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Category: Science

  • MIL-OSI Global: Bombing Iran: has the UN charter failed?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Caleb H. Wheeler, Senior Lecturer in Law, Cardiff University

    The recent US attack on Iran’s nuclear sites has prompted renewed questions about whether the UN charter’s prohibition on the use of force is meaningful.

    Considered one of the keystones of international law, article 2(4) of the charter specifically forbids member states from using force – or threatening to do so – against the territorial integrity or political independence of another state, or “in any other manner inconsistent with the Purposes of the United Nations”.

    A significant amount of commentary exists about what the prohibition entails. This tries to clarify ambiguities around the terms “force”, “threats of force”, “territorial integrity” and “political independence”. Although no absolute consensus has been reached, it is commonly thought that member states are prohibited from launching armed attacks against other states, or threatening to do so, unless acting in self-defence or with the authorisation of the UN security council.

    Other exceptions have been suggested. These include use of force as part of a larger humanitarian intervention operation. There’s also a question of whether it’s permissible when a state is rescuing its nationals abroad. But the legality of either of these situations is contentious and remains unsettled.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    Early in its existence, the UN made concerted efforts to protect and respect article 2(4) and to comply with its provisions. In 1950, the security council authorised UN member states to provide South Korea with the assistance necessary to repel the armed attack launched by North Korea, triggering the increased internationalisation of the Korean war.

    While article 2(4) was not explicitly mentioned in resolution 83, it was alluded to through repeated references to North Korea’s “armed attack” against South Korea. As such, it can be interpreted as an effort by the security council to use its authority to address a violation of article 2(4), even if it did not clearly frame it in those terms.

    The security council also authorised member states in 2011 to take all necessary measures to protect civilians in Libya. Unfortunately, it quickly became apparent that the member states may have exceeded their authority in Libya and carried out acts that could themselves be construed as violations of the UN charter.

    Rather than just protecting civilians, as the security council resolution instructed, legal experts were concerned they had effectively intervened in a civil war. Any possible violations went unpunished by the security council.

    Security council actions taken with regard to Korea were, in many ways, the high watermark for the prohibition of the use of force, given the scale of the conflict. There are two reasons for that. First, a significant proportion of the wars taking place after 1945 have been domestic and not subject to the provisions of article 2(4). The prohibition specifically applies to a member state’s international relations so is not inapplicable when a member state attacks a group within its own borders.

    Second, the UN has failed to address many of the acts occurring after 1945 that might fall under the provisions of article 2(4). The reason for this inaction lies primarily in the flawed structure on which the UN is built.

    Chapter VII of the charter makes the security council responsible for addressing acts of aggression that would constitute uses of force under article 2(4). But it has repeatedly failed to fill that role, allowing states to commit these acts without meaningful response.

    The UN veto problem

    UN security council decisions can only be enacted when at least nine members vote in favour. This must also include the affirmative vote or abstention of all five of the permanent members: the US, Russia, China, the UK and France. This essentially gives each of the permanent members the right to veto security council resolutions.

    Permanent members have commonly used the threat of their veto in their own political interests. This can be seen in a variety of instances, most notably the 2003 US invasion of Iraq and the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine. Both situations clearly involved uses of force prohibited by article 2(4), and in both situations the security council was prevented from acting by some of its permanent members.

    This inaction is consistent with the UN’s failure to address many other acts that might fall under the provisions of article 2(4), including US involvement in south-east Asia in the 1960s and the Russian invasion of Afghanistan in the 1980s.

    The security council’s failure to adequately perform its role has caused some to try and find a workaround. The Council of Europe, disappointed at the lack of accountability for Russia’s acts of aggression against Ukraine, has entered into an agreement with Ukraine to establish a special tribunal for the crime of aggression against Ukraine.

    In the special tribunal’s draft statute, an act of aggression is defined to almost exactly mirror the type of conduct that would constitute a use of force under the UN charter.

    Bombing Iran

    Which brings us to the current situation in Iran. There is little question that the US violated article 2(4) when it bombed Iranian nuclear sites in Fordo, Natanz and Isfahan on the evening of Saturday June 21. This is a clear use of force against the territory of another state.

    But even if the attacks themselves were not enough to establish a violation, they were also accompanied by US president Donald Trump’s suggestion that a regime change in Iran might be appropriate. These comments, coming immediately after the initial attack, could be construed as a threat of further force against Iran’s political independence should such a change not occur.

    Under the UN charter, such threats and uses of force should elicit a response from the security council. But just as with Iraq in 2003 and Ukraine in 2022, none will probably be forthcoming as the US will block any efforts to hold it to account.

    But equally chilling is the lack of condemnation of the US actions by its allies. German chancellor Friedrich Merz saw “no reason to criticise” the bombings, and Nato secretary general Mark Rutte insisted that the bombings did not violate international law.

    As the respected Dutch scholar of international law André Nollkaemper suggests, this refusal to condemn a clear violation of the prohibition of the use of force creates a real danger that the bar for when a state can legally use force will be lowered.

    Should that be allowed to happen it could further hollow out the prohibition, effectively making it less likely that states will be held to account for violating international law. Further, it could also lead to the return of a world where “might makes right”. This would undo more than a century of legal evolution.

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

    – ref. Bombing Iran: has the UN charter failed? – https://theconversation.com/bombing-iran-has-the-un-charter-failed-259751

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: People with severe diabetes cured in small stem cell trial

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Craig Beall, Senior Lecturer in Experimental Diabetes, University of Exeter

    A man having his continuous glucose monitor checked by his doctor. Halfpoint/Shutterstock

    The cure for diabetes is a life free from daily insulin injections. Based on that criterion, ten out of 12 people (83%) in a new clinical trial were cured of their diabetes one year after receiving an advanced stem cell therapy.

    This study used laboratory-grown pancreatic islet cells. They were infused into the liver, where they took up residence. Within a year, most participants no longer required insulin injections.

    One of the most striking benefits was the rapid prevention of dangerously low blood sugar levels, called hypoglycaemia. Before transplantation, all participants had at least two episodes of severe hypoglycaemia within the previous year.

    After transplantation, these episodes disappeared for all participants.

    These are impressive results, but what are stem cell therapies? How does the treatment work? How do they compare to other treatments? And what are the possible side-effects?

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    What are stem cell therapies?

    Stem cells are cells that can be turned into almost any other cell type. The major benefit is that scientists in the lab can create the correct cells, the ones needed to treat a disease, and in the desired amount.

    In the case of type 1 diabetes, the required cells are pancreatic islets. Most of the cells in these islets make insulin.

    How does the treatment work?

    The laboratory-grown cells are infused into the body. A common place is in a liver vein, where the cells attach. The advantage here is that insulin delivered towards the liver works much better than, say, just under the skin.

    This is because switching off excessive liver glucose production is the primary action of insulin to correct blood sugar levels.

    In the current study, the function of the transplanted cells, a treatment called XV-880, improved within the first three months. Blood glucose levels were better controlled. No severe hypoglycaemia was found and a marker of insulin production improved.

    Throughout the first year, participants were able to reduce the amount of insulin they took, until most were free from insulin injections.

    What are the side-effects?

    The biggest downside of this new treatment is that all participants will need to take immunosuppressant drugs for the rest of their lives. This will reduce the immune system’s ability to recognise the transplanted cells and remove them.

    This increases the risk of infections and certain types of cancer. That’s because the immune system plays an important role in removing potentially cancerous cells.

    In this new study, two participants died. On closer inspection, these were unrelated to the treatment itself. Most participants had upset tummies, with diarrhoea as the most common side-effect, in 11 of 14 people. More than half also had headaches and nausea.

    Is it better than other treatments?

    For many years, people struggling with severe hypoglycaemia have been able to receive new pancreatic islets from deceased donors. For a minority, this also leads to freedom from insulin injections over the longer term.

    Typically, two or three donor pancreases need to be pooled together to give to one recipient. People may also need a second infusion within a relatively short time frame. Islet transplants are typically limited by the amount of donor cells available, which is not enough.

    This new approach gives a standardised dose of cells, of known quality. The timing of the procedure is also not tied to the deaths of donors.

    This new study is also not the first. In 2024, a 25-year-old woman with type 1 diabetes received a stem cell-derived islet transplant, which also led to freedom from insulin injections.

    A 59-year-old man with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes was also cured with another type of stem cell transplant.

    Both of these treatments will require lifelong immunosuppression. This is undesirable for many people and may limit uptake.

    This is driving efforts to create treatment versions that do not require immunosuppression. There are efforts to enclose the transplanted cells inside devices that let insulin out but prevent the immune cells from getting in. There are also genetic editing techniques being used to cloak cells from the immune system.

    However, these approaches are further behind in clinical development.

    When might this be more widely available?

    This is difficult to estimate. Larger trials with XV-880 are planned. The same company planned to test an immunosuppression-free version of their cell therapy, called XV-264. However, this failed to work well enough in a small pilot study and will no longer progress through trials.

    There is also the issue of cost. It is not yet clear how much a treatment like this will cost. This will affect who can access advanced cell therapies. We also don’t yet know if and when the transplanted cells may start to fail.

    In this trial, the company is monitoring recipients for ten years in total. An initial five-year follow-up then a five-year extension study.

    This gives an idea of how long we might need to wait. Despite this, the recent developments give reason for cautious optimism. It may be possible in the not-so-distant future to have a life without daily insulin injections.

    Craig Beall currently receives funding from Diabetes UK, Breakthrough T1D, Steve Morgan Foundation Type 1 Diabetes Grand Challenge, Medical Research Council, NC3Rs, Society for Endocrinology and British Society for Neuroendocrinology.

    – ref. People with severe diabetes cured in small stem cell trial – https://theconversation.com/people-with-severe-diabetes-cured-in-small-stem-cell-trial-259569

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Alasdair Gray: unseen artworks offer insight into a profoundly creative and original artist

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Blane Savage, Lecturer in MA Creative Media Practice and BA(Hons) Graphic Art & Moving Image, University of the West of Scotland

    Artist, writer, playwright, illustrator – and the man who made the Oscar-winning film Poor Things possible – Alasdair Gray was one of Scotland’s great creative polymaths and eccentrics, now celebrated every year on “Gray Day” (February 25). A new exhibition at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery in Glasgow has opened to reveal a selection of nine previously unseen artworks from The Morag McAlpine Bequest.

    This is the first time works have been on display from the bequest gifted by him to Glasgow Life Museums following the death of his wife in 2014, which comprises artworks he created for her on anniversaries, birthdays and Christmas.

    A small show like this cannot fully do justice to the vibrancy and volume of Gray’s output, but these nine pieces give a broad flavour of the artist’s working style and idiosyncratic idea development.

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    Gray was a graduate of Glasgow School of Art where he specialised in murals and stained glass. In addition to being a talented artist and writer, he was also a professor of creative writing at Glasgow University.

    His landmark novel Lanark: A Life in Four Books (1981), a story within a story of adolescence, with the mythical Unthank standing in for Glasgow, has been praised as a modern classic.

    His influence on the Scottish art and literary scene was a powerful one. Regarded as the father figure of the Scottish Renaissance in art and literature, Gray’s postmodern work was a merging of realism, fantasy and science fiction, interwoven with his socialist political views. This was supported by his own book illustrations and typography. He inspired many young Scottish writers, including Irvine Welsh and Iain Banks.

    Gray was also a strong Scottish nationalist. Inspired by a poem by Dennis Lee, Gray’s epigram, “Work as if you live in the early days of a better nation” was inscribed on the wall of the new Scottish Parliament building when it opened in 2004.

    His creative works are deeply embedded in the psyche of the west end of Glasgow. Several of his murals are on display there, such as the one at the top of the escalators in Hillhead subway station, the surreal collages in The Ubiquitous Chip restaurant and the extraordinary night-sky ceiling fresco in Òran Mór, a church-turned-bar. These murals are a hybrid of styles, often black and white linear illustrations filled with colour, traditional painting and printmaking techniques.

    These “new” artworks on display show different aspects, stages and details of Gray’s creative practice when designing artwork for print, such as the Tippex-infused works that allowed him to merge disparate elements of his cut-out collages.

    The highlights of the show include the original artwork for his novel Poor Things, a subversive post-modern rewrite of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, set in and around Glasgow, and adapted by filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos in 2023.



    Read more:
    Poor Things: meet the radical Scottish visionary behind the new hit film

    The illustration features the anti-hero Godwin Baxter hugging two smaller figures – the reanimated Bella Baxter and Archibald McCandless MD, the primary narrator of the novel. They are surrounded by anatomical illustrations of body parts and in the centre a woman’s head has been cut open revealing her brain. Gray’s illustrative style utilises bold ink outlines, watercolour washes and solid blocks of colour.

    The front cover illustration of Agnes Owen’s A Working Mother (1994) with black line work and solid acrylic colour washes, reflects Gray’s interest in everyday life and how alcohol smooths over the cracks. Hung beside it are two versions of working class figurative character sketches for People Like That (1996), in a similar style.

    A black and white illustrated jacket design for Old Negatives (1989), Gray’s four-verse sequence describing aspects of love in its “absences and reverses”, has been designed using solid blocks of black with repeating motifs engraved within them.

    Also included is a self-portrait of Gray as playwright, together with a series of 12 small black-and-white portraits of the performers of his play in Working Legs: A Play for Those Without Them (1997) performed by the Bird of Paradise Theatre Company. Set in a world of wheelchair users, those who can walk are monitored by the welfare state.

    Gray was known for illustrating friends and family as revealed in his artwork Simon Berry and Bill MacLellan, Glasgow Publishers, Jim Taylor, Australian Writer and Printer, Shelley Killen, USA artist, where are all the figures of the title are roughly drawn with pencil and ink. The solid blue background is painted in acrylic, overlaid with Gray’s inked observations of each.

    On the ground floor is what Gray called “my best big oil painting”, of a Cowcaddens streetscape in the 1950s which is by far the strongest piece on display here. Gray takes a wide-angled, almost fish-eye lens perspective to capture a famous Glasgow neighbourhood that was partially demolished and modernised in postwar development.

    St Aloysius Church in Garnethill and Speir’s Wharf at Port Dundas can still be clearly seen, connecting us to the Glasgow of the present day. Gray’s narrative-driven imagery of daily life plays out, with local characters, playing children and besuited pals going out for the evening, all framed by street lamps and tenements immersed in a dark foreboding industrialised landscape.

    Gray’s illustrations and artworks resonate not only with a celebration of Glasgow’s places, characters and life, they also give us insights into the intensely personal psyche of a creative genius. It’s a shame that more of this particular bequest could not have been displayed, but an opportunity to see these previously unseen works is most welcome.

    Alasdair Gray: Works from the Morag McAlpine Bequest will be on show at the Fragile Gallery, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Glasgow until June 2026

    This article features references to books that have been included for editorial reasons, and may contain links to bookshop.org. If you click on one of the links and go on to buy something, The Conversation UK may earn a commission.

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

    – ref. Alasdair Gray: unseen artworks offer insight into a profoundly creative and original artist – https://theconversation.com/alasdair-gray-unseen-artworks-offer-insight-into-a-profoundly-creative-and-original-artist-259470

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada opens applications for the AI Compute Access Fund

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Fund will support Canadian SMEs in accessing high-performance compute capacity

    June 25, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario 

    As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to shape our world, the Government of Canada seeks to harness AI’s opportunities, mitigate its risks and foster trust. With strategic government investments and support for responsible AI adoption, Canada will grow its AI ecosystem and enhance productivity across the country.

    Today, the Government of Canada opened applications for the AI Compute Access Fund, a key initiative under the Canadian Sovereign AI Compute Strategy. This fund will provide up to $300 million for affordable access to compute power for small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) to develop made-in-Canada AI products and solutions.

    A due diligence assessment of each project proposal will be conducted to evaluate:

    • the organization’s capacity and experience to implement the project
    • the project’s ability to achieve AI Compute Access Fund objectives
    • the viability, impact and benefits of the project to Canada

    Investing in AI is vital to building the strongest economy in the G7. The Government of Canada remains steadfast in supporting the nation’s AI ecosystem with strategic investments that will drive both economic growth and responsible technological advancement. With this commitment, the government is unlocking new opportunities for prosperity, resiliency and national security, while strengthening Canada’s leadership position in the global AI landscape.

    The Canadian Sovereign AI Compute Strategy, including the Access Fund, will help:

    • scale Canada’s AI industry
    • increase productivity and drive AI adoption rates across the country
    • make high-performance computing more accessible for small and medium-sized businesses
    • foster groundbreaking, made-in-Canada AI solutions in sectors such as life sciences, energy and advanced manufacturing

    With the AI Compute Access Fund and the broader $2 billion Canadian Sovereign AI Compute Strategy, the government is ensuring that Canadian innovators have the tools they need to compete, drive discoveries and create new jobs in a modern, tech-enabled economy.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK partners with Gavi to help save up to eight million lives by 2030

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Press release

    UK partners with Gavi to help save up to eight million lives by 2030

    New UK support will see millions of children vaccinated against some of the world’s deadliest diseases, Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced today at Gavi’s global summit in Brussels.

    • The UK will support Gavi as a leading investor in the Vaccine Alliance, committing £1.25 billion to vaccinate millions of children between 2026-2030.
    • The commitment will help Gavi protect up to 500 million children from some of the world’s deadliest diseases like meningitis, cholera and measles.
    • Gavi’s global vaccination work prevents the spread of dangerous infectious diseases while boosting investment and jobs in UK science as part of the Government’s Plan for Change.

    New UK support will see millions of children vaccinated against some of the world’s deadliest diseases, Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced today at Gavi’s global summit in Brussels.

    The UK’s new £1.25 billion pledge to Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, extends a close 25-year partnership which has helped to vaccinate over one billion children globally against diseases like meningitis, to prevent more than 18 million lives being lost, and to improve countries economic prospects. Since 2000, when the UK was a founding member, Gavi has generated $250 billion in economic benefits through reduced death and disability. Gavi now receives investment from 56 countries and over 60 organisations. 19 countries have graduated from Gavi support, including India and Indonesia who have now become donors to Gavi.

    Today’s pledge will help Gavi in their mission to protect up to 500 million children between 2026-2030 and save up to eight million more lives.

    It will also have a positive impact at home, creating British jobs and growth, through partnerships with health companies like GSK, which employs about 14,000 people in the UK, as the government delivers on its Plan for Change to boost economic growth.

    Gavi helps strengthen the UK’s health security by preventing the spread of dangerous infectious diseases before they reach our borders. This reduces pressures on our hospitals and health workers, enabling an NHS fit for the future.

    UK Foreign Secretary, David Lammy said:

    Gavi’s global impact is undeniable. Over 1 billion children vaccinated, over 18 million lives saved, over $250 billion injected into the global economy.

    I’m immensely proud of the role the UK has played in reaching these milestones. Our ongoing partnership with Gavi will give millions of children a better start, save lives and protect us all from the spread of deadly diseases.

    GSK is a leading supplier to Gavi, providing vaccines for diseases like malaria and human papillomavirus (HPV). Their partnership supports UK research, science and innovation.

    Earlier this week, Minister for Development Baroness Chapman visited GSK’s research campus in Stevenage, alongside the Gavi CEO, Dr Sania Nishtar and and GSK’s President of Global Health, Deborah Waterhouse. Together they discussed some of the world-leading research being conducted by British scientists, including on new malaria and TB vaccines.

    UK Minister for Development, Jenny Chapman said:

    Our modern approach to development means focussing on where we can have the biggest impact, and on areas the UK can lead. We must ensure every pound delivers for the UK taxpayer and the people we support.

    Our partnership with Gavi does just that. It will save the lives of millions of children around the world, to grow up safe from deadly diseases like cholera and measles. And it will make the world and the UK healthier and safer, helping prevent future pandemics.

    It is partnership based on the UK’s world-leading expertise, not just money. By rolling out vaccines developed by British scientists, Gavi puts our best brains and their innovations on the world stage, and supports UK jobs and growth.

    CEO of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, Dr Sania Nishtar said:

    The United Kingdom is one of Gavi’s longest and most committed partners. This pledge for our next strategic period reaffirms its status as a leader in global health and I am delighted that we will be able to count on its support in our next strategic period, working together and leveraging some of the best in British science and innovation as we save lives and fight outbreaks around the world.

    President Global Health at GSK, Deborah Waterhouse said:

    The UK’s world-class infectious disease research continues to inform our work at GSK and combined with our scientific expertise, is enabling GSK to advance malaria prevention and control, directly impacting global health agendas and access strategies.

    As a longstanding partner of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance – an organisation that plays a vital role in delivering vaccines to children in lower-income countries – we welcome the UK Government’s new pledge to Gavi, to help save up to eight million lives by 2030 and get ahead of disease together.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Email the FCDO Newsdesk (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

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    Published 25 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “There is no goal to say what is right. We aim to explore variability.”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    Photo: Maxim Melenchenko

    Works at HSE University International Laboratory of Language Convergence, which focuses on the interaction of languages of different peoples living in regions with a mixed multi-ethnic population. Research by HSE scientists helps to better understand the history of language development and study the features of perception and use of languages in a multilingual environment. Georgy Moroz, head of the laboratory, spoke about this in an interview with HSE.Glavnoe.

    — How did the laboratory start working?

    — It was opened in 2017, Nina Dobrushina became the head, and the scientific director was University of Berkeley professor Johanna Nichols, who is now working remotely. Most of the research staff studied the languages of the peoples of the Caucasus and their interaction: for example, Nina Dobrushina, Mikhail Daniel, Timur Maisak were interested mainly in Dagestan, Yuri Lander and Anastasia Panova studied the Abkhaz-Adyghe languages.

    One of the central areas of work is typology. Typological studies in linguistics involve classifying languages by various features (for example, by the number of vowels and consonants). For this purpose, samples are created that can include dozens of languages. Our laboratory is one of the few scientific centers in Russia where such studies are conducted, and perhaps the only one that focuses specifically on the processes of language interaction. The laboratory also continues to study the languages of the Caucasus and create linguistic resources for them.

    In the Caucasus, the Russian language comes into contact with languages of different groups: in addition to the Nakh-Dagestani languages, these are the Turkic languages (which include many languages of the peoples of Dagestan, for example Kumyk and Azerbaijani), as well as the Abkhaz-Adyghe languages (Abkhaz, Abaza, Adyghe and Kabardian), Kartvelian (Georgian, Megrelian, Svan and Laz languages) and Indo-European (Armenian, Ossetian, Tat).

    The main goal of creating the laboratory is to study the mutual influence of languages on each other. A striking example of such influence is the Ossetian language, which is Indo-European, but unlike other Indo-European languages, it has eruptive consonants. These are sounds in which the vocal cords close and rise during pronunciation, creating a pressure difference, for example, кI, пI, тI, цI, чI. In addition, during an expedition to Azerbaijan, the laboratory staff studied the dialects of the territories bordering Dagestan, and Mikhail Daniel discovered a dialect of the Azerbaijani language that had eruptive sounds (although there were reports of it in previous works). Apparently, this can be explained by the fact that the ancestors of the inhabitants of the village of Ilisu spoke a certain Nakh-Dagestani language, presumably Tsakhur, and then switched to the Azerbaijani language, preserving such an eruptive trace. Most likely, this happened due to language contacts.

    Our leader Johanna Nichols put forward a similar hypothesis about the inhabitants of some villages in Dagestan. The fact is that the Avar language is widespread in the north of Dagestan, and it is widespread mainly in the lowlands. However, one can find speakers of the Avar language in highland villages surrounded by non-Avar villages. And here the assumption arises whether they previously spoke languages other than Avar, and then switched to Avar under the influence of its prestige.

    The process by which such borrowings and even transitions from one language to another occur, and as a result, the convergence of languages or dialects, is called linguistic convergence. It is important that this process is easier to see in the example of genetically unrelated languages, but a similar phenomenon can also occur with related languages or dialects.

    — Is convergence of neighboring languages necessary?

    — It happens in most cases, but there are also opposite cases, when languages and their speakers “try” to be different from each other. This process is called divergence. For example, last year we invited John Mansfield to speak at our seminar, who, together with his colleagues, published a typological study of divergent processes based on 42 languages from around the world.

    — You mentioned Dagestan, where many languages are spoken. Could you tell us more about this region and your research related to it?

    — Dagestan is wonderful for its multilingualism and the mutual influence of local languages on each other; in addition, at some point they began to change under the influence of the active penetration of the Russian language into the local environment.

    Recently, my research intern Victoria Zubkova, research assistant Chiara Naccarato and I submitted an article to one of the leading international linguistic journals about the adaptation of Russian borrowings in Andean languages. Earlier borrowings were mainly through the Avar language, through its peculiar mediation. Now words are borrowed directly, and we are trying to model in which languages the influence of Russian is greater and on what factors the degree of its influence depends.

    The study revealed that Avar and Botlikh have recently seen fewer phonetic changes in borrowings from Russian than other Andic languages (see, for example, Akhvakh кIебетIи — “kopeck”). The main reason: these languages have already come under the strong influence of Russian. Avar used to play an important role in the north of Dagestan; it was and remains a kind of regional lingua franca. The results of our study show that the process of adaptation of Russian borrowings in other Andic languages was slower than in Avar, but it is obvious that this process has been decreasing over time. Now, of course, any borrowing will most likely enter all of these languages without any phonetic adaptation.

    — How do you obtain materials for research?

    — We regularly go on expeditions to collect data; for us, this is the most important source of material. Our colleagues recently returned from Armenia, another group – from AdygeyaRecently, we have begun to make more active use of data collected by scientists outside the lab.

    Thus, the laboratory collected 10 speech corpora of bilinguals, that is, people for whom Russian is not their native language, but they learned it and regularly use it in everyday life. Their speech – both pronunciation and grammar – differs from the speech of monolinguals.

    Corpora of individual dialects of the Russian language are also being created. The main difficulty in collecting such material is that Russian dialectologists were previously reluctant to share their data. Thanks to Nina Dobrushina, this has changed, and now placing some dialect corpora with us is considered a common thing. In total, 26 dialect corpora have been created in the laboratory.

    We are also collecting corpora of minor languages of Russia; there are currently 14 of them.

    — Can you clarify what a “corpus” is for linguists? How and why do you create new corpora?

    — Corpora appeared as written records of speech of various types or simply marked-up collections of texts. A corpus differs from a collection of texts by morphological or other markings. In particular, you can set up a search by categories: for example, which nouns come before infinitives. For example, the National Corpus of the Russian Language is a collection of a large number of texts that can be searched morphologically. When we prepare oral corpora — bilingual and dialectal — we use text transcripts in literary Russian, which makes automatic morphological search possible. Corpora also contain audio recordings, thanks to which we can understand the features of dialects. Sometimes you need to listen to the recordings again to understand more precisely whether certain sounds are used.

    The corpus is one of the central tools of modern linguistics. It is by analyzing the frequency of use of different constructions in it that we make certain generalizations, on the basis of which we publish articles.

    One of the options for using corpora is to compare dialects or small languages with each other: using vector models, one can obtain intersections of corpora of corresponding languages and thus understand which dialects and languages are closer and which are further from each other.

    Thus, according to our observations of bilingual corpora, Karelians, unlike Dagestanis, speak Russian, which is closer to the literary language. In Dagestan, local languages are influenced by both the standard literary Russian and the regional Dagestan Russian that emerged in the republic and is developing in its own unique way. For children, the amount of language use is important. And if, for example, Lezgins speak Lezgin, and Adyghe speak Adyghe or Kabardian and then switch to Russian, then we can ask which Russian exactly – the literary Russian or a specific local version with local features caused by native languages. Such comparisons of features are possible precisely thanks to our corpora.

    — What other resources do you create?

    — As mentioned above, one of the important resources of the laboratory is the linguistic atlases of small languages of Russia.

    We also compile dictionaries of such languages. For example, we recently publishedDictionary of the Kininsky dialect of the Rutul language, whose speakers live in Dagestan and Azerbaijan; the dictionary size is about 1200 words. I analyzed the Zilov dialect, one of the dialects of the Andian language, which for a long time had no written language, and also posted it on the laboratory’s page dictionaryabout 1,500 words. However, this is a significantly smaller volume compared to dictionaries published by linguists from the regions where the corresponding language is spoken. They have a better command of the languages and can usually devote more time to this task.

    Dictionaries published in Dagestan include at least 5,000–6,000 units, and recently our colleague Majid Sharipovich Khalilov published a dictionary of the Tsez (Didoi) language containing 11,000 words. For an unwritten language, this is something phenomenal.

    — What are the key areas of the laboratory’s current work?

    — Our main focus is linguistic typology, within the framework of which research is conducted on a sample of unrelated languages from all over the world.

    Another long-term project is the Typological Atlas of the Languages of Dagestan, which already has 58 chapters, each of which is devoted to a separate linguistic phenomenon, such as the presence or absence of some eruptive sounds. Researchers from our laboratory, Samira Verhees and Chiara Naccarato, studied how people speaking different languages greet each other in the morning and wrote a chapter on the subject. It turned out that in 17 languages, the greeting is “Good morning!”; the rhetorical question “Are you awake?” and “Are you up?” are also common greetings, and, for example, in the Lak language, you can find both of these options.

    The project of electronic Dagestani dictionaries plays an important role now. We are trying to create a unified database that would contain lexical material of the Nakh-Dagestani languages. The database was created thanks to a series of coursework by students of the educational program “Fundamental and Computer Linguistics”, who digitalized, cleaned up the data, created a transliterator. These works contain phonetic and morphological marking and marking of borrowings from Russian, Arabic, Persian and Turkic languages. Now we have unified materials on the Andic and Avar languages.

    This greatly simplifies a number of studies that required looking at different dictionaries. The already mentioned article by Victoria Zubkova and Chiara Naccarato was made possible thanks to this database, which also opens up the field for new research. This is a project with great potential, which I hope will continue.

    Another important area is the study of non-standard Russian, in which we study both dialects of Russian and the peculiarities of the Russian language of those for whom it is not native. We call our group DiaL2: dia — dialects and L2 — the standard designation for the second language. We are interested in any variants that are not similar to the literary ones. We do not aim to say which is correct. We seek to study the variability that we observe. Our group includes laboratory researchers and students. For example, our research intern Anna Grishanova recently had an article accepted for publication on the loss of prepositions in the speech of bilinguals whose first native language is Chuvash.

    There is a separate one Rutulian project. As part of the “Rediscovering Russia” grant, we visited 12 Rutul villages and releasedatlas, similar to the Typological Atlas of the Languages of Dagestan, which I mentioned earlier. The Rutul Atlas contains 425 separate chapters devoted to various topics of Rutul dialectology: phonetic, grammatical and lexical. For example, one of the chaptersis dedicated to the lexeme hedgehog, which is designated by different variants – both by borrowing from Russian and by our own g’yllentsI, kirpik, zh’uzh’ya or k’yng’yr.

    There are also two other small projects: one on the Aramaic languages used in Russia, for which a grant from the Russian Science Foundation (24-28-01009) was received – “Areal-typological description of the neo-Aramaic idioms of Armenia” under the direction of Yuri Koryakov – and the second on the Abkhaz-Adyghe languages.

    In general, documenting languages is very important for the culture of the peoples we work with, because some unwritten languages can disappear, and if we manage to somehow record them, then people will be able to see how their grandparents spoke, even if they do not understand their native language.

    — How is the laboratory’s work organized?

    — One of the pillars of the laboratory seems to me to be ours weekly seminar. It takes place every Tuesday at 16:00. During the laboratory’s operation, more than 230 seminars have been held, with almost 300 papers presented. Almost all seminars are held in English, which allows us to more actively involve foreign colleagues in our work and maintain scientific contacts. We are visited by various well-known linguists, for example, Martin Haspelmath, one of the leading specialists in linguistic typology. During his trip to Moscow last December, he spoke at the HSE with lecture, which attracted great interest. The seminars also show our interns how to give a report, ask questions, and conduct themselves during a report in English. In addition, when I became the head of the department, we began to use the seminars more actively as a platform for discussing new scientific articles. This is due to my deep conviction that it is easy to stop reading or limit reading to only your narrow specialization and switch to churning out articles. It is reading and discussing articles, even those far removed from your research topic, that allows you to keep the general state of modern linguistics in focus, rather than drowning in specifics, as in the parable of the elephant and the blind wise men.

    — How actively do you collaborate with other universities and HSE campuses?

    — As part of the project “Mirror Laboratories» We collaborated with the Southern Federal University in 2022–2024. It included three subprojects: a project to study Russian as a foreign language, a dialectological project, thanks to which we have a corpus of Don dialects, which we support and, if necessary, can continue to study dialects, as well as a digital humanities research project, or Digital Humanities (DH).

    The current inter-campus project with the National Research University Higher School of Economics in St. Petersburg is focused on DH: my colleagues and I are engaged in applied computational linguistics. In particular, in St. Petersburg we created a corpus of Russian short stories from the 1930s to 2000s, a corpus of Soviet songs, and even developed a chatbot for the Hermitage.

    — How does this chatbot work?

    — For example, a visitor asks to show a painting of a woman with her head on a plate, meaning Judith with the head of Holofernes; the bot is supposed to give the desired painting. But hardly anyone will be surprised if it is Herodias with the head of John the Baptist.

    — What other applied work can you imagine?

    — We have various applied research. For example, we have started developing transliterators for the Nakh-Dagestani languages. We dream of creating a hub where transliterators of texts in different languages would be presented, which would be very useful for linguists.

    In addition, we are developing morphological analyzers for small languages, collecting corpora and dictionaries. All this is ultimately rich material for verifying machine learning models of various modalities: both audio and text. Such models often suffer from a lack of expert data labeling.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: From potholes to personalization: What Abu Dhabi is teaching us about AI-powered smart cities

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: From potholes to personalization: What Abu Dhabi is teaching us about AI-powered smart cities

    If you ask many city government leaders how to win the hearts of citizens, the answer might very well be “potholes,” or, more specifically, fixing them. 

    “Potholes not only tell you about the state of your infrastructure,” noted a Harvard researcher in 2019, “they also tell you about the nature of participation in your city.”1 A city that fixes a pothole promptly is not just responsive, its constituents feel empowered to engage with government. 

    In recent years, expectations have only risen on what governments need to deliver, leaving many cities struggling to deliver services in ways people prefer while also running a gauntlet of budgetary, regulatory, and societal challenges. On the one hand, citizens want to access great city services on par with how they do their banking or shopping—that is, secure, personalized experiences on smartphones and computing devices, rather than exclusively in-person. On the other hand, governments face unprecedented pressures in terms of funding, regulations, staffing, and cybercrime. 

    Achieve your mission with Microsoft for government

    To bridge this gap, more and more city governments are looking to use the force-multiplying power of generative AI. Its ability to converse in natural language and reason over vast stores of data, then find answers, compose messages, and orchestrate actions is not only solving longstanding modernization challenges, it’s also opening incredible new frontiers in city services. 

    Helping city governments evaluate, explore, and successfully deploy high-impact solutions with AI is now the primary focus of our work at Microsoft for government. In cities around the world, we have seen dramatic acceleration in generative AI innovation, with new solutions that are helping cities to: 

    • Deliver personalized services.
    • Empower the professionals who serve the public.
    • Derive better insights and greater value from data.

    The future of the smart city is already here—in Abu Dhabi 

    The President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, launched an ambitious drive around 15 years ago to make government services more accessible and service-oriented. In Abu Dhabi, the nation’s capital, those efforts took a giant leap with the advent of AI, accelerating innovation that led to the launch of a new AI-powered government services platform in October 2024. 

    Aptly called TAMM—which in Arabic translates to “consider it done!”—the platform began as a centralized portal several years ago and was revised to expand service offerings. With the application of new AI capabilities, it is now a one-stop digital hub, offering access to nearly 950 government services for citizens, residents, visitors, and investors. 

    Built on Microsoft Azure OpenAI service, TAMM uses advanced AI to deliver new classes of benefits. The platform offers real-world examples of how AI can transform smart cities by unifying services and inviting engagement in new and powerful ways. 

    Here are three noteworthy ways that TAMM improves city service delivery. 

    1. Serve people as they like, with personalized interactions 

    TAMM is designed to remove barriers between government services and the people who need them. In many cases, that means no longer forcing them to go to government buildings to get things done. 

    The new TAMM includes a generative AI assistant that provides every day service, offering personalized access to services such as license renewals, utility bill payments, permit applications, healthcare, and more. There’s even a new photo reporting app, where people can take a snapshot of a problem they come across (including, yes, a pothole) and the assistant helps to fill out a report and later sends updates on the progress of repairs. 

    TAMM also helps to untangle bureaucracy to simplify common yet complicated tasks. The process of registering a car, for instance, was dramatically simplified. What previously required days of visiting buildings and standing in lines can now be done quickly through the app—which also recommends the right type of insurance policy and synchronizes it with registration. 

    2. Deliver better results with a more energized and empowered workforce 

    Because TAMM handles so many more routine tasks than before (such as responding to basic questions on services issues or applications), city employees can focus more on high-value service delivery. With live services including video and audio options, agents can deliver high-touch assistance while still maintaining user privacy. 

    A good example of this is the case of a foreign worker who lived in Abu Dhabi for 10 years and was told by an immigration agent that she couldn’t leave the country due to visa issues. In tears, she opened the TAMM app on her phone and was connected to a helpline, where an agent quickly eased her anxieties. “I said I don’t know what to do, and the agent was literally amazing,” the woman said. “[The agent] said, ‘Don’t worry, it’s getting updated now’—and I was on my way.” 

    The approach to innovation behind TAMM also reflects an important trend: equipping public servants to work like product teams so that city services evolve like platforms. The TAMM organization operates in a unique “factory” in Abu Dhabi that operates like a startup—agile, data-driven, and obsessed with user satisfaction. The city’s employees don’t just execute services; they co-innovate with citizens and stakeholders to create them. Real-time dashboards, productivity-enhancing agents, and a culture of continuous iteration are driving success and proving that empowering the workforce is the foundation of smarter cities. 

    3. Keep cities moving with services that listen, learn, and protect 

    TAMM is designed to help people better navigate government services by understanding and responding to user needs almost instantly. It recognizes multiple languages and offers the option for spoken conversations, intelligently walking people through a broad range of complex processes. For example, for a family with a person who has a disability, TAMM can help navigate special services, significantly streamlining a qualification process that previously took weeks.  

    TAMM not only remembers previous conversations and knows the status of an issue or process, it is also deeply integrated across major government entities in the city. Service can be coordinated with in-person service centers or agencies who help housebound people in their homes.  

    The TAMM platform is powered by Microsoft Azure OpenAI service and G42 Compass 2.0, a next-generation enterprise AI platform that provides sovereign cloud services. It also uses open-source models, including JAIS, a high-performing Arabic Large Language Model, and Azure OpenAI GPT-4.

    The TAMM app now assists Abu Dhabi’s 2.5 million citizens to conduct than 10 million transactions a year. Helping to protect data and ensure privacy within these transactions is the world class cloud security provided by the Microsoft platform—reflecting our commitment to security above all in delivering AI services, as codified in our Secure Futures Initiative.

    Keys for building a foundation of success with AI 

    The noteworthy innovation happening in Abu Dabhi is a great example of a city realizing the transformative potential offered by generative AI. Many others are following the trend, and the results are exciting. 

    As we look across the global landscape, we note a set of common factors that consistently underpin successful AI adoption. We would advise every city to consider the following: 

    • A mission-first mindset drives smarter AI adoption. Cities that anchor AI initiatives in clearly defined public outcomes—such as reducing response times to citizen queries or improving access to social services—are better equipped to prioritize high-impact use cases and rigorously measure results. Aligning AI innovation with policy goals improves clarity and can also boost community trust.
    • AI literacy must span the entire workforce. Successful implementations include investments to build AI literacy across all levels of the public workforce—from IT and data science teams to case workers and city clerks. With effective training and a culture of learning and sharing, cities have more empowered workforces and enjoy better outcomes.
    • Strong data foundations are critical. Cities that proactively clean, integrate, and govern their data estates—including structured, unstructured, and semi-structured data—are better able to operationalize AI faster, more securely, and at scale. A modern data platform emphasizes robust privacy and access protections as prerequisites for AI success, helping civic leaders avoid common pitfalls such as model bias, incomplete datasets, or compliance gaps. 

    Learn more about AI technology for governments

    To help your city government make the most of modern cloud and AI technology, contact your local Microsoft representative or certified technology partner. Together, we can help you explore options, identify use cases, and transform your ideas into meaningful solutions.

    • For in-depth guidance and resources on designing, deploying, and sustaining AI-powered solutions in city government, visit the Public Sector Center for Digital Skills.
    • For workforce development and training resources and guidance tailored to cities and other government organizations, visit Microsoft Learn for Government.
    • For more on how Microsoft is helping to empower governments with AI, read our blogs. 

    Microsoft for governments

    Solutions that empower governments

    Sources:

    1 Harvard Griffin GSAS, “Pothole Politics”, January 2019.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Mattel and OpenAI have partnered up – here’s why parents should be concerned about AI in toys

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Andrew McStay, Professor of Technology & Society, Bangor University

    Savanevich Viktar/Shutterstock

    Mattel may seem like an unchanging, old-school brand. Most of us are familiar with it – be it through Barbie, Fisher-Price, Thomas & Friends, Uno, Masters of the Universe, Matchbox, MEGA or Polly Pocket.

    But toys are changing. In a world where children grow up with algorithm-curated content and voice assistants, toy manufacturers are looking to AI for new opportunities.

    Mattel has now partnered with OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, to bring generative AI into some of its products. As OpenAI’s services are not designed for children under 13, in principle Mattel will focus on products for families and older children.

    But this still raises urgent questions about what kind of relationships children will form with toys that can talk back, listen and even claim to “understand” them. Are we doing right by kids, and do we need to think twice before bringing these toys home?

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    For as long as there have been toys, children have projected feelings and imagined lives onto them. A doll could be a confidante, a patient or a friend.

    But over recent decades, toys have become more responsive. In 1960, Mattel released Chatty Cathy, which chirped “I love you” and “Let’s play school”. By the mid-1980s, Teddy Ruxpin had introduced animatronic storytelling. Then came Furby and Tamagotchi in the 1990s, creatures requiring care and attention, mimicking emotional needs.

    The 2015 release of “Hello Barbie”, which used cloud-based AI to listen to and respond to children’s conversations, signalled another important, albeit short-lived, change. Barbie now remembered what children told her, sending data back to Mattel’s servers. Security researchers soon showed that the dolls could be hacked, exposing home networks and personal recordings.

    Putting generative AI in the mix is a new development. Unlike earlier talking toys, such systems will engage in free-flowing conversation. They may simulate care, express emotion, remember preferences and give seemingly thoughtful advice. The result will be toy that don’t just entertain, but interact on a psychological level. Of course, they won’t really understand or care, but they may appear to.

    Details from Mattel or Open AI are scarce. One would hope that safety features will be built in, including limitations on topics and pre-scripted responses for sensitive themes and when conversations go off course.

    But even this won’t be foolproof. AI systems can be “jailbroken” or tricked into bypassing restrictions through roleplay or hypothetical scenarios. Risks can only be minimised, not eradicated.

    What are the risks?

    The risks are multiple. Let’s start with privacy. Children can’t be expected to understand how their data is processed. Parents often don’t either – and that includes me. Online consent systems nudge us all to click “accept all”, often without fully grasping what’s being shared.

    Then there’s psychological intimacy. These toys are designed to mimic human empathy. If a child comes home sad and tells their doll about it, the AI might console them. The doll could then adapt future conversations accordingly. But it doesn’t actually care. It’s pretending to, and that illusion can be powerful.

    Children often have close relationship with their toys.
    Ulza/Shutterstock

    This creates potential for one-sided emotional bonds, with children forming attachments to systems that cannot reciprocate. As AI systems learn about a child’s moods, preferences and vulnerabilities, they may also build data profiles to follow children into adulthood.

    These aren’t just toys, they’re psychological actors.

    A UK national survey I conducted with colleagues in 2021 about possibilities of AI in toys that profile child emotion found that 80% of parents were concerned about who would have access to their child’s data. Other privacy questions that need answering are less obvious, but arguably more important.

    When asked whether toy companies should be obliged to flag possible signs of abuse or distress to authorities, 54% of UK citizens agreed – suggesting the need for a social conversation with no easy answer. While vulnerable children should be protected, state surveillance into the family domain has little appeal.

    Yet despite concerns, people also see benefits. Our 2021 survey found that many parents want their children to understand emerging technologies. This leads to a mixed response of curiosity and concern. Parents we surveyed also supported having clear consent notices, printed on packaging, as the most important safeguard.

    My more recent 2025 research with Vian Bakir on online AI companions and children found stronger concerns. Some 75% of respondents were concerned about children becoming emotionally attached to AI. About 57% of people thought that it is inappropriate for children to confide in AI companions about their thoughts, feelings or personal issues (17% thought it is appropriate, and 27% were neutral).

    Our respondents were also concerned about the impact on child development, seeing scope for harm.

    In other research, we have argued that current AI companions are fundamentally flawed. We provide seven suggestions to redesign them, involving remedies for over-attachment and dependency, removal of metrics based on extending engagement though personal information disclosure and promotion of AI literacy among children and parents (which represents a huge marketing opportunity by positively leading social conversation).

    What should be done?

    It’s hard to know how successful the new venture will be. It might be that that Empathic Barbie goes the way of Hello Barbie, to toy history. If it does not, the key question for parents is this: whose interests is this toy really serving, your child’s or that of a business model?

    Toy companies are moving ahead with empathic AI products, but the UK, like many countries, doesn’t yet have a specific AI law. The new Data (Use and Access) Act 2025 updates the UK’s data protection and privacy and electronic communications regulations, recognising need for strong protections for children. The EU’s AI Act also makes important provisions.

    International governance efforts are vital. One example is IEEE P7014.1, a forthcoming global standard on the ethical design of AI systems that emulate empathy (I chair the working group producing the standard).

    The organisation behind the standard, the IEEE, ultimately identifies potential harms and offers practical guidance on what responsible use looks like. So while laws should set limits, detailed standards can help define good practice.

    The Conversation approached Mattel about the issues raised in this article and it declined to comment publicly.

    Andrew McStay is funded by EPSRC Responsible AI UK (EP/Y009800/1) and is affiliated with IEEE.

    – ref. Mattel and OpenAI have partnered up – here’s why parents should be concerned about AI in toys – https://theconversation.com/mattel-and-openai-have-partnered-up-heres-why-parents-should-be-concerned-about-ai-in-toys-259500

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Strengthening Communication for Better Food Safety in Senegal

    The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with the Association of Journalists in Health, Population and Development (AJSPD), organized a five‑day capacity‑building workshop in Thiès (June 16–20, 2025) to train Senegalese media professionals on food safety issues. The training aimed to deepen their understanding of the key challenges, legal frameworks, technical tools, and best practices related to food safety.

    In her opening remarks, Mrs Bintia Stephen‑Tchicaya, FAO’s Acting Sub‑Regional Coordinator for West Africa, complimented AJSPD for its outstanding work in health and development journalism. “You are essential actors in building a culture of prevention and responsibility around food safety. Through your investigations, reports, and columns, you can shift mindsets, influence behaviors, and hold decision makers to account. We count on your renewed commitment to consistently include food safety in your reporting,” she said.

    Food safety remains a major challenge across Africa. According to a 2015 WHO estimation, more than 91 million people in Africa fall ill annually from foodborne illnesses, resulting in around 137 000 deaths. These alarming figures highlight the urgent need to raise public awareness and influence policymakers, professionals, and consumers alike.

    Professor Amadou Diop, Chair of the National Codex Committee in Senegal, reminded participants that the Codex Alimentarius – fully endorsed by Senegal – sets rigorous, science‑based international food safety standards. “These standards only have impact,” he said, “if they are understood, communicated, and applied – especially by media professionals. Journalists are not only messengers but educators, preventers, and mobilizers who can translate complex scientific data into accessible, actionable messages.”

    The workshop featured theoretical lectures, panel discussions, case studies, and practical field work. Journalists visited Thiès’s main transport hub to assess street food safety issues firsthand. Captain Armand Seck of the Thiès hygiene brigade reported numerous violations: cramped stalls, poor ventilation, inadequate lighting, and makeshift food stands under tarpaulins.

    Recognizing the lack of formal training among journalists on food safety, the program covered legal frameworks, international standards like Codex, microbiological, physical, and chemical hazards, surveillance systems, and safe handling practices for food preparation and sale.

    Participants proposed several recommendations to improve communication, awareness, and advocacy: fostering stronger collaboration between media, health authorities, and partners; organizing regular specialized training; publicizing safe food-handling practices; educating policymakers including parliamentarians; and creating regional professional networks.

    This workshop marks an important milestone in promoting quality information on food safety to benefit consumers in Senegal and across West Africa. It is part of the project “Strengthening capacity to respond to food safety emergencies and improving street food quality in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Senegal,” funded by the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, with the goal of enhancing emergency response to food safety threats and improving street food hygiene standards in West Africa.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO): Regional Office for Africa.

    MIL OSI Africa –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Eritrea: Dekemhare Technical School Graduates 139 Students


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    Dekemhare Technical School today graduated 139 students, including 63 females, who completed two years of theoretical and practical training in auto mechanics, electricity, metal and woodwork, and construction.

    Mr. Wuhab Mohammed-Ali, Director of the school, congratulated the students and urged them to further enhance their skills through practical experience in the workplace.

    Mr. Tesfay Seium, Director General of Technical and Vocational Education at the Ministry of Education, emphasized the Government of Eritrea’s significant investment in education and called on the youth to take full advantage of these opportunities to improve their livelihoods and contribute to national development.

    Mr. Yemane Abera, Administrator of Dekemhare Sub-zone, also congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to serve the country and people who provided them with educational opportunities.

    Established in 1999, Dekemhare Technical School has so far graduated 3,433 students in diploma programs and 3,846 in certificate programs.

    In a related development, the Indomaso Award was presented to 17 outstanding students in the Adi-Keih Sub-zone who scored 80 and above in the eighth-grade national examination. The awards were given during a graduation ceremony for 328 youths who completed vocational training programs ranging from one to four months.

    The training covered areas including motor maintenance, plumbing, beauty salon services, and social science.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

    MIL OSI Africa –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada celebrates AI and Tech Innovation in Toronto

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Minister Solomon meets with leaders in innovation during Toronto Tech Week

    June 25, 2025 – Toronto, Ontario 

    Today, the Honourable Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), attended Frontiers of AI, co-hosted by MaRS Discovery District (MaRS), Vector Institute (Vector) and the University of Toronto, to discuss the future of Canada’s AI economy.  

    Minister Solomon began the day at MaRS, a leading innovation hub supporting science and technology startups and scaleups, where he highlighted Canada’s leadership in AI development. He reiterated the Government of Canada’s commitment to working alongside innovators to drive growth, create jobs, and scale Canada’s AI industry at home and on the world stage.

    Minister Solomon also met with a number of businesses, including FedDev Ontario-supported Ecopia AI (Ecopia), a Canadian technology company using AI to create high-precision mapping data for critical applications around the world.

    Vector’s world-class research community is pushing the boundaries of AI science, from accelerating equitable access to liver transplants to improving cancer care, and through its secure health AI network, is enabling data-driven solutions to critical issues like staffing shortages, wait times, and patient outcomes. This afternoon, Minister Solomon announced an investment of $3.5 million for Vector to deliver HealthSpark – an initiative to fast-track AI innovation in Canadian health care and services. With this support, high-potential scaleups and startups will receive training, mentorship and access to key networks and AI engineering expertise, as they develop AI solutions to tackle some of our most pressing healthcare challenges.

    The Government of Canada is making strategic investments to support AI adoption to foster real solutions, improve lives, reshape industries and reimagine what is possible.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Nerve Calm: Exploring the Science and Safety Behind a Popular Natural NerveCalm Supplement

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOCA RATON, FL, June 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In 2025, the conversation around nerve health is changing. Once seen as a niche concern limited to aging adults or those with severe physical injuries, nerve discomfort is now understood as a growing issue with broader implications for stress management, lifestyle health, and aging wellness. Amidst this shift, one product is making quiet but measurable strides: Nerve Calm.

    As its name suggests, Nerve Calm is built around a singular mission—supporting calmer, more resilient nerve function through scientifically informed, natural means. As millions of individuals report experiences with tingling sensations, sharp discomfort in extremities, and general nerve sensitivity, this supplement is emerging as a thoughtful response to a rising need.

    What Is Nerve Calm?

    Nerve Calm is a nutraceutical formula developed to promote neurological wellness, especially in cases involving nerve overactivity, age-related degeneration, or inflammation-linked sensitivity. Unlike conventional nerve medications, which may involve dependency or numb broad nerve pathways, Nerve Calm offers a natural, non-pharmaceutical alternative.

    The formula contains carefully selected bioactive compounds that work together to support calm nerve signaling, ease physical tension, and encourage circulation to nerve-rich tissues—particularly in the hands, feet, lower back, and neck.

    Built for daily use, Nerve Calm targets the root systems of nerve dysfunction, aiming to support the body’s inherent capacity to repair and rebalance itself. This includes modulating inflammation, improving nerve insulation, and providing essential micronutrients for neurological resilience.

    Why Modern Lifestyles May Be Harming Nerve Health

    According to official website, In today’s hyper-connected world, the average adult spends more hours seated, staring at screens, and consuming processed foods than ever before. This shift has quietly taken a toll—not only on cardiovascular health and metabolism but also on the nervous system. Repetitive postures, nutrient-depleted diets, chronic inflammation, and constant digital stimulation are emerging as key contributors to nerve-related discomfort and dysfunction.
    Poor circulation, blood sugar instability, and vitamin deficiencies—especially B-vitamins—can lead to compromised nerve signaling over time. What once seemed like occasional tingling or fatigue may gradually evolve into persistent burning sensations, numbness, or unexplained nerve sensitivity.
    Compounding this challenge is the body’s natural aging process, which slows down cellular repair and heightens vulnerability to oxidative stress. These modern pressures accelerate wear and tear on nerve pathways, even among individuals without a clinical diagnosis.
    This is where Nerve Calm enters the conversation—not as a reactionary treatment, but as a proactive solution. Its formula was developed to address the root causes of modern nerve stress, replenishing nutrients, reducing inflammation, and supporting neurological resilience in the face of daily strain. In short, Nerve Calm responds to a modern problem with a modern, natural answer.

    How Nerve Calm Works

    Nerve Calm works by influencing several critical mechanisms of nerve health:

    1. Reducing Neuroinflammation: Chronic inflammation is one of the top contributors to nerve discomfort. Nerve Calm includes anti-inflammatory compounds such as turmeric extract (standardized to curcumin) and alpha-lipoic acid that may help ease pressure on irritated nerve endings.
    2. Supporting Myelin Regeneration: Healthy nerves are coated in a protective layer called myelin. Deficiencies in B-vitamins—especially B1 (thiamine), B6, and B12—can lead to myelin breakdown. Nerve Calm supplies these nutrients in bioavailable forms to assist with restoration and conduction efficiency.
    3. Enhancing Circulation: Poor blood flow can reduce nutrient delivery to nerve tissues. Nerve Calm includes botanicals that promote microcirculation, helping improve oxygen and nutrient access to peripheral nerves.
    4. Balancing Nervous System Activity: Adaptogens like passionflower and feverfew support stress resilience and help modulate the body’s stress response, which can otherwise intensify nerve signal sensitivity.

    By addressing these areas simultaneously, Nerve Calm creates an environment that promotes long-term nerve comfort, rather than masking symptoms.

    Visit Official Website To get More Information

    Science Behind Its Key Ingredients

    Every ingredient in NerveCalm has been selected based on clinical studies and peer-reviewed research in neurology and integrative medicine. Some of the standout components include:

    • Corydalis yanhusuo: A staple of traditional Chinese medicine, Corydalis has been shown to modulate nerve signaling pathways and help ease mild neuropathic symptoms—a natural, historically grounded option for nerve calming.
    • Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis): Rich in soothing mucilage, this botanical forms a gentle barrier around irritated nerve tissues and supports inflammatory response regulation.
    • California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica): Traditionally used as a nerve tonic, studies suggest it aids in relaxation without heavy sedation—helping promote restorative nerve balance.
    • Prickly Pear Extract (Opuntia spp.): A powerful antioxidant that helps neutralize oxidative stress around nerve fibers, protecting against environmental and metabolic wear.
    • Passionflower Extract: Linked to increased GABA and mild nervous-system relaxation, it provides gentle support to overstimulated nerves as part of the fast-acting complex.
    • Magnesium Glycinate: Known for its bioavailable, gut-friendly form, magnesium aids healthy nerve conduction and muscular relaxation—crucial for overall nerve comfort. 

    By combining these ingredients, NerveCalm delivers a multi-phase, science-backed strategy: it soothes, shields, and supports nerves—promoting gradual restoration and lasting calm without relying on pharmaceuticals.

    Who Created Nerve Calm?

    As per official website getnervecalm.com, The development of NerveCalm was guided by a multidisciplinary team of specialists in nutritional neuroscience, integrative health, and herbal pharmacology. According to the brand’s internal sources, the formula emerged from a two-year development process that analyzed over 300 studies on nerve function, neuroinflammation, and supplement-based nerve recovery.

    Nerve Calm’s parent company operates under a wellness philosophy rooted in three principles:

    • Clinical integrity: Only evidence-supported ingredients make the final formulation.
    • Clean formulation: Free from synthetic fillers, stimulants, and common allergens.
    • Accessibility: Designed to be easy to use, even for aging populations with limited mobility or complex medication schedules.

    The team’s collective mission was simple but impactful: to offer an over-the-counter solution that aligns with the body’s natural systems, without side effects that could interfere with daily life.

    How to Use It Safely

    Nerve Calm is formulated for once- or twice-daily use, depending on the individual’s need and physician recommendations. The capsules are:

    • Easy to swallow
    • Free of stimulants and sedatives
    • Safe to take with or without food

    The company advises users to take Nerve Calm consistently for 30 to 90 days to experience the full spectrum of its benefits. This timeframe allows for cumulative absorption of the nutrients and herbs, supporting gradual but stable improvement.

    Individuals already using prescription medications for nerve discomfort should consult their healthcare provider to ensure there are no interactions. However, because Nerve Calm is stimulant-free and based on nutrients with GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status, it integrates easily with most wellness plans.

    Visit Official Website To get More Information

    Expert Insights on Nerve Support

    Medical and naturopathic experts have long emphasized the importance of nerve maintenance—particularly after age 40, when cellular renewal begins to slow. According to Dr. Karen Meyer, a nutritional neurologist and board-certified integrative practitioner:

    “Many of my patients with nerve discomfort are surprised to learn how nutrient deficiencies, unmanaged stress, and even blood sugar imbalance can affect nerve signaling. Supplements like Nerve Calm, which combine anti-inflammatory agents with B-complex vitamins, offer an approach that supports both short-term relief and long-term nerve wellness.”

    Her perspective reflects a broader shift in clinical practice—one where natural, preventive interventions are being used alongside (or in place of) pharmaceutical approaches, especially for milder to moderate cases.

    Real-World Applications for Adults 40+

    Adults over the age of 40 make up the majority of Nerve Calm’s user base—and for good reason. This is the demographic most commonly affected by nerve-related issues such as:

    • Peripheral tingling in hands and feet
    • Postural nerve compression from sedentary work
    • Age-related nerve degeneration
    • Lingering nerve sensitivity after injury or surgery

    Many users have also reported benefits related to mobility, grip strength, and improved comfort during nighttime rest—times when nerve discomfort is often at its peak. For those in physically demanding professions, such as tradespeople or nurses, Nerve Calm also offers ongoing maintenance support after long hours of movement and strain.

    Safety, Manufacturing, and Quality Control

    As per official website getnervecalm.com, From a safety standpoint, Nerve Calm is formulated under strict manufacturing protocols. Each capsule is produced in an FDA-registered, GMP-certified facility in the United States, ensuring consistency and regulatory compliance.

    Key safety measures include:

    • Third-party lab testing for purity and potency
    • Non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly sourcing
    • No artificial preservatives or chemical binders

    Moreover, the product is shelf-stable for 18–24 months and comes in recyclable packaging with clear usage instructions, making it both eco-conscious and user-friendly.

    The absence of known allergens, soy, or dairy makes Nerve Calm widely suitable for most dietary restrictions, while its lack of sedating ingredients ensures it won’t interfere with work, driving, or cognitive clarity.

    Where to Buy Nerve Calm in 2025

    As of mid-2025, Nerve Calm is available exclusively through the official website. This direct-to-consumer model was adopted to maintain pricing integrity and reduce the risk of counterfeit products—a growing concern in the supplement space.

    Each order is backed by a satisfaction guarantee and ships in discreet packaging. Bulk orders, monthly subscriptions, and single-bottle purchases are all supported, with discounts for first-time users and bundled options for long-term plans.

    The company recommends avoiding third-party marketplaces to ensure authenticity and ingredient quality. Counterfeit or expired products sold on unauthorized sites may not match clinical safety standards or batch test requirements.

    Nerve Calm and Sleep: Supporting Restorative Regeneration

    Nighttime is when the nervous system repairs and resets. Yet, for many experiencing nerve discomfort, sleep is when symptoms peak—resulting in restless legs, tingling hands, or jolts of pain that disrupt deep rest.
    Nerve Calm’s botanical adaptogens and anti-inflammatory nutrients may help calm nighttime nerve agitation, promoting better-quality sleep without drowsiness or medication hangovers.
    Its support for blood flow and oxygen delivery also complements the body’s natural nocturnal repair cycles, making it a wellness ally for those seeking regenerative rest.

    Closing Thought: A Quiet Evolution in Nerve Support

    Nerve Calm’s rise isn’t marked by celebrity endorsements or aggressive advertising. Instead, its strength lies in the quiet endorsement of those who use it—older adults reclaiming restful nights, professionals easing daily discomfort, and wellness practitioners recommending it as a safe alternative to aggressive interventions.

    As the landscape of neurological self-care continues to evolve, the success of Nerve Calm speaks to a broader cultural and scientific movement. One that values precision nutrition, natural support, and respectful integration with the body’s own healing capabilities.

    In a world where overstimulation and chronic stress affect nearly every system, Nerve Calm offers something rare: a supplement that works in harmony with the nervous system rather than against it.

    For more information, educational content, and direct purchasing, visit the official Nerve Calm website.

    Contact: NerveCalm

    4700 NW BOCA RATON BLVD 202 – BOCA RATON FL 33431

    Phone: 1-302-496-4906

    International Order Phone Support: +44 1704 320405

    Order Support – support@beneonature.com

    Website – https://getnervecalm.com/

    Legal Disclaimer

    The information provided in this article is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It does not replace the advice of a qualified healthcare professional. Readers should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health problem or condition. Individuals should always consult their healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, medication, or health program.

    While the content in this article has been carefully researched and reviewed, no guarantee is given regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk. The publisher, authors, and syndication partners assume no responsibility or liability for any errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in the content or for any consequences arising from its use.

    The product discussed in this article, NerveCalm, is a dietary supplement intended to support overall wellness. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary. Statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

    This article may contain views and opinions which do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher or its affiliates. All products or services referred to are presented without any warranty of any kind, either express or implied.

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    The MIL Network –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Coolizi Cooling Ace: Why Coolizi Emerges as a Leading Cooling Tech AC in 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Atlantic City, NJ, June 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As rising global temperatures redefine daily life, a new class of personal cooling solutions is stepping into the spotlight. One product at the forefront is Coolizi Cooling Ace—a compact, bladeless, wearable cooling device designed to provide rapid and targeted relief in high-heat environments. In 2025, Coolizi is not just keeping users cool—it’s transforming how individuals manage comfort, health, and productivity during warmer months.

    A Timely Innovation: Addressing Rising Temperatures with Wearable Cooling

    From heatwaves to humid indoor spaces, consumers are increasingly seeking smarter ways to stay cool without relying on bulky, energy-draining appliances. Coolizi Cooling Ace enters the market at a critical time, offering a portable, personal cooling solution powered by advanced airflow and thermoelectric compression technology.

    With growing awareness of heat-related fatigue and wellness impacts, Coolizi is being positioned as more than a gadget—it’s a daily-use health and comfort enhancer for modern living.

    Inside the Coolizi Cooling Ace: Compact Design, Big Impact

    In the ever-evolving landscape of personal wellness technology, Coolizi Cooling Ace emerges as a standout innovation—thanks to its thoughtfully engineered, compact design. Shaped to fit comfortably around the neck, the device delivers discreet, targeted cooling to critical temperature-sensitive zones, making it an ideal solution for hot commutes, outdoor tasks, and indoor settings lacking adequate ventilation. Its form factor is feather-light, eliminating the strain often associated with neck-mounted accessories, while the airflow outlets are strategically positioned to maximize cooling efficiency without obstructing movement or conversation.
    The impact of this compact design extends beyond comfort. The wearable nature of the Coolizi Cooling Ace allows for hands-free operation, eliminating the need for handheld fans or stationary coolers. It’s engineered with lifestyle adaptability in mind—equally effective whether one is walking, working, or winding down. With a sleek, minimal aesthetic and a universally adjustable fit, it seamlessly integrates into any routine, regardless of age or occupation. In a market flooded with bulky gadgets, Coolizi’s ability to deliver precise thermal relief in a streamlined form marks it as a category-defining product. For users looking to stay cool without compromise, Coolizi is rapidly becoming the go-to wearable cooling solution of 2025.
    Visit Official Website To get More Information

    Engineering Breakthrough: How German Turbo Compression Powers Coolizi

    At the core of the Coolizi Cooling Ace is a technological advancement that separates it from standard personal cooling devices: German-engineered Turbo Compression technology. Unlike traditional fans that simply recycle warm air, this innovation actively cools the air drawn in before distributing it to the body. Through an advanced thermoelectric process, ambient air is compressed and rapidly cooled using a proprietary system, then released through bladeless, skin-safe outlets positioned along the collar frame.
    This breakthrough not only delivers a faster cooling response—it ensures sustained temperature reduction over long usage periods. The science behind Turbo Compression eliminates reliance on water tanks, ice packs, or refrigerants, making Coolizi a low-maintenance, eco-conscious cooling tool that still achieves superior results. Early users report a noticeable drop in perceived body temperature within just 30 seconds of activation, particularly in high-heat environments where traditional fans fall short.
    Furthermore, the system is whisper-quiet, registering at just ~20 decibels, ensuring that relief comes without disruptive noise. Whether used during sleep, study, or work, this engineering leap provides comfort without compromise. In the age of wearable wellness devices, Coolizi stands at the forefront, turning climate resilience into an effortless, daily reality.

    Three Cooling Modes, One Goal—Immediate Personal Relief

    As per official website, Users can toggle between the three preset modes to match their environment:

    • Cool: For mild relief during spring or indoor use.
    • Chill: For moderate summer days or post-workout cool-down.
    • Freeze: For extreme heat, including outdoor work or heatwaves.

    All modes operate at just ~20dB, making the device suitable for use during calls, sleep, or focused tasks—an uncommon feature among portable cooling units.

    Whisper-Quiet Operation: Designed for Work, Rest, and Recovery

    Noise-sensitive users—such as remote workers, students, and light sleepers—are responding positively to Coolizi’s low-decibel performance. Testimonials highlight the device’s ability to operate silently while providing real airflow and temperature reduction.

    This makes Coolizi a viable option not only for recreational use but also in workplace, wellness, and therapeutic settings where quiet environments are essential.

    Built for the Modern User: Portable, Rechargeable, and Maintenance-Free

    According to official website coolizi.com, Today’s consumers demand solutions that are not only effective but also effortlessly integrated into daily life. The Coolizi Cooling Ace is a prime example of how design and function converge to meet that need. Built for the fast-paced, tech-enabled lifestyles of 2025, this cooling device is entirely cordless, USB-C rechargeable, and free from the frequent upkeep typical of traditional air units. With a full charge, users can expect up to 8 hours of continuous cooling, making it perfect for workdays, travel, or extended outdoor use.
    The device’s portability is one of its most valued features. Whether tossed in a bag or worn in transit, Coolizi requires no installation, refilling, or cleaning, making it ideal for those who seek simplicity and efficiency. Its streamlined charging method—compatible with standard USB-C ports—means it pairs seamlessly with existing tech setups, from laptops to car adapters.
    Perhaps most notably, Coolizi is designed with durability and zero-maintenance operation in mind. Without fans, filters, or fragile blades, there’s little risk of mechanical failure. For users who want climate relief without additional chores, Coolizi provides a modern solution that respects time, energy, and convenience—hallmarks of next-generation wellness design.

    Cooling Where It Matters: From Commutes to Campsites

    From city commuters and construction crews to beachgoers and hikers, Coolizi’s versatile design supports a wide range of use cases. Its impact is especially notable in regions where temperatures often soar above 90°F and traditional AC units offer limited relief.

    The device is also gaining traction among travelers, RV users, and senior citizens looking for personal cooling without environmental noise or installation hassle.

    Healthcare Meets Climate Tech: Supporting Well-Being in High Heat

    As awareness grows around heat-induced fatigue, dehydration, and focus disruption, Coolizi is being integrated into daily health routines. Many users adopt it as a preventative tool against heat stress, particularly those with underlying health conditions, or those living in regions with poor air circulation or high humidity.

    This intersection of climate-responsive design and personal wellness support is part of what drives Coolizi’s AC growing reputation.

    What Users Are Saying: Real Experiences with Coolizi Cooling Ace

    With over 7,800 verified users and an average rating of 5.0/5.0, the Coolizi Cooling Ace is resonating strongly with consumers. Verified purchasers report “instant cooling,” “ultra-quiet airflow,” and describe it as “a lifesaver for daily commutes.”

    One user writes:

    “I was skeptical at first, but Coolizi worked straight out of the box. It’s now a daily must-have on my walk to work.”

    Visit Official Website To get More Information

    Why Coolizi Is Gaining Ground in the U.S. Markets

    As climate conditions intensify and the demand for smarter cooling solutions rises, Coolizi Cooling Ace is capturing attention not only across the United States but also in several international markets. In 2025, this wearable cooling innovation has swiftly transitioned from niche product to mainstream necessity—particularly among urban dwellers, outdoor professionals, and wellness-conscious consumers. What sets Coolizi apart in the global market is its ability to merge technology, comfort, and accessibility into a single, portable solution. In the U.S., rising temperatures have spurred a wave of interest in personal climate tech, with users seeking alternatives to energy-intensive air conditioners. Coolizi’s energy-efficient performance, paired with its maintenance-free design and silent operation, has made it a strong contender for both individual and workplace use. 
    Internationally, markets such as Australia, Canada, and parts of Europe have echoed similar praise. The device’s universal USB-C charging, lightweight build, and multi-mode functionality allow it to easily adapt to diverse climates and lifestyles. With no complicated setup or regional power limitations, Coolizi’s plug-and-go usability makes it ideal for global distribution. As momentum builds through positive user reviews and repeat purchases, Coolizi Cooling Ace is rapidly evolving into a household name in wearable comfort technology.

    Expert Insights: What Makes Coolizi Different from Traditional Mini Coolers

    Industry experts agree: while many portable coolers promise comfort, Coolizi Cooling Ace delivers it with a combination of scientific precision, portability, and long-term usability. Unlike mini air conditioners or desktop fans that rely on water tanks, external plugs, or refrigerants, Coolizi uses solid-state thermoelectric cooling paired with Turbo Compression technology. This not only reduces operating noise and maintenance—it increases real-time performance where it matters most: directly on the body.
    Another defining advantage is Coolizi’s bladeless safety design, which ensures quiet operation and makes it suitable for all age groups—including children and seniors. Experts note that many users overlook the risk of injury or discomfort with fan-based systems. Coolizi avoids this altogether while achieving cooler output in a fraction of the time.
    Its ergonomic neckband style is also seen as a functional evolution of traditional cooling formats. Experts emphasize that wearable tech should be intuitive and lifestyle-friendly, and Coolizi checks both boxes. It doesn’t just sit on a desk or require setup—it moves with the user, offering true mobility and freedom.
    As consumer expectations evolve, Coolizi has been identified by product analysts as a category leader, bridging the gap between comfort tech and wearable wellness—a distinction few brands can claim.

    Buyer Awareness: Official Site Access and Stock Availability

    To ensure product authenticity and avoid imitation units, Coolizi is currently only sold through its official website. The manufacturer does not authorize sales on third-party platforms or local retail stores.

    Users can order directly with secure checkout, email confirmation, and tracking support—providing peace of mind from order to delivery.

    A Look Ahead: How Coolizi Is Shaping the Future of Personal Cooling

    In a world where comfort technology is becoming increasingly personal and mobile, Coolizi Cooling Ace stands out for its smart engineering, ease of use, and measurable benefits. As 2025 unfolds, this compact cooling solution is expected to remain a leading force in wearable tech and thermal wellness.

    For more information, visit the official Coolizi Cooling Ace website and explore limited-time summer offers while supplies last.

    Company: Coolizi Cooling ACE
    SB Brands 78 John Miller Way Kearny,
    New Jersey 07032
    Email: Support@chillreleaf.com
    Website: https://www.coolizi.com

    Disclaimers and Disclosures 

    The information presented in this article is strictly for general informational and educational purposes. It does not, in any way, constitute professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment of any medical or health condition. Please note that Coolizi Cooling ACE is not a medical device and is not intended to prevent, treat, or cure any health condition. Any references to comfort or relief are purely anecdotal and should not be interpreted as medical claims. 

    It is strongly recommended that readers consult a licensed medical professional or HVAC specialist before considering any cooling product for medical or health-related use. Please be aware that individual results may vary depending on environmental conditions, usage patterns, and personal sensitivity to temperature or humidity changes. Product specifications, features, and pricing referenced in this content are accurate at the time of publication to the best of the author’s knowledge. However, they are subject to change at the discretion of the manufacturer or vendor without prior notice. 

    Consumers should always refer to the official Coolizi Cooling ACE website for the most current information regarding pricing, warranties, and product availability. It’s important to note that this article may include affiliate links. However, these relationships do not influence the editorial content, which remains independent and impartial. The publisher may earn a commission if a purchase is made through these links, but this comes at no additional cost to the consumer. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and up-to-date nature of the information presented here, it’s important to note that neither the author nor any distribution partners assume responsibility for typographical errors, omissions, or outdated product details that may appear in the article. The publisher and its syndication partners expressly disclaim any liability for actions taken by readers based on the content provided herein. Lastly, it’s important to reiterate that all product names, trademarks, and registered trademarks used in this article are the property of their respective owners. Their use here does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities. Please remember, the information provided here is not medical advice, and it’s crucial to consult a professional before making any health-related decisions.

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    • Coolizi-Cooling-Ace

    The MIL Network –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: HSE held the fifth School on Financial Technologies

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    At the beginning of June Faculty of Computer Science HSE held its fifth anniversary Fintech School, organized basic department of PJSC Sberbank “Financial technologies and data analysis”More than 200 students, teachers and practitioners gathered in the HSE building on Pokrovsky Boulevard to listen to presentations by experts from major companies.

    On the first day, Yevgeny Solovyov, Deputy Director of the Innovation Department of the National Payment Card System, and bachelor’s degree graduates presented their reports. “Software Engineering” Timofey Looze, Head of Product Analytics Group for Factoring at Ozon Bank, and Ekaterina Karavaeva, Research Intern Cloud and Mobile Technologies Labs Faculty of Computer Science at the Higher School of Economics, engineer-developer of the platform solutions department at T-Bank.

    The second day of the school was opened by Sber’s Senior Vice President, Head of the Risks Block, Dzhangir Dzhangirov. He told how Sber makes decisions around the clock, what technologies operate “under the hood” of the company and what role AI plays in this. Sber was also represented by Evgeny Sokolovsky, Executive Director, Leader of the Antifraud in Lending to Individuals product and a Master’s degree teacher “Financial Technologies and Data Analysis” HSE Faculty of Computer Science. He gave a lecture entitled “Antifraud in the Age of AI Accomplices.”

    At the end of the school, the participants listened to lectures from Fedor Pakhurov, a research intern project-training laboratory “Artificial Intelligence in Mathematical Finance” HSE Faculty of Computer Science, and speakers from Alfa-Bank – Victoria Baykova, head of the LLM development projects program, and Artem Karavaev, head of advanced analytics projects.

    The presentations focused on the most relevant topics — financial innovations and technologies, including the use of artificial intelligence, blockchain, and APIs in fintech. Experts spoke about low-code solutions for accelerating business processes and data approaches that transform traditional banking. Special attention was paid to combating fraud in the AI era, as well as diffusion generative models and RAG systems. Automatic machine learning and its role in automating data analysis for business monetization were also discussed.

    During the breaks between lectures, participants had the opportunity to get to know each other better, discuss the knowledge they had gained, and ask questions to industry experts.

    Speakers and participants shared their impressions of the school.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: High-Performance Computing Advanced More Than 425 Energy Research Projects in 2024

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    In 2024, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) completed the full buildout of Kestrel, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy’s newest high-performance computing (HPC) system. This new supercomputer now boasts roughly 56 petaflops of computing power to accelerate progress in energy research, including through the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to open new avenues in energy research, materials science, forecasting, and other areas.

    NREL’s Advanced Computing Annual Report for FY 2024 showcases the significant contributions of advanced computing. Kestrel powered more than 425 energy innovation projects across 13 funding areas to support American innovation in the energy landscape.

    One highlight in the report describes how Questaal—a suite of electronic structure software designed to answer basic questions about chemical and solid-state systems at the atomic level—solves quantum physics equations and simplifies computationally intensive processes while retaining high fidelity. Questaal’s high fidelity enables it to resolve many properties where prior theories have been inadequate, showcasing the ability to answer key science questions in a wide range of studies of chemical and materials systems. Read more in the highlight: Questaal Software Resolves Complex Physics, Helping Researchers Solve Complex Problems.

    Another key project highlighted in the annual report focuses on developing cost-effective methods for breaking down plant cell walls to gain a deeper understanding of biomass at a molecular level.

    Funded by the Bioenergy Technologies Office, researchers used a multidisciplinary approach to study how polymers are structured in Populus wood. They then used Kestrel to create molecular models of the lignocellulosic biopolymer assemblies. The models helped researchers identify which biopolymer interactions are responsible for the chemo-mechanical resilience of biomass. Read more in the report highlight: First Macromolecular Model of Woody Plant Cell Walls Will Improve Biomass Conversion.

    Learn more about these projects and others in the Advanced Computing Annual Report highlights or download the full report to learn how advanced computing contributed to important DOE research.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Video: Scientists in Europe: A US epidemiologist in Prague

    Source: European Commission (video statements)

    Scientists in Europe: Andrew, a epidemiologist from the US, shares how moving to Prague supported by EU funds, opened up new directions in both his science and his way of seeing the world.

    Among Europe’s diverse landscapes and international research communities, Andrew reflects on collaboration, curiosity, and the fresh perspectives that come with change.

    This is a story of growth, of stepping into unfamiliar landscapes and finding deeper roots in research, connection, and purpose.
    00:04 A Need for Change
    00:25 New Research Ground
    01:17 A Global Community
    01:31 Discovering Europe
    01:56 Purpose and Perspective

    Watch on the Audiovisual Portal of the European Commission: https://audiovisual.ec.europa.eu/en/video/I-274482

    Follow us on:
    -X: https://twitter.com/EU_Commission
    -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/europeancommission/
    -Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EuropeanCommission
    -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/european-commission/
    -Medium: https://medium.com/@EuropeanCommission

    Check our website: http://ec.europa.eu/

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=byRA02xaqhI

    MIL OSI Video –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Public Release of Micron Draft Environmental Impact Statement

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today marked a major step forward for the Micron project in Central New York with the public release of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS), a required component of both the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQR) and the federal National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The approximately 20,000-page document, jointly prepared by the Onondaga County Industrial Development Agency, the US Commerce Department and Micron, reflects one of the most thorough analyses ever conducted for a project in New York State, befitting the historic nature and transformative impact of Micron’s plan to invest up to $100 billion and support the creation of nearly 50,000 jobs over the next 20-plus years and will include the nation’s largest clean room space at approximately 2.4 million square feet.

    “We’re transforming Upstate New York’s economy one microchip at a time,” Governor Hochul said. “This marks a major milestone in Micron’s commitment to New York, showing how economic growth and environmental protection go hand-in-hand. This project is set to transform Central New York — and we’re moving full speed ahead.”

    Micron Executive Vice President of Global Operations Manish Bhatia said, “We appreciate the local, state, and federal agencies whose assistance and review have been instrumental in helping us reach this important milestone. Micron remains focused on bringing leading-edge memory manufacturing to New York. We’ve taken great care to prepare comprehensive draft environmental impact statement materials for review by the public and by local, state, and federal government agencies. As we move toward ground preparation later this year, we look forward to working closely with the lead agencies to ensure the process meets all regulatory requirements and provides meaningful opportunities for community input.”

    The public release of the DEIS is the latest milestone marking the ongoing partnership between Micron and New York State that was forged in October 2022 when Micron chose Central New York for its megafab. Governor Hochul has worked closely with local, state and federal partners to prepare for Micron’s arrival and make continued investments in the community and the region. As part of the Governor’s Green CHIPS incentive program, Micron will work to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, expand water restoration, reuse, and recycling efforts and target carbon-free energy, aligning with New York’s goal of achieving a clean energy economy. Over the next 45 days, the public will be able to comment on the findings in the DEIS. Within the comment period, an in-person public hearing will be held on July 24 at Liverpool High School. The comment period closes on August 11. Instructions on how to comment are available on the Onondaga County Office of Economic Development website.

    This $100 billion investment by Micron is the largest private investment in New York’s history and will contain the largest cleanroom in the United States. And by the end of the decade, one in four U.S. made chips will be produced within 350 miles of Upstate New York — no other region in the country will manufacture a greater share.

    Micron’s presence in Central New York, represents transformative growth in Upstate New York. This includes:

    • 9,000 new, good paying jobs at all levels of education on site
    • Up to 50,000 new permanent jobs in the region over next 30 years and tens of thousands of construction jobs over the next 20 years to build the campus
    • An additional $9.5 billion in regional economic output annually starting in 2027, ramping up to over $16 billion annually by 2041
    • An additional $3.3 billion in annual disposable income for Central New Yorkers by 2035, averaging to $5.4 billion annually in 30 years
    • Nearly $20 billion in revenue for state and local governments to improve schools and other public services

    After decades of stagnation, the Central NY population is expected to increase. Micron’s project is expected to attract upwards of 84,000 people to New York — the vast majority of them (76,000+) to the Central New York Region. To handle this growth, planned investments include:

    • Long-term infrastructure investments to support regional growth, including expanded water, wastewater, gas, electric and transportation systems
    • The $500 million Community Investment Fund developed to ensure inclusive economic growth, workforce development & quality of life enhancements for Central New York
    • The flagship location of the state’s new $200 million ON-RAMP workforce development program on the South Side of Syracuse
    • Governor Hochul’s historic housing policies include multiple initiatives and funding programs at the state level, and local policies are being developed to stimulate the regional market to increase the supply of affordable, high quality housing choices to meet high demand

    Senator Charles Schumer said, “This is a major step forward in getting shovels in the ground and bringing to life Micron’s transformational investment in Central NY. Thanks to my bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law, tens of thousands of good-paying jobs are on the horizon for our community and we are bringing semiconductor manufacturing back to America, with Upstate NY leading the way. I’m grateful for Governor Hochul’s partnership in bringing manufacturing investments and jobs back to Upstate New York.”

    Representative John W. Mannion said, “Micron’s historic investment continues to move forward with the transparency, environmental responsibility, and community engagement that Central New Yorkers expect and deserve. As the co-prime sponsor of New York’s Green CHIPS legislation, I worked with Governor Hochul and partners across all levels of government to help lay the groundwork for this transformational project. I remain committed to building on the record investments I’ve secured for workforce training — including MACNY apprenticeships, ON-RAMP, K-12 education, and career pathways — that are preparing NY-22 residents for a high-tech future full of opportunity and promise in every corner of our community.”

    Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh said, “The Micron project will have a transformational impact on the City of Syracuse and our entire region. We welcome the release of the DEIS as a major step forward for the project and as an essential action to ensure our region’s natural resources and environment are safeguarded. I thank Governor Hochul, County Executive McMahon, Micron and all our partners for continuing their efforts to make Syracuse and Central New York a global leader in the semi conductor industry.”

    New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “Responsible economic development starts with rigorous environmental review to fully evaluate and mitigate potential impacts to natural resources. Thanks to Governor Hochul’s leadership, this critical step in the review process will provide for robust public review of this once-in-a-generation project. DEC is proud to work with our federal, state, and local partners to help safeguard Central New York’s air, water, and lands as the Micron project advances.”

    Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Today’s milestone represents the latest step in Micron’s historic commitment to Central New York. The DEIS is an important piece in any economic development project – especially for one of this size and scope – and demonstrates that this project is advancing through the critical approval process. New York State and Micron continue to work together to ensure that this unprecedented megafab, which will produce generational changes that benefit the region and the state, advances, and succeeds.”

    New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “This is truly an exciting time for Central New York, and the State Department of Transportation is playing a major role in the transformation of this entire region. As we continue to transform the transportation network on a scope and scale not seen in upstate New York while also righting the wrongs of the past and connecting communities across Syracuse through our historic I-81 Viaduct Project, we are helping prepare Central New York for the influx of jobs and growth that Micron will generate across the region. With Governor Hochul’s targeted investments and support, the state transportation system will be ready to accommodate Micron and the generational impact it will have on all facets of life in Central New York. We look forward to continuing to work with the Central New York community and Micron and as we begin to consider the next round of infrastructure investments in the near future.”

    New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, “Micron’s historic investment in the Empire State is poised to bring thousands of new opportunities to New Yorkers across all skill levels. In releasing their Draft Environmental Impact Statement, Micron is showing what it means to lead by example — powering the technology of the future with zero-emission electricity while driving real economic growth for future generations.”

    New York Power Authority President and CEO Justin E. Driscoll said, “Micron’s arrival in New York will reshape the local economy, bringing thousands of good-paying construction, manufacturing and tech jobs to Central New York. NYPA is proud to support Micron’s historic investment in the state with significant allocations of low-cost power that will spur lasting economic growth in the region.”

    New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Pro Tem Randy Simons said, “The release of Micron’s Draft Environmental Impact Statement marks a significant achievement in this major initiative to create thousands of new jobs in Central New York. Our agency looks forward to working with our state and federal partners to preserve important resources while advancing economic development and quality of life in the region.”

    New York State Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “Micron’s remarkable commitment to social and environmental sustainability is on full display with this impressive document, which can serve as a blueprint for corporate responsibility. Right from the start, Micron has proven itself to be a good corporate neighbor and is fast becoming a foundational part of the fabric of Upstate economic development and quality of life.”

    New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “The release of Micron’s Draft Environmental Impact Statement illustrates the company’s strong environmental values and marks a pivotal step forward in our shared vision for a prosperous, inclusive Central New York. As we prepare for the unprecedented benefits of Micron’s $100 billion investment in the region, we look forward to putting Governor Hochul’s historic housing policies to work creating homes for a growing workforce and helping to ensure the long-term success of Micron, and of Central New York and its residents.”

    New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, “While the partnership between New York State and Micron has been an integral step toward bringing good-paying advanced manufacturing careers to Upstate New York, workforce development cannot come at the cost of our crucial natural resources. The DEIS will help to ensure our environment and communities are being safeguarded as we work to extend greater economic opportunities to New Yorkers and make our state a safe, affordable place to live and work.”

    State Senator Rachel May said, “This report has been a long time in the making and I hope many others in CNY will join me in reading it carefully and engaging in the public comment process. We have heard a lot about the benefits this project will bring. Now we need to consider the impact it will have on our natural systems and how best to join economic growth to careful preservation of the precious resources that support us and define our region.”

    State Senator Chris Ryan said, “The release of the DEIS is greeted with anticipation and excitement because this is a moment of great importance. The findings of this historical report, and the planned investments in Central New York, will help ensure the region can take the needed steps to prepare for this generationally transformative project, and the thousands of jobs it will bring. I encourage residents to participate in the public comment and public hearing process. All of us, working together as a region, will benefit from this monumental opportunity.”

    Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said, “Governor Hochul’s success thus far in securing Micron’s investment in New York is impressive, and I am thrilled to see further progress with the DEIS release. Not only will Micron’s investment create up to 50,000 new permanent jobs in the region over the next 30 years, it will also benefit our economy by increasing regional economic output by $9.5 billion starting in 2027 and contribute to efforts toward clean energy by using 100% carbon-free electrical power. I will keep supporting efforts to bring chip manufacturing to New York so our state can continue to lead the nation on innovation.”

    Assemblymember William Magnarelli said, “Micron has the potential to transform not only the local community, but the regions’ employment forecast. The release of the DEIS is the most recent development that emphasizes the continual progress and investment required to prepare for its arrival.”

    Assemblymember Al Stirpe said, “The promise of Micron is one step closer with the public release of the Draft Environmental impact Statement. One step closer to the economic prosperity that comes along with tens of thousands of tech jobs, 20 years of non-stop construction work, as well as improved water, wastewater and transportation infrastructure. All done with a commitment to high environmental standards. Our region has waited for two generations for an opportunity like this, and now it’s right on our doorstep.”

    Assemblymember Pamela Hunter said, “The release of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement marks real progress in bringing transformational change to Central New York. Micron’s investment is not only creating jobs—it’s building opportunity for veterans, MWBEs, and communities that have historically been left behind. I’m proud to support this bold and inclusive vision for our region’s future.”

    CenterState CEO President and CEO Rob Simpson said, “The release of Micron’s Draft Environmental Impact Statement marks an important step forward for the company’s plans to expand and create thousands of good paying jobs in Central New York. We welcome the release of this report as a clear sign that the work is moving ahead for this critically important project. This DEIS reflects years of collaboration and diligence. Every step has been — and continues to be — shaped by public agencies working with Micron to protect our community’s vital natural resources. Transparency, accountability, and public input remain central to every stage, and this is no different. At the same time, we want to underscore the need for timeliness and momentum. Our region and our country need this project to come online as soon as possible to ensure our national security and economic competitiveness. We encourage the business community to get involved by reviewing the DEIS and advocating for this generational investment in our community.”

    Evergreen Action VP for States Justin Balik said, “Governor Hochul’s leadership has paved the way for Micron’s groundbreaking investment in New York, a project set to redefine sustainable economic development thanks to the state’s Green CHIPS incentive program and the federal CHIPS and Science law. Clean energy deployment is an integral component of economic development, creating new good paying jobs for New Yorkers, while simultaneously developing the technology of tomorrow with zero-emission electricity, ensuring sustainable economic growth for generations.”

    Central New York Community Engagement Committee Co-Chair Tim Penix said, “The release of this draft Environmental Impact Statement marks a significant milestone in bringing Micron’s historic investment to fruition. As Co-Chair of the Community Engagement Committee, I’ve witnessed firsthand the excitement and commitment of Central New Yorkers who see this as more than just economic development — it’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a more equitable and prosperous future for our entire region. The comprehensive community engagement process we completed ensured that as this project moves forward, the voices and priorities of all Central New Yorkers will continue to guide how we maximize the benefits of this transformative moment.”

    MACNY President Randy Wolken said, “With today’s release, we are one step closer to breaking ground on Micron’s manufacturing facilities in Central New York. This project will create thousands of manufacturing jobs and will further elevate New York’s profile as a global hub for high-tech manufacturing and innovation. As we celebrate this critical milestone, the MACNY Team is excited, ready, and committed to collaborating with our members and community partners to help realize the full potential of this opportunity.”

    Governor Hochul has prioritized the semiconductor industry as a major part of her Executive Budgets since taking office. The Governor secured an additional $500 million capital investment for NY CREATES’ Albany Nanotech Complex with total State investment of $1 billion to jumpstart a $10 billion partnership that will bring a cutting-edge High NA EUV Lithography Center to the Complex. The Governor also announced the partnership with IBM, Micron, Applied Materials, Tokyo Electron and other leaders from the semiconductor industry last year as part of her commitment to establishing a global hub for semiconductor manufacturing in New York. Once completed, this new center will build on other semiconductor-related investments to make New York home to the first publicly owned High NA EUV Lithography Center in North America, support the long-term growth of New York’s tech economy and create and retain thousands of direct, indirect and union construction jobs.

    Governor Hochul has secured $100 million in additional funding for the Focused Attraction of Shovel-Ready Tracts New York (FAST NY) program. Launched in December 2022, FAST NY has awarded more than $175 million to prepare more than 2,500 acres across 20 sites in every Upstate region for shovel-readiness, a key feature businesses seek when looking to locate. Awards to improve sites have attracted companies such as Edwards Vacuum, Siemens Mobility, Chobani and fairlife.

    Additionally, in October 2023, Governor Hochul unveiled plans for the $15 million, 5,000 square-foot Micron Cleanroom Simulation Lab at Onondaga Community College, which will help to train students in Central New York for jobs at Micron.

    Most recently, Governor Hochul introduced a new, enhanced benefit tier for semiconductor supply chain companies; a new program to provide tax credits for large-scale semiconductor R&D investments of $100 million or more in qualified expenditures; a new semiconductor manufacturing workforce training incentive; and an overall 5-year extension of the Excelsior program.

    Semiconductors are vital to the nation’s economic strength, serving as the brains of modern electronics, and enabling technologies critical to U.S. economic growth, national security and global competitiveness. The industry directly employs over 300,000 people in the U.S. and supports more than 1.8 million additional domestic jobs. Semiconductors are a top five U.S. export, and the industry is the number one contributor to labor productivity, supporting improvements to the effectiveness and efficiency of virtually every economic sector — from farming to manufacturing.

    New York is home to a robust semiconductor industry of 156 semiconductor and supply chain companies that employ over 34,000 New Yorkers. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, the industry is continuing to expand with major investments from semiconductor businesses and supply chain companies like Micron, GlobalFoundries, AMD, Edwards Vacuum, Menlo Micro and TTM Technologies to expand their presence in New York.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Excelitas Appoints Lynn Swann to Board of Directors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PITTSBURGH, June 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Excelitas®, a leading provider of advanced, life-enriching technologies that make a difference, serving global market leaders in the life sciences, advanced industrial, next-generation semiconductor and avionics sectors, today announced the appointment of Lynn Swann to its Board of Directors.

    A celebrated business leader, broadcaster and former professional athlete, Swann brings a wealth of business acumen, leadership experience and public service to the role. He currently serves on the boards of Apollo Global Management, Inc. (NYSE:APO) and its retirement services subsidiary, Athene Holding, Ltd. He has previously served on the boards of Xylem Inc., Evoqua Water Technologies, Fluor Corporation, Caesars Entertainment, American Homes 4 Rent and H.J. Heinz Company. His addition to the Excelitas board underscores the company’s commitment to attracting accomplished, high-integrity leaders who bring diverse perspectives and proven governance experience to support its continued growth and innovation.

    “We are honored to welcome Lynn to the Excelitas Board,” said Ron Keating, President and CEO of Excelitas. “Lynn’s unique blend of leadership, integrity and public engagement aligns perfectly with our core values. His insights will be invaluable as we continue to expand our global footprint and deliver on our corporate purpose to Enrich Life and be Innovation Driven.”

    About Excelitas
    Excelitas is a leading provider of advanced, life-enriching technologies that make a difference, serving global market leaders in the life sciences, advanced industrial, next-generation semiconductor and avionics end markets. Headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA, USA, Excelitas is an essential partner in the design, development and manufacture of advanced technologies, offering leading-edge innovation in sensing, detection, imaging, optics and specialty illumination for customers worldwide. Excelitas is at the forefront of addressing many of the relevant megatrends impacting the world today, including precision medicine, industrial automation, artificial intelligence and connected devices (IoT).

    Connect with Excelitas on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram, or visit our website at www.excelitas.com for more information.

    Excelitas® is a registered trademark of the Excelitas group of companies. All other products and services are either trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

    Contacts:
    Dan Brailer
    Vice President Investor Relations and Communications
    dan.brailer@excelitas.com
    +1 (412) 977- 2605

    Scott Orr 
    Senior Director of Global Marketing
    scott.orr@excelitas.com   
    +1 (781) 996-5925 

    Cheryl Reynhout or Jill Anderson
    On Behalf of Excelitas
    SVM Public Relations
    excelitas@svmmarcom.com
    +1 (401) 490-9700

    The MIL Network –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s remarks to the General Assembly on the 20th Anniversary of the Responsibility to Protect [bilingual as delivered; scroll down for all-English and all-French]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    Twenty years ago, leaders gathered at the 2005 World Summit and committed to protect populations from genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing, and crimes against humanity.

    In doing so, they recognized that sovereignty carries not only rights, but responsibilities — first and foremost, the duty of each State to protect its own people.

    They underlined the duty of the international community to support States in this effort, and they highlighted the need for collective, timely and decisive action in line with the UN Charter, when national authorities manifestly fail to do so. 

    Today, we mark the 20th anniversary of the Responsibility to Protect at a time of profound global turbulence.

    We are witnessing the highest number of armed conflicts since the end of the Second World War.

    These are marked by rising identity-based violence, widespread violations of international humanitarian law and human rights law, and deepening impunity.

    Conflicts are becoming more protracted, more complex, and interconnected. 

    Emerging threats such as the weaponization of new technologies and the proliferation of advanced weaponry require a constant adaptation of our efforts to prevent the commission of atrocity crimes and to protect populations.

    In addition, too often, early warnings go unheeded, and alleged evidence of crimes committed by States and non-State actors are met with denial, indifference, or repression.

    Responses are often too little, too late, inconsistent or undermined by double standards. Civilians are paying the highest price. 

    Credibility as the guardian of peace and security, development, and human rights requires consistency with the UN Charter. 

    On this anniversary, we must recognize that the Responsibility to Protect is more than a principle – it is a moral imperative, rooted in our shared humanity and the UN Charter. 

    Excellencies,

    In that spirit, I share today the seventeenth report of the Secretary-General on the Responsibility to Protect.  

    It reflects two decades of efforts, calls for revitalized action, and includes insights from a survey conducted in preparation for this report.  

    We found that the principle holds strong support among Member States. 

    Communities affected by violence see it as offering a ray of hope.  But they also call for effective implementation at all levels.  

    The report highlights efforts realized through national prevention mechanisms of a regional nature – from the African Union to ASEAN, the OSCE and the Organization of American States; and multilateral initiatives such as the Group of Friends of R2P, the ACT Code of Conduct, and the call for veto restraint in the face of mass atrocities. 

    It shows that early diplomacy, early warning, and institutional innovation to prevent and respond to atrocity crimes can be effective.

    It also underscores the need to mainstream atrocity prevention across the United Nations system — from humanitarian action to peacekeeping to human rights.

    And it calls for integrating early warning, supporting national prevention mechanisms, and embedding atrocity prevention in the broader agendas of sustaining peace, human rights, and the 2030 Agenda.

    Excellences,

    Aucune société n’est à l’abri du risque de crimes d’atrocité.

    La prévention doit commencer chez soi — par un leadership qui protège les droits, valorise la diversité et respecte l’État de droit.

    Elle doit également être soutenue à l’échelle mondiale — grâce à la coopération multilatérale, à une diplomatie fondée sur des principes, et une action rapide et décisive pour protéger efficacement les populations.

    Vingt ans après, la Responsabilité de protéger demeure une nécessité urgente, un impératif moral et une promesse non tenue.

    Tenons cette promesse.  Approfondissons notre engagement.  Renforçons notre coopération. Et faisons de la prévention des atrocités et de la protection des populations une pratique permanente et universelle.

    Allons de l’avant avec détermination, dans l’unité, et avec le courage d’agir.

    Je vous remercie.
    ********************
    All-English
    Twenty years ago, leaders gathered at the 2005 World Summit and committed to protect populations from genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing, and crimes against humanity.

    In doing so, they recognized that sovereignty carries not only rights, but responsibilities — first and foremost, the duty of each State to protect its own people.

    They underlined the duty of the international community to support States in this effort, and they highlighted the need for collective, timely and decisive action in line with the UN Charter, when national authorities manifestly fail to do so. 

    Today, we mark the 20th anniversary of the Responsibility to Protect at a time of profound global turbulence.

    We are witnessing the highest number of armed conflicts since the end of the Second World War.

    These are marked by rising identity-based violence, widespread violations of international humanitarian law and human rights law, and deepening impunity.

    Conflicts are becoming more protracted, more complex, and interconnected. 

    Emerging threats such as the weaponization of new technologies and the proliferation of advanced weaponry require a constant adaptation of our efforts to prevent the commission of atrocity crimes and to protect populations.

    In addition, too often, early warnings go unheeded, and alleged evidence of crimes committed by States and non-State actors are met with denial, indifference, or repression.

    Responses are often too little, too late, inconsistent or undermined by double standards. Civilians are paying the highest price. 

    Credibility as the guardian of peace and security, development, and human rights requires consistency with the UN Charter. 

    On this anniversary, we must recognize that the Responsibility to Protect is more than a principle – it is a moral imperative, rooted in our shared humanity and the UN Charter. 

    Excellencies,

    In that spirit, I share today the seventeenth report of the Secretary-General on the Responsibility to Protect.  

    It reflects two decades of efforts, calls for revitalized action, and includes insights from a survey conducted in preparation for this report.  

    We found that the principle holds strong support among Member States. 

    Communities affected by violence see it as offering a ray of hope.  But they also call for effective implementation at all levels.  

    The report highlights efforts realized through national prevention mechanisms of a regional nature – from the African Union to ASEAN, the OSCE and the Organization of American States; and multilateral initiatives such as the Group of Friends of R2P, the ACT Code of Conduct, and the call for veto restraint in the face of mass atrocities.

    It shows that early diplomacy, early warning, and institutional innovation to prevent and respond to atrocity crimes can be effective.

    It also underscores the need to mainstream atrocity prevention across the United Nations system — from humanitarian action to peacekeeping to human rights.

    And it calls for integrating early warning, supporting national prevention mechanisms, and embedding atrocity prevention in the broader agendas of sustaining peace, human rights, and the 2030 Agenda.

    Excellencies,

    No society is immune from the risk of atrocity crimes. 

    Prevention must begin at home – with leadership that protects rights, embraces diversity, and upholds the rule of law. 

    And it must be supported globally — through multilateral cooperation, principled diplomacy, and early and decisive action to effectively protect populations.

    Two decades on, the Responsibility to Protect remains both an urgent necessity, a moral imperative and an unfulfilled promise.

    Let us keep the promise, deepen our commitment, strengthen our cooperation, and ensure that atrocity prevention and protecting populations becomes a permanent and universal practice. 

    Let us move forward with resolve, unity, and the courage to act.

    Thank you.

    ***************
    All-French
    Il y a vingt ans, au Sommet mondial de 2005, les responsables politiques se sont engagés à protéger les populations contre le génocide, les crimes de guerre, le nettoyage ethnique et les crimes contre l’humanité.

    Ce faisant, ils ont convenu que la souveraineté s’accompagnait non seulement de droits, mais également de responsabilités – à commencer par le devoir qu’a chaque État de protéger son propre peuple.

    Ils ont souligné que la communauté internationale avait le devoir de soutenir les États dans cette démarche et insisté sur la nécessité de mener en temps voulu une action collective résolue, conformément à la Charte des Nations Unies, lorsque les autorités nationales n’y parviennent manifestement pas.
    Aujourd’hui, nous marquons le 20e anniversaire de la Responsabilité de protéger à un moment où le monde est dans la tourmente.

    Le nombre de conflits armés auxquels nous assistons est le plus élevé enregistré depuis la fin de la Seconde Guerre mondiale.

    Ces conflits se caractérisent par une montée de la violence identitaire, des violations généralisées du droit international humanitaire et du droit international des droits humains, et une impunité grandissante.

    Les conflits sont de plus en plus longs, complexes et interconnectés.

    Les menaces émergentes, telles que la militarisation des nouvelles technologies et la prolifération des armements de pointe, exigent que nous nous adaptions constamment afin d’empêcher que des atrocités criminelles soient commises et de protéger les populations.

    De plus, les alertes rapides restent trop souvent lettre morte et les preuves avancées à l’appui de crimes commis par des acteurs étatiques et non étatiques font l’objet d’un déni, d’indifférence, voire sont réprimées.

    Les réponses sont souvent trop faibles, trop tardives, incohérentes ou minées par l’application d’un système du deux poids, deux mesures. Ce sont donc les civils qui paient le plus lourd tribut.

    Une défense crédible de la paix et de la sécurité, du développement et des droits humains passe par le respect de la Charte des Nations Unies.

    À l’occasion de cet anniversaire, nous devons prendre conscience que la Responsabilité de protéger n’est pas uniquement un principe : c’est un impératif moral, ancré dans notre humanité commune et dans la Charte des Nations Unies.

    Excellences,

    C’est dans cet esprit que je présente aujourd’hui le dix-septième rapport du Secrétaire général sur la Responsabilité de protéger.

    Ce rapport rend compte de deux décennies d’efforts, préconise la revitalisation de l’action menée et présente les résultats des enquêtes qui ont permis de l’établir.

    Nous avons constaté que ce principe bénéficiait d’un large soutien parmi les États Membres.

    Les communautés touchées par la violence y voient une lueur d’espoir, mais réclament une mise en œuvre efficace à tous les niveaux.

    Le rapport met en lumière les efforts faits dans le cadre de mécanismes nationaux de prévention ou sous un leadership régional – sous l’égide de l’Union africaine, de l’ASEAN, de l’OSCE ou de l’Organisation des États américains et dans le cadre d’initiatives multilatérales telles que le Groupe des Amis de la Responsabilité de protéger, le code de conduite du Groupe Responsabilité, cohérence et transparence, et l’appel à la limitation du droit de veto en cas d’atrocités de masse.

    Le rapport montre que la diplomatie préventive, l’alerte rapide et les voies institutionnelles innovantes visant à prévenir et combattre les atrocités criminelles peuvent être efficaces.

    Il souligne également la nécessité d’intégrer la prévention des atrocités dans l’ensemble du système des Nations Unies – de l’action humanitaire au maintien de la paix en passant par les droits humains.

    Enfin, il préconise l’intégration des systèmes d’alerte rapide, le renforcement des mécanismes nationaux de prévention et la prise en compte de la prévention des atrocités criminelles dans les activités plus générales concernant la pérennisation de la paix, la défense des droits humains et le Programme 2030.

    Excellences,

    Aucune société n’est à l’abri du risque de crimes d’atrocité.

    La prévention doit commencer chez soi – par un leadership qui protège les droits, valorise la diversité et respecte l’État de droit.

    Elle doit également être soutenue à l’échelle mondiale – grâce à la coopération multilatérale, à une diplomatie fondée sur des principes, et une action rapide et décisive pour protéger efficacement les populations.

    Vingt ans après, la Responsabilité de protéger demeure une nécessité urgente, un impératif moral et une promesse non tenue.

    Tenons cette promesse. Approfondissons notre engagement. Renforçons notre coopération. Et faisons de la prévention des atrocités et de la protection des populations une pratique permanente et universelle.

    Allons de l’avant avec détermination, dans l’unité, et avec le courage d’agir.

    Je vous remercie.
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Superconducting material stabilized at everyday pressure, another step toward real-world applications

    Source: US Government research organizations

    New technique maintains a particular material’s superconducting properties outside high pressure environments

    U.S. National Science Foundation-funded researchers have stabilized a composite material in a superconducting state at ambient or normal, everyday pressure. Their technique, called the “pressure-quench protocol,” offers a new approach for exploring and developing superconducting materials. Superconducting materials have the potential to enable highly efficient electronic devices and minimal energy loss in power grids.

    Superconducting materials typically exhibit zero electrical resistance only at very low temperatures or very high pressures, depending on the material. Researchers at the University of Houston overcame these limitations by using their pressure-quench technique to stabilize a composite of bismuth, antimony and tellurium in a superconducting state under ambient pressure. This study, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, also included contributions from researchers at the University at Buffalo and the University of Illinois Chicago.

    Credit: Liangzi Deng and Ching-Wu Chu

    A multi-purpose measurement device used in the pressure-quenching experiments can reach a temperature of 1.2 degrees Kelvin (-457 degrees Fahrenheit).

    The new protocol also opens up a new way to explore material phases that usually exist only under extreme pressure. “It should help our search for superconductors with higher transition temperatures,” says Paul Ching-Wu Chu, a study author and professor of physics at the University of Houston.

    “The technique used in this study not only demonstrates potential for understanding how materials can be superconductive in everyday conditions — it’s a new way to create states of matter that we have not seen before in particular materials,” says John Schlueter, program director in the NSF Division of Materials Research, which supported the work.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Superconducting material stabilized at everyday pressure, another step toward real-world applications

    Source: US Government research organizations

    New technique maintains a particular material’s superconducting properties outside high pressure environments

    U.S. National Science Foundation-funded researchers have stabilized a composite material in a superconducting state at ambient or normal, everyday pressure. Their technique, called the “pressure-quench protocol,” offers a new approach for exploring and developing superconducting materials. Superconducting materials have the potential to enable highly efficient electronic devices and minimal energy loss in power grids.

    Superconducting materials typically exhibit zero electrical resistance only at very low temperatures or very high pressures, depending on the material. Researchers at the University of Houston overcame these limitations by using their pressure-quench technique to stabilize a composite of bismuth, antimony and tellurium in a superconducting state under ambient pressure. This study, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, also included contributions from researchers at the University at Buffalo and the University of Illinois Chicago.

    Credit: Liangzi Deng and Ching-Wu Chu

    A multi-purpose measurement device used in the pressure-quenching experiments can reach a temperature of 1.2 degrees Kelvin (-457 degrees Fahrenheit).

    The new protocol also opens up a new way to explore material phases that usually exist only under extreme pressure. “It should help our search for superconductors with higher transition temperatures,” says Paul Ching-Wu Chu, a study author and professor of physics at the University of Houston.

    “The technique used in this study not only demonstrates potential for understanding how materials can be superconductive in everyday conditions — it’s a new way to create states of matter that we have not seen before in particular materials,” says John Schlueter, program director in the NSF Division of Materials Research, which supported the work.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Checking in on New England fisheries 25 Years after ‘The Perfect Storm’ movie

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Stephanie Otts, Director of National Sea Grant Law Center, University of Mississippi

    Filming ‘The Perfect Storm’ in Gloucester Harbor, Mass.
     The Salem News Historic Photograph Collection, Salem State University Archives and Special Collections, CC BY

    Twenty-five years ago, “The Perfect Storm” roared into movie theaters. The disaster flick, starring George Clooney and Mark Wahlberg, was a riveting, fictionalized account of commercial swordfishing in New England and a crew who went down in a violent storm.

    The anniversary of the film’s release, on June 30, 2000, provides an opportunity to reflect on the real-life changes to New England’s commercial fishing industry.

    Fishing was once more open to all

    In the true story behind the movie, six men lost their lives in late October 1991 when the commercial swordfishing vessel Andrea Gail disappeared in a fierce storm in the North Atlantic as it was headed home to Gloucester, Massachusetts.

    At the time, and until very recently, almost all commercial fisheries were open access, meaning there were no restrictions on who could fish.

    There were permit requirements and regulations about where, when and how you could fish, but anyone with the means to purchase a boat and associated permits, gear, bait and fuel could enter the fishery. Eight regional councils established under a 1976 federal law to manage fisheries around the U.S. determined how many fish could be harvested prior to the start of each fishing season.

    Fishing has been an integral part of coastal New England culture since its towns were established. In this 1899 photo, a New England community weighs and packs mackerel.
    Charles Stevenson/Freshwater and Marine Image Bank

    Fishing started when the season opened and continued until the catch limit was reached. In some fisheries, this resulted in a “race to the fish” or a “derby,” where vessels competed aggressively to harvest the available catch in short amounts of time. The limit could be reached in a single day, as happened in the Pacific halibut fishery in the late 1980s.

    By the 1990s, however, open access systems were coming under increased criticism from economists as concerns about overfishing rose.

    The fish catch peaked in New England in 1987 and would remain far above what the fish population could sustain for two more decades. Years of overfishing led to the collapse of fish stocks, including North Atlantic cod in 1992 and Pacific sardine in 2015.

    As populations declined, managers responded by cutting catch limits to allow more fish to survive and reproduce. Fishing seasons were shortened, as it took less time for the fleets to harvest the allowed catch. It became increasingly hard for fishermen to catch enough fish to earn a living.

    Saving fisheries changed the industry

    In the early 2000s, as these economic and environmental challenges grew, fisheries managers started limiting access. Instead of allowing anyone to fish, only vessels or individuals meeting certain eligibility requirements would have the right to fish.

    The most common method of limiting access in the U.S. is through limited entry permits, initially awarded to individuals or vessels based on previous participation or success in the fishery. Another approach is to assign individual harvest quotas or “catch shares” to permit holders, limiting how much each boat can bring in.

    In 2007, Congress amended the 1976 Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act to promote the use of limited access programs in U.S. fisheries.

    Ships in the fleet out of New Bedford, Mass.
    Henry Zbyszynski/Flickr, CC BY

    Today, limited access is common, and there are positive signs that the management change is helping achieve the law’s environmental goal of preventing overfishing. Since 2000, the populations of 50 major fishing stocks have been rebuilt, meaning they have recovered to a level that can once again support fishing.

    I’ve been following the changes as a lawyer focused on ocean and coastal issues, and I see much work still to be done.

    Forty fish stocks are currently being managed under rebuilding plans that limit catch to allow the stock to grow, including Atlantic cod, which has struggled to recover due to a complex combination of factors, including climatic changes.

    The lingering effect on communities today

    While many fish stocks have recovered, the effort came at an economic cost to many individual fishermen. The limited-access Northeast groundfish fishery, which includes Atlantic cod, haddock and flounder, shed nearly 800 crew positions between 2007 and 2015.

    The loss of jobs and revenue from fishing impacts individual family income and relationships, strains other businesses in fishing communities, and affects those communities’ overall identity and resilience, as illustrated by a recent economic snapshot of the Alaska seafood industry.

    When original limited-access permit holders leave the business – for economic, personal or other reasons – their permits are either terminated or sold to other eligible permit holders, leading to fewer active vessels in the fleet. As a result, the number of vessels fishing for groundfish has declined from 719 in 2007 to 194 in 2023, meaning fewer jobs.

    A fisherman unloads a portion of his catch for the day of 300 pounds of groundfish, including flounder, in January 2006 in Gloucester, Mass.
    AP Photo/Lisa Poole

    Because of their scarcity, limited-access permits can cost upward of US$500,000, which is often beyond the financial means of a small businesses or a young person seeking to enter the industry. The high prices may also lead retiring fishermen to sell their permits, as opposed to passing them along with the vessels to the next generation.

    These economic forces have significantly altered the fishing industry, leading to more corporate and investor ownership, rather than the family-owned operations that were more common in the Andrea Gail’s time.

    Similar to the experience of small family farms, fishing captains and crews are being pushed into corporate arrangements that reduce their autonomy and revenues.

    Consolidation can threaten the future of entire fleets, as New Bedford, Massachusetts, saw when Blue Harvest Fisheries, backed by a private equity firm, bought up vessels and other assets and then declared bankruptcy a few years later, leaving a smaller fleet and some local business and fishermen unpaid for their work. A company with local connections bought eight vessels from Blue Harvest along with 48 state and federal permits the company held.

    New challenges and unchanging risks

    While there are signs of recovery for New England’s fisheries, challenges continue.

    Warming water temperatures have shifted the distribution of some species, affecting where and when fish are harvested. For example, lobsters have moved north toward Canada. When vessels need to travel farther to find fish, that increases fuel and supply costs and time away from home.

    Fisheries managers will need to continue to adapt to keep New England’s fisheries healthy and productive.

    One thing that, unfortunately, hasn’t changed is the dangerous nature of the occupation. Between 2000 and 2019, 414 fishermen died in 245 disasters.

    Stephanie Otts receives funding from the NOAA National Sea Grant College Program through the U.S. Department of Commerce. Previous support for fisheries management legal research provided by The Nature Conservancy.

    – ref. Checking in on New England fisheries 25 Years after ‘The Perfect Storm’ movie – https://theconversation.com/checking-in-on-new-england-fisheries-25-years-after-the-perfect-storm-movie-255076

    MIL OSI Analysis –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Checking in on New England fisheries 25 Years after ‘The Perfect Storm’ movie

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Stephanie Otts, Director of National Sea Grant Law Center, University of Mississippi

    Filming ‘The Perfect Storm’ in Gloucester Harbor, Mass.
     The Salem News Historic Photograph Collection, Salem State University Archives and Special Collections, CC BY

    Twenty-five years ago, “The Perfect Storm” roared into movie theaters. The disaster flick, starring George Clooney and Mark Wahlberg, was a riveting, fictionalized account of commercial swordfishing in New England and a crew who went down in a violent storm.

    The anniversary of the film’s release, on June 30, 2000, provides an opportunity to reflect on the real-life changes to New England’s commercial fishing industry.

    Fishing was once more open to all

    In the true story behind the movie, six men lost their lives in late October 1991 when the commercial swordfishing vessel Andrea Gail disappeared in a fierce storm in the North Atlantic as it was headed home to Gloucester, Massachusetts.

    At the time, and until very recently, almost all commercial fisheries were open access, meaning there were no restrictions on who could fish.

    There were permit requirements and regulations about where, when and how you could fish, but anyone with the means to purchase a boat and associated permits, gear, bait and fuel could enter the fishery. Eight regional councils established under a 1976 federal law to manage fisheries around the U.S. determined how many fish could be harvested prior to the start of each fishing season.

    Fishing has been an integral part of coastal New England culture since its towns were established. In this 1899 photo, a New England community weighs and packs mackerel.
    Charles Stevenson/Freshwater and Marine Image Bank

    Fishing started when the season opened and continued until the catch limit was reached. In some fisheries, this resulted in a “race to the fish” or a “derby,” where vessels competed aggressively to harvest the available catch in short amounts of time. The limit could be reached in a single day, as happened in the Pacific halibut fishery in the late 1980s.

    By the 1990s, however, open access systems were coming under increased criticism from economists as concerns about overfishing rose.

    The fish catch peaked in New England in 1987 and would remain far above what the fish population could sustain for two more decades. Years of overfishing led to the collapse of fish stocks, including North Atlantic cod in 1992 and Pacific sardine in 2015.

    As populations declined, managers responded by cutting catch limits to allow more fish to survive and reproduce. Fishing seasons were shortened, as it took less time for the fleets to harvest the allowed catch. It became increasingly hard for fishermen to catch enough fish to earn a living.

    Saving fisheries changed the industry

    In the early 2000s, as these economic and environmental challenges grew, fisheries managers started limiting access. Instead of allowing anyone to fish, only vessels or individuals meeting certain eligibility requirements would have the right to fish.

    The most common method of limiting access in the U.S. is through limited entry permits, initially awarded to individuals or vessels based on previous participation or success in the fishery. Another approach is to assign individual harvest quotas or “catch shares” to permit holders, limiting how much each boat can bring in.

    In 2007, Congress amended the 1976 Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act to promote the use of limited access programs in U.S. fisheries.

    Ships in the fleet out of New Bedford, Mass.
    Henry Zbyszynski/Flickr, CC BY

    Today, limited access is common, and there are positive signs that the management change is helping achieve the law’s environmental goal of preventing overfishing. Since 2000, the populations of 50 major fishing stocks have been rebuilt, meaning they have recovered to a level that can once again support fishing.

    I’ve been following the changes as a lawyer focused on ocean and coastal issues, and I see much work still to be done.

    Forty fish stocks are currently being managed under rebuilding plans that limit catch to allow the stock to grow, including Atlantic cod, which has struggled to recover due to a complex combination of factors, including climatic changes.

    The lingering effect on communities today

    While many fish stocks have recovered, the effort came at an economic cost to many individual fishermen. The limited-access Northeast groundfish fishery, which includes Atlantic cod, haddock and flounder, shed nearly 800 crew positions between 2007 and 2015.

    The loss of jobs and revenue from fishing impacts individual family income and relationships, strains other businesses in fishing communities, and affects those communities’ overall identity and resilience, as illustrated by a recent economic snapshot of the Alaska seafood industry.

    When original limited-access permit holders leave the business – for economic, personal or other reasons – their permits are either terminated or sold to other eligible permit holders, leading to fewer active vessels in the fleet. As a result, the number of vessels fishing for groundfish has declined from 719 in 2007 to 194 in 2023, meaning fewer jobs.

    A fisherman unloads a portion of his catch for the day of 300 pounds of groundfish, including flounder, in January 2006 in Gloucester, Mass.
    AP Photo/Lisa Poole

    Because of their scarcity, limited-access permits can cost upward of US$500,000, which is often beyond the financial means of a small businesses or a young person seeking to enter the industry. The high prices may also lead retiring fishermen to sell their permits, as opposed to passing them along with the vessels to the next generation.

    These economic forces have significantly altered the fishing industry, leading to more corporate and investor ownership, rather than the family-owned operations that were more common in the Andrea Gail’s time.

    Similar to the experience of small family farms, fishing captains and crews are being pushed into corporate arrangements that reduce their autonomy and revenues.

    Consolidation can threaten the future of entire fleets, as New Bedford, Massachusetts, saw when Blue Harvest Fisheries, backed by a private equity firm, bought up vessels and other assets and then declared bankruptcy a few years later, leaving a smaller fleet and some local business and fishermen unpaid for their work. A company with local connections bought eight vessels from Blue Harvest along with 48 state and federal permits the company held.

    New challenges and unchanging risks

    While there are signs of recovery for New England’s fisheries, challenges continue.

    Warming water temperatures have shifted the distribution of some species, affecting where and when fish are harvested. For example, lobsters have moved north toward Canada. When vessels need to travel farther to find fish, that increases fuel and supply costs and time away from home.

    Fisheries managers will need to continue to adapt to keep New England’s fisheries healthy and productive.

    One thing that, unfortunately, hasn’t changed is the dangerous nature of the occupation. Between 2000 and 2019, 414 fishermen died in 245 disasters.

    Stephanie Otts receives funding from the NOAA National Sea Grant College Program through the U.S. Department of Commerce. Previous support for fisheries management legal research provided by The Nature Conservancy.

    – ref. Checking in on New England fisheries 25 Years after ‘The Perfect Storm’ movie – https://theconversation.com/checking-in-on-new-england-fisheries-25-years-after-the-perfect-storm-movie-255076

    MIL OSI Analysis –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Uganda: Supplementary can resolve teacher pay disparity – Ssenyonyi

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    Download logo

    The Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Joel Ssenyonyi, has advised government to table a supplementary request to Parliament to address the pay disparities between science and arts teachers.

    He offered the advice during plenary on Tuesday, 24 June 2025, wherein he warned that arts and humanities teachers across the country had gone on strike, demanding pay equity and the matter needs to be addressed.

    Ssenyonyi also said that curbing public corruption would unlock the much needed funds. “The IGG says we lose over Shs 10 trillion to corruption every year. Stop stealing taxpayers’ money and there will be money to pay the teachers,” he said.

    Arts subject teachers began striking in early June over salary disparities, earning less than half of what their colleagues in other subjects receive. 

    “They are saying they are teachers too, just like the science teachers, but they have been discriminated against severely. They have warned that they are not going to carry out assessments, and that is a big concern for our young people who are in school,” Ssenyonyi said.

    According to available information, graduate science teachers earn Shs4 million while diploma holders earn Shs3 million. Most arts teachers meanwhile earn below Shs1 million.

    Teachers with similar qualifications and workloads, the leader of the Opposition noted, were being paid grossly unequal salaries, with arts teachers earning up to four times less than their science counterparts.

    “We are happy science teachers got a raise. But you cannot do it for some and not others,” he argued.

    He further pointed to absurd situations where headteachers with arts qualifications supervise science teachers who earn more than them, calling it a “management crisis.”

    He also cited the Auditor General’s report for the year ending 2024, which revealed that retired science teachers receive pensions higher than the monthly net pay of currently serving arts teachers.

    In response, the Government Chief Whip, Hon. Denis Hamson Obua, confirmed that engagements between the education ministry and the leadership of arts teachers were ongoing.

    “There is no intimidation at all, we believe in dialogue and consensus,” he assured the House.

    Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa who chaired the House acknowledged the urgency of the matter and asked the sector minister to update the House once negotiations conclude.

    The Minister of State for Higher Education, Hon. Chrysostom Muyingo, said the ministry had held a number of meetings with the teachers and that their leadership had agreed to suspend the strike.

    “Government is committed to raise the salaries of all our public servants in a fair manner,” Muyingo said, promising feedback from consultations by Thursday.

    Meanwhile Hon. Sarah Opendi (NRM, Tororo District Woman Representative) added her voice to the debate, highlighting equally pressing concerns about pay disparities among government lawyers.

    “There is a serious pay disparity among the lawyers working in the police force and other lawyers in government,” Opendi said.

    She warned that the discrepancy was fueling an exodus of legal officers from the Uganda Police Force to other departments, particularly the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Attorney General’s Chambers, where pay is significantly higher.

    “This matter was presented here. The last time, the Attorney General said they had appealed. I want to confirm, there is no active appeal,” she said.

    The Deputy Speaker backed her call and directed that the Attorney General update the House on the issue. 

    – on behalf of Parliament of the Republic of Uganda.

    MIL OSI Africa –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FS joins Summer Davos opening

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Financial Secretary Paul Chan today attended the opening ceremony of the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting of the New Champions 2025 and a discussion session as he wrapped up his Tianjin visit and proceeded to Beijing in the evening.

    In the morning, Premier Li Qiang attended the opening ceremony of the annual meeting, also known as the Summer Davos, and delivered a speech.

    In addition to attending the opening ceremony, Mr Chan participated in a discussion session in the afternoon titled “Is the Asian Century at Risk?”.

    The discussion focused on how Asia could address local development and external challenges amid the current geopolitical tensions, trade barriers and technological transformation.

    Other regional leaders in attendance included Prime Minister of Vietnam Pham Minh Chinh, Deputy Chairperson of Indonesia’s Gerindra Party Rahayu Saraswati Djojohadikusumo and Minister of Industry & Entrepreneurship Development of Sri Lanka Sunil Handunneththi.

    During the session, Mr Chan remarked that the Asian region is developing rapidly, with Hong Kong benefitting from its unique position under “one country, two systems”.

    He highlighted Hong Kong’s dual advantages of priority access to the Mainland market and its connectivity to the global economy, serving as a gateway between the Mainland and the world.

    As an international financial centre, Hong Kong facilitates efficient two-way capital flows and cross-border financial co-operation within Asia and between Asia and other regions, in addition to actively supporting Mainland enterprises in expanding internationally and building global industry chains and supply chains.

    In response to questions, Mr Chan emphasised that since the implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law, the city has provided a more stable and secure business environment that allows society to focus on economic development, adding that international investors are showing confidence in Hong Kong with their capital and actions.

    Mr Chan further noted that Hong Kong’s openness, diversity and international outlook under “two systems”, along with its common law system, remain key advantages in attracting international businesses and talent.

    The Financial Secretary also briefed World Economic Forum Chairman ad interim Peter Brabeck-Letmathe on Hong Kong’s latest economic developments, including progress in the financial and innovation and technology (I&T) sectors.

    They also explored opportunities to strengthen co-operation in technological innovation and personnel exchanges.

    During his time in Tianjin, Mr Chan also participated in a thematic session hosted by Hong Kong Exchanges & Clearing, where he shared how Hong Kong provides a full range of fundraising options to provide financial support to the accelerated development of I&T enterprises.

    The finance chief also attended an exchange session between technology enterprises from Tianjin and Hong Kong organised by Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation as well as a gathering hosted by the Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce in Tianjin.

    After concluding his Tianjin visit, Mr Chan proceeded to Beijing to attend the Host Member Gala Dinner for the 10th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: IBFD Expands Access to Critical Tax Research for over 11,500 Institutions in Low- and Middle-income Countries through New Partnership with Research4Life

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Amsterdam, June 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The International Bureau of Fiscal Documentation (IBFD) has joined Research4Life as a contributing publisher, providing free or low-cost access to a selection of its leading tax publications for eligible institutions in low- and middle-income countries.

    Fostering Inclusivity, Diversity, and Equity in Scholarly Communication

    Research4Life supports more than 11,500 institutions across over 125 countries, working to empower research, teaching, and policymaking through equitable access to high-quality academic content. Since its establishment, Research4Life has facilitated access to millions of peer-reviewed sources across various disciplines, strengthening academic and professional communities around the world. By joining this global initiative, IBFD reinforces its commitment to fostering sound tax policy and capacity-building worldwide. As part of the partnership, Research4Life users will gain access to IBFD’s World Tax Journal, International Tax Studies Journal, and its extensive Open Archive Books collection, all recognized as authoritative resources in the field of international taxation.

    “Joining Research4Life as a contributing publisher is a natural step for IBFD.” said Belema Obuoforibo, Director of the IBFD Knowledge Centre, and Member of the IBFD Executive Board. “Our books and journals are trusted by tax researchers and practitioners around the world to support their work and deepen their expertise. This partnership opens the door for a wider audience, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, to access and apply our resources meaningfully in their own research and practice. We are proud to support Research4Life’s mission to ‘foster inclusivity, diversity, and equity in scholarly communication’.”

    Promoting Global Tax Education and Research

    This partnership is part of IBFD’s broader mission to promote global tax education and research, furthering efforts to make specialized tax knowledge accessible in underserved regions. The impact of this initiative is far-reaching. A university in a developing country, for example, may now have access to IBFD’s tax publications, enabling faculty members and students to develop informed research and recommendations that strengthen tax systems and drive economic growth. Similarly, policymakers in developing economies can leverage IBFD’s research to support fair taxation and improve compliance measures, fostering sustainable fiscal governance.

    Craig West, Principal Associate of IBFD Academic, emphasized the significance of the collaboration: “At IBFD, our mission is to promote and disseminate the understanding of cross-border taxation at the highest level. Through Research4Life, academics in supported regions can now access high-quality research on international tax matters – enhancing their work, encouraging engagement with IBFD, and contributing fresh perspectives to our platforms. We look forward to sharing knowledge and learning from these communities in return.”

    Now Available in the GOALI Collection

    The selection of IBFD’s publications are available within Research4Life’s ‘GOALI’ collection, which focuses on academic and peer-reviewed journals, publications and databases on law and social sciences. Institutions subscribed to Research4Life can now explore IBFD’s tax resources to strengthen research and policymaking efforts worldwide.

    Looking ahead, IBFD remains committed to expanding the accessibility of specialized tax research and continuing to support initiatives that promote fair and effective tax policy. This partnership marks a significant milestone in IBFD’s efforts, and the organization looks forward to exploring further ways to enhance global tax education and research collaboration. Learn more at www.IBFD.org.

    About IBFD

    The International Bureau of Fiscal Documentation (IBFD) is a leading independent, non-profit organization specializing in tax research and education. With its high-quality research, training and information services, IBFD serves governments, international organizations, academia and the business sector in over 150 countries. www.ibfd.org

    About Research4Life

    Research4Life is a partnership of five UN agencies, WHO, FAO, UNEP, WIPO, ILO, Cornell and Yale Universities, the International Association of Scientific, Technical & Medical Publishers and over 200 international publishers. Research4Life‘s mission is to build an inclusive, diverse and equitable scholarly communications environment by delivering free or low-cost access and user-focused training and resources to researchers in low- and middle-income countries. https://www.research4life.org

    The MIL Network –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Iran’s Nuclear Facilities Have Been Obliterated — and Suggestions Otherwise are Fake News

    Source: US Whitehouse

    The world is far safer after President Donald J. Trump’s highly successful, decisive precision strikes against the Iranian regime’s key nuclear facilities.

    Take it from those who actually know:

    President Trump: “Monumental Damage was done to all Nuclear sites in Iran, as shown by satellite images. Obliteration is an accurate term! The white structure shown is deeply imbedded into the rock, with even its roof well below ground level, and completely shielded from flame. The biggest damage took place far below ground level. Bullseye!!!”

    Israel Atomic Energy Commission: “The devastating US strike on Fordo destroyed the site’s critical infrastructure and rendered the enrichment facility inoperable. We assess that the American strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, combined with Israeli strikes on other elements of Iran’s military nuclear program, has set back Iran’s ability to develop nuclear weapons by many years. The achievement can continue indefinitely if Iran does not get access to nuclear material.”

    IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir: “I can say here that the assessment is that we significantly damaged the nuclear program, and I can also say that we set it back by years, I repeat, years.”

    Iran Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei: “Our nuclear installations have been badly damaged, that’s for sure.”

    Vice President JD Vance: “I can say to the American people with great confidence that they are much further away from a nuclear program today than they were 24 hours ago. That was the objective of the mission, to destroy that Fordow nuclear site, and of course, do some damage to the other sites as well, but we feel very confident that the Fordow nuclear site was substantially set back, and that was our goal.”

    Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth: “Based on everything we have seen — and I’ve seen it all — our bombing campaign obliterated Iran’s ability to create nuclear weapons. Our massive bombs hit exactly the right spot at each target and worked perfectly. The impact of those bombs is buried under a mountain of rubble in Iran; so anyone who says the bombs were not devastating is just trying to undermine the President and the successful mission.”

    Secretary Hegseth: “Given the 30,000 pounds of explosions and the capability of those munitions, it was DEVASTATION underneath Fordow … Any assessment that tells you otherwise is speculating with other motives.”

    Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan “Razin” Caine: “Initial battle damage assessments indicate that all three sites sustained extremely severe damage and destruction. More than 125 US aircraft participated in this mission, including B2 stealth bombers, multiple flights of fourth and fifth generation fighters, dozens and dozens of air refueling tankers, a guided missile submarine, and a full array of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance aircraft, as well as hundreds of maintenance and operational professionals.”

    Secretary of State Marco Rubio: “The Iranian program — the nuclear program — today looks nothing like it did just a week ago … That story is a false story and it’s one that really shouldn’t be re-reported because it doesn’t accurately reflect what’s happening.”

    Secretary Rubio: “Everything underneath that mountain is in bad shape … There’s no way Iran comes to the table if somehow nothing had happened. This was complete and total obliteration. They are in bad shape. They are way behind today compared to where they were just seven days ago because of what President Trump did.”

    Special Envoy Steve Witkoff: “We put 12 bunker buster bombs on Fordow. There’s no doubt that it breached the canopy, there’s no doubt that it was well within reach of the depth that these bunker buster bombs go to, and there’s no doubt that it was obliterated — so the reporting out there that in some way suggests that we did not achieve the objective is just completely preposterous.”

    Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard: “The operation was a resounding success. Our missiles were delivered precisely and accurately, obliterating key Iranian capabilities needed to quickly assemble a nuclear weapon.”

    International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi: “Given the explosive payload utilized, and the extreme vibration-sensitive nature of centrifuges, very significant damage is expected to have occurred. At the Esfahan nuclear site, additional buildings were hit, with the US confirming their use of cruise missiles. Affected buildings include some related to the uranium conversion process. Also at this site, entrances to tunnels used for the storage of enriched material appear to have been hit. At the Natanz enrichment site, the Fuel Enrichment Plant was hit, with the US confirming that it used ground-penetrating munitions.”

    Institute for Science and International Security President David Albright: “Overall, Israel’s and U.S. attacks have effectively destroyed Iran’s centrifuge enrichment program.  It will be a long time before Iran comes anywhere near the capability it had before the attack.”

    Foundation for Defense of Democracies’ Nonproliferation and Biodefense Program Deputy Director Andrea Stricker: “I think that because of the massive damage and the shock wave that would have been sent by 12 Massive Ordnance Penetrators at the Fordow site, that it likely would render its centrifuges damaged or inoperable.” 

    American Enterprise Institute Middle East Portfolio Manager Brian Carter: “There is no question that the bombing campaign ‘badly, badly damaged’ the three sites.”

    Institute for Science and International Security Senior Research Fellow Spencer Faragasso: “Overall, it may possibly take years for Iran to reconstitute the capabilities it lost at these facilities.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chemical process more efficiently converts carbon dioxide to methanol, a chemical used in manufacturing and a potential fuel

    Source: US Government research organizations

    A new catalytic process produces methanol more cheaply and about 66% more efficiently than before

    A new chemical process funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation has produced methanol — a type of alcohol essential for manufacturing many common products and a potential fuel source — more efficiently than ever before. The method generates methanol from carbon dioxide nearly 66% more efficiently than the next best approach.

    The process uses a dual combination of nickel- and cobalt-based compounds as a catalyst on nanotubes, where multiple chemical reactions and electricity convert carbon dioxide to methanol. More of the C02 is transformed into methanol and with comparatively less electricity consumption, making the overall process more efficient. The findings are published in Nature Nanotechnology by a team of scientists spanning Yale University, Oregon State University and The Ohio State University.

    “Methanol is a flexible chemical feedstock that is used for hundreds of common products including plastics, chemicals and solvents,” says Alvin Chang, an OSU doctoral student and coauthor on the study. By improving methanol production, scientists could make it faster, cheaper and with less waste.

    Methanol is being explored as a low-cost fuel for generating electricity, powering ships, supplementing gasoline for automobiles and more. In addition to using C02 from the atmosphere, the process could enable methanol production from plentiful agricultural and municipal waste.

    Having steady access to such a versatile and renewable resource could transform many aspects of daily life, including the transportation sector, says Robert Baker, Ohio State chemistry professor and one of the study’s authors.

    Baker, Chang and Hailiang Wang at Yale used a unique, dual-site electrocatalyst to bring this new method to life. Catalysts in general are used to speed up the rate of chemical reactions without themselves being consumed. Electrocatalysts do the same, but with electrochemical reactions.

    Compared to the single-site version, the dual-site catalyst sped up methanol production while wasting less energy during creation, reaching an electrochemical charge transfer efficiency of 50%. By comparison, the single-site catalytic method is no more than 30% efficient.

    “This innovative research is an important advance toward more efficient methanol production through reduced power consumption and waste generation — and potentially a powerful tool for American manufacturing and fuel production,” says Kenneth Moloy, a program director in the NSF Division of Chemistry, which supported the research.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Surface Copilot+ PCs: Built for teaching, learning and security

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Surface Copilot+ PCs: Built for teaching, learning and security

    Educators today are navigating more than ever. They are supporting diverse student needs, integrating new technologies and managing complex IT and security demands, all while keeping students engaged and prepared for a rapidly changing world.

    Now with the rise of AI, the expectations are even higher. School leaders and educators are being asked to define how AI will be used in classrooms to support learning, improve operations and promote equity. That journey starts with the right devices.

    Microsoft Surface Copilot+ PCs bring together the best of Microsoft—hardware, software and AI—to help schools rise to this challenge. Informed by educator feedback and powered by Microsoft Copilot and a built-in Neural Processing Unit (NPU), Surface enables intelligent experiences that run securely on the device or in the cloud, all managed seamlessly by IT.

    What we heard from the classroom, reflected in the devices

    Educators told us they need tools that feel natural to use while offering the latest capabilities. They need devices that are trusted, reliable and easy-to-manage, with experiences that support every student. That input shaped the design of Surface Copilot+ PCs, including the new Surface Pro 12-inch and Surface Laptop 13-inch.

    • Security and trust, built into every Surface device
      We are making security our top priority at Microsoft, above all else—over all other features. Students, families, educators and institutions trust Microsoft to power learning and protect data. Surface devices build on that trust with enterprise-grade security, simplified management through Microsoft Intune, and deep integration with Microsoft Entra and Purview to help schools control access, safeguard sensitive information and govern AI responsibly as classroom needs evolve. Together, these tools help defend your school’s devices and data while putting the security, privacy and compliance needs of students, educators and school districts at the center.
    • Device experiences that support natural learning
      Students learn best when they can interact with content in ways that feel intuitive. Surface Pro supports digital inking with Slim Pen,i voice input with Studio Mics and natural language interaction with Copilotii. These features help students express themselves and stay engaged in their own way.
    • Reliable and adaptable for the school day
      Educators need devices that are fast, durable and ready for a full day of learning. Surface Copilot+ PCs are built to last and easy to repairiii. Their lightweight designs and all-day battery life make them easy to carry and use across classrooms, libraries, labs and home.
    • Inclusive and collaborative by design
      Learning is both personal and social. Surface Copilot+ PCs work seamlessly with Microsoft 365 to support collaboration through Microsoft Teams, OneNote and other familiar tools. Built-in accessibility features, along with the Surface Adaptive Kit and Microsoft Adaptive Accessories, help students personalize their experience and stay connected in any learning environment.
    • Ready for the tools schools already use
      Surface Copilot+ PCs are built to support the full range of learning needs by delivering the performance and experience required for the education tools students and educators depend on every day. Common apps like TestNav for assessments, Google Classroom for assignments, Minecraft Education for STEM, Adobe Express for creativity, and assistive technologies like JAWS are ready to use on Surface devices powered by Snapdragon X Series and Intel Core Ultra (Series 2) processors.

    Trusted by educators, evolving with their needs

    Around the world, schools that have long relied on Surface are continuing to invest in new devices that support the future of learning. Their experiences reflect many of the same priorities we heard during the development of Surface Copilot+ PCs: performance, reliability, flexibility and the ability to unlock the potential of AI in the classroom. These schools continue to choose Surface devices not just because of the technology itself, but because they trust them to evolve alongside their needs.

    At Royal Grammar School Newcastle in the United Kingdom, Surface is already deeply embedded in teaching and learning. Now the school is exploring how Copilot+ PCs can further enhance collaboration and student engagement through on-device AI.

    “We wouldn’t be doing our duty if we weren’t incorporating 21st century technology into our curriculum. Educators are going to have to spend a time considering the choice of device and the applications used to harness the power of AI and the possibilities to support our student’s learning. The use of the Surface device in the classroom has totally changed the dynamics.”

    — Sarah Buist, Head of Digital Strategy, Royal Grammar School Newcastle

    In Japan, the Aichi Prefectural Board of Education has deployed Surface Pro devices across more than 200 high schools. Teachers have praised the fast-processing speed and large touchscreens, which make daily tasks like digital grading more intuitive and efficient. Combined with Microsoft 365 Copilot, they are also seeing meaningful time savings in their everyday work.

    “The new Surface is easy to use with its fast-processing speed. The large screen allows simple operation by touch, making it straight-forward for digital grading. Grading previously took an hour by hand, but now it only takes about 40 minutes.”
    — Haruhiko Goto, Chief Coordinator of Super Science High School, Aichi Prefecture Ichinomiya High School

    Security and management that’s built for education IT

    Surface leads the Windows ecosystem in security innovation. Designed and built by Microsoft, Surface helps schools protect student data, simplify IT management and reduce risk at every layer of the device—from silicon to cloud.

    • Security that starts at the core
      Surface Copilot+ PCs are Secured-core PCs with Microsoft Pluton built in. Pluton is a Microsoft-designed security chip integrated directly into the processor. It protects sensitive data like passwords and sign-ins, even if a device is lost or stolen. Updates are delivered automatically through Windows Update, so schools always have the latest protections without extra tools or effort.
    • Management designed for education
      With tools like Device Firmware Configuration Interface (DFCI) and Surface Enterprise Management Mode (SEMM), IT administrators can remotely control settings such as disabling cameras, USB ports and Bluetooth—even before the operating system loads. QR codes etched directly onto Surface Laptop and Surface Pro devices provide instant access to serial numbers, making asset tracking, deployment and servicing faster and more accurate without manual entry.
    • Surface is secure by design and secure by default
      Every Surface device comes with Windows 11 Pro security features enabled right out of the box, which minimizes setup time and reduces risk. Firmware, drivers and OS updates are delivered through a single trusted channel, Windows Update. This unified approach simplifies management, reduces the number of tools IT teams need to support and helps schools respond to threats more quickly while staying focused on teaching and learning.

    AI that works for the classroom

    Transforming the classroom with on-device AI, powered by the NPU

    Surface Copilot+ PCs are built to meet the needs of today’s classrooms and support future AI innovations that will continue to shape teaching and learning. These experiences run locally on the device using a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU), which allows them to operate quickly, securely and without relying on the internet. This unlocks new ways for students and educators to enhance instruction, simplify daily tasks and create more inclusive classroom experiences.

    These are just a few ways Surface Copilot+ PCs bring AI to life in the classroom, with each experience powered by the NPU and with more innovations to come.

    • Microsoft Learning Zone: AI that empowers every educator
      Designed for education, Microsoft Learning Zoneiv is a free, AI-powered app coming to Copilot+ PCs, available in public preview later this year. It uses local AI processing to create personalized lessons, adapt content from trusted sources like OpenStax, generate interactive games with Kahoot and track student progress—saving time and making the classroom experience more flexible and engaging.
    • Click to Do (preview): Personalized support at your fingertips
      Click to Dov enables students to highlight text or images and instantly receive contextual help—such as summarizing a paragraph or explaining a graph. Activated with the Windows key and a click, this AI-powered feature runs entirely on-device, using the NPU to deliver support that is fast, secure and always available when they need it.
    • Accessibility features: Inclusive by design and powered by AI
      Surface Copilot+ PCs include built-in tools that help more students participate fully in learning. Voice Accessvi now offers greater flexibility and a more natural way to navigate using speech, improving on earlier voice interaction tools with faster response times and support for conversational commands. Live Captionsvii provide real-time subtitles and translations for spoken content. Both are powered by the NPU to deliver instant performance across multiple languages, supporting more inclusive and accessible classrooms.

    Read the blog to see how Microsoft Learning Zone and other AI features from Microsoft are transforming the classroom experience.

    Ready for what’s next

    With Windows 10 support ending on Oct. 14, 2025, now is the time to modernize your school’s device fleet with Windows 11. The new 13-inch Surface Laptop and 12-inch Surface Pro for Business, part of the Surface Copilot+ PC portfolio, will be available to education institutions starting July 22. These devices are secure by design and default with built-in security to help protect against evolving cyberthreats and include new silicon capable of 40+ TOPS (trillions of operations per second). Copilot+ PCs offer all-day battery life to support learning anywhere, powerful performance for multitasking and content creation, and AI experiences tailored specifically for education.viii

    Learn more about how to get ahead of Windows 10 end of support and take the next steps.

    These new devices expand the Surface Copilot+ PC portfolio and give schools flexible options to match the right device to every role. Whether you are empowering IT teams, supporting educators or enabling students to learn in more personalized and accessible ways, there is a Surface Copilot+ PC to fit your needs.

    If you are attending ISTELive 25 in San Antonio, be sure to visit the Microsoft booth starting June 29 to experience Surface Copilot+ PCs in action, connect with education experts and explore how Microsoft is helping shape the future of learning.

    Visit Surface.com/Business to learn more and request a quote for your school or district through an authorized reseller.

    Students, parents and educators can explore the new Surface Pro 12-inch and Surface Laptop 13-inch at the Microsoft Store, where they can also save up to 10% on select Surface devices and moreix.

    End Notes

    i Sold separately

    ii Minimum age limits may apply to use of Copilot and certain AI features. Details

    iii Replacement components available through online Microsoft Store and iFixIt for out-of-warranty repair. Components can be replaced by individuals with the knowledge and experience to repair electronic devices following Microsoft’s Service Guide. Microsoft tools (sold separately) may also be required. Availability of replacement components and service options may vary by product, market and over time. See Self-repair information for your Surface device – Microsoft Support. Opening and/or repairing a device can present electric shock, device damage, fire and personal injury risk, and other hazards. Use caution if undertaking self-service repairs. Unless required by law, damage caused during repair is not covered under Microsoft’s Limited Hardware Warranty or protection plans.

    iv Microsoft Learning Zone is available with a Copilot+ PC and Microsoft Education license (A1, A3, A5). Initial availability will be English only.

    v Click to Do (preview) available image and text actions may vary by device, region, language and character set. Subscription required for some actions. Click to Do coming to the European Economic Area later in 2025. See aka.ms/copilotpluspcs

    vi Voice Access with flexible commands available now on Copilot+ PCs with Snapdragon X Series processor. Supports multiple languages, some features only available in English. See what’s new in Voice Access.

    vii Translation for video and audio subtitles into English from 40+ languages and from 27 languages into Chinese (Simplified). See aka.ms/copilotpluspcs

    viii Battery life varies significantly based on usage, network and feature configuration, signal strength, settings and other factors. See aka.ms/SurfaceBatteryPerformance for details.

    ix Microsoft Store Education discount is available to K-12 and higher education students, faculty and parents. Education discount only valid on select products, and may not be combinable with other offers. See terms and conditions at Education & Student Discounts on Laptops, Microsoft 365, Windows, Surface | Microsoft Store

    MIL OSI Economics –

    June 26, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: Philly psychology students map out local landmarks and hidden destinations where they feel happiest

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Eric Zillmer, Professor of Neuropsychology, Drexel University

    Rittenhouse Square Park in Center City made it onto the Philly Happiness Map. Matthew Lovette/Jumping Rocks/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

    What makes you happy? Perhaps a good night’s sleep, or a wonderful meal with friends?

    I am the director of the Happiness Lab at Drexel University, where I also teach a course on happiness. The Happiness Lab is a think tank that investigates the ingredients that contribute to people’s happiness.

    Often, my students ask me something along the lines of, “Dr. Z, tell us one thing that will make us happier.”

    As a first step, I advise them to spend more time outside.

    Achieving lasting and sustainable happiness is more complicated. Research on the happiest countries in the world and the places where people live the longest, known as Blue Zones, shows a common thread: Residents feel they are part of something larger than themselves, such as a community or a city.

    So if you’re living in a metropolis like Philadelphia, where, incidentally, the iconic pursuit of happiness charge was ratified in the Declaration of Independence, I believe urban citizenship – that is, forming an identity with your urban surroundings – should also be on your list.

    The Greek island of Ikaria in the Aegean Sea is a Blue Zone famous for its residents’ longevity.
    Nicolas Economou/NurPhoto via Getty Images

    Safety, social connection, beauty

    Carl Jung, the renowned Swiss psychoanalyst, wrote extensively about the relationship between our internal world and our external environment.

    He believed that this relationship was crucial to our psychological well-being.

    More recent research in neuroscience and functional imaging has revealed a vast, intricate and complex neurological architecture underlying our psychological perception of a place. Numerous neurological pathways and functional loops transform a complex neuropsychological process into a simple realization: I am happy here!

    For example, a happy place should feel safe.

    The country of Croatia, a tourist haven for its beauty and culinary delights, is also one of the top 20 safest countries globally, according to the 2025 Global Peace Index.

    The U.S. ranks 128th.

    The availability of good food and drink can also be a significant factor in creating a happy place.

    However, according to American psychologist Abraham Maslow, a pioneer in the field of positive psychology, the opportunity for social connectivity, experiencing something meaningful and having a sense of belonging is more crucial.

    Furthermore, research on happy places suggests that they are beautiful. It should not come as a surprise that the happiest places in the world are also drop-dead gorgeous, such as the Indian Ocean archipelago of Mauritius, which is the happiest country in Africa, according to the 2025 World Happiness Report from the University of Oxford and others.

    Happy places often provide access to nature and promote active lifestyles, which can help relieve stress. The residents of the island of Ikaria in Greece, for example, one of the original Blue Zones, demonstrate high levels of physical activity and social interaction.

    A map of 28 happy places in Philadelphia, based on 243 survey responses from Drexel students.
    The Happiness Lab at Drexel University

    Philly Happiness Map

    I asked my undergraduate psychology students at Drexel, many of whom come from other cities, states and countries, to pick one place in Philadelphia where they feel happy.

    From the 243 student responses, the Happiness Lab curated 28 Philly happy places, based on how frequently the places were endorsed and their accessibility.

    Philadelphia’s founder, William Penn, would likely approve that Rittenhouse Square Park and three other public squares – Logan, Franklin and Washington – were included. These squares were vital to Penn’s vision of landscaped public parks to promote the health of the mind and body by providing “salubrious spaces similar to the private garden.” They are beautiful and approachable, serving as “places to rest, take a pause, work, or read a book,” one student told us.

    Places such as the Philadelphia Zoo, Penn’s Landing and the Philadelphia Museum of Art are “joyful spots that are fun to explore, and one can also take your parents along if need be,” as another student described.

    The Athenaeum of Philadelphia, a historic library with eclectic programming, feels to one student like “coming home, a perfect third place.”

    Some students mentioned happy places that are less known. These include tucked-away gardens such as the John F. Collings Park at 1707 Chestnut St., the rooftop Cira Green at 129 S. 30th St. and the James G. Kaskey Memorial Park and BioPond at 433 S. University Ave.

    The James G. Kaskey Memorial Park and BioPond in West Philadelphia is an urban oasis.
    M. Fischetti for Visit Philadelphia

    My students said these are small, unexpected spots that provide an excellent opportunity for a quiet, peaceful break, to be present, whether enjoyed alone or with a friend. I checked them out and I agree.

    The students also mentioned places I had never heard of even though I’ve lived in the city for over 30 years.

    The “cat park” at 526 N. Natrona St. in Mantua is a quiet little park with an eclectic personality and lots of friendly cats.

    Mango Mango Dessert at 1013 Cherry St. in Chinatown, which is a frequently endorsed happiness spot among the students because of its “bustling streets, lively atmosphere and delicious food,” is a perfect pit stop for mango lovers. And Maison Sweet, at 2930 Chestnut St. in University City, is a casual bakery and cafe “where you may end up staying longer than planned,” one student shared.

    I find that Philly’s happy places, as seen through the eyes of college students, tend to offer a space for residents to take time out from their day to pause, reset, relax and feel more connected and in touch with the city.

    Happiness principals are universal, yet our own journeys are very personal. Philadelphians across the city may have their own list of happy places. There are really no right or wrong answers. If you don’t have a personal happy space, just start exploring and you may be surprised what you will find, including a new sense of happiness.

    See the full Philly Happiness Map list here, and visit the exhibit at the W.W. Hagerty Library at Drexel University to learn more.

    Read more of our stories about Philadelphia.

    Eric Zillmer 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. Philly psychology students map out local landmarks and hidden destinations where they feel happiest – https://theconversation.com/philly-psychology-students-map-out-local-landmarks-and-hidden-destinations-where-they-feel-happiest-258790

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    June 26, 2025
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