited to, statements about the gross proceeds to the Company from the offering and the anticipated closing of the offering.

    With respect to the forward-looking information contained in this news release, the Company has made numerous assumptions. While the Company considers these assumptions to be reasonable, these assumptions are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, market and social uncertainties and contingencies. Additionally, there are known and unknown risk factors which could cause the Company’s actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information contained herein. A complete discussion of the risks and uncertainties facing our business is disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and other filings with the SEC on www.sec.gov.

    All forward-looking information herein is qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement, and the Company disclaims any obligation to revise or update any such forward-looking information or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to any of the forward-looking information contained herein to reflect future results, events or developments, except as required by law.

    For additional information, view the company’s website at www.houstonamerican.com or contact Houston American Energy Corp. at (713) 222-6966.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Hyperscale Data Subsidiary askROI Surpasses 160,000 App Downloads on Apple App Store and Google Play

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LAS VEGAS, June 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hyperscale Data, Inc. (NYSE American: GPUS), a diversified holding company (“Hyperscale Data” or the “Company”), today announced that its wholly owned indirect subsidiary askROI, Inc. (“askROI”), has surpassed 160,000 cumulative app downloads between the Apple App Store and Google Play. This marks a key milestone in askROI’s early growth and adoption.

    askROI recently announced the launch of its app in both the Apple App Store and Google Play, offering users access to advanced artificial intelligence (“AI”) tools for both personal and business applications. Despite minimal marketing efforts to date, askROI’s organic traction continues to grow as askROI seeks to fine-tune its AI platform.

    “askROI has done very little marketing so far as the team continues to test and refine its AI platform across multiple use cases,” stated Milton “Todd” Ault III, Founder and Executive Chairman of Hyperscale Data. “I am very proud of the progress made by the team and look forward to more growth as the askROI team launches new updates and new future products. Over the coming months, the askROI team plans to roll out a new version of its AI platform and significantly bolster its marketing efforts.”

    For more information on Hyperscale Data and its subsidiaries, Hyperscale Data recommends that stockholders, investors and any other interested parties read Hyperscale Data’s public filings and press releases available under the Investor Relations section at hyperscaledata.com or available at www.sec.gov.

    About Hyperscale Data, Inc.

    Through its wholly owned subsidiary Sentinum, Inc., Hyperscale Data owns and operates a data center at which it mines digital assets and offers colocation and hosting services for the emerging AI ecosystems and other industries. Hyperscale Data’s other wholly owned subsidiary, ACG, is a diversified holding company pursuing growth by acquiring undervalued businesses and disruptive technologies with a global impact.

    Hyperscale Data expects to complete the Divestiture of ACG on or about December 31, 2025. Upon the occurrence of the Divestiture, the Company would solely be an owner and operator of data centers to support HPC services, though it may at that time continue to mine Bitcoin. Until the Divestiture occurs, the Company will continue to provide, through ACG and its wholly and majority-owned subsidiaries and strategic investments, mission-critical products that support a diverse range of industries, including an AI software platform, social gaming platform, equipment rental services, defense/aerospace, industrial, automotive, medical/biopharma and hotel operations. In addition, ACG is actively engaged in private credit and structured finance through a licensed lending subsidiary. Hyperscale Data’s headquarters are located at 11411 Southern Highlands Parkway, Suite 190, Las Vegas, NV 89141.

    On December 23, 2024, the Company issued one million (1,000,000) shares of a newly designated Series F Exchangeable Preferred Stock (the “Series F Preferred Stock”) to all common stockholders and holders of the Series C Convertible Preferred Stock on an as-converted basis. The Divestiture will occur through the voluntary exchange of the Series F Preferred Stock for shares of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock of ACG (collectively, the “ACG Shares”). The Company reminds its stockholders that only those holders of the Series F Preferred Stock who agree to surrender such shares, and do not properly withdraw such surrender, in the exchange offer through which the Divestiture will occur, will be entitled to receive the ACG Shares and consequently be stockholders of ACG upon the occurrence of the Divestiture.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements generally include statements that are predictive in nature and depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, and include words such as “believes,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “projects,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “strategy,” “future,” “opportunity,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “potential,” or similar expressions. Statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties.

    Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update any of them publicly in light of new information or future events. Actual results could differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement as a result of various factors. More information, including potential risk factors, that could affect the Company’s business and financial results are included in the Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including, but not limited to, the Company’s Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K. All filings are available at www.sec.gov and on the Company’s website at hyperscaledata.com.

    Hyperscale Data Investor Contact:
    IR@hyperscaledata.com or 1-888-753-2235

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Heramba Electric Announces Board Resolutions and Management Changes Following Extraordinary Shareholder Meeting

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DÜSSELDORF, Germany and ATLANTA, June 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Heramba Electric plc (OTC: PITEF) announced today the results of an extraordinary shareholder and board meeting held on June 3, 2025. More than 90.0%+ of shareholders voted on the following resolutions:

    1. To appoint Srinath Narayanan, Tim Dummer, Prakash Ramachandran, Andrea La Mendola, David Roberts, Cindy Huang, Michael Burton, and David Port as directors
    2. After careful consideration of the performance of Michele Molinari as CEO, RESOLVED to terminate Michele Molinari’s employment contract with immediate effect and place him on administrative suspension across all the subsidiaries and associated boards, in accordance with all applicable law for cause in respect of the following:

      i. Breach of fiduciary duty to credit and shareholders of the Company;

      ii. Failure to follow proper corporate governance in enacting actions without following proper communications to shareholders;

      iii. Failure to mitigate conflict of interest despite repeated requests from board members; and

      iv. Significant destruction of value to shareholders and credit holders from actions pursued without taking recourse to an independent counsel or independent restructuring officer.

    3. Appointment of Srinath Narayanan as acting CEO, David Port as Chief Restructuring Officer, Prakash Ramachandran as CFO, and Dave Roberts as Chief Legal Officer of the Company
    4. Appointment of ByrneWallace LLP, Toiefenbacher, and PotterAnderson as the counsel in Ireland, Germany, and Delaware, respectively.
    5. Srinath Narayanan, David Port, and Dave Roberts are the only representatives authorized to communicate and negotiate with insolvency administrators in Germany, that maximizes value for shareholders and creditors of the Company.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements 

    Certain statements included in this communication that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements for purposes of the safe harbor provisions under the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements generally are accompanied by words such as “believe,” “may,” “will,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “expect,” “should,” “would,” “plan,” “predict,” “potential,” “seem,” “seek,” “future,” “outlook,” and similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or events that are not statements of historical matters. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the plans and objectives of management for future operations, business strategy, anticipated growth and market opportunity. These statements are based on various assumptions, whether or not identified in this communication, and on the current expectations of Heramba Electric management and are not predictions of actual performance. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as, and must not be relied on by any investor as, a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. Actual events and circumstances are difficult or impossible to predict and will differ from assumptions. Many actual events and circumstances are beyond the control of Heramba Electric. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including (i) changes in domestic and foreign business, market, financial, political and legal conditions; (ii) the ability to continue to meet stock exchange listing standards following the consummation of the Business Combination; (iii) failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the Business Combination, which may be affected by, among other things, competition, the ability of the combined Company to grow and manage growth profitably, maintain relationships with customers and suppliers and retain its management and key employees; (iv) changes in applicable law or regulations; (v) the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against Heramba Electric, PERAC or Heramba; (vi) the effects of competition on Heramba Electric’s future business; (vii) the ability of Heramba Electric to finance future operations; (viii) the enforceability of Heramba Electric’s intellectual property rights, including its copyrights, patents, trademarks and trade secrets, and the potential infringement on the intellectual property rights of others; and (ix) those factors discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” in the definitive proxy statement/prospectus filed on March 19, 2024 by Heramba Electric and other documents filed, or to be filed, by Heramba Electric with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. If any of these risks materialize or the assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from the results implied by these forward-looking statements. There may be additional risks that Heramba Electric does not presently know or that Heramba Electric currently believes are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements.

    In addition, forward-looking statements reflect Heramba Electric’s plans or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this communication. Heramba Electric anticipates that subsequent events and developments may cause Heramba Electric’s assessments to change. However, while Heramba Electric may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future, Heramba Electric specifically disclaims any obligation to do so. Nothing in this communication should be regarded as a representation by any person that the forward-looking statements set forth herein will be achieved or that any of the contemplated results of such forward-looking statements will be achieved. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed upon the forward-looking statements.

    For further information and inquiries, please contact:

    Atlanta Capital Partners, LLC
    David L. Kugelman
    (866) 692-6847 Toll Free – U.S. & Canada
    (404) 281-8556 Mobile and WhatsApp
    dk@atlcp.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: EZCORP Acquires 40 Traditional Pawn and Auto Pawn Stores in Mexico

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AUSTIN, Texas, June 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EZCORP, Inc. (NASDAQ:EZPW), a leading provider of pawn loans in the United States and Latin America, announced today that it has acquired 40 pawn stores across 13 states in Mexico. The stores, operating under the names “Monte Providencia” and “Tu Empeño Efectivo” offer traditional pawn loans, as well as auto pawn transactions, some of which are in stand-alone auto pawn stores. With this acquisition, the Company also takes over the management of 7 additional Monte Providencia stores, which it plans to acquire in the coming months.

    Lachie Given, Chief Executive Officer, stated: “The Monte Providencia acquisition realizes our strategic objective of geographic expansion, increasing our footprint by 40 stores in Mexico. Mexico continues to be one of our most attractive markets with strong financial performance and robust growth potential. We are excited that these stores also bring diversification of our pawn portfolio with the expansion into auto pawn, a growing segment of the pawn industry in Mexico, that enables higher dollar auto loan transactions and engages a new customer base.”

    EZCORP now operates a total of 1,332 pawn stores, 787 of which are in Latin America, including 602 in Mexico.

    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.

    FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

    This announcement contains certain forward-looking statements regarding the Company’s strategy, initiatives, and expected performance. These statements are based on the Company’s current expectations as to the outcome and timing of future events. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, including all statements regarding the Company’s strategy, initiatives and future performance, that address activities or results that the Company plans, expects, believes, projects, estimates or anticipates, will, should or may occur in the future, including future financial or operating results, are forward-looking statements. Actual results for future periods may differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements due to a number of uncertainties and other factors, including operating risks, liquidity risks, legislative or regulatory developments, market factors, current or future litigation and risks associated with pandemics. For a discussion of these and other factors affecting the Company’s business and prospects, see the Company’s annual, quarterly and other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events or changes to future operating results over time.

    Follow us 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: Helport AI Appoints Former Google and ServiceNow Executive Vanessa Chan as Chief Commercial Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Experienced Executive to Lead Commercial Expansion, Strategic Partnerships, and Revenue Acceleration Initiatives in North America

    SINGAPORE and SAN DIEGO, June 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Helport AI Limited (NASDAQ: HPAI) (“Helport AI” or the “Company”), an AI technology company serving enterprise clients with intelligent customer communication software and services, today announced the appointment of Hiu-Yu “Vanessa” Chan as Chief Commercial Officer (“CCO”), effective June 16, 2025.

    Ms. Chan joins Helport AI at a pivotal moment of global growth. She brings over 23 years of enterprise leadership experience across AI, SaaS, and strategic expansion, having held senior roles at Google Cloud, SAP, ServiceNow, and McKinsey. As CCO, she will lead commercial expansion, strategic partnerships, and revenue acceleration initiatives across the United States and North America. Ms. Chan is also expected to play a key role in shaping go-to-market strategy and customer success at scale. Ms. Chan holds an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from the University of Pennsylvania. She will be based out of Helport AI’s San Diego headquarters. Most recently, Ms. Chan served as Head of Corporate Strategy for North Asia at ServiceNow, where she oversaw strategic growth across its Public Sector and Financial Services space and spearheaded an investment initiative for Singapore’s regulated cloud market. Previously, at Google Cloud, she led go-to-market operations for Greater China and Korea. Ms. Chan also held executive roles at SAP, managing strategic accounts and alliances while delivering revenue growth through strategic partnerships in the China market.

    “We’re thrilled to welcome Vanessa to Helport AI,” said Guanghai Li, CEO of Helport AI. “Her track record speaks for itself—Vanessa combines strategic clarity with operational excellence and a deep understanding of global enterprise markets. I am personally excited to partner with her as we embark on our next stage of commercial growth.”

    Ms. Chan added, “I am excited to join Helport AI at a time of global expansion and product momentum. I expect that the Company’s AI-driven software platform will transform how enterprises engage with their customers by addressing complex communication challenges, and I look forward to delivering value to those using our technology to transform their customer engagement model.”

    With Ms. Chan’s appointment, Helport AI has strengthened its executive bench to support its continued international expansion, enterprise customer growth, and strategic capital partnerships.

    About Helport AI

    Helport AI (NASDAQ: HPAI) is a global technology company serving enterprise clients with intelligent customer communication software and services. Its flagship product, AI Assist, acts as a real-time co-pilot for customer contact teams, delivering smart guidance and tools designed to drive sales, improve customer engagement, and lower costs. The Company’s mission is to empower everyone to work as an expert—using AI to elevate, not replace, human capability. Learn more at https://www.helport.ai/.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking, including, but not limited to, Helport AI’s business strategies, expansion plans, and anticipated results. These statements involve risks and uncertainties based on current expectations and projections. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “approximates,” “believes,” “hopes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “projects,” “intends,” “plans,” “will,” “would,” “should,” “could,” “may” or other similar expressions, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Helport AI undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although Helport AI believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and Helport AI cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in Helport AI’s registration statement and other filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

    Media Contact
    Helport AI Investor Relations
    Email: ir@helport.ai
    Website: https://ir.helport.ai/

    External Investor Relations Contact
    Chris Tyson
    Executive Vice President, MZ North America
    Direct: +1 949-491-8235
    Email: HPAI@mzgroup.us
    Website: www.mzgroup.us

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Supporting Immigrant New Yorkers

    Source: US State of New York

    esterday, Governor Kathy Hochul visited Brooklyn’s Little Haiti neighborhood to visit community leaders and discuss the impact of President Trump’s policies on the Haitian-American community.

    PHOTOS of the meeting are available on the Governor’s Flickr page.

    “With the Statue of Liberty in our harbor, New York has always welcomed immigrants who come to this country seeking a better life. That’s especially true for our Haitian American community who have become a large, vibrant part of New York’s culture and civic life. Haitian American leaders have opened small businesses, provided essential healthcare as front line workers, produced extraordinary arts and culture, and served at the highest levels of elected office. These are our fellow Americans — and our fellow New Yorkers,” said Governor Hochul. We know the Haitian American community has been under attack by cynical political leaders. Haiti has been characterized in ways that are too vile to put in writing, and politicians have spread false rumors about Haitian Americans in Ohio. Now, the federal government is banning travel between Haiti and the United States, cutting hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers off from their loved ones and family. As leaders of the Empire State, we stand united against this outrageous travel ban. The ban is cruel and does nothing to make us safer. Instead of doubling down on hate, New York will continue our efforts to lift up the Haitian American community with support and resources to ensure their safety and well-being. We stand united in the face of this bigotry, and we will not back down.”

    Assemblymember Michaelle C. Solages, Chair of the NYS Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic & Asian Legislative Caucus said, “This policy is not rooted in national security. It is rooted in racism, xenophobia, and a cruel desire to slam the door on families fleeing hardship. As the first person of Haitian descent elected to the New York State Legislature, this is deeply personal. I understand what our community has faced and continues to endure. Haitian New Yorkers are caregivers, small business owners, students, faith leaders, and essential workers who contribute to our economy and enrich New York every day. Banning Haitians and others from entering the United States under the guise of safety is not only wrong, it is a stain on our nation’s moral fabric. We cannot allow fear and bigotry to dictate immigration policy. We must reject this shameful act and continue fighting for an immigration system that reflects compassion and human dignity.”

    Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn said, “New York has always been a welcoming beacon for immigrant communities to build a better life. The President’s inhumane and xenophobic policy banning citizens from 12 countries – including Haiti – from entry and travel to the U.S. is not only unjust — it causes real harm by cutting families off from their loved ones in a time of dire crisis. Further, the sudden, blatantly racist ban targets millions who have legally called our nation and state home, and will wreak havoc on our economy while causing dangerous discord for our nation that is built on the backs of immigrants. As the first Haitian-American State Legislator elected to represent NYC, I resolutely stand with Governor Hochul in opposition. In the face of xenophobic rhetoric and harmful policies that unfairly target Haitians, and the Black and brown immigrants from 11 nations, New York must, and will, lead with compassion, strength, and resolve.”

    Assemblymember Clyde Vanel said, “Policies like these serve only to further isolate Haiti and its people during a time when international support is most needed. Thousands of constituents in my district, including myself, have close relatives in Haiti. This ban will do nothing except to make unifying families and visiting loved ones next to impossible. It will also further worsen the humanitarian crisis already occurring in Haiti.”

    Councilmember Farah N. Louis said, “The decision to impose travel restrictions on 12 countries represents a despicable and deeply troubling moment for our community. Haiti is once again being unfairly targeted in an intentional attack on our identity, dignity, and humanity. I commend Governor Hochul for standing with Haitian New Yorkers and reaffirming that our state will not be complicit in cruelty. New York’s leaders are showing the country what it means to protect all people, regardless of nationality or status. I will continue to join efforts to safeguard our community, uplift Haitian voices, and fight back against federal policies rooted in discrimination and fear.”

    Councilmember Mercedes Narcisse said, “As a proud Haitian-American, I stand with my community and Governor Hochul in opposing the federal travel ban that will only deepen the suffering of those already facing unimaginable challenges. Haiti is in the midst of a devastating crisis, and for many, the United States represents their last hope for safety, medical care, and a better life. By cutting off access to this lifeline, the federal government is turning its back on the Haitian people, and also disregarding the very values that define this nation, compassion, humanity, and support for those in need.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Convicted Felon Who Attempted To Sell Assault Rifle Sentenced To 92 Months In Federal Prison For Unlawful Firearm Possession

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    SAN FRANCISCO – Timothy Demetrius Jeffrey, aka “Boo,” 44, of Antioch, Calif., was sentenced today to 92 months in federal prison, following his conviction on March 12, 2025, by a federal jury on two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Senior U.S. District Judge William H. Alsup handed down the sentence. Judge Alsup also sentenced Jeffrey to concurrent 24-month terms for violating the terms of his supervised release in two other federal cases.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, on April 25, 2023, Jeffrey drove into a shopping plaza parking lot in Pittsburg, Calif., parked, and fled on foot from a pursuing police officer. Jeffrey threw a Glock 9mm semi-automatic pistol with an extended magazine and 19 rounds of ammunition over a fence behind the shopping plaza before he was arrested.

    Jeffrey posted bond after his arrest but absconded soon thereafter. Following an investigation by the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office and the United States Marshals Service, law enforcement officers located Jeffrey at a relative’s home in Antioch on March 27, 2024. After U.S. Marshals arrested Jeffrey, the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at the residence, where deputies located and seized an Aero Precision AR-style rifle with a magazine and 25 rounds of ammunition from under a couch in the living room. They also seized a cell phone that had been used by Jeffrey. The phone contained multiple text messages in which Jeffrey attempted to sell the AR rifle and sent a photo of it.

    At the time of his April 2023 and March 2024 arrests, Jeffrey was on federal supervised release following past felony convictions for being a felon-in-possession of a firearm, escape from custody, and conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.

    Judge Alsup also found that enhancements were appropriate under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines (i) due to Jeffrey’s obstruction of justice resulting from perjury during his trial testimony; and (ii) because one of the guns Jeffrey possessed had previously been stolen.

    United States Attorney Craig H. Missakian and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF) Acting Special Agent in Charge Alex Buenaventura made the announcement.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Aseem Padukone prosecuted this case with the assistance of Claudia Hyslop, Nina Burney, and Yenni Weinberg. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the ATF, the United States Marshals Service, the Pittsburg Police Department, and the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Chesapeake cocaine trafficker sentenced to 18 years in prison

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    NORFOLK, Va. – A Chesapeake man was sentenced today to 18 years in prison for possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possessing a firearm during and in relation to a drug-trafficking crime.

    According to court documents, on Feb. 10, 2024, Chesapeake Police officers were attempting to serve arrest warrants for assault and battery of a family or household member and destruction of property on Abdul-Wakeel Khabeer Qaabid, aka Kenneth Andrew Jordan, 39. Qaabid fled during a traffic stop, but crashed his vehicle and fled on foot. From Qaabid’s vehicle, investigators recovered two loaded handguns, five ounces of cocaine base, 43 grams of marijuana, $25,020, and three cellular devices. During a search of Qaabid’s residence, investigators recovered over six kilograms of cocaine, packaging materials, .45 caliber ammunition, and $26,900 in drug proceeds.

    Qaabid was arrested on March 13, 2024, at a residence in Chesapeake. During a search of that residence, CPD recovered an additional $11,850 in drug proceeds.

    Qaabid previously had been convicted for attempted capital murder, use of a firearm during the commission of a felony, and felony assault and battery. As a previously convicted felon, Qaabid cannot legally possess firearms or ammunition.

    Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Anthony A. Spotswood, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division; and Mark G. Solesky, Chief of Chesapeake Police, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Arenda Wright Allen.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristin G. Bird prosecuted the case.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-68.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI China: G7 summit ends in disputes

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

    The Group of Seven (G7) summit wrapped up in Canada on Tuesday with no joint communique but some stark frictions.

    Several statements, or the leaders’ commitments, were issued after the summit, which included driving secure, responsible and trustworthy AI adoption across public and private sectors, powering AI now and into the future, and closing digital divides; boosting cooperation to unlock the full potential of quantum technology to grow economies, solve global challenges and keep communities secure.

    The attendees also committed to mounting a multilateral effort to better prevent, fight and recover from wildfires, which are on the rise around the world; protecting the rights of everyone in society, and the fundamental principle of state sovereignty, by continuing to combat foreign interference, with a focus on transnational repression; and countering migrant smuggling by dismantling transnational organized crime groups.

    In his final remarks at the closing news conference, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said that the discussions over the past two days were marked by a range of differing opinions, frank conversations and strategic exchanges.

    “There is a great amount of direct dialogue and discussion, very frank exchanges, very strategic exchanges, differences of opinion on a number of issues, but an effort to find common solutions to some of these problems,” said Carney, also chair of this year’s summit.

    He said this is particularly valuable “at a time when multilateralism is under great strain.”

    There was no joint statement on Ukraine, although Carney announced new Canadian support for Ukraine’s defense and another set of sanctions on Russia. Carney invited Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to attend the event in person and made support for the country one of the summit’s key discussion topics on Tuesday.

    Leaders met for the final day of the summit in Kananaskis in Canada’s province of Alberta without U.S. President Donald Trump, who suddenly left Canada on Monday night, saying that escalations in the Middle East forced his early exit from the G7 event.

    As he left, the summit published a statement that the resolution of the Iranian crisis can lead to a broader de-escalation of hostilities in the Middle East, even a ceasefire in Gaza.

    The remaining G7 leaders had a working lunch with visiting non-G7 leaders on energy security. In the statement, the leaders said that they remain vigilant to the implications of the Iran-Israel aerial conflict for international energy markets and that they will stand ready to coordinate to safeguard market stability.

    Hundreds of protesters took to the streets in downtown Calgary and Banff during the summit, calling on the summit to address a variety of issues, including Trump’s threat to annex Canada.

    Originally scheduled to begin on the weekend, the summit was shortened to two days and officially started on Monday.

    French President Emmanuel Macron announced Tuesday that next year’s summit will take place in Evian, a French spa town known for its mineral water.

    The G7 is an informal bloc comprising seven of the world’s advanced economies — Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Britain and the United States — along with the European Union.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: CSAF, CMSAF visit MacDill AFB

    Source: United States Air Force

    U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force David Flosi hosted an all-call for Airmen at MacDill Air Force Base, highlighting the base’s vital contributions to force readiness, talent development and global power projection.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: 3D Systems Announces Issuance of $92 Million of Convertible Senior Secured Notes due 2030 and Retirement of $180 Million of Existing Convertible Senior Notes due 2026

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ROCK HILL, S.C., June 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, 3D Systems (NYSE: DDD) announced that it has entered into separate, privately negotiated subscription agreements with a limited number of qualified institutional buyers, pursuant to which 3D Systems will issue $92 million aggregate principal amount of its 5.875% convertible senior secured notes due 2030 (the “notes”). The issuance and sale of the notes are expected to close on June 23, 2025, subject to customary closing conditions.

    The notes will be senior secured obligations of 3D Systems, will be guaranteed by certain subsidiaries of 3D Systems and will bear interest at a rate of 5.875% per annum, payable semiannually in arrears on June 15 and December 15 of each year, beginning on December 15, 2025. The notes will mature on June 15, 2030, unless earlier redeemed, repurchased or converted in accordance with the terms of the notes. The notes will be convertible at the option of holders at any time until the close of business on the second scheduled trading day immediately preceding the maturity date. The notes will be convertible into cash, shares of 3D Systems’ common stock (“common stock”) or a combination of cash and shares of common stock, at the election of 3D Systems.

    The notes will have an initial conversion rate of 445.6328 shares of common stock per $1,000 principal amount of notes (which is subject to adjustment in certain circumstances). This is equivalent to an initial conversion price of approximately $2.24 per share, which represents a premium of approximately 20% over the last reported sale price of 3D Systems’ common stock on The New York Stock Exchange of $1.87 per share on June 17, 2025.

    The holders of the notes will have a one-time right, on June 20, 2028 (the “put date”), to require 3D Systems to repurchase for cash all or a portion of their notes on the put date at 100% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest. Additionally, holders of the notes will have the right to require 3D Systems to repurchase for cash all or a portion of their notes at 100% of their principal amount, plus any accrued and unpaid interest, upon the occurrence of a fundamental change (as defined in the indenture relating to the notes). 3D Systems will also be required to increase the conversion rate for holders who convert their notes in connection with certain fundamental changes or convert their notes that are called for redemption, as the case may be, prior to the maturity date. The notes will be redeemable, in whole or in part, for cash at 3D Systems’ option at any time, and from time to time, on or after June 20, 2028 and before the 41st scheduled trading day immediately preceding the maturity date, but only if the last reported sale price per share of the common stock has been at least 130% of the conversion price then in effect for a specified period of time.

    3D Systems intends to use (i) the proceeds from the sale of the notes, together with approximately $78 million of cash on hand, to purchase a portion of its outstanding 0% convertible senior notes due 2026 (the “2026 notes”) and (ii) approximately $15 million of cash on hand to purchase shares of its outstanding common stock, each as described below.

    3D Systems also entered into separate, privately negotiated transactions with certain holders of the 2026 notes to repurchase approximately $180 million in aggregate principal amount of the 2026 notes. The terms of each note repurchase were individually negotiated with each such holder of the 2026 notes. 3D Systems may also repurchase outstanding 2026 notes following the closing for the notes. No assurance can be given as to how much, if any, of the 2026 notes will be repurchased following the closing of the notes or the terms on which they will be repurchased.  

    In addition, 3D Systems entered into transactions to repurchase approximately 8 million shares of its outstanding common stock from purchasers of the notes in separate, privately negotiated transactions, at a price per share equal to $1.87, which was the closing price per share of the common stock on The New York Stock Exchange on June 17, 2025.

    This announcement is neither an offer to sell nor a solicitation of an offer to buy any of these securities (including the shares of common stock, if any, into which the notes are convertible), nor shall there be any offer, solicitation or sale in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under applicable securities laws.

    The offer and sale of the notes and any shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of the notes have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or qualified under any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from such registration or qualification requirements.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements made in this release that are not statements of historical or current facts are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the company to be materially different from historical results or from any future results or projections expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including the ability of the company to consummate the sale of the notes on the expected terms, or at all. In many cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by terms such as “believes,” “belief,” “expects,” “may,” “will,” “estimates,” “intends,” “anticipates” or “plans” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Forward-looking statements are based upon management’s beliefs, assumptions, and current expectations and may include comments as to the company’s beliefs and expectations as to future events and trends affecting its business and are necessarily subject to uncertainties, many of which are outside the control of the company. The factors described under the headings “Forward-Looking Statements” and “Risk Factors” in the company’s periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, as well as other factors, could cause actual results to differ materially from those reflected or predicted in forward-looking statements. Although management believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, forward-looking statements are not, and should not be relied upon as a guarantee of future performance or results, nor will they necessarily prove to be accurate indications of the times at which such performance or results will be achieved. The forward-looking statements included are made only as of the date of the statement. 3D Systems undertakes no obligation to update or review any forward-looking statements made by management or on its behalf, whether as a result of future developments, subsequent events or circumstances or otherwise, except as required by law.

    About 3D Systems

    For nearly 40 years, Chuck Hull’s curiosity and desire to improve the way products were designed and manufactured gave birth to 3D printing, 3D Systems, and the additive manufacturing industry. Since then, that same spark continues to ignite the 3D Systems team as we work side-by-side with our customers to change the way industries innovate. As a full-service solutions partner, we deliver industry-leading 3D printing technologies, materials and software to high-value markets such as medical and dental; aerospace, space and defense; transportation and motorsports; AI infrastructure; and durable goods. Each application-specific solution is powered by the expertise and passion of our employees who endeavor to achieve our shared goal of Transforming Manufacturing for a Better Future.

    Investor Contact: investor.relations@3dsystems.com
    Media Contact: press@3dsystems.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Adant and QuantalRF Partner to Advance Antenna Performance in Wi-Fi Access Points

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PLEASANTON, Calif. and ZURICH, June 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Adant Technologies Inc., a global leader in smart antenna solutions for wireless connectivity, today announced a strategic partnership with QuantalRF, the pioneering developer of RF semiconductor and antenna solutions. Under the commercial agreement, Adant is integrating QuantalRF’s patented DockOn® compound planar loop (CPL) antenna technology into its Wi-Fi AP antenna solutions for enterprise, carrier-home and retail-home markets. The partnership is already in progress through design collaborations with leading Tier 1 carriers, with plans to expand into additional opportunities.

    Adant’s smart antenna platform applies advanced spatial optimization and beamforming algorithms to maximize signal strength, range and link reliability in Wi-Fi AP deployments. The integration of QuantalRF’s CPL antenna technology — engineered for superior efficiency greater than 80%, isolation greater than 30dB, gain, and omnidirectionality pattern — further enhances RF performance by minimizing multipath interference and improving coverage uniformity. Together, the combined solution offers OEMs a highly integrated, production-ready antenna subsystem that accelerates time to market while exceeding the performance demands of next-generation Wi-Fi systems.

    “Adant is deeply embedded across the Wi-Fi AP ecosystem—from Carriers to leading OEMs and ODMs,” said Dr. Ali Fard, CEO and CTO of QuantalRF. “As their antenna technology partner, we are collaborating to deliver compact, high-efficiency antenna solutions optimized for 2×2 and 4×4 MIMO configurations across Wi-Fi 6, 6E and 7. Together, we are bringing a highly differentiated solution into a market estimated to use more than 1 billion antennas annually.”

    “This partnership reflects our shared vision for the future of connectivity,” said Daniele Piazza, CEO of Adant Technologies. “By integrating QuantalRF’s antenna technology, we are strengthening our antenna solutions with the performance, integration and flexibility our customers require. This positions us to scale efficiently across enterprise, carrier and retail markets, where our two companies are already strategically aligned and engaged in initial design activity.”

    Key Collaboration Benefits:

    • Enhanced system performance – Boosts signal reliability, range and throughput in Wi-Fi 7 deployments
    • Streamlined development – Integration-ready antenna solution reduces design complexity and shortens time to market
    • Greater design flexibility – Supports compact, high-efficiency implementations across enterprise, carrier and consumer-grade Wi-Fi APs

    For more information about Adant, visit adant.com or contact info@adant.com.

    For more information about QuantalRF, visit quantalRF.com or contact sales@quantalRF.com.
      
    About Adant Technologies Inc.
    Adant Technologies Inc. is a global player in providing advanced solutions that revolutionize the connectivity and functionalities of communication devices. Adant designs and sells adaptive wireless systems using its unique Beamshaping™ smart antenna technology to provide the best possible connectivity and accurate positioning to WiFi, 5G, and BLE devices. Adant has embedded its technology worldwide in hundreds of thousands of wireless devices and has established key partnerships with the world’s leading original equipment manufacturers and chipset makers.

    About QuantalRF AG
    QuantalRF is transforming the RF signal chain for wireless communications to deliver an unmatched user experience. Its ultra-compact, highly configurable front-end ICs and extremely efficient antennas substantially improve area, cost, power, and overall performance. Headquartered in Zürich, Switzerland, with R&D centers in the USA and Sweden, QuantalRF has an extensive portfolio of over 200 patents. For more information, visit www.quantalRF.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    www.quantalRF.com/forward-looking-statement

    Media Contacts:

    Adant Technologies Inc
    info@adant.com
    +1 925-267-8175

    QuantalRF
    Dave Aichele
    EVP Sales & Business Development
    dave.aichele@quantalrf.com
    +1 858-401-6444

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: The One Big Beautiful Bill Is Good for All 50 States

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Whitehouse
    President Donald J. Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill will be an economic windfall for working and middle-class Americans, delivering the largest tax cut in history, higher wages, higher take-home pay, and much more — coupled with generational spending cuts and deficit reduction that will position the U.S. for real prosperity. Its massive benefits will be felt by Americans in all 50 states, according to a new state-by-state analysis from the Council of Economic Advisers:
    State
    Long-run wage increase(Inflation-adjusted)
    Take-home pay increase(Typical family with two kids)
    Alabama
    $4,800 to $9,100
    $6,500 to $10,800
    Alaska
    $6,400 to $12,200
    $8,100 to $13,900
    Arizona
    $5,800 to $11,100
    $7,500 to $12,800
    Arkansas
    $4,500 to $8,600
    $6,200 to $10,300
    California
    $7,500 to $14,300
    $9,200 to $16,000
    Colorado
    $7,000 to $13,300
    $8,700 to $15,000
    Connecticut
    $7,300 to $14,000
    $7,300 to $14,000
    Delaware
    $6,100 to $11,700
    $7,800 to $13,400
    Florida
    $5,800 to $11,000
    $7500 to $12,700
    Georgia
    $5,800 to $11,000
    $7,500 to $12,700
    Hawaii
    $7,000 to $13,300
    $8,700 to $15,000
    Idaho
    $5,500 to $10,500
    $7,200 to $12,200
    Illinois
    $6,200 to $11,800
    $7,900 to $13,500
    Indiana
    $5,100 to $9,800
    $6,800 to $11,500
    Iowa
    $5,200 to $10,000
    $6,900 to $11,700
    Kansas
    $5,200 to $10,000
    $6,900 to $11,700
    Kentucky
    $4,700 to $8,900
    $6,400 to $10,600
    Louisiana
    $4,700 to $8,900
    $6,400 to $10,600
    Maine
    $5,400 to $10,300
    $7,100 to $12,000
    Maryland
    $7,200 to $13,800
    $8,900 to $15,500
    Massachusetts
    $7,700 to $14,800
    $9,400 to $16,500
    Michigan
    $5,200 to $10,000
    $6,900 to $11,700
    Minnesota
    $6,300 to $12,100
    $8,000 to $13,800
    Mississippi
    $4,300 to $8,100
    $6,000 to $9,800
    Missouri
    $5,200 to $9,900
    $6,900 to $11,600
    Montana
    $5,300 to $10,000
    $7,000 to $11,700
    Nebraska
    $5,700 to $10,800
    $7,400 to $12,500
    Nevada
    $5,800 to $11,000
    $7,500 to $12,700
    New Hampshire
    $7,000 to $13,300
    $8,700 to $15,000
    New Jersey
    $7,700 to $14,700
    $9,400 to $16,400
    New Mexico
    $4,800 to $9,100
    $6,500 to $10,800
    New York
    $6,800 to $13,000
    $8,500 to $14,700
    North Carolina
    $5,500 to $10,500
    $7,200 to $12,200
    North Dakota
    $5,500 to $10,500
    $7,200 to $12,200
    Ohio
    $5,200 to $10,000
    $6,900 to $11,700
    Oklahoma
    $4,800 to $9,100
    $6,500 to $10,800
    Oregon
    $6,000 to $11,400
    $7,700 to $13,100
    Pennsylvania
    $5,700 to $10,900
    $7,400 to $12,600
    Rhode Island
    $6,300 to $12,000
    $8,000 to $13,700
    South Carolina
    $5,200 to $9,900
    $6,900 to $11,600
    South Dakota
    $5,400 to $10,300
    $7,100 to $12,000
    Tennessee
    $5,300 to $10,000
    $7,000 to $11,700
    Texas
    $6,000 to $11,300
    $7,700 to $13,000
    Utah
    $6,600 to $12,500
    $8,300 to $14,200
    Vermont
    $5,900 to $11,300
    $7,600 to $13,000
    Virginia
    $6,900 to $13,100
    $8,600 to $14,800
    Washington
    $7,200 to $13,800
    $8,900 to $15,500
    West Virginia
    $4,300 to $8,200
    $6,000 to $9,900
    Wisconsin
    $5,500 to $10,400
    $7,200 to $12,000
    Wyoming
    $5,200 to $9,900
    $6,900 to $11,600
    Methodological notes:
    The Council of Economic Advisers (CEA) calculates how investment, GDP, and wages increase in response to lower effective tax rates (lower statutory rates, bigger deduction for pass-through businesses, and full expensing that businesses will enjoy on new equipment, R&D, and factories) using standard academic methods that were successful in accurately forecasting the effects of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA).
    Take-home pay — defined as after-tax earnings — increases because wages rise and less money is taken out of workers’ paychecks.
    The CEA also looks at the further boost to GDP from the stronger incentive to work (lower taxes boost labor supply) and the greater spending power that Americans will have.
    More about the methodology can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: SA views G7 as strategic partner in several areas 

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    South Africa views the Group of Seven (G7) as a strategic partner in its efforts to drive climate resilience, promote a just energy transition, and secure value-added investment in its rich mineral resources.

    This is according to President Cyril Ramaphosa who was speaking following the conclusion of his working visit to Canada where he participated in the G7 Summit Outreach Session. The session took place on the margins of the G7 Leaders’ Summit, held in Kananaskis, Alberta.

    “South Africa views the G7 as a strategic partner. We seek greater cooperation in areas such as investment, financing for development, international crime, climate change and just transitions, as well as inclusive global growth and development,” the President said on Tuesday.

    READ | President in Canada for G7 Leaders’ Summit

    The G7 consists of the largest advanced economies namely: Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States. 

    The European Union also participates in G7 Summits, although it is not a member.  

    The Outreach Session aimed “to explore leadership and collaboration in driving a comprehensive approach to energy security with a focus on technology and innovation; diversification and strengthening critical mineral supply chains; and infrastructure and investment”.

    The outreach theme resonated with South Africa’s national interests and priorities of South Africa’s G20 Presidency.  

    The Outreach Sessions of the G7 have been a feature of the Group over the years with the aim being to strengthen unity among G7 members and like-minded countries to deliberate on and address some of the world’s most pressing issues. 

    President Ramaphosa described the summit as “most meaningful” particularly in the context of South Africa’s role as the G20 President.

    “We’ve just concluded our visit to Canada to attend the G7 Summit. It has been most meaningful for us, particularly as we are the President of the G20. We’ve had the opportunity to interact with a number of heads of state and government of various countries,” he said.

    Climate change 

    President Ramaphosa placed climate change and its devastating effects at the centre of South Africa’s message to the G7 leaders, highlighting the destruction brought by floods in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape, as well as the ongoing droughts in parts of the Western Cape. 

    “We put that firmly on the global agenda, that there should be sufficient funding for incidents such as those, as they happen on a repeated basis, particularly in our sub region – in [the] SADC [Southern African Development Community], but more importantly, in two of our provinces, KwaZulu Natal and the Eastern Cape [which] over the past few years have suffered repeated incidents of destruction from floods and also droughts in parts of the Western Cape,” the President explained.

    Beneficiation 

    On the economic front, President Ramaphosa also pushed for a shift in the global approach to Africa’s critical minerals, emphasising the need for beneficiation and inclusive value chains.

    “We discussed the importance of how our critical minerals should be treated, particularly in view of the fact that they play such an important role in energy security and that the extraction of minerals from African countries and our own country, particularly, should be made more to be not only extractive, but also to have value add, where beneficiation becomes the order of the day,” he said. 

    He said investors must be made aware upfront that South Africa seeks to move beyond raw exports to value-added production, in line with its long-held vision of selling finished goods rather than raw materials.

    “Those who want to invest in our minerals, should know up front that we are not only looking forward to them extracting minerals, but also to value chain additions or advancements in the form of beneficiation, so that in the end, we live up to what we’ve been saying, that we want to sell value added products to the rest of the world,” the President stressed.

    Bilateral meetings

    The first citizen also held bilateral meetings with several leaders on the sidelines of the summit, which he described as “most beneficial” for South Africa’s diplomatic and economic engagements.

    He held bilateral meetings with Heads of State and Government from Canada, France, Germany and the Republic of Korea. The meetings centered on fostering greater cooperation on issues of mutual interest. 

    President Ramaphosa welcomed the strengthening of cooperation between South Africa and Canada as it relates to the G20 and the G7. 

    “Canada’s Africa strategy is comprehensive and there is potential for cooperation in areas where there is alignment with the African Agenda.”

    Several engagements have taken place between South Africa and Canada at various levels, including at Sherpa and Ministerial levels. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Moscow Oncology Forum 2025 Opens in the Capital

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The Moscow Oncology Forum 2025 has begun its work in the capital. It was opened by Anastasia Rakova, Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Social Development. In her welcoming speech, she spoke about the city’s transition to an electronic format for pathomorphological diagnostics, the completion of the formation of an infrastructural framework for oncological care, and the introduction of robotic systems into the capital’s healthcare system.

    “In five years, we have essentially created a high-tech oncology service from scratch: we have modernized the equipment, worked out standards for drug provision, formed client paths and carried out complete digitalization. Now all oncology hospitals have the most modern robotic systems – and not one in each. And all this is provided with the necessary financial resources. Four thousand operations have already been performed, and our annual capacity is more than five thousand operations per year. All our laboratories work exclusively digitally. But the most important thing is, of course, a new level of quality of medical care for our patients. I would like to separately note the team of Moscow oncologists, who are truly the vanguard of the capital’s healthcare. You are pioneers in almost all innovations and processes. I would like to thank each oncologist for your daily, difficult, but very noble work in the conditions of continuous changes,” said Anastasia Rakova.

    She added that the unprecedented archive of digital medical data, including oncological data, formed in Moscow is an indisputable competitive advantage. In the context of the development of large generative models of artificial intelligence, this archive opens up a unique opportunity to create projects to identify precursors and patterns of disease development.

    According to Anastasia Rakova, the Moscow oncology service today has every opportunity to reach a new level of care and use modern technologies, such as cell therapy, personalized vaccines, isotopes, and minimally invasive surgery. Among the first steps already being implemented in this direction, she noted the creation of a nuclear pharmacy, theranostics, and the successful use of yttrium to treat liver tumors. The deputy mayor expressed hope that successful cases of high-tech care will become a permanent practice available to every Muscovite. To this end, the capital will increase its work with federal centers, scientific organizations, and pharmaceutical companies.

    The Deputy Mayor recalled the classic rule of medicine: it is easier to prevent a disease than to treat it, and the capital is actively moving in this direction. Thanks to the opening of endoscopic centers, it was possible to increase the detection rate of gastrointestinal tract (GIT) cancer at an early stage. The plans include opening several more such centers. At the same time, the capital is implementing proactive programs. For example, as part of a pilot project for the prevention of oncological diseases, a referral for a screening endoscopic examination of the GIT was opened automatically for those who have not undergone it for more than three years and fall into the risk group. More than 50 thousand people have already signed up for the checkup. After the opening ceremony, guests will be able to learn more about the latest achievements in the field of treatment and diagnosis of oncological diseases not only during the speakers’ speeches, but also by visiting an interactive exhibition. It presents 14 stands in different areas. For example, these are “Brain and Nervous System Tumors”, “Oncourology”, “Radiation and Radionuclide Therapy” and others.

    Visitors to the interactive exhibition will be able to participate in master classes, intellectual games and quizzes, examine objects under a microscope, study video recordings of real operations, and also get a visual representation of the work of the operating room. The stands will show the latest equipment, models of tumors and unique clinical cases.

    The largest oncology forum in Russia is taking place from June 18 to 20 at Gostiny Dvor. The event brings together participants from 20 countries. The most pressing aspects of cancer treatment are being discussed by domestic and foreign experts from Singapore, China, the United Arab Emirates, Spain, France, Turkey, the United States, Belgium, Italy and other countries. These are 144 of the best specialists, including academicians and corresponding members of the Russian Academy of Sciences, professors and doctors of science. Together, they will present almost 400 scientific reports on the latest developments in the field of providing medical care to patients with cancer.

    Get the latest news quicklythe city’s official telegram channel Moscow.

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

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155424073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to a systematic review looking at the association between ocean microplastic pollution and cardiometabolic disease risk

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A systematic review published in the Journal for the American Heart Association looks at ocean microplastic pollution and the risk of cardiometabolic disease in US coastline counties. 

    Prof Oliver Jones, Professor of Chemistry, RMIT University, said:

    “I fear this paper will lead to more “plastics cause scary disease X” headlines, but, to my mind, the evidence in this paper is quite weak. 

    “Firstly, the authors don’t claim that microplastics cause disease, but rather that they found an association between microplastic exposure and type 2 diabetes (T2D), coronary artery disease (CAD), and stroke. An association between two things does not necessarily mean that one caused the other; it is simply an observation. There is also a large amount of overlap in the datasets, even between the very low and very high exposure scenarios, and the authors clearly state in the paper that their “results do not imply causation”.

    “Perhaps more importantly, the authors didn’t measure either microplastic exposure or the health factors they studied directly; both were estimates. Microplastic concentrations were estimated from ocean measurements, some of which were taken up to 230 miles offshore and thus may not accurately represent what coastal communities are exposed to. The rates of disease occurrence were estimated from county-level survey data, which does not provide data on individuals. Potential cofounders were limited to those listed in the survey data, meaning some potentially confounding factors could not be controlled for. 

    “The authors all appear to be medics, rather than chemists or environmental scientists. The paper makes a lot of incorrect generalisations about microplastics, for example, referring to “microplastic compounds like phthalates”. Phthalates are not microplastics, and not all phthalates are the same. They claim that bisphenol A and phthalates promote adverse health outcomes through their endocrine-disrupting properties, which is incorrect. The paper also refers to toxicity studies on polystyrene particles, neglecting the fact that polystyrene is far from the most common type of plastic in the environment.

    “So, while the work raises interesting research questions, I do not think the evidence of harm is strong, and people living near the coast don’t need to panic”

    Dr Ria Devereux, Environmental Research Fellow, the Sustainable Research Institute, the University of East London, said:

    Does the press release accurately reflect the science?

    “It is important to note that this research focuses solely on the United States, particularly its coastal counties, and specifically examines marine microplastics. It does not consider other types of microplastics, such as those found in marine sediment, beach sediment, atmospheric microplastics, or microplastics in soil. The title, “Living near an ocean polluted by microplastics may increase cardiometabolic disease risk,” could give the incorrect impression that these findings apply globally, which is not justified by this data.

    “Both sizes of plastic particles come from the chemical breakdown (decomposition) of larger plastic waste, including food packaging (like single-use water bottles), synthetic fabrics and personal care products.” This statement is also slightly incorrect. Microplastics can also be found in the form primary microplastics (nurdles) which are made to be a particular size and are not the result of degradation. Plastics are also subjected to mechanical, biological degradation as well as chemical.

    Is this good quality research?  Are the conclusions backed up by solid data?

    “It is very interesting research which does need further research to investigate some of the limitations of the study conducted. One major limitation that is not addressed is that microplastics contain chemicals which have been found to be harmful to human health. There is no mention in this study regarding data on water quality. For example, is there a higher abundance of chemicals found within plastics in the water surrounding these coastal communities which may be a contributing factor.

    How does this work fit with the existing evidence?

    “The production of plastic and its associated pollution are increasingly recognized for their potential implications on human health. Research conducted on wildlife has demonstrated severe consequences, including choking hazards and hormonal disruptions.

    “Recent studies have identified plastics in various human tissues, including the placenta [1],breastmilk [2] and stool [3].

    “In addition to the presence of microplastics in the human body, chemicals commonly used in plastic production have been found to pose health risks. Research indicates that exposure to these chemicals can lead to various health issues, including skin irritation, respiratory diseases, hormonal disruptions, and certain cancers [4].

    Have the authors accounted for confounders?  Are there important limitations to be aware of?

    “The dataset from NOAA presents several limitations. It does not account for when the samples were collected—such as during storms—or the duration of the sampling periods. Additionally, there may be a lack of studies in many coastal counties. For instance, most samples from the Gulf of Mexico are concentrated around Tampa and the southern region of Florida, with only two data points near New Orleans. While the authors briefly mention this issue in relation to the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, they do not address it for the Gulf of Mexico. They note that “study design, spatial coverage, and oceanic transport dynamics” may contribute to differences observed in previous studies.

    “The authors also acknowledge that the absence of data on the types of microplastics—such as fragments and fibers—constitutes a limitation. However, this statement should also include the lack of information regarding polymer types and plastic sizes.

    “Additionally, it would be relevant to consider how many people in these coastal areas consume seafood and whether it is locally sourced or imported.

    “As for the timeframe investigated, How long must someone live near the coast for it potentially to impact their health?

    “Regarding groundwater, the authors mention that only “35% of drinking water in the United States is supplied by groundwater.” Is the proportion of coastal residents who drink groundwater higher than that of individuals living in other parts of America?

    “Perhaps the most critical issue that the authors have not fully addressed is that almost all plastic production plants in the United States, which are involved in petrochemical and petroleum manufacturing, are located either in coastal counties along the Gulf of Mexico or on the Atlantic Ocean side (according to the Plastics Inventory Map [5]). This study indicates that cases of heart disease and similar health issues are higher in these areas. Many chemicals used in plastic production, such as BPA and phthalates, have been previously linked to these health problems [6]

    What are the implications in the real world?  Is there any over-speculation?   

    “This study highlights the need for further investigation into the health impacts of plastics on human well-being throughout their entire lifecycle. While this research primarily focuses on marine microplastics, it is essential to recognize that microplastics are also present in soil, air, and water. Additionally, it is important to understand that the risks associated with plastic do not stop at ingestion or inhalation, the entire lifecycle of plastic poses threats to public health. This includes hazards linked to petroleum extraction, the use of chemicals in production, and the leaching of these substances into our environment during manufacturing and disposal.

    “It is important to note that this study cannot establish a cause-and-effect relationship between ocean microplastic levels (which were assessed only in water, not in sediment or fish) and the development of certain diseases due to its limitations in data and design. Further research is needed to determine whether microplastics and associated chemicals are present in higher concentrations near coastlines in soil, water, and air, as well as within the human body, to fully evaluate the potential health implications of living closer to the coast. Additionally, this study should be expanded to explore whether this trend is observed worldwide.

    “Unfortunately, many individuals around the globe view plastic pollution solely as an environmental issue, overlooking its potential implications for human health. Studies like this one play a crucial role in raising awareness of these risks.

    Extra commentary from Dr Ria Devereux on wider context

    “The adverse effects of chemicals used in plastic production are particularly pronounced in the Gulf of Mexico, an area often referred to as “Cancer Alley.” This region experiences a higher-than-average incidence of cancer, diabetes, and respiratory diseases, which are concentrated in particular areas. The reason behind this is the concentration of petrochemical, petroleum and production plants involved in plastic production and an increase in the presence of chemicals used within the plastic production such as BPA and Phthalates [7,8]. 

    “Although the Plastics Treaty acknowledges that human health is a critical factor in regulating plastic production and the associated chemicals, reports indicate that “chemicals of concern in plastic products” are at threat of being excluded from the current treaty text [9,10,11].

    “In regards to America, we may find in the future that this types of disparity in human health and microplastics become worse due to Trumps “America first” narrative on top of increasing tariffs which will cause an increase in the plastics industry to align with the needs of the consumer and manufacturers. On top of this Trump has bought plastic straws back to America [12] and has started to dismantle key government institutions such as NOAA ( The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration)[13]  and the Environmental Protection Agency [14] which will push back Americas efforts to reduce plastic waste.”

    1 – https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412020322297

    2 – https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4360/14/13/2700

    3 – https://www.acpjournals.org/doi/abs/10.7326/M19-0618

    4 – https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0013935124004390 

    5 – https://eipmaps.maps.arcgis.com/apps/instant/basic/index.html?appid=ebb37bd4fefb481db69c500b3f1f69e7

    6 – https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8335843/

    7 – https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/may/17/st-james-parish-formosa-complex-biden-cancer-alley 

    8 – https://digitalcommons.law.villanova.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1440&context=elj

    9 – https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adf5410 

    10 – https://news.un.org/en/story/2024/11/1157326 

    11 – https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20250610-nations-call-for-strong-plastics-treaty-as-difficult-talks-loom 

    12  – https://www.whitehouse.gov/fact-sheets/2025/02/fact-sheet-president-donald-j-trump-ends-the-procurement-and-forced-use-of-paper-straws/

    13 – https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/jun/11/climate-website-shut-down-noaa 

    ‘Marine Microplastic Levels and the Prevalence of Cardiometabolic Diseases in US Coastline Counties’ by Makwana et al. will be published in Journal for the American Heart Association at 10:00UK time on Wednesday 18th June.

    DOI: 10.1161/JAHA.124.039891

    Declared interests

    Dr Ria Devereux None

    Prof Oliver Jones “I am a Professor of Chemistry at RMIT University in Melbourne, Australia. I conduct research into environmental pollution and its effects on biological systems. I don’t have any conflicts of interest to declare.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: IAEA at COP29: Time to Deliver Nuclear Solutions

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

    Momentum for nuclear energy as a key driver toward net-zero is stronger than ever. Now is the time to turn last year’s historic consensus in Dubai into action, advancing nuclear solutions to ensure energy security, achieve climate targets and promote sustainable development.

    International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi is bringing this message to the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29).

    This year’s COP has climate finance at the top of the agenda. Building on the back of the historic inclusion of nuclear in the COP28 Global Stocktake and the first ever Nuclear Energy Summit in Brussels, Director General Grossi will attend COP29 with a call to increase climate finance for nuclear. At the Financing Low Carbon Technology, Including Nuclear Energy event on 13 November at 16:00, Director General Grossi, as well as the COP29 presidency, ministers, heads of international organizations, multilateral development banks and the private sector will discuss scaling up the financing necessary to expand all low carbon energy technologies, including nuclear power.

    In recently published projections, the IAEA increased its forecast for nuclear power generation for the fourth consecutive year. In its high-case scenario, global nuclear capacity by 2050 could reach two and a half times today’s levels, with small modular reactors (SMRs) contributing a quarter of this expansion. The United States Senior Advisor to the President for International Climate Policy, John Podesta, and Director General Grossi will host an event on Accelerating Early Deployment of Small Modular Reactors at 12:45 on 13 November.

    Throughout the two-week conference, which runs from 11 to 22 November, the IAEA will also promote the use of nuclear science and technologies for climate change adaptation and monitoring to achieve sustainable water management, protect coastal and marine ecosystems and provide food security.

    On 12 November, Director General Grossi will join leaders from UNIDO, FAO, WTO and other key sectors for a flagship event on Decarbonizing and Adapting the Cotton-to-Clothing Value Chain through Multisectoral Partnerships. The event will showcase how innovative policies, technologies and partnerships can drive decarbonization in the cotton sector and strengthen climate resilience.

    Millions worldwide still face hunger, and transforming agrifood systems through science and technology is essential to address this challenge amid changing climate conditions. An event on the joint IAEA/FAO Atoms4Food initiative will take place at the China Pavilion on 12 November to present achievements in agriculture and food security in the context of national climate adaptation efforts. 

    The Atoms4Climate pavilion will be hosted by the IAEA in the Blue Zone at COP and will showcase nuclear power, science and technology solutions for climate change mitigation, adaptation and monitoring.

    The IAEA will host and participate in more than 50 events focusing on four thematic areas: energy, food, the ocean and water.

    See the IAEA COP29 page for the complete list of IAEA and partner events. Check the individual event pages for updates on livestreaming opportunities.

    Nuclear security measures

    For the third time, the IAEA is supporting the COP host country to implement nuclear security measures during the two-week conference. In October, the Agency trained more than 100 national first responders and staff from security enforcement bodies, including through hands-on equipment training conducted at the Baku Stadium, the venue for the COP. The Agency has also supplied over 100 radiation detection devices to support the nuclear security measures throughout COP, which is expected to draw around 40 000 participants. Similar assistance was provided by the IAEA at COP27 in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, and COP28 in Dubai, UAE, as part of the IAEA’s two decades worth of support offered to countries, upon their request, for nuclear security at major public events.  

    IAEA media team contacts

    IAEA experts in climate change mitigation, adaptation and monitoring will be available for interviews at COP29.

    For interview requests and other media-related questions, please contact Fredrik Dahl, IAEA Spokesperson, at Fredrik.Dahl@iaea.org and copy press@iaea.org.

    The IAEA video team will be present at COP29. B-roll footage is available here. For additional requests of B-roll of the Director General, the IAEA pavilion or specific events, please contact multimedia.contact-point@iaea.org and copy press@iaea.org.

    Registration

    To attend IAEA events in person, you must register for COP29. For media accreditation and all other details concerning the attendance of COP29, please refer to the UNFCCCC online registration page. The IAEA cannot assist with accreditation to COP29.

    Media kit

    The COP29 media kit provides information on the four key areas highlighted at the #Atoms4Climate pavilion — energy, food, the ocean and water — along with recent reports and further background information.

    The media kit also contains B-roll video footage on nuclear power and applications to tackle climate change, videos on the IAEA and climate change and high-resolution images in the IAEA Flickr account. The IAEA will take photographs at COP29 and post them on Flickr.

    This material is free to use under the copyright provisions of the IAEA Terms of Use. If you have further questions, please contact us.

    The IAEA’s explainer articles, podcasts and other resources on climate change are available on the IAEA website.

    Follow the IAEA and #Atoms4Climate on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X and Weibo for updates throughout COP29.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Ramirez Champions $31.1M for Housing, Infrastructure, & Workforce Priorities

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Delia Ramirez – Illinois (3rd District)

    The selected projects respond to years of local advocacy to address safety concerns in the region, expand affordable housing, and improve infrastructure in our communities.

    Chicago, IL—Today, Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), local leaders, and regional organizations announced they are advocating to bring more than $31.1 million for the development of 15 community projects in IL-03. When allocated in the FY26 appropriations, the dedicated funding would increase the number of affordable housing units, expand safe outdoor spaces for students and communities, enhance infrastructure and road safety, and support workforce development in IL-03.

    “I’m excited to announce that our community came together to identify and submit the maximum number of projects allowed in the FY26 appropriations process. Thanks to the support of community leaders and local officials, we are ready to champion $31.1 million for critical, transformative projects across IL-03,” said Congresswoman Ramirez. “From Wayne Township to Wheaton to Albany Park, these funds will guarantee that we are investing in critical projects in our district and improving the conditions that keep our communities healthy and thriving.”

    “Now, we need to get this urgent funding and protect the programs and services our communities and working people rely on! We cannot allow the same partisan politics that delayed the appropriations process last year and held up the funds for our communities to continue. I will continue to fight for critical safety net programs that help working families across the country and to bring resources back to IL-03,” added Rep. Ramirez. 

    During the public announcement, Congresswoman Ramirez said she was “particularly proud” of the projects selected because they respond to the immediate needs of the communities and years of advocacy.

    “The Chicago Department of Housing is honored to have been submitted by Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez for funding consideration by the House Committee on Appropriations. At a time when our nation is facing an unprecedented housing crisis, the need for bold, community-driven solutions has never been greater. Funding for Encuentro Phase II is not just an investment in safe, stable housing for working families in Chicago—it’s an investment in economic opportunity. This project will empower families to thrive, support local businesses, and remain in their communities without being burdened by skyrocketing rents. Building on the success of Phase I, Encuentro Phase II is a critical step toward making Logan Square a more equitable and inclusive neighborhood. We are deeply grateful for Congresswoman Ramirez’s commitment to housing justice and her support of this transformative project,” said Chicago Department of Housing Managing Deputy Commissioner Tamra Collins, requesting $10,000,000 for the construction of a new 98-unit housing development.

    “DuPage and Chicago South Suburbs Habitat for Humanity is honored to have been selected alongside the DuPage Housing Authority, who is a proud partner in this endeavor, for Community Project Funding through our partners in the fight for affordable housing in the IL-03, Congresswoman Ramirez’s office. This infusion of federally directed dollars is a testament of what can happen when we all come together to address a critical need in our local community. A 12-unit townhome development in West Chicago will help in continuing our success of addressing the lack of housing stock within the neighborhoods we serve,” said DuPage Housing Authority Interim CEO Dorian Jenkins, requesting $2,200,000 to facilitate the pre-development of a 12-unit single-family townhome community.

    “This bridge improvement study will identify key infrastructure needs to support potential Metra O’Hare Express service, serving a growing future market for air travelers and other trips,” said Metra CEO/Executive Director Jim Derwinski, requesting $1,500,000 to study viability of infrastructure improvements along the Milwaukee District North and North Central Service Metra lines.

    “As Northeastern Illinois University embarks upon our next strategic plan, the Board of Trustees and I believe that the MSNEP program confers broad societal benefit, which is both economic and social, and is therefore positioned as one of our highest priorities,” said the President of Northeastern Illinois University, Katrina E. Bell-Jordan, Ph.D, requesting $1,283,976 to develop modern classrooms and a dedicated Simulation Lab at the campus. 

    “We are incredibly grateful for the support of U.S. Congresswoman Delia Ramirez as we work to modernize manufacturing education for students in DuPage County. With more than 1,200 manufacturing companies and over 80,000 job opportunities, DuPage plays a vital role in supporting our local workforce and opening doors for students to pursue high-demand, high-skill, and high-wage careers. Partnering with state legislators helps us create a clear, coordinated path from the classroom to the workplace—ensuring students are well-prepared to succeed in our region’s thriving manufacturing sector,” said DuPage Regional Advanced Manufacturing Hub Executive Director, Michael Fumagalli, requesting $500,000 to upgrade equipment at the Manufacturing Lab and drive economic growth.

    “With this critical funding secured, Goethe Elementary School will finally complete its long-awaited outdoor renovation project – transforming the space into a safe, durable, and enriching environment for students and families alike. These improvements will not only enhance daily learning and play for Goethe students but also create a vibrant community resource accessible to all residents in the neighborhood. This investment ensures that every child in and around the Goethe community has access to an outdoor space that encourages physical well-being, supports healthy development, and promotes overall well-being,” said Goethe Elementary School Principal, Nader Elmasri, requesting $1,100,000 for enhancement against flooding of the outdoor playspace at Goethe Elementary School.

    “On behalf of the Park District and the residents of the Montclare community, I’d like to extend my sincerest appreciation to Congresswoman Delia Ramirez for working to secure $3 million in funding for a new fieldhouse at Bell Park. A new fieldhouse at Bell Park to replace the existing facility would bring transformative change to the neighboring children and families by expanding recreational offerings that contribute to overall health and quality of life,” said Chicago Park District General Superintendent & CEO, Ramirez-Rosa, requesting $3,000,000 for the construction of a community field house. 

    “This project is necessary to provide flood relief in this area of the County, it will also improve water quality and replace aging infrastructure,” said DuPage County Board Chair, Deb Conroy, requesting $4,125,000 for the upgrade of outdated storm sewer systems.

    “Every one of our school communities deserves a safe and enriching space for activities such as sporting events and gatherings. The new turf surface at Hanson Park Stadium is environmentally-sound and accessible while benefiting the larger school community. Thanks to Congresswoman Delia Ramirez and our community partners for making this amazing space a reality,” said CPS Chief Operating Officer Charles Mayfield, requesting $1,000,000 for the rehabilitation of the Hanson Park Stadium.

    “This project was student voice in action. Our students have worked tirelessly for years presenting to Chicago Public Schools officials, elected officials, and other members of the community to advocate for this turf field,” said Dever Elementary School Principal Jason Major, requesting $1,100,000 to rehabilitate Dever Elementary School’s field.

    “We are deeply grateful for this investment in our students’ future. This funding marks an exciting step forward, enabling us to modernize our athletic facilities for a safer and more functional environment while simultaneously creating a dynamic new STEM lab in previously underutilized space. This dual investment underscores our commitment to the holistic development of our students, fostering both their physical well-being and their readiness for STEM fields,” said Von Steuben High School Principal Jennifer M. Sutton, requesting $1,000,000 to renovate outdated locker room facilities.

    “Patrick Henry Elementary School is a neighborhood school in the Albany Park area that is a central location for families within the community. We do not have a green space within a 1 mile radius of the school and we are in need of major renovations within the playground and the surrounding area. I am thankful for the opportunity for our school and the community to have a space for families and students to enjoy,” said Patrick Henry Elementary School Principal, Mary Ann Reynolds, requesting $1,250,00 to enhance Patrick Henry Elementary School’s playground and outdoor facilities

    “This high-impact project represents a significant milestone in our efforts to address flood-related challenges in our community. Not only will it directly prevent overland flooding into 27 homes, but by lowering the street, an additional 10 homes will be able to reduce the occurrences of flooding. Over the course of 30 years, this initiative is projected to save homeowners an estimated $19 million in damages currently incurred due to flooding. The project will make a tangible difference in the lives of residents impacted by flooding events, enhance the resilience of our neighborhoods and protect our residents’ properties,” said Wheaton City Manager, Mike Dzugan, requesting $1,200,000 for improvements on a flood-prone area. 

    “We are excited about the project as it will make an immediate and lasting impact on our students and communities. This initiative will provide increased opportunities for physical activity, fostering a stronger focus on the whole child’s development and well being. Ultimately, we believe this project will create a more connected and active place for our entire community to engage,” said Marvin Camras Children’s Engineering Elementary School Principal, Clariza Dominici, requesting $1,000,000 to improve safety at the outdoor space. 

    “Wayne Township is grateful to Congresswoman Ramirez for helping reduce the tax burden on our community by securing funding for much-needed safety improvements to Powis Rd. Partnerships like this show what’s possible when government agencies work together to improve infrastructure and quality of life for all residents,” said Wayne Township Highway Commissioner Martin McManamon, requesting $854 to repair the main entry road at  Pratt Wayne Woods Forest Preserve.

    For the recording of the public announcement, CLICK HERE.

    For photos and videos, CLICK HERE.

    BACKGROUND

    In her first term, Congresswoman Ramirez secured $14.1 MILLION in Community Project Funding for the Illinois Third Congressional District.  The funding for 15 local community projects helped secure safe, affordable housing, expand food security efforts, and make important infrastructure improvements. 

    During the FY25 Appropriation Process, Congresswoman Ramirez fought for $34.5 million in federal funding for 15 community projects. The funding would have increased affordable housing units, expanded safe green spaces for students and communities, strengthened climate change resilience infrastructure and road safety, and supported workforce development in IL-03. Unfortunately, the Continuing Resolution passed by Congress did not include Community Project Funding for FY25. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –